"Home Sweet Home" ..... true ... for some of us
"Home is where the heart is," also true for many .. your earthly residence may not be where your heart is .. you may actually feel more "at home" at another's residence.
And for some ... by Robert Frost. "Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in." from the "The Death of the Hired Hand" by Robert Frost.
If we have an earthly home to live in ... away from the elements .. a home to keep us warm .. a place to lay our heads at night. We should be eternally grateful - for many do not .. even in this country. And those of us who do should be ever mindful and ready to help those who don't. Remember "to whom much is given, much shall be required of him." (Luke 12:48) We just really need to be both more thankful and more helpful to those in need.
While my boys were growing up, I had the blessing of spending one week of the summer with them at Maywood Christian Camp. It is a place that has a piece of our hearts. We feel completely at home when we are there.
My youngest child has been able to attend Christian camp for at least part of the week every year of his life (even if it was just for one day). The year he was three was his first full week. It was an experience for both of us and one I will never forget.
When we stepped back into our cabin after supper that first night, he said "We're home!" For the first several days of the week, he did feel quite at home. He was busy playing all day, and being as young as he was, he had plenty of attention from the older children. However, after a few very full days, late nights and early mornings calls to "Rise and Shine," he was completely worn out.
We all have our limits -- even or maybe especially -- young children. It was either Wednesday or Thursday when he hit his limit. He was totally worn out and became weepy and cranky. To put it bluntly he was about to have a meltdown.
We were at the pavilion about to engage in the night's activities. But I knew we weren't going to make it through any of that. So I told my co-counselor we were going back to the cabin for an early night. I hoped to have him bathed and in bed asleep before anyone else came back to the cabin.
In an attempt to cheer him up I said, "Come on, let's go home." He brightened up immediately and came along with no complaint. But when we got back to the cabin and walked through the door it was a totally different story. I said, "OK, we're home." Aaron just fell down in the floor crying. He said, "No - no. Not this home. My real home. I want to go to my real home."
At that point I must admit I almost felt the same way. I remember this night very well because I felt so sorry for him. All I wanted to do was hold my baby and comfort him until he fell asleep which of course, is exactly what I did.
After a full night's sleep we both woke up feeling much better. I don't know if he even remembered the night before. He had just been exhausted. We made it through the rest of the week with no more meltdowns. And he still has a deep love for Maywood.
That night my little boy longed for his "real home."
Where do we long to be? Do we dream of a place called heaven? Is there where our heart is?
God loves us so much and He longs for us to be there with Him. He is not willing that any should perish - and yet, He commands us all to repent. (2 Peter 3:9, Acts 17:30) He sent His Son - His only Son to die for us. It is through Christ that we have hope an eternal home in heaven -- a place of sweet rest from all our labors and toils ... from all the heartaches this world has brought us.
If we love God enough to seek Him diligently - He will reward us with a home that will be so much sweeter than any place we have ever known! Jesus has told us there are many rooms in His Father's house. He has promised to come back for those who love Him as much as He has loved us - for those who will keep His commandments and live a life of love for Him.
Jesus also told us - "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-20)
See, if our treasure is our hope of heaven - if we long to be with God -- if we lay up our treasures - by loving and living for Him -- then no one can take that away from us! We must never give up. Peter tells us we are just sojourners and pilgrims here. He encourages us to live holy lives.
See this is our temporary home. We will either spend eternity in one place or another. Yet, as Christians we know where we want to be -- where we long to be. At our lowest point, "we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord."
(2 Corinthians 5:8) For we know beyond a shadow of a doubt, "our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." (Philippians 3:20)
Christ above all things,
Robin
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Perfectly Pure Love
A few days ago, I had a conversation with my Mom about my parents' pets. I mentioned her "stupid dog." (Forgive my political un-correctness in using that "s" word).
Mom's swift response was "We don't have a stupid dog."
"What happened to him?" I asked.
"Oh, we still have him," she said. "He's just not stupid."
Our conversation made me smile.
My parents love their pets - pretty much unconditionally. They are responsible, kind and generous pet owners (two cats and two dogs) and do everything they can to care for them properly. In return Bob, Charlie, Victor and Missy are devoted to my parents. They always want to be where Mom and Dad are and follow them around wherever they go.
God loves us that much -- unconditionally. Long ago, Jesus told us just how much the Father loves and cares for us. In that beautiful discourse called the Sermon on the Mount, Christ teaches that we are cared for much more than the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. (Matthew 6:25-34 NKJV)
We aren't to worry about what we will eat and drink or what we will wear. Christ says, "For your Heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:32b -33). In other words, we don't have to worry about anything except seeking the Father and His righteousness. Then God will take care of the rest.
