Here Comes the Sun

 

Cats love to lay in the sun. It's so warm and cozy! They don't seem to have a trouble in the world, do they? Life is good in the sunlight. 

When it starts to feel a little cold and "dark", they wake up. And move to where the sun is shining. Again and again, I can watch them move across the living room floor as the day goes on. 

Is your world feeling cold and dark? Wake up! Move to where the warmth of God's light is - a walk in nature, sure. But it could also be some praise music or the company of a good friend. I've saved some inspirational quotes and love looking through them when the day feels blah. Got a fireplace? Or some great-smelling candles? Soon we'll be enjoying the glow of Christmas lights. Know what makes you feel near to God. I bet you find a warm, cozy feeling there. Move there. Again and again. Take it from my cats; there's no better place to be.

Your sun shall no more go down or your moon withdraw itself, for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended. (Isaiah 60:20) 

Jesus said to the people, "I am the Light of the world, So if you follow Me, you won't be stumbling through the darkness, for living light will flood your path. (John 8:12)

Does it matter?

 Are handwritten notes even "a thing" anymore? Isn't texting so much quicker and time-efficient? 

Research shows that a special closeness happens in receiving a letter and knowing it was handwritten by someone you love. And just like fingerprints, your personal handwriting is unique to you. Texting all looks the same, it all "sounds" the same. But with a handwritten note, you can almost hear the sender's voice as you read each word. You are holding the same card they had in their hands. And whatever was written - poor spelling, poor penmanship and all - make what you are now holding in your hand all that more memorable and worth savoring. I know this first hand. This card is from my son when he was stationed in Iraq. 2003. His sweet little lettering brought tears to my eyes. Of course, I still have it after all these years!

Handwritten notes all send a very important message besides what is actually written. Sending a personal note in this way communicates that you value this relationship, that you want to continue in this relationship. The receiver is important to you - enough so that you will take the time and effort to stop everything else and focus on creating a special message just for them. Writing and mailing a note plays a significant role in letting someone feel accepted, worthy, appreciated... and loved. You can actually make someone's day by sending a simple note. Notes can uplift, encourage and in general make someone feel seen, heard, and gain a sense of belonging. Yes, handwritten notes are powerful!

Below are photos of my birth announcement! In my mom's own handwriting. (Yes, my mom's nickname was Bill. Long story...) The note was to her mom. What a wonderful keepsake! And again, her handwriting I had seen a million times while I was away from home during my Navy days. There is just no replacement for having received her handwritten notes during that time in my life. I was able to enjoy funny cards and funny stories over and over again. 

Handwritten notes are warm and wonderful for both the sender and the recipient. They can really pack a punch! I'll bet you have some favored notes stashed away somewhere. Maybe it's time for a revisit of those saved cards and consider what you can do today to make an impact. 

Isaiah 55: 11 -

...so is My word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

I'm working on it

 

Many enjoy a good mystery/crime drama in book form or on the TV. They like trying to puzzle out the "whodunit" before the end. They become so engrossed in the details. What's happening now and how it relates to what has already happened. Involved. What fun sharing your guesses. Pooling your ideas together. Much like working on a jigsaw puzzle, who doesn't squeal with delight when fitting a piece in its exact spot? Making that connection.

God calls us on to walk together, and work together - without knowing the end result right away. God reveals clues  - step by step clues. God wants us engrossed and involved in His work in and around us. Watching. Trying. Sharing. Working on it all, piece by piece. 

Now if everything came together in one fell swoop, there would be only one blessing to celebrate in the end. But by doing it in bits and pieces, and enjoying each and every little victory (squeal with delight), we gain blessing upon blessing... we get to enjoy God's goodness over and over again!

Are you in a rush to accomplish something, or finish something? Ready to arrive at the final product? So you can taste that final victory? Think again. Don't miss the blessings all along the way. Relish. Relish it all!

Two are better than one because they have a more satisfying return for their labor... (Ecclesiastes 4:9)

What mom taught me about Jesus' miracles

 

I don't know how she stretched one dollar into ten. I don't know how she turned scraps of meat into a hearty meal. How she kept eight kids in clothes and shoes. Or how she found time to crochet wedding afghans and baby blankets beyond number. And something for every single grandchild under the Christmas tree. Making a way where there seems to be no way...

