"You're Just a Bunch of Little Heathens"

She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family.
She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
(Quotes from Proverbs 31)

 
> Naomi Bonnilee Radner (ficticious name) was my proud, fiercely independent mother. Since she was the greatest influence of my life, there needs to be enough about her that the reader can understand just how much of an influence. For such a woman to be my mother is evidence that God loves me.

 
> She was the middle child of nine siblings. I thought she was perfect and the most beautiful woman in the world. Raven hair and dark eyes with olive complexion that tanned to bronze in the summer along with her good proportioning, gave her the appearance of a doll. Five foot/two inches in stocking feet, she was always a lady and fiercely outspoken. A "tomboy" as a child, she could, and would, stand up to anyone. The proof was her nose; a wide flat nose that had been broken three times: first, tumbling from a tree, and twice from fighting. She frequently informed me that she once had a pretty nose - just like mine.

 
> She loved and missed my father to the day she died. After he left, with a teenage waitress, I remember nights hearing her cry herself to sleep. Their relationship caused her so much emotional pain that she made wrong choices more than once. She wore a tough shell about herself that kept her emotionally out of reach in order to protect that softest of hearts. One of Mother's proverbs: "You can't choose who your heart will love."

 
> Faithful and generous to a fault, mom was fond of telling us there was always someone worse off than we were. I remember a couple Christmases that we were required to give up a possession that was in good condition (preferably something we cared for.) This was how we were to learn sacrifice for someone else and the joy of giving. You do not give something that you yourself would not want and there was always something to replace it.

 
> Ever heard the teaching that you are to do as though you were doing it for/giving it to Jesus Himself - ? Mother was that example.

 
> She also had a lot of "proverbs" that were frequently repeated. "Tell me anything but a lie" and "You can do anything you put your mind to" are only two of the dozens that come to mind. My all-time favorite, "You're just a bunch of little heathens". When I was an adolescent, she was fond of telling me I was special. Mom was sure I was going to do something that would prove it. I needed to hear her assurances but took them as just a mother's love.

 
> Mother was a vain woman with a definite idea of how a lady should conduct herself and how she should dress. She grew up in a time when ladies wore hats and gloves to go shopping and television commercials showed housewives with hair combed, make up on and aprons over their dresses.

 
> Mom never went out of the house without makeup, hair combed and coordinated clothes. She detested jeans for women and bare legs were out of the question; stocking were required. All this from a girl who came from a large farmer's family who lived grew up climbing trees in the countryside.

 
> STORY: A particular day comes to mind when I was going to visit my grandfather in the VA hospital. I was a grown, married woman at the time. It was the 1960's, the age of "bra burning". I stopped at mother's house along the way. When I came in the door, she immediately demanded to know where I was going "like that". I responded "to see Pop". "Not like that, you're not" was her decree. She took me into the bedroom and "put" a bra on me. That was that.

 
> She was stylish and loved "layaway" for quality items. "You get what you pay for" wan another of "Naomi's proverbs". She would deny herself something if one of her children was in need but she did not deny herself. That was part of the lesson that taught us to respect her. "You have to respect yourself to get respect from others".

 
To be continued . . . .

Friday: The Agony

MESSAGE for Friday of Easter week; "The Agony"

 

> The crucifixion starts with the scourging that literally skinned Jesus alive. This was not common with a crucifixion but I feel Pilot thought it would invoke pity from the crowd so they would release Jesus. During this physical ordeal, He was struck, mocked and spit on by a company of Roman soldiers. Mt. 27:26 and Mk. 15:16 - 19.

Shame is a big element of eastern cultures. It was shameful to be crucified naked in public; to one’s self, family and community, Jn. 19:23.

 

> There appears to be some conflict about who carried the cross and when. Reading the accounts in the first three gospels closely, Mt. 27:32 & 33, Mk. 15:20 & 21, and Lk. 23:26, we conclude the weakened Jesus carried the crossbar as far as the city gate, where they ran into Simon, the Cyrene, who was on his way into the city.

On the cross, Jesus was offered wine twice. The first time, was standard to crucifixion. Wine was mixed with “gall” (1 grain of frankincense) to numb the senses. He refused this wine mixture, Mt. 27:34. He was supposed to suffer in our stead.

 

> The second was after He stated He was thirsty. This was wine vinegar and He drank from the sponge on the stalk of hyssop. {Looking at Heb. 9:19, a cleansing ceremony was performed by Moses using the blood of a sacrifice (wine on the cross) with a red woolen cloth and hyssop to confirm the covenant between Israel and God. You can find this in Ex. 24:8. Jesus, the sacrifice, was redeeming that covenant.

 

> Jesus died at the time of day (3:00 pm) that the last sacrifice of the day was made in the temple. The last animal sacrifice of the day; Jesus the one true sacrifice for mankind. 

 

 

 

SEVEN LAST STATEMENTS:

1. “Father forgive them, they know not what they do”, Lk 23:34. Our glorious Savior was asking forgiveness for unrepentant people. In the language of the Bible, the number one represents the head of the house; the leader. Jesus is speaking, in His number one statement, to the head of our house, Father God.

 

2. “Today you will be with me in paradise”, Lk. 23:43. The number two, His second statement, represents a house. Jesus was assuring the repentant sinner that he has an eternal home with his Savior.