Probably the most well-known verse in the Bible is John 3:16 and no wonder! "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." How awesome is that? It is a kind of love that we cannot begin to fathom. Knowing about His love gives us hope beyond measure.
To me, the next verse is just as profound. "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." God gave us the greatest gift -- it was the perfect gift - the sacrifice of His loving Son for our sins.
The love of God is unconditional in that He sent His only Son to die for us. His sacrifice was for the whole world. And yet John 3:16-17 uses the words "should" and "might." See in return for His sacrifice -- in return for Christ dying for us - God wants us to live for Him.
He wants us to seek His kingdom and His righteousness - He wants us to be as devoted to Him as my parents' pets are to them. He wants us to long to be with Him - just like those beloved animals long to be with my Mom and Dad. He wants us to follow Him.
No I am not saying we are like pets' to God. Matthew already told us that in God's eyes we are so much more than the birds of the air. We are the only creatures to whom God gave a soul. But I am talking about pure love. Just as God's love is perfect and pure - so our love for Him should be.
We love God because God first loved us. (I John 4:19) Each one of us must decide if this is true for our lives. And if it is - we should be happy -- excited --eager to go wherever He leads us - just as those wonderful pets eagerly follow Mom and Dad wherever they go.
God's loves is wonderful, pure and holy. He wants us to be with Him. The question is do we love Him enough to follow where He leads?
Christ above all things,
Robin
Mom's swift response was "We don't have a stupid dog."
"What happened to him?" I asked.
"Oh, we still have him," she said. "He's just not stupid."
Our conversation made me smile.
My parents love their pets - pretty much unconditionally. They are responsible, kind and generous pet owners (two cats and two dogs) and do everything they can to care for them properly. In return Bob, Charlie, Victor and Missy are devoted to my parents. They always want to be where Mom and Dad are and follow them around wherever they go.
God loves us that much -- unconditionally. Long ago, Jesus told us just how much the Father loves and cares for us. In that beautiful discourse called the Sermon on the Mount, Christ teaches that we are cared for much more than the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. (Matthew 6:25-34 NKJV)
We aren't to worry about what we will eat and drink or what we will wear. Christ says, "For your Heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:32b -33). In other words, we don't have to worry about anything except seeking the Father and His righteousness. Then God will take care of the rest.
Probably the most well-known verse in the Bible is John 3:16 and no wonder! "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." How awesome is that? It is a kind of love that we cannot begin to fathom. Knowing about His love gives us hope beyond measure.
To me, the next verse is just as profound. "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." God gave us the greatest gift -- it was the perfect gift - the sacrifice of His loving Son for our sins.
The love of God is unconditional in that He sent His only Son to die for us. His sacrifice was for the whole world. And yet John 3:16-17 uses the words "should" and "might." See in return for His sacrifice -- in return for Christ dying for us - God wants us to live for Him.
He wants us to seek His kingdom and His righteousness - He wants us to be as devoted to Him as my parents' pets are to them. He wants us to long to be with Him - just like those beloved animals long to be with my Mom and Dad. He wants us to follow Him.
No I am not saying we are like pets' to God. Matthew already told us that in God's eyes we are so much more than the birds of the air. We are the only creatures to whom God gave a soul. But I am talking about pure love. Just as God's love is perfect and pure - so our love for Him should be.
We love God because God first loved us. (I John 4:19) Each one of us must decide if this is true for our lives. And if it is - we should be happy -- excited --eager to go wherever He leads us - just as those wonderful pets eagerly follow Mom and Dad wherever they go.
God's loves is wonderful, pure and holy. He wants us to be with Him. The question is do we love Him enough to follow where He leads?
Christ above all things,
Robin
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Never Too Old -- Choosing Our Destiny
I got a sweet little book from my nephew for Christmas this past year -- 365 Lovely Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. As you might imagine, it is a collection of encouraging quotes. I've enjoyed this little book. Some of the quotes are really thought provoking. It is the combination of yesterday's and today's quote that finally prompted me to start sharing my thoughts again.
OK, Robin - so what are they? Well, yesterday's is from C.S. Lewis - "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." I loved this. It made me realize that it's not too late to pick this habit up again. It also helped me understand that if I am to continue to grow (as we should all strive to do) I must continue to set goals for myself ... to dream new dreams.
The quote for today is :"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice." (W. J. Bryan) It brought to remembrance recent conversations in our Ladies' Sunday school class. These conversations centered on the choices we make and the impact they have on our lives and the lives of others. It also reminds me of all the times my parents told me we make our own destiny.
Both quotes are so very true. Our destiny in life is determined by the choices we make. Our eternal destination also depends on our life choices. And that is precisely why it is never too late to make the right choices -- to dream of eternal life.