But I also see her on the ground planting petunias. Waltzing behind the ironing board to Ray Price. And pans of yeasty cinnamon rolls on Saturday mornings.

Despite any challenges, she also knew how to find joy in the life she was given.

Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied... (Matthew 14:18-20)

I want to be like my mom. Because she was so much like Jesus.

Who's got the peace?

© 2021 Julie Crane All rights reserved

Needing something else or needing something more?  Keep your mind stayed on God. He alone has the peace in the midst of not enough. You chased after all the "right" this and thats - and just made yourself crazy in all the grasping and still felt insufficient. God wants to give you rest and peace. Now. Without everything being worked out perfectly first. Don't wait for some perfection before you go to God. Receive peace and rest in Him and stay there no matter what the world or your mind/self-talk says. Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always (Psalm 105:4). There is peace, rest, acceptance and enough - right there. And you can get there.

Believe that God is handling your circumstances.

Believe that God is taking care of your woes. 

Distrust in God equals anxiety.

Disbelief that He really cares or that He will really act on your behalf equals fear and hopelessness.

God DOES desire to help you. God DOES have the wisdom and ability to help you. With your mind stayed on God, with determination to believe and to trust, you can have peace in the waiting and confidence in the stepping out as He leads you by the hand. Coming or going, God is with you and assurance of His power and love over you will get you through anything with a peace that passes understanding.

Believe God is handling your circumstances.

Rest in Him as He peels back the layers of the worries on your mind. Your breath becoming steady and more relaxed as you realize His work unfolding before your very eyes.

Watch. Look. Listen.

You must convince yourselves of these truths:

(Philippians 4:5-7) The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

(1 Peter 5:7) Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.

(Proverbs 3:5-6) Trust in the Lord... He will make your paths straight.

(Isaiah 26:3) You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.

You will never have peace if you're waiting for earthly things to become perfect. The world is in constant change... changing it's mind on what good enough is. God is stable, steadfast, and unchanging. Those promises of 2,000 years ago are true and absolute for your present circumstance and all your tomorrows.

No matter what. Turn and return to the arms of Jesus. He alone has the peace you are seeking. 

 

The Power of Ten

Too many of us have gotten good at beating ourselves up because we aren't walking the perfect Christian walk. We all too often focus on where we have fallen short or missed an opportunity - disappointed in ourselves - for not mastering the Christian lifestyle after so... many... years.

How do we ever move pass this need to get it ALL right ALL the time? 

I invite you to the Power of Ten. When you struggle with remembering how God's grace covers it all, maybe it's time to embrace the good you often overlook. Ten things. And anything more would be called outstanding.

1. Ate a healthy breakfast
2. Brushed all the loose hair off of the cats
3. Took a few moments for thoughts and prayers
4. Mailed a get well card
5. Took a short walk just to breathe and enjoy the spring weather
6. Knitted on a baby blanket that will be donated to a pregnancy center
7. Bought an extra box of cereal for the food pantry
8. Belly laughed over a funny movie with a friend
9. Prayed as I heard an ambulance go by
10. Treated someone to an ice cream cone

There's 10. And I can already feel the peace of Christ settling over me. I can picture His smiling face. I didn't need an all-perfect day to feel this. I just needed to acknowledge His loving, giving nature and presence.

Each and every day is a mixture of highs and lows. It's time to believe in Christ living in and through you. 

• Got laundry started.
• Prepped meat and vegetables for the crockpot.
• Gassed up your spouse's car.
• Brought daffodils in from the garden.
• Hid a "love you" note for someone to find.

Look. Name them. Take notice, even if no one else does. I am reminded in Matthew 6 which says - when you give to the needy, when you pray, whatever you do - the Lord sees what is done in secret. The Lord will reward you. Doing the mundane is still good works. Little things can be big blessings. Why? Because Christ lives. His power and love is alive! Open your eyes. Stop and consider - is that from Jesus? 

