As I sit here on this Christmas Eve, I type by the lights on my tree-one of the joys and pleasures that I cherish each year during this season. I have enjoyed reading all of my fb friends post this evening about their various celebrations w/family and friends as well as the preparing that Santa and Mrs. Claus is doing for children I know all over the globe. I don't normally post about Christmas, but this year I find that my heart is full to overflowing with what Christmas has come to mean to me over the years. I have ALWAYS enjoyed every holiday, but Christmas has always been my favorite. There are several reasons for this, I loved it so much that I CHOSE to be married at Christmas time and even had Christmas flowers in my bouquet! However, the main reason that I love Christmas goes back to my childhood. I have SO many memories involving Christmas and not just during the holiday season. Part of my "legacy" is that I have parents that worked at a Christmas decoration factory for a large period of my childhood. They manufactured ornaments-particularly beautiful glass balls w/glitter, bands, pictures, etc...and eventually even "shaped" blown glass style ornaments which have come to be my favorite over the years. Christmas was around me ALL year...not just at Christmas time. One of the first times I ever remember earning money was during the summer when I was about 9, I sat for several hours during the day and used an old fashioned paper cutter to cut boxes of "bands" (on the dotted lines) that would be melted around the glass balls at the factory. Of course this was before automated machines did this job, so yes, I suppose this statement "dates" me a bit!lol But, perhaps this gives you a bit of insight into WHY Christmas is special to me.
Last year at this time, my family was not all together for Christmas. My hubby was half way through his 1 year tour in Qatar and we "postponed" our Christmas celebration until mid-January when he returned. Last year, the girls/I were with my sister and her family in Blackwater, Missouri(our future retirement home in 3 years time:) For the first time, my girls were blessed to help play the role of "Santa" for my nieces and got to see the way things work "behind the scenes" at Santa's workshop-we have some great memories from our 3 days at my sister's last year and wouldn't trade them! It was fun to "step back in time" and see Christmas through the eyes of very young children. It had been many years since my own girls have experienced that childhood "wonder" that comes during the Christmas season, so it was a joy for all 3 of us. This year, we are blessed to ALL be together again. John has been "home" with us for 6 months now, Rebecca has "returned" home to us (in a new abode in Arizona) from her sophomore year in college after being away for 5 months, and we are all healthy/well just enjoying "life" together during this most wonderful time of the year. It's interesting how as we and our children grow/mature, the meaning of Christmas can grow/mature with us.
I suppose, for me, the "root" of what Christmas means to me is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Besides the short period of time in my life that I was a VERY young child and only thought of "myself" and what Santa would bring ME-Christmas has always meant a time of love spent with those that mean the most to me. My experience has been that it doesn't matter what's under the tree, what food is on the table, who the day is shared with, etc...but the LOVE that is shared is what Christmas is all about. Love is such a beautiful word and one that the bible speaks of again and again. Though it's a very misused/abused/misunderstood word in our modern culture, when we return to the root of the word-we find God. GOD IS LOVE! Without God, we would not know love nor understand it. I am thankful for love-the love of my husband, children, parents, siblings, friends, brethren, and most of all, the love of God. At Christmas time, more than any other time of year-I am reminded of love. It is expressed every where I go. Sometimes in a material gift-the idea that someone "thought" enough about another to take the time and financial resources to purchase something for them. Sometimes in a party/festivity-someone takes the time and financial resources necessary to arrange a place for others to be together/enjoy one another's company. Sometimes it's in a meal-someone takes the time to prepare special foods and shares it with others. Sometimes it's in a beautifully holiday decorated home-someone took the time and financial resources to plan, decorate, and display special things for others to enjoy. Sometimes in "time"-the fact that so many slow down for this ONE day a year and just spend "time" with those they care about. Any/all of these things CAN express love, however they don't always. The motivation behind these "acts of kindness" speak more to the idea of real love. Real love can be found in Jesus. Jesus came to this world to be born as a baby, live His life as a man, and die on the cross/was raised again so that ALL mankind could have the opportunity to come into relationship with God. There was NOTHING in it for Him. He did it, because He loved us and chose to obey His Father in all things. So, tonight I am reminded of what Christmas means to me....love. The love that I have for others, the love they have for me, and most of all the love of God which came through His Son, Jesus. While I know the bible does not speak of "Christmas" as a holiday we are commanded to celebrate as Jesus birth, I am thankful to have a time of year that I am reminded how very important love is. A love I could not know if it were not for God sending His Son into this world as Emmanuel-God with us.
It is my prayer that we can ALL live our lives as Elvis Presley sang in these words of a song:
"If every day were like Christmas, what a wonderful world this would be!" I challenge my readers-until next Christmas-make EVERY day like Christmas. Share love w/others-just "do life"with them, no matter the day of year. Take time to spend a day off with those you love, purchase something special for them-for "no reason" in particular, plan a special meal for them using the "good" china, decorate for a "special" day together that isn't "on the calendar" as a holiday, etc...I challenge all of us to do LIFE as though every day were Christmas. It is possible, if we don't get "caught up in the details" (like so many of us can/often do this time of year). Keep the focus on love-mainly the love of God and all that He has done for us. Merry Christmas to all that may read this blog and may we keep the spirit of Christmas(love) alive every day in our hearts.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Tragedy-lessons to learn
In light of the mass shooting event that occurred at an elementary school in Connecticut, I thought I would share some of the thoughts I've had w/regard to many posts I've seen on fb and in the news. First, let me start by saying that it is absolutely inhumane what has happened. It is without natural affection that any human being can take another human being's life, much less dozens of them. My heart breaks for all involved in this tragedy, but my heart also breaks for all of us that are trying to process such a godless act. I thought I would hit on a few, not all, of the things I have observed with regards to this event. Please know that these are my thoughts only. They are based on the experience I have in life, my love for discovering the truth of what God would have me know/learn, and on my own common sense given the situation. You may disagree with me and that is o.k. I use this forum simply to share my own thoughts and give all of my readers something serious to consider. I do not use it to cause dissension, disagreement, or to set in judgement on anyone else's opinions. It is also not my intent to cover every issue in great detail, just hit a few that I've recognized initially.
