The Journey of The Lamb
This week, while doing my study of the covenantal love of God, I was again reminded of the journey of … the Lamb. From Genesis to Revelation the Lamb of God.
Genesis 22, God declares to Abraham to take his son Isaac, his only son to the mountain and offer him as a sacrifice. As Abe and son begin their hike up the mountain, father placing the 
wood on the shoulders of the son, Isaac says “The fire and wood are here.” Then asks, “but where is the lamb …?”
As the story progresses, Isaac willingly climbs up on the altar. Abraham obeys to the fullest, God knowing His heart, stops him, and provides a ram for the sacrifice. The lamb. Hearing God, following His commands, sacrificing until it hurts. The Lamb … provided.
Exodus 12, God prepares the Israelites to leave the captivity of Egypt. Instructions were given, “… take the lamb…” slay and place the blood on the doorpost of the home. Taking the lamb into their home, the blood now over them, death avoided. freedom from captivity. The Lamb … protected.
John 1, John the Baptist, known eccentric evangelist, sees Jesus approaching, he openly declares “Look, behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.” John purposely points to Jesus, the shift of attention. The Lamb … proclaimed.
Revelation 5, the angelic choir sings before the throne “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise.” The Lamb … praised.
We too, hold a progression of the Lamb. Perhaps we are wondering, where is He, ‘where is the Lamb?’ Carrying our own wood, agony of heart in the sacrifice, NEEDING provision. Have we taken Him ‘take the Lamb’, the offering of protection and deliverance from our captivity. Are we beholding Him, ‘behold the Lamb’, openly declaring Him before others, re shifting the focus from us to Him. Does our heart and lifestyle harmonize with heaven ‘worthy is the Lamb’ joining the celebration.
This week, may we contemplate where WE are in our own personal journey of the Lamb.
Jesus, from the foreshadowing in the Old Testament, the wood on His shoulders, willingly 
climbing on the altar, His blood, protecting and delivering, to US proclaiming Him, to the celebration at the foot of the throne … the Lamb of God.
“Where is the lamb?” The Lamb, provided.
“Take the lamb” The Lamb, protected.
“Behold the Lamb” The Lamb, proclaimed.
“Worthy is the Lamb” The Lamb, praised.
In Him, DeDe “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” ~ Heb. 10:24
Lambs Expressions Ministry
Wonderful Resolve
Throughout our day, perhaps week, we may observe a few variety’s of what other people may feel, say or act about WHO God is. There are many names that society has put on God. Some may call Him, ‘Big Guy in the Sky’, the ‘Main Dude’, or ‘Man upstairs’. As we find in scripture, His name represents Who He is, what He does, How He operates.
“Prince of Peace, Morning Star, Chief Shepherd, Root of David, Lamb of God, Holy One, Everlasting Father, Righteous Judge, King of Kings … I AM!” (just to name a very small few)
This last week I was asked again to speak to the children and staff at Emmaus Christian School. With teaching and a skit, (assisted by a few high school students from another local Christian high school.) My assignment: share with them about God, the WONDERFUL COUNSELOR….
We might say today, that God is an Awesome Advisor, and that He is, yet God’s children will know Him as … Pele Ya’as ~ ‘pela yaw-ots’ (Hebrew) ‘Wonderful Counselor.’ (Isaiah 9:6)
God is Wonderful. Pele, unusual, marvelous, extraordinary. WAIT, look at that word 
again … it is a compound word … extra~ordinary! So much so that He is separate, like none other. This Hebrew word is wrapped up in the same word that God uses when talking to Abe, regarding Sarah having a son, (in their ripe old age I might add) “Is there anything too hard for the LORD?” Too hard … it can be rendered, ‘is there anything to wonderful for the LORD?’