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

See Jesus our Lord at work in your life today! Receive the peace and endearing smile of Christ.

The God of un-troubling

© 2016 Julie Crane All rights reserved

We have all turned to the verse: "In this world you will have trouble." (John 16:33) Whenever we have to remind ourselves that this is not heaven but an imperfect, sinning place. Or when we seek consolation because things are going so, so awry. When we are struggling through...troubles. Yes, troubles come. Troubles also go.

On March 2, 2016, I had surgery to remove cancer from my breast. I definitely felt "in trouble" then. It was certainly hard to think of anything else. But I have been cancer-free for five years now. Cancer doesn't bother me, doesn't consume me, like it did back then.

Whenever you cry out to me, I'll answer. I'll be with you in troubling times. (Psalm 91:15)

In fact, there have been numerous times when I badly needed... NEEDED:

a job, a new place to live, "right now" car repair, a new furnace, coast-to-coast traveling mercies, healings of various sizes, and so on. Desperate times. My mind consumed with what to do, how to pay for, how am I ever going to get passed this? But those desperate, intense troubles - are long past. Even forgotten. And I know of others:

• a long awaited pregnancy - now expecting
• college fees - covered
• insurance claims - kicked in
• a pet that wandered off - found
• a strained relationship - revived
• a loved one away so long - home safe and sound
• a new medicine - brings relief

Resolved. Un-troubled. Thanks be to God!

I invite you to - not count your blessings - but to look back at your past troubles. What was on your hand-wringing, worry plate two years ago? Five years ago? That are now un-troubling. Possibly even forgotten. Until now.

Sometimes it feels like troubles are piling up daily. Yet how many do you really remember? Truly - many are done and over with. You can't possibly recall every resolution (un-troubling) the Lord has delivered into your life! But He has. You know He has.

There's more to that verse than just the reminder that there will be troubles.

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

Another translation:

"I have told you these things so that you will be whole and at peace. In this world, you will be plagued with times of trouble, but you need not fear; I have triumphed over this corrupt world order." (VOICE)

God has helped before. God will help again. Even though you have times of trouble, do not fear, the Lord has the final say. He offers peace to those to hold on to these, His, words.

I will answer your cry for help every time you pray, and you will find and feel My presence even in your time of pressure and trouble. (Psalm 91:15 TPT) 

Litter box prayers

© 2021 Julie Crane All rights reserved

 Now hang with me.

I promise there is a message of hope by the end of this post.

I'm in my morning chair with my morning coffee and my morning devotional. As I get ready to start prayer journaling, I see my cat heading over to the litter box. Not big news - unless she decided three weeks ago to not use the litter box but to poop near it instead. (*) So the first prayer in my journal was: "Lord, make her poop in the box." Then I went on to other prayer-like thoughts, which somehow evolved into baring my soul about some deep emotional issue I've been trying to ignore. I poured my heart out to God (Psalm 6:28) wondering if there would ever be a real resolution to what I perceived as a longstanding, unanswered prayer problem. As words like faith, hope, trust and believe rose up in my mind, so did the scratch, scratch sound of litter being pawed to cover its intended purpose.

And immediately this passage came to mind:

Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say "Get up, take up your mat and walk'? (Mark 2:9)

Which is easier - Jesus asks - in red ink.

Forgive you your sins?

Make a paralyzed man walk?

Return a cat to the litter box?

Heal your impossible need?

As He says which is easier, isn't He also saying, "Is one of these harder, more difficult, even impossible for Me?" You know the answer. You've quoted it to others many a time: Matthew 19:26... with God all things are possible. 

Are you thinking you have something so minor that God won't want to be bothered? You are wrong.

Do you think God handles other peoples "more important" problems but doesn't have the time or energy to spend on the unending prayer request you've been struggling with? Of course not. Or do you have something too stinking ugly - even for God? Something you just want to bury? Wrong and wrong again.

When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen (Isaiah 60:22). And while you're wondering about His "when", you need to look for His "why".

Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say "Get up, take up your mat and walk'? (Mark 2:9)

"But I want you to know...