Let's just get the big pink elephant out of the room...gun control. Is gun control the issue at hand? Absolutely not! Self control is the issue at hand, or should I say the lack thereof. God has every answer for every thing we may face and He tells us a fruit of the spirit is self control. It may be cliche-but it's true-guns don't kill people, PEOPLE kill people. Let's get real-it is evident that the teachers at Sandy Hook did EVERYTHING in their power/control to protect the lives of their students. That is to be admired in this society when so many of our citizens think "every man for himself" and are so self driven. It makes me proud that we had so many HEROES trying to do the right thing to preserve the lives of the students they loved. Here's my thought about gun control...it will be an absolute disaster if we take guns out of the hands of "law abiding" citizens that will use them properly. Those that want to "kill" will use whatever methods are necessary to do so...look at history. GUNS are not the "weapon of choice" for brutalized killers in history. Gas chambers, bombs, etc...numerous other "devices" have brought millions to their deaths, not because of the "device" used-but because of the hearts of the men using the device! The men's hearts are evil, lack self control, and the root of course is that they do not respect GOD! If they did, they would NEVER take the lives of another person that contains a soul that was created in His image. Here's my common sense solution-let's allow the teachers in the classroom to have a gun to protect their children. That's what we did on aircraft after 9-11. Things would certainly have turned out differently on Friday in Connecticut. These teachers PROVED that they would do anything-even stand in front of-to protect the children. So, why not give them the means they need to keep something like this from occurring, let's "level" the playing field. If just ONE law-abiding, God-fearing, child-protecting staff member had a gun in that building on Friday-the shooter is possibly the ONLY one that would have died and the innocent could have been preserved/protected. I don't understand why anyone would believe that "guns" are the issue....guns are a TOOL and there are plenty of other tools a person that "sets his heart" (scriptural language for you there) to murder another person WILL use. In this case, it is OBVIOUS that this young man had his "heart" set on murder. We need to keep guns and make sure as many GOOD people have them/can use them as the enemies.
Which brings me to my second point. The hearts of men. THAT is the issue here. WHY did this young man commit murder against so many young lives? That seems to be the question that everyone wants an answer to. Unless there is significant proof that the young man was mentally impaired (which would mean he should have been institutionalized to protect others)-so far, this is not the case. So, for the sake of this blog entry-I am going to assume that he was just your average person with no lack of mental capacity. Some may say, "Wait, how could you NOT have a mental problem and kill all of those innocent children?" Because of lack of self control and the lack of God being the center of a person's life. WITHOUT God as the center, guess WHO reigns in men's hearts? Yes, you guessed it, Satan. Each individual person chooses whether they will allow God or Satan be at the center of their lives. Only one of them can be your ruler. So, when Satan is your "ruler" of choice, you will perform the evil works of darkness. My fear is that so many people believe they just don't have to "choose", that they can just be a "good person" and that means they are on God's side. NOT TRUE...if you want to be on God's side-you must do the things necessary to join "HIS army". So, therefore, if you have not CHOSEN to be in the Lord's Army, you are by "default" in Satan's and don't be deceived, you WILL find yourself among some of the world's most deceitful, disgusting, criminals in Satan's army. I challenge us all to look seriously at our own lives and "declare war" against Satan. Make GOD the King of your life, let HIM be your Commander and ruler. If the young man that committed this crime in Connecticut had God as his center, he would NOT have been a part of this tragedy. We have to be about changing the "souls/hearts" of people. This starts by bringing God back INTO our homes, schools, society at large. If we buy into the philosophy that so many schools teach as "truth" today-then we are all just "animals" that evolved and when we are dead, we are dead-there is nothing else. We cannot allow Satan to take more innocent lives through this vain philosophy-it is a LIE! We are created in God's image, we have an eternal soul, and EVERY life is valuable...even the life of the shooter-Jesus died for HIS sins too-he just chose not to recognize that fact. Will you, dear reader, recognize that fact? Will you take and learn this lesson from the crime against us?
Finally, I just want to finish with something VERY positive. The fact that God is such an amazing/awesome God. His ways are perfect and His promises are true. NONE of these events comes as a surprise to God. He has told us over and over throughout history (through His Word) that man "cannot live on bread alone"...we NEED HIM! It is in times like these that I take great comfort in God's word. I know that every one of these children are now safe in the arms of Jesus. Interesting how in one moment a shooter can "mean something for harm" yet God brings good from it. This shooter was evil and inflicted "evil" on these young lives, but God took all of that away the moment their breath left their little bodies. They will NEVER know any more pain in this world, no more suffering, no more tears, they will never have to hear about future shootings/tragedies-for they are in the safe place of the arms of Jesus-forever comforted and happy. We can rest assured that the shooter is not. Because God's word is true-He is a just God and promises that all those that partake in the evil works of darkness will meet eternal condemnation in hell. I am sorry that the shooter did not choose a different path for himself. But, God allows us to "choose", He does not make us robots. He wants us to CHOOSE to love/serve Him and choose we all must-either God or Satan-those are the ONLY choices we have. So, today, I rejoice in knowing that these innocent young children are with our Savior, resting in His arms. I pray that each/every family member, loved one, etc...of those children will KNOW this truth. The truth that the children are now safe. I pray that they will CHOOSE God to be the center of their lives. That they will join their children and be reunited once again.