 

3. “Woman here is your son. . . Here is your mother”, Jn. 19:26 & 27. This perfect man was thinking of others as He hangs naked and stripped of His very skin, Ps. 22:17. The number three means to lift up in pride. The mother He was proud of and the apostle He was proud of were being lifted up to care for each other.

 

4. “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”, Mt. 27:45. This is a reference to Psalm 22. This is the only time Jesus refers to the Father as “My God”. He is a man taking the sins of the world for all time upon Himself; He was speaking for sinful man. For a brief heart wrenching moment, the Father became God in judgement of men. They were not speaking as the perfect son to a loving father; it was ultimate sinner, under judgement, to God. The number four references the earth. Jesus was man of the earth with the sins of the world upon Him.

 

5. “I thirst”, Jn. 19:28. Jesus thirsts for us to be with Him. How much do we thirst for Him? The number five is the number for grace. Jesus is the ultimate grace of God to us through His sacrifice.

 

6. “It is finished”, Jn. 19:30. The number six refers to mankind. Jesus work on this earth, as man, was over. He made His stand and finished what He was born for. Just as He created the universe in six days, His six statements summarize the reason for His life on earth. It is time to rest.

 

7. “Father into your hands I commit my spirit”, Lk. 23:46. The number seven means completion. His human life is now complete, cut off from this physical earth. Here is the power of our Lord Jesus. Then, He hung His head and GAVE up His spirit.

 

> Through archeological findings, we know that everyone who died on a cross died with their back or neck broken because they threw their head back so violently reaching for that last breath of air. Jesus was in complete control when He BOWED His head and He gave up His spirit. No one took His life. He died exactly the moment He was supposed to, under His own power; fully in control of the situation.

This is our Lord

Return of The Blogger - or not

That's it!  I'm coming back - or not.

My opinions are becoming more set in stone and conspiracy theories abound in my imagination.  Been getting deeper and deeper into Bible study and excited about new revelations that might not be so readily accepted on well read venues. I like to cook, have a new food regimen and might post a recipe or two - or not.  I repair and sell dolls so that might come up once in awhile - or not.  My health is more important all the time so I might comment on that - or not.  I need an outlet where I can write (I like to write) and not too many people will read it.  I want to speak my mind but don't want to "make waves".  Crazy huh?  Well, I''m getting old.

I dropped this blog because of very few readers and other social media taking my time. I dropped all other social media but one and thinking of ending that due to their increasing censorship and lack of morality.  I am forced to capitalize the names of cheeses but not adjectives for Jesus or they are considered misspelled.  This has always been a pet peeve of mine.  It's not like I write four letter words or preach animal sacrifice.

At this stage of my life, I am beyond caring.
It's true! The older I get, the more outspoken
I seem to be.  

Want to read this blog?  I will be expressing a lot of personal views and opinions, along with my religious views in my own writing style.  Agree or not, I won't care. 
You can always opt to not read my posts; don't care about that either.  I just want a platform for release.

Where have I been?  With the onset of COVID early, my husband and I spent a couple spring months sick.  One of the early tests came out negative for the illness even though we had text book symptoms.  Two years later, I end up in hospital for ten days with COVID pneumonia.  Oh, that was an experience! That shut down my virtual shop for two months.  It was an experience I don't want again and getting over it is proving to be a major effort.  Not crying and not to worry,  I am good to go just not patient.  Might even write about it later - or not; I would not want to sound pathetic or scarred for life.  I am tired of all the "hoopla" and criticism from those opposed to my opinions about it all.  After all, I don't bother them over their beliefs of masks and hand washing, sanitizers and distancing or whatever else they are consumed with.  Life is for living with joy; not in fear.

Between the two bouts of illness, my children found me and we reunited after 50 years.  Just like a TV talk show!  I wrote in my autobiography, "Evidence of God", they died at birth.  That had to be explained - a lot!  Start writing about life experiences and the world acts like they have a right to all the secrets of your heart.  I might write about the experience sometime - or not.  I'm not one to go on about super personal issues.  Readers think I told all in my book but they are wrong.  I might tell it all here - or not.  We'll just wait and see.

I might copy something from my book on occasion.  After all, it's not flying off the bookshelves.
You can come back and read more later - or not. 

Crown of Thorns

Crown of Thorns

Exodus 12 speaks of Passover. Among Jewish peoples Passover is considered the New Year for Kings. This is when kings were crowned.

In 1Kings 6:1 we learn Solomon began to build the Temple in the second month, Ziv, of his reign of four years. We can calculate that Solomon was crowned in the first month of the Hebrew calendar, Nisan.  Nisan is the month of Passover, the month of Redemption, the month of Salvation, the month of the Crucifixion and the month of the crowning of the Kings of Israel. 

Jesus came by the words of John the Baptist (the prophesied Ezekiel) who alerted people about the PRESENCE of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus was not publicly crowned, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is AT HAND!”, Mt. 3:2.
Jesus came to prove His right to His thrown on this earth by sacrificing Himself for His bride, the church (all believing Jews and Gentiles). He will return to claim both, soon.  Coming to prove Himself for His kingdom as the God-man, He would not leave unless crowned as King.  Therefore, He was crowned!

Judges 8:26 tells us that the kings of Midian wore purple robes; a royal color. AND, the color of cloth God instructed to cover the altar in the ‘Holy of Holies’, in the Tent of Meeting was to be purple, Nu. 4:13. The crucifixion was where God received the most important offering ever sacrificed.