Ya’as, three words are used to define Counselor. He is the One who deliberates on our behalf. Who with careful consideration stands in our place and tells the truth about what He knows about us. He advises with the greatest wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5) Wonderful Counselor, One who resolves the most difficult of situations. “Being confident of this, that He who began a GOOD work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6 emphasis mine, good … profitable, useful) Wonderful Counselor!
How many of us are facing a situation that may seem ‘too hard’, and we would LOVE deliberation, wonderful advice, and wonderful resolve to flood our soul?
Remember the garden scenario in Matthew 26? Jesus left the crowds, left the disciples, taking Peter, James and John, leaving them, ‘going a little farther’, now ALONE, He falls to His face and prays “Father …!”
May we too take it a ‘little farther’ leave our ‘too hard’ situation, get alone, seek the One who stands on our behalf, gives wisdom generously, and provides resolve seeing us through to ‘completion’.
I AM, Wonderful Counselor … I am the extra~ordinary Deliberator, Adviser, Resolver.
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…)
Self Medicate
“A cheerful heart is good for your health, gloom and doom leave you bone-tired” (Pro. 17:22 -MSG)
How many of us are … TIRED? Sorry for yelling. Perhaps sadden or depressed, confused or greatly disappointed, wounded or beaten down. These all are wrapped up nicely in the Hebrew phrase for “a broken spirit drieth the bones.” One resource has this to say: “A broken spirit describes the life, the vitality, the drive, the spirit of a person that has been oppressed by a grieved heart.” *
The cartoon rendering of the heart, is that of a mirrored angel wing, bouncing rhythmically from the chest, which isn’t to far from the truth. Metaphorically the heart beats of our feelings, will and intellect, passions… our inner self.
This proverb so divinely inspired, instructs us that the best successful cure for a dried up, and may I add ‘icky’ disposition is that of a CHEERFUL HEART. This is the ONLY place in the Old Testament, that this use of the word for ‘medicine’ is used… hm.
Welcome to my world, here is where I have been the last few weeks. When thinking, pondering and meditating on this verse, I found myself offering expressions that others may deem … um …. SILLY – even IMMATURE, and down right EMBARRASSING! Let me explain. I have been emotionally and spiritually … tired. To regain my strength, first … prayer … the Word … then my goal has been to try to make as many people smile, laugh, be encouraged, lifted up, and take a look and enjoy their surroundings as possible. Have you seen those COLORS outside!
I have waved at folks in their cars (don’t have a clue who they are) Stopped, held up a line, elbows on counter, looked the cashier in the eyes, and asked ‘how are YOU doing today?’ (interesting response) I sent a package to a dear friend, ‘just because’. Sent a poem via text, wrote the STUPIDEST things on FaceBook, like: “Ever stop to think, and forget to start again” and “Why hasn’t there been a sequel to Titanic?” Then today, when picking up my son from school, as he approached the car and climbed in, he was greeted with a pair of silly glasses with a HUGE nose, mustache and fluffy eye brows beautifully placed upon his mothers face, if I do say so myself. Pair of glasses … $1.57. Giggle from son … priceless! And yes, I drove a short distance down the street like that.
“A cheerful heart is good for your health.” Sometimes, faith comes by acting out of faith. OH, we may not FEEL it, but if our heart isn’t responding to life’s advances the way we would like, and all we are getting in our bucket seems to be lemons, well … you know the saying. Then advance BACK with a CHEERFUL heart… make someone laugh, smile, bless their socks off. In doing so, make YOURSELF laugh, smile, be blessed. So the cycle continues. God, grace, godly gestures … GOOD medicine.
I would never imply we ignore our issues, or ignorantly look the other way of our own heartache, but even as in a balance meal, dessert is just a course away (personally I have been ordering dessert FIRST). The word says, ‘a cheerful heart is good medicine’ – SELF MEDICATE, with the help of the Holy Physician. Wave at those passing cars, smile at the librarian, text someone to get a ‘LOL’ in return, invest in some silly glasses. Be creative, I call these ‘mini ministries’.