My final thought is simply this. This life is meant to prepare us for eternity. We are created to love/serve God here on this earth...journeying through until eternity. The question is-will we pass this test? ARE we living our lives, every day, with God as the center? God will not FORCE anyone to choose Him. He gives us free will. No matter what happens in this life-even tragic events like Friday in Connecticut-we can know FOR SURE that if we are following God, it helps make life so much easier to understand/process. We realize that God wants us to DEPEND on Him, that's what we are created for. To learn, through life's circumstances, that without Him, there is NO HOPE! But, with Him, there is great hope and the choice is ours.
Let's just get the big pink elephant out of the room...gun control. Is gun control the issue at hand? Absolutely not! Self control is the issue at hand, or should I say the lack thereof. God has every answer for every thing we may face and He tells us a fruit of the spirit is self control. It may be cliche-but it's true-guns don't kill people, PEOPLE kill people. Let's get real-it is evident that the teachers at Sandy Hook did EVERYTHING in their power/control to protect the lives of their students. That is to be admired in this society when so many of our citizens think "every man for himself" and are so self driven. It makes me proud that we had so many HEROES trying to do the right thing to preserve the lives of the students they loved. Here's my thought about gun control...it will be an absolute disaster if we take guns out of the hands of "law abiding" citizens that will use them properly. Those that want to "kill" will use whatever methods are necessary to do so...look at history. GUNS are not the "weapon of choice" for brutalized killers in history. Gas chambers, bombs, etc...numerous other "devices" have brought millions to their deaths, not because of the "device" used-but because of the hearts of the men using the device! The men's hearts are evil, lack self control, and the root of course is that they do not respect GOD! If they did, they would NEVER take the lives of another person that contains a soul that was created in His image. Here's my common sense solution-let's allow the teachers in the classroom to have a gun to protect their children. That's what we did on aircraft after 9-11. Things would certainly have turned out differently on Friday in Connecticut. These teachers PROVED that they would do anything-even stand in front of-to protect the children. So, why not give them the means they need to keep something like this from occurring, let's "level" the playing field. If just ONE law-abiding, God-fearing, child-protecting staff member had a gun in that building on Friday-the shooter is possibly the ONLY one that would have died and the innocent could have been preserved/protected. I don't understand why anyone would believe that "guns" are the issue....guns are a TOOL and there are plenty of other tools a person that "sets his heart" (scriptural language for you there) to murder another person WILL use. In this case, it is OBVIOUS that this young man had his "heart" set on murder. We need to keep guns and make sure as many GOOD people have them/can use them as the enemies.
Which brings me to my second point. The hearts of men. THAT is the issue here. WHY did this young man commit murder against so many young lives? That seems to be the question that everyone wants an answer to. Unless there is significant proof that the young man was mentally impaired (which would mean he should have been institutionalized to protect others)-so far, this is not the case. So, for the sake of this blog entry-I am going to assume that he was just your average person with no lack of mental capacity. Some may say, "Wait, how could you NOT have a mental problem and kill all of those innocent children?" Because of lack of self control and the lack of God being the center of a person's life. WITHOUT God as the center, guess WHO reigns in men's hearts? Yes, you guessed it, Satan. Each individual person chooses whether they will allow God or Satan be at the center of their lives. Only one of them can be your ruler. So, when Satan is your "ruler" of choice, you will perform the evil works of darkness. My fear is that so many people believe they just don't have to "choose", that they can just be a "good person" and that means they are on God's side. NOT TRUE...if you want to be on God's side-you must do the things necessary to join "HIS army". So, therefore, if you have not CHOSEN to be in the Lord's Army, you are by "default" in Satan's and don't be deceived, you WILL find yourself among some of the world's most deceitful, disgusting, criminals in Satan's army. I challenge us all to look seriously at our own lives and "declare war" against Satan. Make GOD the King of your life, let HIM be your Commander and ruler. If the young man that committed this crime in Connecticut had God as his center, he would NOT have been a part of this tragedy. We have to be about changing the "souls/hearts" of people. This starts by bringing God back INTO our homes, schools, society at large. If we buy into the philosophy that so many schools teach as "truth" today-then we are all just "animals" that evolved and when we are dead, we are dead-there is nothing else. We cannot allow Satan to take more innocent lives through this vain philosophy-it is a LIE! We are created in God's image, we have an eternal soul, and EVERY life is valuable...even the life of the shooter-Jesus died for HIS sins too-he just chose not to recognize that fact. Will you, dear reader, recognize that fact? Will you take and learn this lesson from the crime against us?