... that the Son of Man has authority... (Mark 2:10)

The God of all wisdom and strength, the God of all love and concern, THAT God - is your God. He wants you to wait, to watch, and to know.

I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him" (Lamentations 3:24) Portion means enough. The Lord is enough, sufficient, and all I need. Even in the waiting.

What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which He revealed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him. (John 2:11)

When He heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it." (John 11:4)

Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?" (John 11:40)

Whatever it is - pray about it. And may you also see the glory of God, as you put your hope in Him.

(*) Yes, she was taken to the vet and checked out just fine. Appears she was constipated and related the discomfort of that to the litter box. She is fine now.

Pass the relish, please

Gulping hot coffee.

Inhaling a couple bites of toast.

A quick, one-page read of a devotional while brushing your teeth.

Grabbing an armload and running to the car.

Merging and weaving in and out of traffic while the latest news yammers in the background during your phone call.

Arriving, hurrying, multitasking, departing as fast as you can.

Throwing dinner together.

Prepping as much as possible for the next day.

Collapsing into bed.

A whiff of fresh brewed coffee.

The cup warming your hands.

Noticing the reflection of light on its surface.

And... that... first... sip.

Toast  with grandma's jam, sunny yellow eggs and a sweet orange cut-up and all on a pretty plate.

A bite. And a chew. And a look out the kitchen window.

Tasting. Seeing.

Opening your bible. Reading a section. Twice. Jotting down a note or two. Sitting. Thinking. Praying. Wondering... what of this does God want me to take into this day?

Gathering up what is needed. Opening the door. Breathing in the fresh air. Admiring the blue sky and the tree limbs reaching up.

Enjoying the view out the car window. Waving to a friend walking the dog. 

Going with the flow. Uplifting music making you dance in your head. Fingers tapping the steering wheel.

Arriving safe and sound. Greeting others with a nod and a smile. Knowing there is time and ability to complete the task before you. The uplifting music from the car radio still humming through your mind.

A sip of wine as meat browns in the pan. The crisp sound of vegetables being chopped up. Rice steaming to perfection. Sitting down. Saying grace. Holding hands. Light conversation. Lingering over dessert.

Counting the blessings of the day. Stretching out beneath cool sheets. Happy in God's provision. Resting in His promised presence and protection through the night.

Everybody loves different things on their hot dog. Some mustard. Some catsup. Onions. Even chili and cheese. And yes, hot dog relish. You get to choose. Choose how you will enjoy, make the most, of your hot dog.

And you.

How will you choose to relish this day?

 

I'm still gonna...

© 2016 Julie Crane All rights reserved

Take that first sip of coffee in the morning in my fluffy robe and slippers

Pet the cat until he purrs - loudly

Step out the door and breath in some fresh air

Enjoy some uplifting music

Wear a favorite sweatshirt

Talk on the phone with a loved one

Stand over the stove slowly stirring a pot of savory stew

I'm still gonna love sunshine as well as big snowflakes

Stand in awe at the lakeshore

Laugh as often as possible

Take time to really rest

Sit quietly in candlelight

Allow myself time to read a real page turner of a book

Eat chocolate with my eyes closed

And still find comfort in familiar bible passages

Hum a praise song or two

Eat bread and drink wine

I will remember again and again: nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39), the care of God, the very presence of... God.

Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion (meaning enough); therefore I will wait for Him. (Lamentations 3:21-24)

You will have a joy that no one can take away. (John 16:22)

Thanks times ten

© 2012 Julie Crane All rights reserved

"Teaching" Sunday School via snail mail has had its challenges - and its rewards. As I contemplated a lesson for Thanksgiving week, and the myriad of scriptures regarding thanks, I "stumbled" (God-led) to the account of the ten lepers (Luke 17). You know the one: someone got sick with leprosy and other people could easily get sick if they got near, so they had to live apart. They missed their family and friends so much! BUT THEN - Jesus stopped - He stopped what He was doing and where He was going. And with a touch and a word...

as the ten walked along on a seemingly ordinary path on a seemingly ordinary day - it happened. They found themselves made better. So of course they rushed towards home, eager to embrace loved ones.