Life is short, just enough room and time to enjoy ‘regardless’. God is good.
In Him, DeDe (Ps.94:2 “You thrill me, LORD …)
* Quote from: Complete Word Dictionary of the O.T. — other resources used: Theological Dictionary of the O.T., Strong’s Hebrew/Greek Dictionary/Concordance, The Vine’s, International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, Expository Dictionary of Bible Words. Translations looked at: KJV, NASB, NLT, NIV, MSG
~ Side Note: Medical articles state that how we handle stress and other emotional factors affect the potential of illness such as: upset stomach, muscle aches, tension headaches, weight loss, ulcers, panic attacks, chronic fatigue syndrome, lack of energy, inability to focus.
Pain Turning to Hope
Waiting . Isn’t it HOARDS of fun? Yes, that is a rhetorical – sarcastic question. Nothing, floats my boat, rolls my socks, more than … waiting. I am kidding of course, whether it be in a check out stand, gas line, or in a season of life, I am not a good wait-er.
Recently studying in Genesis, I was again reminded of just how ‘human’ the characters are. This is my take on … Noah. Quickly setting the scene: God is grieved over mans ‘ickiness’, (yes that now is a word), He’s starting over. He instructs Noah to build the first Titanic, however, this one IS unsinkable. Noah obeys beyond the critical looks, and behind his back snickers. He builds the ark and gathers the animals. Loading up, God shuts the door and it begins to get quite wet out.
Forty days it rains. Let’s look at this picture a little closer. Get your rain coat on, and step up to a window and look inside the Ark with me… animals EVERYWHERE! Where there are animals there is … um … poo. Here is where I would like to be a fly. No, too ugly – a butterfly on the cypress wood, and observe Mrs. Noah. What a TROOPER, knee deep in poo and yet there is no documented complaint from her. Go Mrs. N !
Ok, get serious. Genesis 8, the rain stops. Noah sends out the raven, then the dove, the dove returns because there is no place to land yet. Verse 10 “He WAITED seven more days ...” (emphasis mine) Noah waited. In the Hebrew this waiting is a painful waiting, as to wring the hands, not a mere sitting on a crate playing cards passing the time. It refers to either pain in the physical sense or in the emotional, of suffering and sorrow. Noah and his family in the ark, God preserves them, now he (they) wait.
Had God forgotten him? Will he forever spend the rest of his life in a stinky ship full of animals? How many rounds of ‘Row row row your boat’ do they HAVE to sing, those silly sons! No, we really don’t know what he was thinking, but his waiting was anguishing.
David penned “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him …” ~ Psalms 37:7. The same Hebrew word for ‘wait’ is used here. He too knew … ‘wait’. Anointed to be king as a young boy, deadly pursuit by King Saul … wait.
BUT, the story, the waiting does NOT stop there. Noah sent out the dove AGAIN, that evening the dove returned with an olive branch, “Then Noah knew that the water had receded from the earth. He waited seven more days and sent the dove out again, but THIS TIME it did not return to him.” (Gen. 8:11-12)
Noah waited. We read that and think … ‘the guy is getting good at waiting.’ YET, his waiting has changed. First he ‘hil’ (Hebrew) ‘painful waiting’, now after the olive branch, he sends the dove out with hope, ‘yahal’ (Hebrew) a confident expectation in his wait. His pain has turned to hope. The results of his hope … “but this time it did not return to him” The dove had landed happily in an olive tree somewhere. I LOVE the ‘this time’ of waiting.