The ignorant Roman soldiers did not understand their crowning was a REAL crowning, performed according to the ancient traditions of Israel.  They crowned Jesus on the day of the day of the crowning of Kings of Israel, with crown and purple robe.  God used these ignorant Roman soldiers to crown Jesus, the King Messiah - at the exact time appointed by Him for this purpose.

 
Note: The curse of the earth, “ cursed is the ground for your sake; . . . Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to you . . ,” Gen. 3:17 & 18.  The thorns in Jesus crown also removed the curse from off the earth.

Never doubt God is in control for the best possible outcome of any situation. Praise God and thank you, Jesus.

The First Communion

Names are so fascinating in the Bible.  They help translate events and their meanings.

Interesting chain of events: Gen 14:18 Melchizedek, king of Salem (Salem means "peace"), gave communion to Abram (means "Father of Altitude"), later named Abraham ("Father of Multitude"). He blessed Abram and Abram gave tithe.

This is the first mention of communion in the Bible and it lays the foundation for blessing and tithing. Notice God's blessing comes first because He is so gracious.  Notice also: after the tithe is paid, God makes a covenant with Abram to give a son (to Abram's barren wife in their old age) and countless offspring. 

Jerusalem is called the foundation of Salem; Jerusalem means "God's Delight". This communion was held in the Valley of Shaveh (means "King's Valley") Melchizedek means "My King is The Lord of Righteousness".
 
Let's put this together: "My King is The Lord of Righteousness" met in the "King's Valley" for the first communion, a ritual to mark the coming out of Egypt (Egypt translates "stress"), a type of sin (OT) (in the New Testament, the crucified Christ dying to cleanse our sin), with the "Father of Altitude" in Salem ("Peace") where we find Jerusalem, "God's Delight".  

Another way: "My King, Lord of Righteousness" went to the "King's Valley" to take out/cleanse of sin the "Father of Altitude" who honored this with giving a tenth of all he had and in return received the desire of his heart. (You can't out give God) This took place in the "Peace" of "God's Delight".

Abram became Abraham and was later asked to offer his beloved son as sacrifice to God.  This is a foretelling of the sacrifice our father made with  his beloved son, Jesus.  P.S: At the last minute, our loving Father provided an animal sacrifice and spared the boy.  
 
Our gracious God wants to bless us with the desires of our hearts in a place of peace - this is His delight.

Amen

God Said "Please"

So excited, just have to share - A fact from study of the original Hebrew text of the Bible (called the Tenach):

In the Old Testament, the word "please" has been omitted over the centuries by translators, to the tune of 410 times in the Old Testament - 176 times in Hebrew version of the New Testament.

Example: Gen 22:2 Read it for yourself in your Bible. The Hebrew Bible reads: "Please take your son . . ." This portrays God in a different light than harsh and merciless.... He always allows us a choice. 






"Please" demonstrates compassion. It has a reassuring affect while asking someone to do something very difficult. In the NT, the thief on the cross said (In Heb. NT), "Lord, remember me please . . ." 
Lk 23:42







Again: Ps 118:25 and Jn 12:13 says "Save us we beseech you . . ." original Hebrew: "Save us, please, O Lord! O Lord, please, send us prosperity."

Whatever could be the reason that this significant gesture should be omitted so many times by translations ?  Perhaps the earliest of them wanted a contrast between the God of the Old Testament and Jesus of the New Testament.  Isn't it wonderful to have such a precious God. 

Amen

We Are His Children

I don't know who created this image but I dearly love it.  (I hope there is no copyright penalty for using it.  If I knew the artist, I would give them full credit.  It was on the inter net so I assume it is for public use.)

As someone who was an abused child, I give great meaning to this scene.  Let's consider this image together.  

The child has a most content look on his/her face.  We don't know if this is a boy or a girl so we understand anyone can relate.  I see "child" in this little person:  the shy, the playful, the innocent.  He/she is very comfortable.  There is no fear.  They are happy to have all the attention placed solely on them at this moment; reveling in the company.  

I believe this is how our loving Heavenly Father intends for us to feel:  safe, secure, trusting, confident, doted on - loved.   He wants us to accept His Son as our atonement, the sacrifice paid for us.  We can feel clean and free to allow Him in anytime.

Then, there is Jesus.  His hands folded and space between him and the child.  No threat here.  He is not invading the child's space.  He is not even reaching out to the child.  There is genuine interest in His expression.  He is totally in the moment: there is only Him and this little child.  He makes no pretense to be anything other than the simple and humble person that He is.  His figure towers over the child but is not overwhelming - does not threaten but, rather, seems protective.

This is my Savior.  He is not pushy.  He does not come in to me unless I ask Him to.  He never forces Himself.  He respects my space and my choices; right or wrong.  I am free to make those choices with confidence He will be available if I need Him for advice, shelter or forgiveness.  He dotes on me and wants only to help, to see me safe, happy and healthy doing His will.

They are sitting on solid rock, surrounded by rock; symbolic of the strength of Jesus as the cornerstone of life; our security for eternal life. 

Notice the light that surrounds the head of Jesus.  Halo?  Light of the world?  Light in the darkness?  All of the above.

Notice also the vine around the stalk.  Jesus is the vine.  He is the stalk and we are the branches.

There was a lot of thought and planning put into the structure of this image.  God put a lot of planning into His master plan for us.  Jesus is the central part of that plan.

   Now, take a look at this scene:

The child has consented to sit on the lap of Jesus, in his hands and we see from his/her posture there is no fear.  The child is relaxed, at ease, content, feeling safe and happy.  