We are never too old or too far gone in our sin to make a change and choose to serve our Savior. What better goal can we set? What better dream to have than the one of living with God in heaven eternally?
For those of us who already made the choice, we must choose to never give up. We must decide to continue to grow. God wants us to mature in our faith - to learn as much as we can so we can teach others. That is the choice we make. Do we choose to go with the status quo? Do we decide to just go through the motions of serving God? Are we Christians in name only? OR -- do we decide to actually live it every day?
Peter gives us great encouragement and the best reason in the world to keep growing -- to set new goals spiritually. Read 2 Peter 1:5-11. It is a somewhat lengthy passage; but so worthwhile to study.
"But also for this very reason, giving all diligence," make a conscience choice ... to do what, Peter?
"Add to your faith, virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance, godliness, to godliness brotherly love, to brotherly kindness love." That doesn't sound like going through motions to me. It sounds like we are to constantly set new goals for ourselves - to stretch and grow as Christians. And notably, this challenge doesn't have an age limit.
"For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." These "things" will not be ours by chance or accident. We will not obtain these qualities, let alone abound in them unless we choose to acquire them.
Next comes a warning, "For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins." How sad it is to become so indifferent to your salvation that you have forgotten the joy of forgiveness! Yet that is a choice some will make.
Peter offers the better choice. "Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
Did you get all that? We can decide to be diligent. We choose to be sure. There is so much to be gained if we do "these things" - if we continually add those qualities to our lives we will not stumble. What a glorious gain will be ours if we make the right choices.
Thank you Gentry for reminding me through your gift that we are never too old to dream - never too old to grow and mature in our Christian faith -- and for helping me remember that the choice really is ours (mine) to make.
By always adding to our faith, we choose our own destiny. We will be abundantly supplied an entrance "into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." What better reason for deciding to heed Peter's instruction?
Christ above all things,
Robin
OK, Robin - so what are they? Well, yesterday's is from C.S. Lewis - "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." I loved this. It made me realize that it's not too late to pick this habit up again. It also helped me understand that if I am to continue to grow (as we should all strive to do) I must continue to set goals for myself ... to dream new dreams.
The quote for today is :"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice." (W. J. Bryan) It brought to remembrance recent conversations in our Ladies' Sunday school class. These conversations centered on the choices we make and the impact they have on our lives and the lives of others. It also reminds me of all the times my parents told me we make our own destiny.
Both quotes are so very true. Our destiny in life is determined by the choices we make. Our eternal destination also depends on our life choices. And that is precisely why it is never too late to make the right choices -- to dream of eternal life.
We are never too old or too far gone in our sin to make a change and choose to serve our Savior. What better goal can we set? What better dream to have than the one of living with God in heaven eternally?
For those of us who already made the choice, we must choose to never give up. We must decide to continue to grow. God wants us to mature in our faith - to learn as much as we can so we can teach others. That is the choice we make. Do we choose to go with the status quo? Do we decide to just go through the motions of serving God? Are we Christians in name only? OR -- do we decide to actually live it every day?
Peter gives us great encouragement and the best reason in the world to keep growing -- to set new goals spiritually. Read 2 Peter 1:5-11. It is a somewhat lengthy passage; but so worthwhile to study.
"But also for this very reason, giving all diligence," make a conscience choice ... to do what, Peter?
"Add to your faith, virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance, godliness, to godliness brotherly love, to brotherly kindness love." That doesn't sound like going through motions to me. It sounds like we are to constantly set new goals for ourselves - to stretch and grow as Christians. And notably, this challenge doesn't have an age limit.
"For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." These "things" will not be ours by chance or accident. We will not obtain these qualities, let alone abound in them unless we choose to acquire them.
Next comes a warning, "For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins." How sad it is to become so indifferent to your salvation that you have forgotten the joy of forgiveness! Yet that is a choice some will make.
Peter offers the better choice. "Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
Did you get all that? We can decide to be diligent. We choose to be sure. There is so much to be gained if we do "these things" - if we continually add those qualities to our lives we will not stumble. What a glorious gain will be ours if we make the right choices.
Thank you Gentry for reminding me through your gift that we are never too old to dream - never too old to grow and mature in our Christian faith -- and for helping me remember that the choice really is ours (mine) to make.
By always adding to our faith, we choose our own destiny. We will be abundantly supplied an entrance "into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." What better reason for deciding to heed Peter's instruction?
Christ above all things,
Robin
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Blessed Rest
The world lost
a good person Friday night – a truly good-hearted person. I lost a dear friend and sweet sister in
Christ. But heaven gained a beautiful soul
…. And Melba gained her eternal rest.