Finally, I just want to finish with something VERY positive. The fact that God is such an amazing/awesome God. His ways are perfect and His promises are true. NONE of these events comes as a surprise to God. He has told us over and over throughout history (through His Word) that man "cannot live on bread alone"...we NEED HIM! It is in times like these that I take great comfort in God's word. I know that every one of these children are now safe in the arms of Jesus. Interesting how in one moment a shooter can "mean something for harm" yet God brings good from it. This shooter was evil and inflicted "evil" on these young lives, but God took all of that away the moment their breath left their little bodies. They will NEVER know any more pain in this world, no more suffering, no more tears, they will never have to hear about future shootings/tragedies-for they are in the safe place of the arms of Jesus-forever comforted and happy. We can rest assured that the shooter is not. Because God's word is true-He is a just God and promises that all those that partake in the evil works of darkness will meet eternal condemnation in hell. I am sorry that the shooter did not choose a different path for himself. But, God allows us to "choose", He does not make us robots. He wants us to CHOOSE to love/serve Him and choose we all must-either God or Satan-those are the ONLY choices we have. So, today, I rejoice in knowing that these innocent young children are with our Savior, resting in His arms. I pray that each/every family member, loved one, etc...of those children will KNOW this truth. The truth that the children are now safe. I pray that they will CHOOSE God to be the center of their lives. That they will join their children and be reunited once again.
My final thought is simply this. This life is meant to prepare us for eternity. We are created to love/serve God here on this earth...journeying through until eternity. The question is-will we pass this test? ARE we living our lives, every day, with God as the center? God will not FORCE anyone to choose Him. He gives us free will. No matter what happens in this life-even tragic events like Friday in Connecticut-we can know FOR SURE that if we are following God, it helps make life so much easier to understand/process. We realize that God wants us to DEPEND on Him, that's what we are created for. To learn, through life's circumstances, that without Him, there is NO HOPE! But, with Him, there is great hope and the choice is ours.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
WHAT LIFE IS ABOUT...
October 23, 2012
Haven't blogged in nearly 2 months. Mainly because I am just living my life in a new place. Still getting "settled", making it our home, adjusting to new surroundings, enjoying new experiences and building new relationships. Which brings me to the purpose of this blog. To my readers I ask the question, "What is life about?" For all that know me, truly understand my "heart", they will already know the answer that I would give to that question. I am curious what others out there in blog land believe life is about.
For me, it's very simple. Life is about 2 things-both of which can be found in the Bible, God's holy word. These 2 things are fairly simple, yet Jesus reminds us that they are the "greatest" commands. Even though they may sound fairly simple, they are sometimes difficult to keep in "focus" during our day to day lives. Simply put...#1-love the Lord God w/all of your heart, mind, and soul and #2-love your neighbor as yourself. The wisest man to ever live tells us in Ecclesiastes that "The whole duty of man is to fear God and keep His commandments". Because I am a child of God, this is what I try to live in my life each and every day. I try to remain focused on what is important for "eternity"...not just today. Eternity is what life is all about! I read this morning, a challenge, where someone had suggested that everyone read in the book of Ecclesiastes. After reading the passage, someone else commented that the writer needed "prozac" and how we should just live and enjoy this life for all it is....the implication being that this IS all there is. Oh dear reader how that made my soul sad. I am sorry for anyone that believes that this earthly life is all there is. I am sorry that they don't understand God/His love and desire to dwell within the hearts of all mankind. However, though many perhaps would not be as bold to say it, I fear that we often live our lives as though we believe that lie. The lie that Satan tells us all-"this life is all there is...live it up, enjoy it, then you die".
Why is this on my heart today? It is because once again, the crushing brutal reality of this world and the "death" Satan brought into it has yet again affected those that I love. My heart aches because my niece, Amber, has lost her Mom (only 40 yrs of age), in a sudden/unexpected way. I have seen a lot of tragedy in my lifetime that has affected myself and those I love dearly. Perhaps that's one of the reasons I am always so sensitive to those that are affected by tragedy, I understand the pain, I've experienced it. You might say, "isn't every death tragic"? For me the answer would definitely be "no". Some death is "expected". We all know that our bodies are not designed to keep functioning effectively for periods of time longer than about 70 years...that's what God says and He is the Creator. Yes, there are people that live longer lives than that. But, still we do understand that death is an imminent part of living in this world. For me, that's what makes it SO sad when others believe that this life is all there is. What a hopeless thought. Tragedy is when someone that is "young" leaves this life well before what is considered their "appointed time". Granted, a loss is a loss, regardless of the age of the person we have lost. But certainly the affect that a given death has on a family/community is VERY different when that person is young, has young children, etc...
As I think about the days ahead for my niece and her siblings, I am reminded of so many passages of scripture. First, that "life is a vapor". So, knowing and understanding this-how do I live my life each day that demonstrates this? Do I live "like there's no tomorrow"? Am I careful to be thoughtful in my words-encouraging those around me to remember what's important-to love God and others. Do I keep my life activity/busy schedule/priorities in an order that God desires...remembering that this life is here one day and gone the next? Am I living my life prepared for eternity by "loving" Him first and others second?
Second, I am reminded that God is the giver of all good things. Satan brought death into this world, but it is God that brought the resurrection of the dead through His Son, Jesus Christ. Do I live each moment of the day reminded of all of the "good" God has given to me/blessed me with? Do I complain that life is "unfair" or do I fully understand/accept that this life is not supposed to be "fair"? This life is designed to be a preparing ground for eternity. A time that we become "dependent" upon God for His strength, love and support. A time that we learn without Him, life is meaningless and eternity hopeless.
Finally, do I live in such a way that would honor the lives of those who have gone before me? Whether we are talking about military members who have fought for my freedom, a family member/friend that was tragically taken from this life, or most importantly Jesus who bought freedom from sin to all those that obey Him and are washed in His blood. The life I live affects other people. Just as those that have left this life before us affected many lives-whether for good or evil. A person is never an island. We are built/designed to live in community, therefore our lives will/do affect other people. Even the most introverted person's life affects other people in some way. Perhaps it's only in a person's death that we come to understand/contemplate the affect that they have had on others. That's a shame. We really should take notice NOW/TODAY of the affects that other people are having on our lives and that we have in theirs. We should take the time to TELL the people around us those things-whether good or bad. We need to make one another accountable for our time here on this earth. Remind one another to live for eternity. If someone is making/has made a positive difference in your life-tell them that. Encourage them so that they can live/love others even more deeply and positively affect even more people. If someone around you is affecting you negatively-tell them that. Explain to them how they are hurting you and those around them while reminding them of the importance of eternity and keeping life in proper perspective.