Jesus is smiling, happy to have us secure within his hands.  He is offering happiness and safety.  This is a confident man.  No one would dare confront Him to take us away now that we have consented to accept Him.  We are His and He is ours.

Amen

Genesis 22

All Christians are aware that Abraham was asked by God to offer his beloved son, Isaac, as a sacrifice.  (Yes, he was asked.  In original Hebrew text God actually says, "Please".  Abraham did not have to do this and neither did God - or Jesus.)  This is a foretelling of the sacrifice our Heavenly Father made with  His beloved son, Jesus.   

Gen 22, gives us the story of Abraham, a parallel for God in this case, who is offering his son for a sacrifice - a type of the Christ.  In these passages, Isaac says "Father" (as Jesus called from the cross) and Abraham says "Here I Am" (as God answers us who believe in His son.)  The incident takes place on Mt. Moriah.  Moriah in Hebrew translates, "The Lord Is My Teacher".  This story is, no only a great lesson for Abraham, but for us.


Calvary is the highest point of Jerusalem and can be seen from where Abraham obeyed God by preparing to take the life of his only son.  If we were to stand on Mt. Moriah and look north across the northern Kidron Valley we would see Calvary.
This is a great story that deepens with translation:

> V.1: This is a test.  God tests all of us from time to time.  God called and Abraham answered, "Here I Am".  First point: This is an example of what each of us should do - answer God when He calls us to do something.  Second point: Abraham is pointed out in this verse as a parallel of God by saying "I Am" - God's name given to Moses.

The word "tested" is from the Hebrew word meaning "high above".  God raised Abraham (high above other men) by constantly testing him over and over.   Again, Moriah means "The Lord Is My Teacher."

> V.2:  God asks Abraham to sacrifice his only son, whom he loves.  God loved His only son, Jesus, but was willing to sacrifice Him for His love for us.  * Isaac had an older brother, Ishmael.  God did not recognize Ishmael as Abraham's son at this point.  Why?  Because Ishmael was born from the impatient efforts of Sarah and Abraham; rather than waiting on God for the promised son, Isaac.  Isaac was given by God through Sarah, Abraham's wife, whom he loved.

Mt. Moriah was the highest point in, what became, the City of David (Jerusalem).  Be sure to read my next posting about this fascinating spot.

> V. 3:  Shows Abraham being obedient the very first thing in the day.  
* This is the first time in the Bible that the words "love" and "worship" are mentioned; they are mentioned together.  Worship is love; we are to love to worship.

> V. 4:  It took 3 days to get to Mt. Moriah.  Interesting:  Christ was dead 3 days before resurrection.  There were three hours of darkness after Jesus died.  Peter denied Jesus 3 times, there were 3 crosses, etc, etc.  Three is a very important number as there are 3 beings in the God Head.

>  V.5:  Abraham had such faith in God that he told his servants, "we will come back to you".  He was confident his son would be spared.  Jesus was spared to return to His everlasting life when raised from the dead.  Was Abraham in possession of this knowledge through foresight?  Or . . did he just have faith in God to resurrect his son to fulfill the initial promise ?

>  V.6:  The wood for the fire was placed on the back of Isaac; Christ carried the wooden cross on his back, up Mt. Calvary.  

> V.7:  In conversation, Isaac calls Abraham, "Father" and Abraham answers, "Yes, my son".  Here is conversation between the Father and the Son, a parallel reference to God and Jesus.  Isaac notices there is no lamb for sacrifice.  Most commentaries suggest that Isaac was not a boy but, rather, a young man.  One commentary (From Oxford Church in England) speculates he could have been as old as 33.  This is very interesting considering that Christ was said to be that age when he was crucified.  Heb 11:17 - 19

>  V.8:  Abraham told Isaac, "God Himself will provide the lamb", referring to Jesus, our sacrificial lamb.  We see no evidence that Isaac argued here.  This shows me that Isaac had faith in similar quantity to his father, Abraham.

> V.9:  Abraham following through with what God told him to do, in full confidence that God would save this young man he had promised would populate nations.  He believed the original promise God made in Gen 15:5.

> V.10:  Abraham was prepared to follow through with the sacrifice.  Regarding faith: you have to take the first step and show God your faith.  Moses stepped into the red sea BEFORE the waters parted.

> V.11:  Here is his reward for obedience, at the last minute.  God spared Isaac.
* To Abraham, Isaac had died when God spoke in verse 2, because he decided then to obey God. Thus he received him back ‘raised’ from the dead on the 3rd day, just like Jesus!

> V.12:  Abraham "feared God" - trusted, reverenced God.   God LOVED the world to sacrifice His son, His only son, whom He loved.

>  V.13:  The ram that God provided to Abraham was perfect, without blemish, just as Jesus was perfect.  The ram was caught in the bush by it's horns so there was not blemish on the animal.

> V.14:  Abraham named the place, "God Will Be Seen" (original text).  This is fascinating in light of the history of Mt. Moriah. (Be sure to read my next blog.)  There is revelation going on with Abraham.  God is allowing him a glimpse of the future.  Jn 8:56   Calvary can be seen from Mt. Moriah.

> V.15 & 16:  This Angel of The Lord is none other than Jesus Himself.  This fact is substantiated by the act of "swearing by Himself".