Hope, it will carry us a long way, as long as it doesn’t carry us in the wrong direction. “Hope is NOT a pacifying wish of the imagination which drowns out troubles, nor is it uncertain, but rather ‘yahal’ hope is the solid ground of expectation for the righteous.” *
Again, David shares, “Be strong and take heart all you who hope (yahal) in the LORD…” (Ps. 31:24) Job, the poster child for troubles and waiting … he testifies boldly “Though he slay me, yet I will hope in Him” (Job 13:15)
Can not stop there … “And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.” (Romans 5:5)
Folks, whether we are in a season of painfully waiting, or our waiting is full of hope, there is something here for us. It says “But God remembered Noah …” (Gen. 8:1) God put Noah in the Ark, to preserve him, He had a plan for Noah, oh it wasn’t pleasant at times and down right stinky, but God knew … vs. 16 “God said to Noah, Come out …” Or perhaps our scenario is more like David’s, has to wait to see a promise fulfilled. Fulfilled. Or Job … loss, troubles, poor health. Restored.
For some, our stay in the Ark may be longer, don’t jump ship yet … there may be some poo to trudge through, but keep sending those doves, and take heart, God is just allowing us a dry place (hm, could this be a desert?) He is preparing our coming out. Look for those olive branches, they are there. Our ‘this time’ is coming!
What are YOU waiting for?
Pain turning to hope … ‘hope does not disappoint … because God’
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD!)
* Quote from the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament (LOVE those geeky books!)
God’s Sticky Fingers
Summer. A season of beautiful lawns, luscious productive gardens, colorful blooming flowers, and sitting on the back deck in the cooling evening breeze. With these long awaited benefits comes … responsibility. I know, ick. (Stop reading NOW, and you won’t be held accountable ~ kidding)
Most benefits require responsibility. The garden needs watering, and weeding. We 
water the flowers, know the plant well, giving it correct placement in the yard, shade, or full/partial sun. Then, for a healthy continuing blooming process comes, ‘dead heading.’ No, this does not mean slapping your neighbor along side the head, no matter how obnoxious they are!
The Gardener’s Network, defines dead heading as “Snipping, pruning, pinching, cutting or using any other means to remove spent blooms.” There are great benefits of this process, or might I say, menial task. It promotes new flower growth, extends the reproductive life cycle of the plant, and prevents the plant from wasting valuable energy on a stem that will no longer blooms, energy is then spent on the health of the plant and new blooms (or fruit). Ever ‘feel’ any of these action words done on YOU … snipping, pruning, pinching and cutting?
My mom and Gardener, Aunt Mona (everyone should have an Aunt Mona) taught me how to dead head. Mona owned and puttered around in a plant nursery. She could NOT walk through one of her green houses without touching the plants, and they were beautiful!
There are two plants I dislike dealing with, those are marigolds (they stink). When pinching the marigold the seeds found in the old blooms often go scattering about, before you know it, you have baby marigolds dancing around your feet. The other is the petunia they are STICKY! It has a defense system of a sap that flows from the stem to the petals. You may want to wear gloves for this little gem, your fingers will get sticky. Yet, stinky and sticky, both these plants have the potential to be FULL of bright colored blooms and can last the whole summer.
Jesus shares in John 15, He is the vine, the Father is the Gardener. “He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even MORE fruitful” (verse 2, emphasis mine) God the Father, the Gardener of our lives.
He is not bothered by the stinky or sappy sticky defense systems we have set up, or the 
crunchy ugly spots here or there. He enjoys the hands on, must touch approach! The Gardener desires to have us fruitful, luscious, beautiful and healthy. To be and do so, takes snipping, pruning, pinching, cutting or any other means to remove the spent blooms. Who knows, that snip here, cut there, although painful at times, may cause a scattering of seeds, that in turn causes a new birth in and around you.
May we all have a God’s sticky fingers all over us, week!
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)
Happy Birthday !
Happy Birthday America! “O say can you see by the dawns early light…” (sing it with 
me!) The United States of America is officially 233 years old today. Just like any nationally declared holiday, it has slipped from it’s original meaning to the commercialized display of self centered wonder.
Christmas, the birth of Jesus to Santa Claus and presents. Easter, the death and resurrection of Jesus to the bunny and candy filled baskets. Thanksgiving, the sharing of thanks and friendship, to turkey, football and over eating.