I was blessed to know/spend time with my niece's Mom, Christy. She was a part of our family for the last 16 years. She was a blessing to all that knew her. I am glad that I told her that/encouraged her-for she in turn did the same for me, many times. Christy would comment on my blog-particularly when I wrote about my Mom. She knew/adored my Mom and always reminded me of the powerful influence my Mom was on her. Christy was "there" for our family during my Mom's death. She was loyal beyond measure in helping my Dad keep the house cleaned "just the way" Mom did. She often remarked about how she knew that would make my Mom happy and that it was helping my Dad get through that time until he could find his OWN way and figure out what he could live with in regards to housekeeping. When I think of Christy, I think of love for family, loyalty to family, and lots of laughter. She had a heart full of joy and laughed often. She had her share of trials in this life and she did not live her life in perfection. But, she certainly was a woman that understood what was "important", she lived her life in love. Now, she will live on through my niece and her 2 siblings. Her legacy is left behind in 3 breathing souls that now have the opportunity to honor their Mom's life through living their own with "remembrance" of all that she taught them. The irony of it all is that Christy's life/my Mom's life mirror one another so very much. Christy was a YOUNG Mom (17)-so was my Mom (16). Christy was a YOUNG Grandma (39)-so was my Mom (38). Christy's life ended in a sudden/unexpected way at a YOUNG age (40)-so did my Mom's (50). Another irony...my niece and I have lives that have mirrored one another-we both had YOUNG Mom's-but were blessed that they loved us enough to keep us, raise us as their own, and become strong women that others admire/look up to. We both lost our Mom at a very tender time in our own lives-when our own children were young. I know what pain/heartache my niece is experiencing. I know how difficult it is to think about your own children never having the blessing/pleasure of KNOWING your Mom. But, the one thing I have perspective on that my niece hasn't had enough life experience yet to understand-is that though her Mom is removed from her physically, her influence is ever with her. My niece wrote today on her fb page, "I just want to hear my Mom's voice". I told her to "listen" and she would hear it. I believe that. No, she will not "audibly" hear her Mom's voice w/her ears...but she will with her heart. She will KNOW what her Mom is saying to her, wants for her, etc...because she has been blessed to have a Mom that loved her, taught her about the important things in life, showed her how to love others through her example, etc...her "voice" will always be with her through each day of her life.
So reader-what is life about. Life is about "hearing" the voice. What voice you may ask? The voice that Jesus repeatedly reminded the disciples of during His time here on earth. The voice of God. Numerable times throughout scripture, Jesus tells His disciples to "he that has ears, let him hear." Jesus is saying the same thing to us..."listen" to His voice. Hear what He is saying. Come to know and understand WHY you are put on this earth and what this life is all about. Loving God and loving others. It's THAT simple. Now, let God speak to you, hear His voice through His holy word. Live your life in a way that honors God-through loving Him first and others. THAT my friend is what life is all about. I feel blessed to have shared just a little part of "life" with Christy and am thankful for the love she showed me.
Haven't blogged in nearly 2 months. Mainly because I am just living my life in a new place. Still getting "settled", making it our home, adjusting to new surroundings, enjoying new experiences and building new relationships. Which brings me to the purpose of this blog. To my readers I ask the question, "What is life about?" For all that know me, truly understand my "heart", they will already know the answer that I would give to that question. I am curious what others out there in blog land believe life is about.
For me, it's very simple. Life is about 2 things-both of which can be found in the Bible, God's holy word. These 2 things are fairly simple, yet Jesus reminds us that they are the "greatest" commands. Even though they may sound fairly simple, they are sometimes difficult to keep in "focus" during our day to day lives. Simply put...#1-love the Lord God w/all of your heart, mind, and soul and #2-love your neighbor as yourself. The wisest man to ever live tells us in Ecclesiastes that "The whole duty of man is to fear God and keep His commandments". Because I am a child of God, this is what I try to live in my life each and every day. I try to remain focused on what is important for "eternity"...not just today. Eternity is what life is all about! I read this morning, a challenge, where someone had suggested that everyone read in the book of Ecclesiastes. After reading the passage, someone else commented that the writer needed "prozac" and how we should just live and enjoy this life for all it is....the implication being that this IS all there is. Oh dear reader how that made my soul sad. I am sorry for anyone that believes that this earthly life is all there is. I am sorry that they don't understand God/His love and desire to dwell within the hearts of all mankind. However, though many perhaps would not be as bold to say it, I fear that we often live our lives as though we believe that lie. The lie that Satan tells us all-"this life is all there is...live it up, enjoy it, then you die".
Why is this on my heart today? It is because once again, the crushing brutal reality of this world and the "death" Satan brought into it has yet again affected those that I love. My heart aches because my niece, Amber, has lost her Mom (only 40 yrs of age), in a sudden/unexpected way. I have seen a lot of tragedy in my lifetime that has affected myself and those I love dearly. Perhaps that's one of the reasons I am always so sensitive to those that are affected by tragedy, I understand the pain, I've experienced it. You might say, "isn't every death tragic"? For me the answer would definitely be "no". Some death is "expected". We all know that our bodies are not designed to keep functioning effectively for periods of time longer than about 70 years...that's what God says and He is the Creator. Yes, there are people that live longer lives than that. But, still we do understand that death is an imminent part of living in this world. For me, that's what makes it SO sad when others believe that this life is all there is. What a hopeless thought. Tragedy is when someone that is "young" leaves this life well before what is considered their "appointed time". Granted, a loss is a loss, regardless of the age of the person we have lost. But certainly the affect that a given death has on a family/community is VERY different when that person is young, has young children, etc...