> V.17 & 18:  God reminds Abraham of His original blessing in Gen 15:5, that He will keep that promise for the faith, trust and obedience Abraham has shown.

As inheritors of the promises of Abraham, we, as Christians, can be just as sure of God's love and care for us.     

Isn't the Bible fascinating?  So much in every word.  We need only to Seek and Find.
Amen

Language of The Bible

The Jewish People are known as the chosen people of God.  This, because they were picked to be the ancestors of Jesus from among the twelve sons of Jacob, whom God renamed "Israel".  The Israelites are not Jews, but the Jews are Israelites.  Judah was the fourth son of Jacob/Israel and represents the fourth tribe of Israel.  (The number 4 is representative of the earth and the name Judah means: "The Praise of The Lord")  His mother was Jacob's beloved Leah.  Gen.46:12

The Old Testament was written in the Hebrew language by Moses, the poets and the prophets, Genesis through Malachi.  It was the language Adam spoke.  In my writings, I will make frequent reference to the Hebrew language for translations in the Old Testament.  The same goes for the Greek of the New Testament.

FYI:  the Hebrew language reads right to left, has 22 letters in the alphabet and uses those letters for numbers.  It is a bit complicated when you grow up with English but highly descriptive and beautiful in meaning.  Hebrew goes much deeper in meaning than English, rendering more to the meaning.  A typical example is the word "Shalom" which is translated "peace".  BUT indeed, is much more.  To understand it in Hebrew, you have to translate it as "perfect peace" with a meaning of health, calm assurance, great peace and prosperity; the perfect peace of God.  Heb.4:12 

Letters represent numbers; there is no actual number system in Hebrew outside of the alphabet.  This gives greater significance to  numbers.  Each number/letter has a meaning.  ie:  7 is the number of completion, 5 represents God's grace, 10 is the number representing law and 12 the number to represent government.  Every number in the Bible has deeper meaning than just a count.  We can go deeper into this in another writing.

Another interesting word is "hesed". I have seen this word translated as "faith" which does not go near the description of all of the positive aspects of God: faithfulness, peace, love, truth, honor, eternal, steadfast, gentleness, shelter, and on and on, encompassing every adjective that describes this magnificent being.

"Hesed" - a beautiful Hebrew word that cannot be defined by one English word. This word encompasses all the positive assets of God: faithfulness, honesty, love, wisdom, compassion, generosity, grace, devotion, joy, loyalty, etc, etc, etc. This amazing word can only define God because any human beings are incapable of possessing all of these qualities. 

There are no swear words in Hebrew.  Of course, it is God's language.  To curse or swear, the Hebrew people must borrow a swear word from another language.

I find that Jewish people have a reverence for God that I have never witnessed.  They will not write His name; instead you may see "G_d" or the term "Hashem" which means "The Name", referring to "Yahweh". 

When studying any culture, it is important to know the language in order to truly understand.  In studying the Old Testament, it is an enormous help to understand the basics of Hebrew. 

Jesus was Jewish of the Hebrew people.  He spoke Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek and probably Roman.  What the heck, He was God in flesh so He could speak any language at any time with anyone.  I am sure He could speak in one language to a crowd and the Holy Spirit would translate in any tongue to a listener who spoke a different language - just like on the first Pentacost.

The Bible will make you wise.  As Jesus often said, "It is written."
Rev.1:3

Amen

Friends: Closer Than Relatives

A couple of my closest friends and I have fallen into kidnapping.

On one of our birthdays, the other two plan the day and pay all expenses to something special.  (Any shopping, is at our own expense.)  Lunch and fees are paid by the other two.  If we take the "kidnappee" to a museum or movie, we pay for her part of the expense.  We also split the expense of her lunch.  We pick out the restaurant(s) and activities so it is all a big surprise to her.  It happens three times a year so it does not get boring or become too routine.  Since we live in a small rural town, we always go to the city or a larger town.

We have great fun: shop, eat, antique stores, museums,  historical places, tourist attractions, specialty stores and movies.  We always chose restaurants and activities that the birthday girl would like.  

We dress up, do our hair, buy silly birthday cards and look forward to these outings.

I have come to see how important friends are.  I did not make many friends when in school.  I was from the wrong side of the tracks and Kennedy was "busing" us into a "higher class" neighbor to force integration.  As a young adult, I was betrayed by a good friend in a way that changed the course of my life.  It took 15 years before I met someone that I could trust to be a friend.  I have been half way across the country from her for the past 26 years and 40 years later, we can still pick up the phone and talk as though we live next door.

 After high school, I "hit the ground running", as I chased after my career.  For 60 years I traveled across this country for work.  Sometimes I came home just long enough to unpack, do a little new work and repack for the next show.  I never knew my neighbors or made friends.  My friends were casual and in various states across this country.

Since I "retired" from all my traveling, I have gradually made friends and learned to value the connection that women have.  I can still count friends on one hand.  You know, the ones that you trust with a secret; the ones that know the most about you and still like you.

In the later part of our lives, we need this connection.  We especially need it when family takes on lives apart from ours and/or we lose a spouse.  Downsizing or moving into assisted living has got to be a huge transition and makes us face the end of our story in this life.  

GOOD NEWS:  It ain't over 'til it's over.  And, good friends can help each other weather all the transitions.  We can share our stories, pictures of our grandkids, a cup of tea, our childhood, Bible study or a cool breeze on the patio in the evening.  We have company to the doctor appointment, a trip to the grocery or someone to call when we need an emotional hug.