So very many people have expressed condolences to the family ….. in
person and on face book …. through phone calls …. Through tears …. and prayers
and hugs. Melba was a school teacher for
many years and was well known in the community through her kindness and good
works. Former students remember her love
and encouragement for them all.
Former Bible
class students remember her teaching them with love as well. One of the first things my brother, Todd,
said when he heard of Melba’s passing was “I remember her teaching me in Bible
class.” She was an impressive
teacher. I had the blessing of watching
her teach and also of teaching with her for several years at Maywood Christian
Camp.
I loved to
hear her talk about God’s word. She
taught with such enthusiasm. I loved
watching her tell the children, “Now, listen – this really happened. It REALLY happened.” It was so important to her that the children
she was teaching understood that the Bible wasn’t a story book. She wanted them to know it was true. She stressed that. And they listened to her. They learned from her.
As part of her
church family – well the church is the body of Christ -- so when we lose a
church family member – we lose part of us.
Hillcrest has lost part of itself.
Melba was such a fine Christian lady.
She loved God …. And she loved her church.
It is because
she loved God so well that she will be missed by so very many people. She loved God and so she showed the love of
God in everything she did. Christ lived
in her heart. So she was His arms and
legs while she lived. She used her arms
for hugging … her heart for loving … her smile for giving joy to others … her
intelligence for teaching ….. Well you
get the point. Christ lived in her and
Hillcrest will miss her dearly.
One of Melba’s
favorite Bible characters was Esther.
She loved Esther’s strength and resolve.
She loved to encourage young ladies to be brave like Esther – to always
stand up for what is right. I once heard
her say that you could see God’s hand all through the book of Esther. If you’re not familiar with that story, I
would urge you to read it. You’ll see
for yourself that Melba was right.
She stayed so
busy for the Lord. Always working –
always looking for ways to help – always volunteering for this or that whenever
a project came up. She was always doing something for somebody. “Just tell me what
you need,” she would say. How many people
do you know like that?
I don’t know
if it was her very favorite verse, but I heard her quote Galatians 6:9 on
several occasions. “And let
us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do
not lose heart.” (NKJV) I think Melba pretty much lived
this verse.
Thinking
of her tonight, I also thought of I Corinthians 15:58 “ Therefore, my beloved
brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord,
knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” (NKJV)
Melba
was strong and steadfast in her faith.
She wasn’t about to let anything in her life shake her faith in the
Savior. She clung to the Lord. And like I already said, she was always busy
for Him.
Today
when I was with the family, I told her daughter that I could just imagine her
hugging Jesus as He welcomed her to heaven and then looking up into His eyes
with a cheerful smile and saying, “OK Jesus, what do You want me to do now?” That’s Melba – that’s the kind of servant
heart she had.
But
Jesus has promised that our labor is not in vain. And Melba did not give up in her service to
Him. We know that “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” (Psalm 116:15 NKJV). And we also know Jesus has promised us rest …
(Hebrews
4:9 NKJV) “There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.”
And
so I can only imagine the smile on Jesus’ face when He tells her she can rest
now, for her works have followed her. (see
Revelation 14:13)
I
do not mourn for Melba – I mourn for those of us who must go on without her,
especially her sweet family whom I love dearly. I will be praying with them and for them in the coming days and weeks.
But for Melba .... instead of mourning, I
celebrate her life and I praise God for giving her one. I praise the Lord for HIS GOODNESS and His
mercy and His grace. I praise the Savior
for His loving sacrifice. I thank God
because I got to share part of this earthly life with my friend. And I praise Him because He prepared heaven
for His children “before the foundation of the world.”
What
would Melba tell us now? Again, I can only
imagine for I really don’t know. But I
think it might be something like … Follow the Lord. Study the Bible because it really is
true. Learn what He wants you to
do. Love Him, obey Him, and never give
up serving Him. For your labor in the
Lord is not in vain.
Rest
my sweet friend, we will miss you.
Christ
above all things,
Robin
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Just Like That...
And just like that …..
My sister in law recently used that
phrase when she posted some of my niece’s senior pictures on face book. I must say I agree with Shannon’s sentiments. Time has passed so swiftly since Elizabeth’s
birth. Actually, two of my nieces are
graduating this year. Elizabeth’s
cousin, Karlie (my other brother’s child) is also a senior. It is difficult to believe in they will be
high school graduates in just a few short months. And I know from experience those months will
be a whirlwind of activities … we will blink and it will be commencement day.
Yes, it really does seem it has
been “just like that”…..
So much goes into “just like that.” For Shannon – nearly 18 years of motherhood
goes into a just like that. 18 years of
loving and caring for a child she never knew she would love so much. 18 years of watching her learn and grow and
become an intelligent, independent thinking human being. 18 years of healing hurts and teaching about
God and life and love. I would say
Shannon’s ‘just like that’ was cram packed full of living.