As I think about the days ahead for my niece and her siblings, I am reminded of so many passages of scripture. First, that "life is a vapor". So, knowing and understanding this-how do I live my life each day that demonstrates this? Do I live "like there's no tomorrow"? Am I careful to be thoughtful in my words-encouraging those around me to remember what's important-to love God and others. Do I keep my life activity/busy schedule/priorities in an order that God desires...remembering that this life is here one day and gone the next? Am I living my life prepared for eternity by "loving" Him first and others second?
Second, I am reminded that God is the giver of all good things. Satan brought death into this world, but it is God that brought the resurrection of the dead through His Son, Jesus Christ. Do I live each moment of the day reminded of all of the "good" God has given to me/blessed me with? Do I complain that life is "unfair" or do I fully understand/accept that this life is not supposed to be "fair"? This life is designed to be a preparing ground for eternity. A time that we become "dependent" upon God for His strength, love and support. A time that we learn without Him, life is meaningless and eternity hopeless.
Finally, do I live in such a way that would honor the lives of those who have gone before me? Whether we are talking about military members who have fought for my freedom, a family member/friend that was tragically taken from this life, or most importantly Jesus who bought freedom from sin to all those that obey Him and are washed in His blood. The life I live affects other people. Just as those that have left this life before us affected many lives-whether for good or evil. A person is never an island. We are built/designed to live in community, therefore our lives will/do affect other people. Even the most introverted person's life affects other people in some way. Perhaps it's only in a person's death that we come to understand/contemplate the affect that they have had on others. That's a shame. We really should take notice NOW/TODAY of the affects that other people are having on our lives and that we have in theirs. We should take the time to TELL the people around us those things-whether good or bad. We need to make one another accountable for our time here on this earth. Remind one another to live for eternity. If someone is making/has made a positive difference in your life-tell them that. Encourage them so that they can live/love others even more deeply and positively affect even more people. If someone around you is affecting you negatively-tell them that. Explain to them how they are hurting you and those around them while reminding them of the importance of eternity and keeping life in proper perspective.
I was blessed to know/spend time with my niece's Mom, Christy. She was a part of our family for the last 16 years. She was a blessing to all that knew her. I am glad that I told her that/encouraged her-for she in turn did the same for me, many times. Christy would comment on my blog-particularly when I wrote about my Mom. She knew/adored my Mom and always reminded me of the powerful influence my Mom was on her. Christy was "there" for our family during my Mom's death. She was loyal beyond measure in helping my Dad keep the house cleaned "just the way" Mom did. She often remarked about how she knew that would make my Mom happy and that it was helping my Dad get through that time until he could find his OWN way and figure out what he could live with in regards to housekeeping. When I think of Christy, I think of love for family, loyalty to family, and lots of laughter. She had a heart full of joy and laughed often. She had her share of trials in this life and she did not live her life in perfection. But, she certainly was a woman that understood what was "important", she lived her life in love. Now, she will live on through my niece and her 2 siblings. Her legacy is left behind in 3 breathing souls that now have the opportunity to honor their Mom's life through living their own with "remembrance" of all that she taught them. The irony of it all is that Christy's life/my Mom's life mirror one another so very much. Christy was a YOUNG Mom (17)-so was my Mom (16). Christy was a YOUNG Grandma (39)-so was my Mom (38). Christy's life ended in a sudden/unexpected way at a YOUNG age (40)-so did my Mom's (50). Another irony...my niece and I have lives that have mirrored one another-we both had YOUNG Mom's-but were blessed that they loved us enough to keep us, raise us as their own, and become strong women that others admire/look up to. We both lost our Mom at a very tender time in our own lives-when our own children were young. I know what pain/heartache my niece is experiencing. I know how difficult it is to think about your own children never having the blessing/pleasure of KNOWING your Mom. But, the one thing I have perspective on that my niece hasn't had enough life experience yet to understand-is that though her Mom is removed from her physically, her influence is ever with her. My niece wrote today on her fb page, "I just want to hear my Mom's voice". I told her to "listen" and she would hear it. I believe that. No, she will not "audibly" hear her Mom's voice w/her ears...but she will with her heart. She will KNOW what her Mom is saying to her, wants for her, etc...because she has been blessed to have a Mom that loved her, taught her about the important things in life, showed her how to love others through her example, etc...her "voice" will always be with her through each day of her life.
So reader-what is life about. Life is about "hearing" the voice. What voice you may ask? The voice that Jesus repeatedly reminded the disciples of during His time here on earth. The voice of God. Numerable times throughout scripture, Jesus tells His disciples to "he that has ears, let him hear." Jesus is saying the same thing to us..."listen" to His voice. Hear what He is saying. Come to know and understand WHY you are put on this earth and what this life is all about. Loving God and loving others. It's THAT simple. Now, let God speak to you, hear His voice through His holy word. Live your life in a way that honors God-through loving Him first and others. THAT my friend is what life is all about. I feel blessed to have shared just a little part of "life" with Christy and am thankful for the love she showed me.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Our "Marley"
As I sit here this afternoon, my head is swirling w/ideas of things I could blog about. So much has happened in the last couple of months since I blogged here that I have plenty of subject matter for sure. However, today, I have decided to share a thought that came to me after watching the film "Marley and Me" earlier this week.