Make sure you have a friend to relate to and share time.  Friendship is a precious thing that I ignored for many years.  


The Bible says: 
Lk 7:6  A friend will do you a service
Acts 10:24  Peter had many friends
Acts 19:31  Paul had friends who warned him
Acts 27:3  A friend can provide for you in time of need
Pro 17:17  Solomon tells us a friend can be more reliable than family
Pro 27:6  A friend will always tell you the truth
Pro 27: 9  A friend give sincere advice
Pro 27:17  Friends benefit each other


Jesus' disciples were His "inner circle", close friends.  They shared food, wine, experiences, stories, difficult times and He loved them and prayed for them. 

Prov 18:24  This friend is the Holy Spirit and is a great source of comfort
Lk 12:14  Jesus calls us "friend"; you cannot have a better friend
Since my husband and I will be relocating from this area we presently live in it is going to be a major adjustment to leave my friends.  This has never been an issue before and it will be a major life change.  Of course, we say we will visit and call but the truth is that Facebook will most likely be the main contact.  My friends will find other friends and spend time with grandkids and life will take them ahead on their journey.  I will find other friends, hopefully.  It's just the way life is.  

An old saying comes to mine:  "It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all."  This can apply to friends.  The friends will be distant but the memories will loom closer than ever.  And every time I remember how we laughed when we realized I had kept one footie on after leaving a shoe store and didn't discover it for hours later, I will smile to myself and say a prayer for everyone of the friends I have made on my journey.
Amen !

The Gospels - Mark

Mark was not one of the twelve chosen by Jesus but, rather, a follower of Peter.  It is believed Mark wrote from the teachings of Peter.  Mark concentrated more on what Jesus did rather than what He said.  After all, Mark was not a direct witness to Jesus.

What Mark might have looked like

It is the shortest of the gospels with 16 chapters.  This book of Mark was written to Gentiles in Rome and Greece.

Acts 12:12 tells us Mark was somewhat affluent by the reference to his mother’s as a “big” house, because “many people had gathered”, and a servant is mentioned.

In Col 4:10 we learn that Barnabas, Paul’s frequent companion, was a cousin of John Mark.

In his account, Mark sees Jesus as the servant, symbolized by the ox (Rev 4:6&7), because of his tireless ministry in pure motive, represented by the color white.  He presents Jesus to the reader as a tireless worker; always doing and serving others (like a minister, our high priest).  Thus, setting example for His followers.

Mark had failed in his service at one point: Acts 13:13.  The “John” listed here is Mark (called John Mark).  He returned to Jerusalem due to some difficulty.  Acts 13:2 & 4 tells us the Holy Ghost called 2 but 3 went.  Mark was not yet called.  He was eager but not yet called by the Holy Spirit.   New believers are often very enthusiastic but may not yet be made ready.  Mark was experienced as a failed servant writing about the servant of man, Jesus, the ultimate servant.

Col 4:10 and II Tim 4:11 shows us Mark restored.  He went on to be quite  successful as an apostle. 

Mark’s gospel opens with Jesus busy: baptized, calling disciples, driving out demons, healing, tempted and preaching. 
Closes with Jesus working - with the apostles, 16:20.

In Mark, Chapt. 1, Jesus came into our darkness.  (In Mark 16, He left us with His light.)  I want to note that Jesus was baptized at the lowest point in the country and crucified at the highest point.  A good subject to ponder.

Chapter 3 tells us Jesus started with 70 apostles and chose 12.  In Hebrew (Jesus was a Hebrew), the number 12 represents authority/government: 12 tribes, 12 stones in first foundation of New Jerusalem, 12 stones on priests breastplate and more I will not explore at this time. 

Like Matthew, he records many of Jesus parables and healing.  He also accounts for Jesus’ brothers and sisters in Chapt 6.  Indeed, Jesus is very busy in this account by Mark.  He does one thing after another and Mark makes this clear with words like: immediately, and, then Jesus, at once, when Jesus and repeatedly following Jesus name with a verb.  All emphasis is on the perfect example of Jesus the servant.  Another point is the absence of the word “and”.  In original Greek text the conjunction “and” was used more frequently to show He was busy: and He healed, and He walked, and He went, and He saw, and He appoints.  Right away, Mark establishes Jesus as the servant. 

Further along in Chapt. 6, He feeds the 5,000.  If we include what must have been the presence of women and children, He fed even more than this; possibly around 15,000.  Mark tells us they were fed and satisfied; Jesus gave them the bread of life and they were content, just as we are fed with His word and find rest.  It is noted there were 12 full baskets left over.  He gives us all we need - and more.  I find it interesting to note there were also 12 apostles.

In 10:14, rather than the NIV word indignant or angry, original Greek states “severely displeased”.  I am a great advocate of how much Jesus was especially gracious to children and widows; what His brother James called “pure religion”. 

In Chapt. 11, Mark records the crowd crying “Hosanna!” as Jesus came into Jerusalem on a colt.  “Hosanna” translated from Hebrew, means “Save us, please.”  This is especially interesting in v.10.  He notes that they were to find a colt that had never been ridden - you could say a “virgin” colt.  Jesus was born of a virgin woman, rode a virgin colt and was buried in a virgin tomb (one that had never been used).

Mark also relates to us the last supper, Peter’s denial, Gethsemane, His arrest, trial, death, crucifixion, burial and resurrection.