And so it seems just like that we are
saying goodbye to 2015. It went by
quickly. What is in your past year of
‘just like that’? Honestly, mine’s a
mixed bag of experiences … ups and
downs … blessings and trials. I’m sure
yours is much the same way. Do you
remember closing out 2014 and looking forward to the year to which we are now
saying goodbye? How many New Year’s Eve
nights do you remember?
I’ve seen so many posts on face
book. So many goodbyes to this year ….
Some with great glee because they didn’t have a very good 2015. Some with gratitude for a good year and joyous
hope for an even greater 2016. Some with
trepidation because of sadness or trials which lie ahead. Some of us look back on our past year … or
even years with regret … perhaps we
didn’t make use of opportunities that came our way ….. perhaps there were
things we did or said that we shouldn’t have.
But we can’t spend too much time on
looking back … for if we do … then just like that … the chances afforded to us
now will be over too … and we will be looking back again … with regret over
chances we didn’t take …. over unused
opportunities … wasted time.
We can’t change what’s in the past, so
we don’t need to waste any more time wishing we could. One thing I’ve learned is that it is never
too late to start doing things right – even if we start over again every
day. The key is not giving up …. Never
stop trying … never stop working to do better … to be better.
We see this in athletes. They practice
all the time … if they mess up one day, then they go out and practice over and
over until they get it right. The best
athletes don’t give up and they don’t stop trying. Ever. Nor do they spend too much time looking back
at the day before. Athletes learn
lessons from the failures of the past and move on to the promise of an improved
future. And in a “just like that” …
packed full of practices and “try agains” and “do overs” – they become the best
in their field.
This is Biblical. As long as we are practicing and doing the
best we can, God gives us the chance to keep trying. Our Father gives us “do overs.” Consider these scriptures:
“But if we
walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another,
and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have
no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to
forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
(I John 1:7-9 ESV)
“Not that I
have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay
hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren,
I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do,
forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things
which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of
God in Christ Jesus.”
(Philippians 3:12-14)
I
am so glad I serve a wonderful God who time after time gives us the occasion to
change – to improve – to start over and do better! It really is never, ever too late to do the
right thing. Christianity is a lifestyle
– serving our Lord is a choice we make --- growth is a process – becoming
mature in our faith is what we try for every day. We don’t stop … we don’t give up. We might stumble … but Christ our Savior is willing
to pick us up – just like He pulled Peter out of the water when he began to
sink – just like He allowed Him to preach the first gospel sermon only 50 days
after he denied Him. Peter moved on and
took his next opportunity to serve Jesus.
Paul put his past behind him.
Christ above all things,
Robin
Saturday, October 31, 2015
From 8 to 86
From 8 to 86 - this was the range of ages of those who attended the North Mississippi Ladies' Retreat last weekend. Seventeen congregations were represented. What a wonderful experience it was! Celine Sparks was our speaker and she did a superb job explaining God's Word to us. Simply --humbly -- lovingly -- her lessons came from her heart. One can tell by listening to her just how much she loves the Lord ... His Word.
I am so thankful for her willingness to share. And I am so thankful for every individual who attended the retreat. It is always such an encouraging and uplifting event! It is good for the soul.
I know some people might think of events like these as simply a way for a bunch of ladies to get away and be frivolous and have fun. Maybe they think it is all fluff with no stuffing ... no real spirituality involved. Not so .. Not so at all.
We worship God while we are there. We lift our voices in praise to our Savior and Redeemer -- reverently -- joyfully -- with sweet adoration. We pray to our Heavenly Father -- some of the most beautiful heartfelt prayers I have ever heard have been uttered at Tishomingo State Park. And we study God's word. We learned what a beautiful walk we can have with Christ. We gain encouragement from the lessons we hear ... we learn how to do better .. to be better.
Do we have fun? Do we even act silly with our skits? Yes, of course we do. Is that important? I think so. Doesn't the Bible say "A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones." (Proverbs 17:22) Sometimes we need a break from the every day trials we face.
Don't you think Jesus laughed? I do! Although the scriptures never record Him laughing, I certainly think He did. Can't you just imagine the wonderful friendship He had between the apostles?
Christ was all human and all God at the same time. It was God who gave us our emotions. We are made in His image. Christ spent too much time speaking of joy not to imagine that He enjoyed life while He was here. Just picture Christ smiling and laughing with the children. Certainly they wouldn't have wanted to be around Him if He had been somber all the time.
So it is good to get away from our ordinary routine from time to time. It is good to enjoy fellowship with our sisters who also love Christ. Still, this is not what a Ladies' Retreat is all about. It's about loving God and loving each other. We glorify Him while we are together. We lift each other up and encourage each other while we are together.