Today, Independence Day, the birthing of a nation with God Almighty’s favor upon it, to fireworks, beer and the backyard BBQ.
O we may not agree with all that our nation stands for in this current era, or be proud of the decisions made in the name of democracy. But may we not forget the years rolled out behind us of those who followed whole heartedly their convictions, standing up for freedom, for justice. Mostly for the ability to read our Bibles, pray, and say the name of Jesus without the fear of a gun shot ringing out.
This nation has STRONG roots in God. Just like the nation of Israel in the Old Testament, we too have wandered away and NEED the loving yet firm words of the Lord over and to us “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, THEN will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 emphasis mine) Our nation is not known for ‘humility’ by any means, however each heart rendered individually is God’s desire. Our pride of our country should not over write our humility before God.
Today, as we celebrate, let us not criticize our country (perhaps rightly so on some issues) but share about the favor of God, about the signing of the Declaration of Independence, about our fore fathers who loved and believed in this country. When we 
see the ‘ole red, white and blue’ waving in the breeze, see in our minds eye the uniforms worn, lemonade stands in front yards, Chevrolets and parades of soldiers coming home from battles, wearing bands on their arms of fallen friends. Picture children in school with their hand over their heart reciting “… one nation under God …”
If we humble ourselves … God bless America!
~ DeDe
NOT Lost in the Translation
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We are happy to announce that we now offer different language translations; English, Spanish, French, German and Italian. Please feel free to click on the links to the lower right. Share with your friends and family who may benefit from our heart and writings.
Be Blessed ~
Googling God
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I am amazed at what can be found on the Internet, and at the same time horrified. However, it is an awesome tool if used with wisdom and discretion. One of my favorites to feed my geeky side, is the Greek Interlinear Bible. Oh, now THERE is a fun place to park it for awhile.
With this electronic door, the world seems just a bit smaller, connection bit closer and knowledge a bit more accessible.
I have found through personal experience, folks are ‘googling God’ like never before. This week my own website has hit the 10,000 visits mark. To me this is exciting! Many come to my site by googling a topic I have written about with intent to read articles like The Tabernacle of Moses, or the Names of God. Yet, there are a few who have entered the site not really sure how they landed there. For those too I am grateful and you are so welcome.
Googling God … good Godly guidance.
~ DeDe
Dressed for THEM
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How often do we go to our closet and pull out what to wear according to how we want to … feel? There are times I want to feel pretty, so I will wear something rather feminine, or speaking to a group desiring to feel confident, so I will wear something 
perhaps tailored and professional. A time of relaxation, a soft pair of cotton sweats are the choice for the moment. A kick back day of running errands, jeans and a T-shirt. This clothing ourselves is primarily for … US, yet there is a time we dress for … THEM. Ultimately we dress for Him.
This week I had the wonderful privilege to speak at two chapel services at my son’s Christian School. I was given the assignment to speak on ‘compassion’. The ages of the children varied from kindergarten to 8th grade. I have never seen such eager faces starring back at me. I could have had these kids convinced that the rapture had taken place and I was there to bus them to another location… (just kidding) so I knew my responsibility was BIG. Speak short, sweet – to the point and give them a GREAT visual aide. God is good.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Eph. 4:32) followed the story of the Good Samaritan. Compassion, literally meaning ‘to share and understand the same feelings of another’. As I shared the Samaritan story from Luke chapter 10, my dear friend Wilma (thank you sweet gal) was conveniently located in the front row directly in front of me. She began to act agitated, sighing rather loud, shifting in her seat. As time went on, she became a distraction, I ‘acted’ irritated, trying to ignore her. The children now well aware of her actions and mood, looked to see how I was going to handle the situation (of course she was a ‘plant’).