The thought is simply this reader...what is your "Marley"? Perhaps I should clarify what I mean by that. In case you have never seen the film, it is about a young couple that becomes engaged, married, has children, change jobs, change locations to live, etc... but during this entire journey of their life, they have a dog, named Marley, who is with them every step of the journey. Of course, dogs do not live forever and they face living life without Marley for the first time. I know that many may disagree and perhaps I "think" too much and really should learn to enjoy a film strictly for entertainment-but, I believe that Marley is a metaphor for all of our lives. We all have a "Marley" that at some point we must release and let go of.
For myself, I would suppose that my "Marley" has been the life of being an AF spouse. This is the ONE external/earthly thing that has been present w/my husband and I from the beginning. However, it will be coming to an end in just 30 short months. I know, to many of you 2 1/2 years seems like a long time-but at this stage in my life it truly is just a blip on the screen! So, I've reflected (as the movie did) this week on my life as an AF spouse and this wonderful journey. Yes, it has been wonderful. I have been SO blessed to be able to meet so many people, visit and live in many "foreign" lands (of course anything is foreign when you are born/raised in small town America like I was), interact with many from various cultures, etc... Of course I don't mean to indicate that everything about our "Marley" has been without difficulties. Yes, there have been difficult people, scary times in living in/visiting foreign places, etc... Much like the movie-Marley was described as the "worst dog ever" and was even kicked out of doggy obedience school. So, yes, this life has offered challenges. But, again, thinking about the end of the movie-in the end-when Marley is dying-all of those around him whose lives have been affected day in/out by him realize that truly, he was the greatest dog EVER! That's how I feel about my "Marley". Even through the difficulties of being separated from family during important life events/day to day celebrations, trying to communicate with and learn the cultures of foreign lands, trying to navigate roads and drive in foreign lands, learning to work with Christians from various places around the world and respect their judgements/cultures/etc..., being separated from my spouse for deployments/AF conferences/training schools, being a stay at home Mom w/toddlers and a spouse that worked 12-14 hour days, unpacking/setting up a household every 3-4 years, etc... and the list could go on and on. I wake up every day and thank God for such a blessing. Without it, I would not be the person I am today. I would not have grown in the ways that I have. Grown to appreciate/enjoy life wherever the AF sends us. I would not have learned to "jump right in" and just become the best friend, sister in Christ, mentor, wife/mother, etc... I can be regardless of where I am living at the time. Through this experience I have learned that time is precious and we should make every moment count. I have learned to invest in people-for truly no matter where you live in this world-it is the people you surround yourself with that will make a difference in your day to day life. Foremost, I have learned to appreciate/better understand the providence of God and the ways that He has uniquely gifted me and that my job is to get in and figure that out/use my talents to His glory wherever I am living at the time. Love as many people as possible...no matter what their age, skin color, heritage, etc...that we are all created by God and He put each of us here to serve Him. I've learned to help others learn from my experience/perspective on life. Truly, I have been blessed in ways innumerable.
But, my Marley will soon be leaving my life. In just 2 1/2 short years I will say "goodbye" to my Marley. Just like the movie-I have mixed emotions about it. I am so very proud of my husband that will have served this great nation of ours for 30 years. I have made some wonderful memories with friends/brethren/and my core family members all over the globe and am thankful for each/every one! I've never known an adult life "without" this Marley. It will be another first. But, as every part of this journey has been...I face it with great anticipation of what is to come. I'm sure I will find a new "Marley". Perhaps it will be my "place" in the small community or church where we retire. Perhaps it will be my newfound "empty nest" with my husband. It may even be grandparenthood. We all have a "Marley"-whether it is a person/comfort zone/job/place we live/etc... The one thing I do know is that we all must say "goodbye" to a Marley at some point in our lives. This is how God created it to be. For ultimately, God wants us to be dependent ONLY upon Him. He is the only sure thing. He is THE thing that will be here with us not only during our journey in THIS life, but also eternity in Heaven if we seek His will and obey Him. I look forward to discovering my new "Marley" in a couple of years time-but for now, I will continue to enjoy my "Marley" and treasure every moment of the journey no matter how simple, complicated, or insignificant it may seem to anyone else and I will praise God from whom all blessings flow:)
The thought is simply this reader...what is your "Marley"? Perhaps I should clarify what I mean by that. In case you have never seen the film, it is about a young couple that becomes engaged, married, has children, change jobs, change locations to live, etc... but during this entire journey of their life, they have a dog, named Marley, who is with them every step of the journey. Of course, dogs do not live forever and they face living life without Marley for the first time. I know that many may disagree and perhaps I "think" too much and really should learn to enjoy a film strictly for entertainment-but, I believe that Marley is a metaphor for all of our lives. We all have a "Marley" that at some point we must release and let go of.