Sometimes we share our heartaches with one another -- or ask sisters to pray for us because of what we are going through. We learn ... we learn from the scripture. We learn how to love God more ... how to follow Him more closely. We learn about how much He cares for us.
You see, it was always in God's plan to establish the church. Christ built the church - He purchased it with His own blood, so that we would have a spiritual family to lean upon and to help one another ... so we would have someone to weep with AND someone to rejoice with. Christ wanted us to "stir up each other to love and good works." (Hebrews 10:24). Ladies' events accomplish these very things.
It is my strong belief that events like these, as well as so many others, keep churches strong. Yes, it is important to have youth activities. It is important to send them to youth rallies and Bible camps and leadership training series.
But when not attending these events, who are these children with? Who sings "Jesus Loves Me" with little children upon their laps? Who encourages the teenager to remain strong when they are teased at school for standing up for their beliefs? Who helps them learn memory verses or speaks with them very plainly about applying Biblical principles to the situations they face every day?
I think we know what a huge role mothers and grandmothers play in a young Christian's life. The children may not (some defy the odds; but not most) -- the children may not grow to be strong and faithful Christians if the mother loses her faith or becomes discouraged.
Even the men who serve Christ faithfully from week to week lean upon the strength of their wives from time to time. Living the Christian life and raising a Christian family is a joint venture after all. Younger ladies come and learn from older ladies at the retreat. They learn about the joy of being with one another. They learn about the joy of serving Christ. Younger ladies see the strength of the older ones and gain strength for serving Jesus even through tough times.
These events serve a special place in the Lord's church. They are not for everyone and they are not an issue of salvation. But they do glorify our God in heaven. The early church fellowshipped with one another on a daily basis -- with gladness and singleness of heart. And the Lord added to them daily. The church grew by leaps and bounds. Did the fellowship have something to do with that?
We've lost the art of fellowship in these modern times. Ladies' events and youth events, men's programs -- all these efforts are a way of bringing fellowship back into God's family. They are ways to help build up the church - to help us become a family and love one another the way God's wants to -- the Jesus commanded us to do.
Christ wanted us to love one another so much so others would know we belonged to Him ...... so that they would want to be a part of the family of God -- from 8 to 86.
Christ above all things,
Robin
I am so thankful for her willingness to share. And I am so thankful for every individual who attended the retreat. It is always such an encouraging and uplifting event! It is good for the soul.
I know some people might think of events like these as simply a way for a bunch of ladies to get away and be frivolous and have fun. Maybe they think it is all fluff with no stuffing ... no real spirituality involved. Not so .. Not so at all.
We worship God while we are there. We lift our voices in praise to our Savior and Redeemer -- reverently -- joyfully -- with sweet adoration. We pray to our Heavenly Father -- some of the most beautiful heartfelt prayers I have ever heard have been uttered at Tishomingo State Park. And we study God's word. We learned what a beautiful walk we can have with Christ. We gain encouragement from the lessons we hear ... we learn how to do better .. to be better.
Do we have fun? Do we even act silly with our skits? Yes, of course we do. Is that important? I think so. Doesn't the Bible say "A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones." (Proverbs 17:22) Sometimes we need a break from the every day trials we face.
Don't you think Jesus laughed? I do! Although the scriptures never record Him laughing, I certainly think He did. Can't you just imagine the wonderful friendship He had between the apostles?
Christ was all human and all God at the same time. It was God who gave us our emotions. We are made in His image. Christ spent too much time speaking of joy not to imagine that He enjoyed life while He was here. Just picture Christ smiling and laughing with the children. Certainly they wouldn't have wanted to be around Him if He had been somber all the time.
So it is good to get away from our ordinary routine from time to time. It is good to enjoy fellowship with our sisters who also love Christ. Still, this is not what a Ladies' Retreat is all about. It's about loving God and loving each other. We glorify Him while we are together. We lift each other up and encourage each other while we are together.
Sometimes we share our heartaches with one another -- or ask sisters to pray for us because of what we are going through. We learn ... we learn from the scripture. We learn how to love God more ... how to follow Him more closely. We learn about how much He cares for us.
You see, it was always in God's plan to establish the church. Christ built the church - He purchased it with His own blood, so that we would have a spiritual family to lean upon and to help one another ... so we would have someone to weep with AND someone to rejoice with. Christ wanted us to "stir up each other to love and good works." (Hebrews 10:24). Ladies' events accomplish these very things.
It is my strong belief that events like these, as well as so many others, keep churches strong. Yes, it is important to have youth activities. It is important to send them to youth rallies and Bible camps and leadership training series.