All gospels mention either flogging or punishment of Jesus at the hand of Pilot.  Maybe Pilot was hoping the Jewish priests would have pity when they saw Him beaten within an inch of His life.  It didn’t work.  Surely, it is significant that every one of the gospels accounts for the flogging.  It was common in Roman law to use a cat of nine tails that had pieces of bone and pottery tied to the end of the nine leather tails to latch on to and tear flesh.  It was also likely that he received 38 to 40 lashes (x 9 tails) by Hebrew Old Testament law.  Pilot was dealing with Hebrew priests who were insisting on death.  The Psalmist recorded how His bones “stare back at me”.  The importance of shredding His body of flesh (as fulfilled in prophesy) was to take our ills and pains upon Himself so we might be whole, Isa. 53:4, I Pet.2:24

Moving on to the crucifixion, Mark mentions the time Jesus was crucified in 15:25   Nine in the morning was the time of the morning sacrifice at the temple. 

Verse 16:15 reads “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”  The Greek translates this “Go to all creatures and preach and publish openly.”  The Greek is so much more explicit.

It was a Gentile, a Centurian, that first stated, “This man was the Son of God!”.  His own people, through the priests, had turned against Him (the very people He came to save) so the apostles were sent out to Gentiles, who were quicker to believe.  The Gentiles did not have 5,000 years of law and tradition to over come.

Mark also mentions the women who were in service to Jesus during His ministry and were present at the cross.  This would have been unusual in those days.  A crucifixion was no place for a woman; it was very brutal.  Most likely, they stood off a few yards.  However, we are to believe that His mother was in hearing range when told to behold her new son, John.

One last note: These first four books of the New Testament are called “Synoptic Gospels”.  This translates “Good News In Agreement”.

Amen

A Short Thought

During a recent Sunday School class discussion, there were comments on how to forgive those who wrong you or for whatever reason, you don't like or don't want to be around.

One comment has stayed with me and I would like to share it with you:

When there is someone that you need to forgive (for any reason), or just accept, imagine that Jesus is standing behind them and saying to you, "I love them".

This is a very interesting exercise and I have to admit it is working for me.
Amen

"I Am A Christian"

Not too long ago, I was in our local dollar store to pick up some household items.

I wasn't in the store very long when I heard a  woman's voice that sounded upset.  Naturally, as a "curious" person, I wanted to know what was going on; so . . . I listened.  I mean, it didn't take much straining to hear her.  This woman had the kind of voice that seems to permeate the atmosphere.  (Know what I mean?)

She was asking about the price of an item.  No idea what the item was and it is not important.  She was at the register complaining that a price had been rung up that was incorrect.  The clerk was explaining that it was the price listed in the register.  The lady customer was countering, emphatically, that the price on the shelf, where she found it, was different than the price being rung up.  We've all been there.  And, it does happen that a  price can be in the register that has not been changed for a sale.  This lady did not seem to be considering the possibility of an excusable error.  In fact, she was getting quite agitated.   After a couple minutes of discussion with the clerk was getting her nowhere, she asked for the manager.  As far as I can remember, the price difference was just a matter of less than a dollar.

The manager was prompt on the scene and asked the customer to show her on what shelf in the store she found the price of this item.  The customer marched the manager straight to the shelf with the price.  The manager, seeing the issue immediately, patiently explained that her item was not in the correct location in the store.  The manager further explained that people frequently pick up items and leave them in different locations when they change their mind about a purchase.  

Apparently, this lady did not like her answer.  Her agitation was growing as could be witnessed by her volume.  Here and now, I can no longer be accused of eaves dropping; the entire occupancy of the store was within hearing range.  

The manager was leading her customer back to the register to settle the situation.  A line of customers was forming and half of this woman's purchases had been rung up.  We were in the middle of a "incomplete checkout".   


Discussion continued further as the customer was getting more and more upset.  She was insisting on the price that was on the shelf where she found the item in question.  The manager, to her credit, was even in tone, volume and patience as she continued to repeat the actuality of the situation.  This customer, for whatever reason, finally relinquished and very sharply declared, "Well, then, I don't want it." 

By this time, I had joined the line of waiting customers and could witness the situation first hand.  With, pursed lips this lady refused to say another word, pushed her money into the hand of the manager, threw her change into her purse and mumbled something under her breath.

As she turned with her cart, I could see her purse in the baby seat, which sported a decal that declared, "I am a Christian".

Amen

My Story - Epilogue

Yeah, my story has a great ending.  

Looking back over my life, I can see how blessed I am.  All the trials have made me who I am today.  Perfect?  No!  But, I have learned, matured, grown spiritually, come into a personal relationship with God and am so grateful for all of it.

God did not do any of the bad things.  People were given free choice from the time of Adam and Eve.  My parents made choices and I made my choices in response to their actions.  It is obvious that I made poor choices - one after another for many years.  And, look how it just spiraled to that turning point with the loaded gun.

God does not do bad  God is total, complete love.  As a good father, He created us and knows what we need and want better than we do.  It's not easy to trust a spiritual being when everything we relate to is physical.  Faith and belief are not easy in this world.  It takes a desire and a lot of practice - a lot of trial and error.  Not to worry, the blood of Jesus covers the believer's mistakes.  You get a "do over" - every time!  Keep doing it over until you get it right.  It starts with your first step.  Jesus does not push; He waits.  You have to take the first step in faith and practice belief.  Here is another easy part:  if you need faith, just ask for it.  That first step is submission by getting on you knees and asking for everything you lack.  The father's love makes it easy.