But one of them...

one of them turned back. Back to Jesus. Full of thanks and praise! "Thank You for making me better!" He couldn't hold back; couldn't hold his appreciation in. And he couldn't wait to then go and tell what the Lord had done.

Where are the other nine? Jesus asked. Were not all made better?

As I sit here writing, I can't help but think of reasons to join the one in thanks and praise. From new days dawning and sun rises, walks outdoors and fresh air chilly on my cheeks, laughter and giggles over hot cocoa, thick socks, casseroles warm from the oven, a phone call with a loved one - oh, and worship songs to hum! Yes, I think on these things - these love-gifts from God, and I am made better.

"Thank You, Jesus!"

Who will run back with me? Will you join me, running to Jesus and giving thanks?

What momma said

© 2012 Julie Crane All rights reserved

 I recall when I heard it first as a teenager. The too tall, gawky, frizzy (not curly) hair, never measuring up teenager. And what she said then has come back to me time and time again. Those words still ring clear and true:

"Don't wish your life away."

You see, as a teenager, an awkward teenager, I was always hoping for things to be different. Now, I realize, that many teenagers get to a stage where they want things to be different. Somehow better than what they've already got.

What was mom really saying? As I think back, I don't remember it as a Pollyanna, happy go lucky, silver lining, count your blessings kind of advice. I don't think she was saying everything is beautiful and forgot / dismiss all the bad stuff. Her nature didn't reflect an overzealous enthusiasm but more of a quiet and patient acceptance of what is. And what is doesn't have to tear you down. Tend to your spirit / attitude inside no matter what is going on outside. There is a peace beyond mere survival.

I pause now to think about this. What did I want? A body, hair, and lifestyle acceptable to others. The  same as others. On the same page as all others.

But God says:

My grace is sufficient for you." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Grace - divine assistance

Sufficient - meeting the need

And maybe the word "godly" should precede "need". For God is concerned more about our insides than what the world thinks of our outsides.

 

You are supplied with everything you need to lead a godly life. If you focus on that, you will realize you DO have all that is needed. If you focus on the world around you, the circumstances around you - well, yes, as a Christian, you may find yourself lacking in the demands and commands of the world. You may certainly lack the peace Jesus offers.

So, here we find ourselves in the midst of a pandemic. And many of us are wishing, wishing, wishing for a different (better) life. I'm going to fall back on these thoughts about mom's character - quiet and patient acceptance. Not because I am a head-in-the-sand kind of gal, but because I know and trust in the Creator, Ruler, Handler of it all. I can rest in Him. I can. You can. We can sit in His holy presence. We don't have to wish our life away for eternal life (safekeeping, assurance, peace) with Him to begin. We have His full attention and extravagant love right now. Is that not the real desire of our hearts? All that is needed, His hand has provided, IS providing. Right? Great, great, GREAT is His faithfulness...

Wishing your life away?

Or immersing yourself in the loving presence of Jesus day and night?

Jesus gives it all - all that is needed.

Have a good day!

 

A new creation

I grew up in a small town. Stuck close to home. Didn't travel much at all - certainly not out of state. So it was quite a leap for me when I joined the Navy. Not only being far from home, leaving everything that was safe, secure and familiar, but being on my own.

I soon realized that all these new people around me didn't know me; my background, my experiences - who I was. The friends I grew up with always knew me as "too tall", kinda clumsy, awkward and shy. I basically had a clean slate with these new people. I could be anything and that's what they would know me as.

I soon met a girl also from Michigan. Oh boy! Someone from "home"! She came from an even smaller town. And she was spreading her wings. Heavy makeup, tight pants, dancing and clinging to very kind of sailor. Her "new creation" was becoming quite scandalous.

Joining the Navy, a new beginning had indeed begun. The challenges of boot camp clearly defined my old life as gone. A new way of life had begun. What I now knew changed me - there was no going back to small town Julie. I couldn't un-know the things I learned. I became stronger, more confident, and more self-controlled. The old Julie was gone, and the new Julie is here!

Can the same be said of our Christian walk? Of our joining with Jesus?