I went to her and asked if she was ok, her response was ‘no’. I suggested that maybe she was too hot, and that I was somewhat chilled and asked if I could borrow her jacket, she took it off and gave it to me. Putting it on, I told her, the jacket was nice, as I slipped my hand into one of the pockets, finding a piece of paper. I pulled it out and unfolded it. Written on it in large black letters was the word ‘SAD‘. Holding it up for all the kids to 
see. “Hm…” I said, “maybe that is why she was sighing so loud”. I put my hand in another pocket and pulled out another piece of paper, this time it read ‘PAIN‘. Turning to Wilma I asked if she was sad and in pain, she shook her head yes. Looking again to the children, telling them, “Here I was trying to tell you about compassion, and I got irritated at Wilma and she is in pain and is sad.” I found yet ANOTHER, piece of paper, ‘LONELY‘ it read.
Going to Wilma I gave her a big hug, told her I was sorry for judging her at first, but now I understood her. Colossians 3:12 “Therefore as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” I shared with the kids that compassion is like putting on someone’s jacket. When we do, we may ‘feel’ what they feel, we then can understand them and help them in kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. I think they got it. (a teachers smile). As I closed in prayer, I thanked Jesus for His quality of compassion, that He came to earth and put on humanity, He DOES understand.
Compassion, dressed for THEM. Dressed for Him.
Blessing, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, Lord…”)
A New Word
Check out the new page added to this site. (click on the above tab) Yes, it’s true ~ the geeky side of me got the best of me. I LOVE Hebrew and Greek words, they are so full of imagery. A new word. See also my new site, “Dancing Literary Art” (click on the blog roll to the right of this screen)
Attending to…
Attending to…
1 Pet. 4:8 “Above all, love each other deeply …” some translations use, ‘love fervently.’ Fervently, one of the most beautiful action words of the Bible. Our love is to be intently 
strenuous for one another. Meaning we ‘stretch out’ towards and for them with diligence, again and again. It may be a stretch for us. Life gets busy, but people need attending to … much to do, much to love.
attending to.
O to Learn
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This week I was again reminded of the need to … learn. Often I think, “O I have been 
at this long enough … I SHOULD KNOW THIS!” Yet, at least for me, I keep coming up short every time. I felt God nudge me, (in doing so, I am humbled) and must say to my relief, He showed me, that the things, the qualities that it takes to be strong in God, do not come natural to me, they are to be learned. Then, reviewed ~ worked ~ walked and learned AGAIN.
These are a few, ‘to learn’ I gleaned from bible study this week, and found a couple extra on my own. (yep even MORE to learn)
Deut. 4:10 LEARN to revere the Lord
1 Chr. 28:9 LEARN to know God intimately (NLT)
Job 34:4 LEARN what is good
Psalm 51:6 LEARN wisdom
Psalm 119:73 LEARN His commands
Matt. 11:28-30 LEARN to rest
Luke 11:1 LEARN to pray
Heb. 5:8 LEARN obedience
Phil. 4:12 LEARN contentment
Col. 1:10 LEARN to know God better and better (NLT)
Learning is a process, and the Holy Spirit is an awesome Teacher ~ teach us … teach ME!
~ DeDe
But Sir !
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When was the last time something was asked of you, that you KNOW you could not possibly do it, or even come close to attaining it? Kind of frustrating isn’t it? This is how Gideon felt when out minding his own business, when the angel of the Lord 
came and appeared to him. The Israelites at this time had been oppressed by other nations, primarily the Midianites. Now the Lord calls Gideon “… mighty warrior.” Telling him, “go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand…”
I LOVE Gideon’s response, “But Sir…how can I save Israel … my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” (Judges 6:13,15) We all have had “But Sir” moments, haven’t we? Moments when God asks something of us, moments when we need to do or be something that is beyond us. We feel weak, and insignificant. Oh, God’s response is SO valuable and the TRUE foundation of success. The Lord answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.”