But when not attending these events, who are these children with? Who sings "Jesus Loves Me" with little children upon their laps? Who encourages the teenager to remain strong when they are teased at school for standing up for their beliefs? Who helps them learn memory verses or speaks with them very plainly about applying Biblical principles to the situations they face every day?
I think we know what a huge role mothers and grandmothers play in a young Christian's life. The children may not (some defy the odds; but not most) -- the children may not grow to be strong and faithful Christians if the mother loses her faith or becomes discouraged.
Even the men who serve Christ faithfully from week to week lean upon the strength of their wives from time to time. Living the Christian life and raising a Christian family is a joint venture after all. Younger ladies come and learn from older ladies at the retreat. They learn about the joy of being with one another. They learn about the joy of serving Christ. Younger ladies see the strength of the older ones and gain strength for serving Jesus even through tough times.
These events serve a special place in the Lord's church. They are not for everyone and they are not an issue of salvation. But they do glorify our God in heaven. The early church fellowshipped with one another on a daily basis -- with gladness and singleness of heart. And the Lord added to them daily. The church grew by leaps and bounds. Did the fellowship have something to do with that?
We've lost the art of fellowship in these modern times. Ladies' events and youth events, men's programs -- all these efforts are a way of bringing fellowship back into God's family. They are ways to help build up the church - to help us become a family and love one another the way God's wants to -- the Jesus commanded us to do.
Christ wanted us to love one another so much so others would know we belonged to Him ...... so that they would want to be a part of the family of God -- from 8 to 86.
Christ above all things,
Robin
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Seventy Seven Times
We heard a great lesson tonight about the apostle Peter. Our guest speaker, Brandon Elliot had many great points - one was that Jesus never gave up on Peter. Another one was we are all human and make mistakes. And yet another was that Peter kept trying to do the right thing.
I'm thankful to Brandon for sharing those thoughts with us. Peter is one of my favorite Bible characters. Tonight's lesson actually falls right in line with some things I've considered lately.
You see recently it occurred to me how thankful I am scripture records the conversation between Peter and Jesus regarding forgiveness. Do you remember that? The conversation occurs in Matthew 18:21 -22:
"Then Peter came up and said to Him, "Lord how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times? Jesus said to him, 'I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times." (ESV) I'm sure Peter thought he was being rather generous when he said seven times. I have a feeling Christ blew the apostles away when he said seventy seven.
I'm thankful for this conversation because it helps me understand the mercy of our Lord. He is such a loving and forgiving Savior. He wanted His disciples to be like Him -- to learn from Him and love like Him and follow His ways.
Christ didn't want Peter to put a limit on forgiveness. Now that's something to think about.
It's something to think about especially in the context of all the ups and downs Peter had in his life. So many times he tried to do the right thing -- but he would mess up. Jesus would correct him -- and (praise God), Peter would try again. Jesus didn't give up on Peter. And Peter never stopped trying. That is what we have to be willing to do ... keep on trying.
It is also something to think about within the context of the conversation between Peter and Jesus when Christ predicts Peter's betrayal. Consider Luke 22:31-34:
"Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers." Peter said to Him, Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death." Jesus said, 'I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me." (ESV)
It probably made Peter feel very sad to hear Jesus say these words to him. Really -- think about this .. Jesus says, Peter - the devil wants you. But I have prayed for you. He encourages Peter by saying - when you have turned again strengthen your brothers.
Peter response is quick - in essence he says, Uh-huh - not me, Lord. Satan is not going to get me. I will follow you. Even if it means I must die I will follow you." It is then that Jesus makes His fateful prediction of Peter's denial. I'm sure Peter didn't believe it would ever happen. Peter wanted to be faithful. After all, Peter was the one who drew his sword in defense of His Lord. He was ready to fight .... but then within a few hours the rooster crowed -- and well, we all know what had already happened in between.
But Christ told Peter "seventy seven times." And He said -- "I have prayed for you." AND He said "when you turn again, strengthen your brothers." Christ loved Peter. He believed in him - in his potential to do great things for the kingdom of God.
Yes, that seventy seven times is something to think about ... when Peter himself acknowledges the power of the devil and warns us -- "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world."
Jesus forgave Peter's stumbling many times. He never gave up on Peter. And Peter learned from his mistakes and became a strong and powerful servant of His Lord Jesus whom he loved so much.
Seventy seven times? Yes!
Did the devil want Peter? Most certainly.
Do you think Jesus really prayed for Peter? Absolutely.
Did Peter turn again to Christ? Oh yes he did.
And finally did he strengthen his brothers? Definitely.
That conversation about forgiveness -that seventy seven times -- is something to think about in so many ways. It makes me think of myself and all the times I've stumbled. It helps me realize the love of Christ.