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone, the new is here! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Though we may struggle from time to time, our hearts are now set on following Jesus and God's ways.

Yes. If anyone is in Christ.

From that day forward.

Your old way of thinking and doing and living is no longer as comfortable.

The new is here, now and forever. The Holy Spirit has entered in, constantly leading and guiding how we should think and do and live.

Insert your name into the verse below like I did and feel empowered:

Therefore, if _____________ is in Christ, __________ is a new creation. The old __________ is gone, and the new ___________ is here! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

The following line is:

All this is from God. (verse 18)

Learning to do old things in a new way while I was in the Navy, and doing them afraid at first because it was so unfamiliar, made me a stronger person. Establishing new thought patterns made me a better person. Absolutely the same can be said for following Christ.

And it's all from God.

I stopped praying

I know, I know! I've been a Christian for quite a while now. And I'm a preacher's wife, for crying out loud! Shouldn't prayer be as effortless as breathing by now? Yet I found myself in a place where I just couldn't pray anymore. (Now, to clarify, I mean I drifted from my regular routine of starting each day off with some "only God" time. I was still calling out to Him throughout the day with 15 second popcorn prayers.)

I stopped praying. My list of concerns over others grew and grew. More names added than lined out with a PTL. And I had my own ongoing, personal issues. Seemed like I needed to use up my morning quiet time with less bible reading and more whining / pleading. Who wants to hear that every morning?

I tried gratitude. Really I did. But it felt like some rote script about food, clothing and shelter.

I dreaded mornings. I dreaded feeling like there was so much to be sorry about to God:

• not praying
• not regular bible reading
• not lifting others up
• feeling sorry for myself
• being selfish
• not trusting in God enough

My imaginings of how God would respond got bigger and bigger.

Then a heavy, weighty concern over a friend came - crushing my heart.

And I HAD to pray. NOW. It woke me up. Early, early...

I had to go to the One Who hears prayers and answers them. (Psalm 66:19-20)

To the One Who is close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18)

The God I've always known is still faithful, loving, kind and good. Despite my lapses, God is forever faithful in character.

So I did open my bible and prayed the words of hope, life and strength I found  into this friend's situation.

All my worries about guilt and being frantic with concerns - did not come to mind. What I found was a good, good Father with comforting reassuring arms . My heart rate settled. My overactive mind settled. I slid down in my chair and put my feet on the coffee table.

Has it happened to you?

Not reading your bible anymore?

Too guilty or distracted to pray?

I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you. (Isaiah 44:22)

... I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:29)

(Love)... keeps no record of wrongs. (1 Corinthians 13:5)

God of wonders - indeed.

God of love - yes!

Who among the gods is like You, Lord? Who is like You - majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders? (Exodus 15:11)

Who is a God like You, Who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. (Micah 7:18)

Taking an "only God" time can be healing, strengthening and assuring.

Now I'm only sorry I stayed away so long.

The way it is... right now

© 2018 Julie Crane All rights reserved

"I'm sorry. The cat food at the grocery store - the brand that you prefer - was all gone. This stuff is in a blue bag just like the other. It's chicken flavor, just like the other. We're in the midst of a pandemic. We all have to try new things for awhile."

Noooo! They cry. And cry. And paw at me with pleading eyes. "I'm sorry," I say yet again. "I'm not purposely trying to upset your norm. I'm doing the best I can. This is what we have available."

Maybe you don't have a finicky pet. But you may remember the moans and groans of family in the days after Thanksgiving. After: turkey sandwiches, turkey quiche, turkey casserole and turkey on a shingle...

And then there are these passages from the bible:

The rabble with them began to crave other food, and again the Israelites started wailing and said, "If only we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost - also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onion and garlic. But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna! (Numbers 11:4-6)

My cats version:
If only we had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death." (Exodus 16:3) (emphasis mine)

So, it's plain to see that having to make some adjustments for a season of time is not a new thing. And yet:

The cats cried.
The family cried.
The people cried.

And for what purpose?
He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. (Deuteronomy 8:3)

As we enter yet another day of limitations, let us remember from past teachings. Let us remember spiritual food, spiritual abundance, and feast on what is truly God-given goodness.