The enemy knows where we are most vulnerable.  He knows every weak spot.  He prowls the earth like a hungry lion searching for who he can devour.  Constantly in our head whispering everything negative and telling us we are not worthy; prodding us to do and be everything Jesus is not. 

God turns bad to good:
Because my father left, I got to know an amazing grandfather.

Because of the sexual abuse, I learned to cherish physical relationship as the ultimate expression of love within the privacy of marriage.

Because I was betrayed by a close friend, I know how to be a friend.

Because of the molestings, I am cautious and aware of my surroundings.

Because of poor choices in husbands, I learned to let God have His way.  

Because I lost children, I have a passion for them.

Because of many trials, I was blessed with amazing friendships for support. 

Because of a restless spirit, I have traveled all over this country, been places, seen things and met all sorts of people. 

Because . . . because . . . because . . . get it?

My husband and I are not wealthy but we have everything we need; what a great blessing.  Sometimes, I feel downright rich. 
Note:  We have learned that any time we get a financial windfall (like a bonus at work or I sell art I was not offering), to hold on to it for awhile before we spend it.  Many times, a reason for the money comes shortly after we receive it.  So many times, God has provided BEFORE the need.  What a blessing to be able to ask our Heavenly Father for advice in every part of our daily lives.  When the answer is immediate or obvious, our faith gets a boost.  Fear fades and confidence grows.

As we mature in our relationship with Jesus, we have learned how to be grateful and show daily praise.  We are making Him the center of our married lives.  He shows us His amazing love and understanding time and again.  Our lives have become miracles.
Amen

That Dirty Word

"Tithe"

This is not a popular practice for many of us.  We can always use that tenth for another bill, shoes or car repair.  Fact: It actually belongs to God in the first place..

Tithing is a 10th of what we have already been given. Nu 18:26  We receive it first, then we give part of it.  A 10th is a very small part of the whole, which is everything we have: health, home, job, friends, family, clothing and food.  People tend to forget that God freely gives us all these things.  They are not ours to begin with.  He gives us and ask that we reserve 10% of that to hand back to Him.  This is what He asks us to do to acknowledge that He is provider; the one we should come to for everything.  He wants to give and bless.  He wants us to acknowledge Him as the source.

What the Bible says about tithing:  Gen 14:20, Gen 28:22, Lev 27:32, Pro 3:9, Heb 7:2 & 4

Our children are a blessing from Him.  How do we give a tenth of our children?  Caring for them as though we will give them back - like the parable of the talents; or, Samuel's mother, Hannah. 

The tithe is not only on the physical items we have but also peace, health, the air we breathe, life itself and on and on and on.  We do not have any of these things if God does not first give them to us.  What about our calling?  We are called by God to an understanding of Him; to be His children He wants to love and care for.  How do we give a tenth of these things?  By showing appreciation; by serving others.

Another gift from God is Jesus; our greatest blessing.  How do we give a tenth of that ! ?   Ans:  Jms 1:27

The 10th is so little.  The suggested tip for a waitress today is more.  It is a mere token to show God we acknowledge Him and appreciate all He has done, is doing and will do for us.

Giving to others:  Giving is a wonderful thing.  You cannot give a gift and tell the receiver what to do with it.  I see this happen so often.  You give something to a friend who gives it to her daughter.  You meant the gift for your friend.  She gave it away.  That makes us feel our gift was unappreciated. 

It is the act of giving that is our reward.  We are blessed when we give.  After that, we have no more connection with the gift.  Anything, anytime we give, we are blessed for the act of giving.  Why would you want to deny your friend that same blessing?

God never lets us do without.  If I give food to a food drive or take half my supper to a sick neighbor, I never notice a bare spot in my pantry.  I have never done without because I gave.  As matter of fact, I have more because I give.  This makes it easier to give more food.  The more I give, the more I have to give.  God works this way to allow us to share His blessings.  Mal 3:10

The blessings of giving are not always tangible just as all of God's blessings are not tangible: mercy, grace, forgiveness, righteousness, eternal life.

Discerning where to give is important.  ("Do not cast your pearls before swine.")  I try not to give to someone just because I like them.  They may not need as much as someone I don't socially see eye to eye with.  I try not to give to a person who does not make effort to help their self.  Giving to that person who is making an honest effort to work and do better for their family, is discernment.  The issue is:  If I give to a person who is a chronic taker, the truly needy will do without my help.  After all, my ability to give has a limit.

We tithe to the church (the bride of Christ).  Here is a different issue:  We are NOT to discern giving to the church (as long as the church teaches Jesus from the Bible).  All too often people are too concerned with how the church operates and distributes it's funds.  We are told to give - NOT to tell the church how to operate.  The church is set up, according to Biblical instruction, on how to perform.  Let's stop all the voting and have faith in our church leaders to "run the show".  That's why they are there.  The pastor is a pastor because God allows him to be the pastor - no matter what you think of his ability as a speaker, or the music, during worship service.

HEAVEN WILL NOT BE A DEMOCRACY !


What we are giving is not ours.  It is first given to us from God. 
Immeasurable blessings will come to you by being grateful.  God appreciates a cheerful giver.  We are reminded of the rich man who would not give up what he had to gain heaven and the widow who gave the last of all she had.

May you share your blessings and reap the rich rewards from your loving Heavenly Father.
Amen