While this conversation is ultimately about us forgiving each other - over and over again (and that is a very important lesson pertaining to our salvation) it still shows us the forgiving nature of our Lord and Savior. Look at how often He forgave Peter -- and the other apostles for that matter.
Again, it is something to think about in the context of the power of the devil ....how badly he wants us .... just like he wanted Peter. Christ is our Savior and our friend. Just like He was Peter's friend. Christ didn't give up on Peter and He will not give up on us either - if we are willing to "turn again." And when we do, we must not forget to "strengthen" our brothers (and sisters).
I'm so thankful the merciful generosity of our Savior .. that we are given the opportunity to repent and turn to Christ ... to learn from our mistakes ... to know that He loves us enough to forgive us as long we are willing to follow Him. And yes, I'm thankful for that conversation that took place so long ago....
I'm thankful Jesus said "seventy seven times."
Aren't you?
Christ above all things,
Robin
I'm thankful to Brandon for sharing those thoughts with us. Peter is one of my favorite Bible characters. Tonight's lesson actually falls right in line with some things I've considered lately.
You see recently it occurred to me how thankful I am scripture records the conversation between Peter and Jesus regarding forgiveness. Do you remember that? The conversation occurs in Matthew 18:21 -22:
"Then Peter came up and said to Him, "Lord how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times? Jesus said to him, 'I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times." (ESV) I'm sure Peter thought he was being rather generous when he said seven times. I have a feeling Christ blew the apostles away when he said seventy seven.
I'm thankful for this conversation because it helps me understand the mercy of our Lord. He is such a loving and forgiving Savior. He wanted His disciples to be like Him -- to learn from Him and love like Him and follow His ways.
Christ didn't want Peter to put a limit on forgiveness. Now that's something to think about.
It's something to think about especially in the context of all the ups and downs Peter had in his life. So many times he tried to do the right thing -- but he would mess up. Jesus would correct him -- and (praise God), Peter would try again. Jesus didn't give up on Peter. And Peter never stopped trying. That is what we have to be willing to do ... keep on trying.
It is also something to think about within the context of the conversation between Peter and Jesus when Christ predicts Peter's betrayal. Consider Luke 22:31-34:
"Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers." Peter said to Him, Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death." Jesus said, 'I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me." (ESV)
It probably made Peter feel very sad to hear Jesus say these words to him. Really -- think about this .. Jesus says, Peter - the devil wants you. But I have prayed for you. He encourages Peter by saying - when you have turned again strengthen your brothers.
Peter response is quick - in essence he says, Uh-huh - not me, Lord. Satan is not going to get me. I will follow you. Even if it means I must die I will follow you." It is then that Jesus makes His fateful prediction of Peter's denial. I'm sure Peter didn't believe it would ever happen. Peter wanted to be faithful. After all, Peter was the one who drew his sword in defense of His Lord. He was ready to fight .... but then within a few hours the rooster crowed -- and well, we all know what had already happened in between.
But Christ told Peter "seventy seven times." And He said -- "I have prayed for you." AND He said "when you turn again, strengthen your brothers." Christ loved Peter. He believed in him - in his potential to do great things for the kingdom of God.
Yes, that seventy seven times is something to think about ... when Peter himself acknowledges the power of the devil and warns us -- "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world."
Jesus forgave Peter's stumbling many times. He never gave up on Peter. And Peter learned from his mistakes and became a strong and powerful servant of His Lord Jesus whom he loved so much.
Seventy seven times? Yes!
Did the devil want Peter? Most certainly.
Do you think Jesus really prayed for Peter? Absolutely.
Did Peter turn again to Christ? Oh yes he did.
And finally did he strengthen his brothers? Definitely.
That conversation about forgiveness -that seventy seven times -- is something to think about in so many ways. It makes me think of myself and all the times I've stumbled. It helps me realize the love of Christ.
While this conversation is ultimately about us forgiving each other - over and over again (and that is a very important lesson pertaining to our salvation) it still shows us the forgiving nature of our Lord and Savior. Look at how often He forgave Peter -- and the other apostles for that matter.
Again, it is something to think about in the context of the power of the devil ....how badly he wants us .... just like he wanted Peter. Christ is our Savior and our friend. Just like He was Peter's friend. Christ didn't give up on Peter and He will not give up on us either - if we are willing to "turn again." And when we do, we must not forget to "strengthen" our brothers (and sisters).
I'm so thankful the merciful generosity of our Savior .. that we are given the opportunity to repent and turn to Christ ... to learn from our mistakes ... to know that He loves us enough to forgive us as long we are willing to follow Him. And yes, I'm thankful for that conversation that took place so long ago....
I'm thankful Jesus said "seventy seven times."
Aren't you?
Christ above all things,
Robin
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