The Sustainer of all life - past, present and future.

I had cancer

Four years ago, I was on a cancer journey. I'll never forget it. But the memories of comments I made during that time keep popping up on one of my social media accounts.

I do remember considering the fact that I just might die from it. Yes, I cried. Yes, I was angry. Fearful too. But I resolved right then to pay attention to the kind of legacy I would be leaving. I wanted faith, trust and hope in God; peace and love - to be my banner. I would rest in the Lord. Be confident in Him. In reviewing my memory posts, I hope I conveyed that to my family and friends. The picture you see above is of a garland made of all the love, support and encouragement messages people sent me when I first found out. Those thoughts and prayers carried a lot of the burden I felt at the time.

Back in 2003, I went through the bumps and bruises of a divorce, at the same time as caring for my mom dying of cancer, at the same time as my only son was preparing for a tour of duty in Iraq. Numerous other problems piled up on top of all that regarding my health, home and car. Yes, I cried. Yes, I was angry. Fearful too.

Yet a dear friend kept telling me to say aloud and repeat as often as necessary, "Even so, I will trust in the Lord and praise His holy name." I spoke those words over and over - every time a new dilemma arose. My mantra to seeing myself through. Once again, letting Christ rise and shine in this life of mine despite all the problems.

And now we find ourselves in the midst of a world wide pandemic. Yes, I cry. Yes, I am angry. Fearful too.But my thoughts return once again to - what will my legacy be? How will people remember how I journeyed? Did I forever rant and rave the whole time? Panic. Fearful. The whole time?

Or will I again speak the words given by that dear friend:
Even so - I will trust in the Lord and praise His holy name.

For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. (2 Corinthians 2:15)

And put a BOW on it!

© 2012 Julie Crane All rights reserved

The greatest lover of your soul is God. We know that, right? And because He first loved us (1 John 4:19), we have a clue as to how to love.

So when I read the verse from 1 Peter 5:7:
Cast all your cares (worries, anxieties, burdens) on Him, because He cares for you. -

well, that just doesn't sound like a very loving thing to do. Don't we think love should be pretty and comfortable and make the other happy? Isn't love supposed to look like - a gift? Dumping all my problems onto someone's listening ear can be a relief... but is it love? Shouldn't my prayers be filled with thanks and praise?

What I've come to discover is that when we cast our burdens upon the Lord, we are giving Him the biggest gift of all. 

I TRUST YOU LORD.
The gift of Trust.

Don't give any weight to your worries. Don't listen to their lies. Turn your eyes upon Jesus.

Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, "Don't be afraid; just believe." (Mark 5:36)

I BELIEVE YOU CARE ABOUT ME LORD.

Remind yourself over and over that nothing is impossible for God (Matthew 19:26). Remember the cares, worries, burdens, anxieties He has helped you through before.

Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would. (Matthew 8:13)

I BELIEVE YOU ARE ALL THAT YOU SAY YOU ARE LORD.

Remember the rescues Jesus has done for you personally. 

They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world." (John 4:42)

GREAT IS YOUR FAITHFULNESS, LORD UNTO ME.

Got burdens? Troubles? Worries? Do you know what it means to God to have you run to Him? To trust Him?

... the Lord delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love. (Psalm 147:11)

So please do not fear oppressing the Lord with all your burdens and concerns. Casting them onto His shoulders is exactly what He desires of us. God's not counting up your doubts and failings. Love keeps no record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:5). But He is counting on you to turn to Him, trust Him, and count on Him. You may feel like you're not getting many other things right in life, but this, THIS... trusting in Jesus - brings great glory and honor to His name. 

Zephaniah 3:17:

The Lord your God is in your midst - a warrior bringing victory. He will create calm with His love; He will rejoice over you with singing. (CEB)

The Lord your God is with you. The mighty One will save you. The Lord will be happy with you. You will rest in His love. He will sing and be joyful about you. (ICB)

And why?
Because... you... trusted... Him.

Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge. (Psalm 62:8)

See there? Permission granted. Talk to the Lord. Your trust is a sign of love to Him.

Loved

Decades old. And it shows. I don't remember what it looked like new. Probably soft, cuddly and clean. It's been carried. And fought over. Tucked into bed. Looks chewed on even. Sewn up a time or two. Probably washed and washed.

And now look at it. Hair missing. Wrinkles showing. Gray that won't go away. Still in need of some patching up. Eyes not as clear and as sharp. Been through thick and thin it seems. But loved. Loved to death. That much is apparent. One precious companion for sure. Carried everywhere. Every place. Rescued from dangers. Lost - and found numerous times. Someone went to great lengths to keep it. And not tossed away for something newer. There was something about journeying together for so long. Love runs deep.

Are you feeling decades old? Do you feel like you've been through the wringer? Outside not as smooth? Scars from a few sewings? Gray that won't go away? A little stiff? 

Know this, my friends:

"I have always loved you," says the Lord. (Malachi 1:2)

The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love..." (Jeremiah 3:3)

Since you are precious and honored in My sight, and because I love you... (Isaiah 43:4)

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He Who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. (Isaiah 46:4)

... as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you. (Isaiah 62:5)

I know God is holding you
in the palm of His hand,
and no matter how old you are today,
He'll always know you as His child. (author unknown)

You belong forever to God.
Wrapped in His forever love.
Forever carried. 
Forever washed. 
Forever found. 
Forever. 

How thirsty are you?

I've been watching these plants. Hard to believe that just 10 days ago it was just a pot of black dirt. Look at 'em now!

You can't see from this angle of the picture, but there are roots reaching, stretching towards the water. Fascinating. They had to plow through inches of dirt to get to the water. They must have been so thirsty!

I don't know how one plant got so much taller and greener and stronger than the others. Maybe he was just so much more thirsty. Maybe the others had to navigate past stones. Or the sun was stronger at the back of the pot. But they all decided they were indeed thirsty. Thirsty enough to stretch, reach out, take this free gift.

Are you thirsty? For Jesus? How thirsty? Enough to reach out for it? Enough to believe He is there? Just as the water is in the bowl beneath the pot, surely our Lord is present and able to meet your need.

Luke 5:4,6: "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.

The Lord is able to meet your need - abundantly. Receive!

John 5:7-9: "Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me." Jesus said to him, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.

The Lord is able to meet your need - believe. Receive!

1 Corinthians 3:7: So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, Who makes things grow.

The Lord is able to meet your need - stay aware of His power. Receive!

Revelation 22:17: Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.

The Lord is able to meet your need - freely! To any one who wishes to take the free gift - of the water of life. Receive!

Are you ready to stretch your hand out to Jesus? Do you have a need that thirsts? Are you having to dig your way through blackness? Are you having to work your way around stones? Peter whined a little - after all, they'd already been fishing all night and caught nothing. And the invalid had his excuses too. Still, the remarkable happened.

Read these scripture verses again. And there are many more accounts in the bible of the provision of water by the hand of God.The Lord was able then. The Lord is able now. 

Are we walking?

 No, this isn't about a new year's resolution about walking. But as I've been reading in Genesis the past few days, I have discovered a distinction between living with God and walking with God.

Now  we know in the bible there are plenty of people who have lived for the Lord. But a couple passages caught my eye and got me to wondering:

(Genesis 5:24) Enoch walked faithfully with God, then he was no more, because God took him away.
And Enoch walk in habitual fellowship with God. (AMPC)
  Enoch walked steadily with God. (MSG)

Noah walked with God. (Genesis 6:9)
Noah walked in habitual fellowship with God.

So I looked up the word "walk" and what I found was so interesting.

WALK - to move at a regular pace by lifting up and setting down each foot in turn, never having both feet off the ground at once.

Is that packed with some thought provoking stuff, or what?

I hope you ponder this.

Is your walk with God -

•    at a regular pace?
•    does it involve lifting up?
•    and setting down?
•    and in its own turn (time and place)
•    and how about never having both feet off the ground at once!

In every season of life, in every season, may we be ever walking - walking with the Lord.