For myself, I would suppose that my "Marley" has been the life of being an AF spouse. This is the ONE external/earthly thing that has been present w/my husband and I from the beginning. However, it will be coming to an end in just 30 short months. I know, to many of you 2 1/2 years seems like a long time-but at this stage in my life it truly is just a blip on the screen! So, I've reflected (as the movie did) this week on my life as an AF spouse and this wonderful journey. Yes, it has been wonderful. I have been SO blessed to be able to meet so many people, visit and live in many "foreign" lands (of course anything is foreign when you are born/raised in small town America like I was), interact with many from various cultures, etc... Of course I don't mean to indicate that everything about our "Marley" has been without difficulties. Yes, there have been difficult people, scary times in living in/visiting foreign places, etc... Much like the movie-Marley was described as the "worst dog ever" and was even kicked out of doggy obedience school. So, yes, this life has offered challenges. But, again, thinking about the end of the movie-in the end-when Marley is dying-all of those around him whose lives have been affected day in/out by him realize that truly, he was the greatest dog EVER! That's how I feel about my "Marley". Even through the difficulties of being separated from family during important life events/day to day celebrations, trying to communicate with and learn the cultures of foreign lands, trying to navigate roads and drive in foreign lands, learning to work with Christians from various places around the world and respect their judgements/cultures/etc..., being separated from my spouse for deployments/AF conferences/training schools, being a stay at home Mom w/toddlers and a spouse that worked 12-14 hour days, unpacking/setting up a household every 3-4 years, etc... and the list could go on and on. I wake up every day and thank God for such a blessing. Without it, I would not be the person I am today. I would not have grown in the ways that I have. Grown to appreciate/enjoy life wherever the AF sends us. I would not have learned to "jump right in" and just become the best friend, sister in Christ, mentor, wife/mother, etc... I can be regardless of where I am living at the time. Through this experience I have learned that time is precious and we should make every moment count. I have learned to invest in people-for truly no matter where you live in this world-it is the people you surround yourself with that will make a difference in your day to day life. Foremost, I have learned to appreciate/better understand the providence of God and the ways that He has uniquely gifted me and that my job is to get in and figure that out/use my talents to His glory wherever I am living at the time. Love as many people as possible...no matter what their age, skin color, heritage, etc...that we are all created by God and He put each of us here to serve Him. I've learned to help others learn from my experience/perspective on life. Truly, I have been blessed in ways innumerable.
But, my Marley will soon be leaving my life. In just 2 1/2 short years I will say "goodbye" to my Marley. Just like the movie-I have mixed emotions about it. I am so very proud of my husband that will have served this great nation of ours for 30 years. I have made some wonderful memories with friends/brethren/and my core family members all over the globe and am thankful for each/every one! I've never known an adult life "without" this Marley. It will be another first. But, as every part of this journey has been...I face it with great anticipation of what is to come. I'm sure I will find a new "Marley". Perhaps it will be my "place" in the small community or church where we retire. Perhaps it will be my newfound "empty nest" with my husband. It may even be grandparenthood. We all have a "Marley"-whether it is a person/comfort zone/job/place we live/etc... The one thing I do know is that we all must say "goodbye" to a Marley at some point in our lives. This is how God created it to be. For ultimately, God wants us to be dependent ONLY upon Him. He is the only sure thing. He is THE thing that will be here with us not only during our journey in THIS life, but also eternity in Heaven if we seek His will and obey Him. I look forward to discovering my new "Marley" in a couple of years time-but for now, I will continue to enjoy my "Marley" and treasure every moment of the journey no matter how simple, complicated, or insignificant it may seem to anyone else and I will praise God from whom all blessings flow:)
Friday, July 6, 2012
6 months gone?
It does not even seem possible that I have not blogged in a half year???? Life has been just a little hectic since my last blog the end of December. For those of you that are friends on fb, you totally understand my crazy life since January! I won't even begin to try to recount everything that has happened in the last 6 months. However, given that my last blog was about the idea of contentment, let me just say in the last 2 weeks, I have not done very well in that department:( I have been extremely edgy, almost depressed at times, definitely not my normal self. I could give a million "reasons" for that, though really they would be nothing more than excuses. Though some of you might find them "justifiable" even (given my current life situation), I have been disappointed in myself, the way that I've let life "handle" me instead of me allowing God to handle my life-truly giving it to Him and leaving it there. I haven't slept well, a million thoughts have swirled through my mind given the "to do" list I've had, I haven't had the time to exercise regularly/eat "clean" the way that I've grown accustomed in the last year and a half. So, yes, it's all been a bit stressful and I have not been a person of gratitude/contentment. I admit that, humbly, and can only say that I have learned a lot more about myself and the areas of character (like Christ) that I need to grow in. It has also "reaffirmed" that truly, without God, I am nothing. I am weak and I cannot imagine a life without Christ as the center. Without God, I would certainly have resorted to many sinful/non-helpful habits in the last few weeks to get me through the days. Praise God that I was at least aware enough to keep myself from outward sin that might harm my influence/example with others. However, I did struggle inwardly. I admit that I just wanted to throw a big tantrum at times and "tell a few folks off"...though certainly that would not have been the way Jesus dealt with it. Oh, don't misunderstand, Jesus DID correct those that were in sin-He even overthrew the money changers tables. However, in my case, I know He would have said, "Get over yourself, change your attitude, things aren't going "smoothly", big deal, it's not the end of the world-things didn't go smoothly for Me either and I was crucified on a Cross for sins I did not even commit!" So, you see, I've basically been a big baby, a big selfish baby that just wanted people to "do their job" so there was no inconvenience to me. Well, that didn't happen and I allowed myself to be frustrated, even angry, about it at times. I allowed it to become an excuse to not speak kindly to others (as I normally try to do and am characterized by). With this realization I have prayed forgiveness from God for my unholy attitude of the heart and I am "forgetting what is behind and pressing forward to the goal". I have another 6 months this year to make some real difference with my "word" of the year, contentment and I pray that I will be able to report that I have done just that. In the meantime, I pray that each of my readers will learn from me, there's NO circumstance in your life that can occur that can steal your joy unless you allow it.
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