Gideon goes on to lead a small army to victory with unconventional ways … blowing trumpets, breaking pots and holding huge Bic lighters. I believe God wants us all to have Gideon experiences. Turning our ‘But Sir, I am weak … and the least… how can I…?‘ to victory believing His word to us, ‘I will be with you, and you will…’
What is God asking of us today? What name like ‘mighty warrior’ is He giving, that 
totally blows us away, perhaps … courageous missionary, passionate teacher, gentle leader, faithful friend, and prayer warrior, even loving mom. He may even call us to unconventional ways, yet how exciting to see how it all unfolds.
Join with me, as we turn our ‘but Sir’ into ‘I will be with you and you will…‘
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)
Found Favor
I do love a good story. One full of intrigue, challenge, and PLEEEZE the underdog 
WINS! I have been studying the book of Esther, better yet, Esther herself. The story hits a high note as Esther stands before the king, beginning her request to spare the Jews, she says “If I have found favor with you, O King…”
How often do we stand with a request, and seek the King’s favor, or merely just stand before the King, praying ~ hoping His favor flows strong today! There is so much that we encounter on a daily basis, trials and choices, loves and loses. A wise friend shared with me recently “you know the righteous and narrow would judge harshly, but I think that King David, would understand.. he had such an insight into love, passion, and beauty.” I would add, and his God. David 
experienced God on so many levels, he knew Him on the battlefield, as a shepherd boy, and yes, as one with authority to have whatever he wants as king, yet it is David that said, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Ps. 37:4)
So, as children of the Most High God, we come ‘boldly before the throne … let your request be made known.’ God desires to love on us and bless us.
Found favor …
Satisfied
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How often do we go to the frig with great hopes of finding something to satisfy that craving, the craving we really aren’t sure what we want, but we want something. So we reach around, dig through, push things aside looking for fulfillment.
This is true too with our souls as well. We hunger, and often rummage around to find fulfillment, through people, possessions and position. David declared in Psalm 63:1 “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you, my soul thirsts for you… .” When God created man, He created him body and soul. Our bodies being from the dust of earth, it is therefore nourished by the earth. Yet our souls where created by the breath of God, Genesis 2:7 “The LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living being.” ‘Living being’, this is the translated Hebrew word for soul. It is the breath of God that nourishes the soul, HE is our souls only fulfillment.
The Psalmist beautifully shares, “For He (the Lord) satisfies the thirsty and fills the 
hungry with good things.” (Ps. 107:9) Today, as we begin our day, pouring that cup of coffee, snacking on that bagel, may we seek as David did, “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you, my souls thirsts for YOU!
In Him, DeDe
It is NEVER Too Late
Recently our family said good-bye to a wonderful woman. Her name was Daisy Gardner, she being only 4 months shy of her 100th birthday. Daisy was my grandmother. I had the awesome privilege, along with the pastor of being asked to speak at her home going service. As I stood before friends and family I began to unfold the linen of grandma’s heart.
Grandma was a quiet woman, not one to voice her opinions, yet when she did speak in her gentle tones, you listened! I have many fond memories of her and the way she always made you feel welcome. Her heart was one of a servant, to bring 
hospitality to life was her gifting. She was creative, worked well with her hands, her smile and giggle would melt your heart.
I continued to share: The year was 2007, Grandma at the young age of 96 wasn’t feeling well, as I sat by her bed, we chatted of many things, the weather, family, the farm (the central hub of the family). Alone in her room, our talk turned to God. There are moments when you really want to know for sure and a boldness sweeps across you, may I offer … ‘take hold of them!’ Feeling compelled, I asked “Grandma, have you accepted Jesus into your heart?” There was a long pause, and Grandma’s face appeared thoughtful. Her eyes soon began to fill with tears, and her response was “O yes honey, but I don’t think He accepted me.”
I have to admit what she said took the breath right out of me. My eyes began to fill as well. Now standing, I reached over and placed my hand on her heart and told her “O Grandma He SOO accepts you and loves you!” I shared with her what I know to be true from His word and from my own life experience. I asked her if she wanted to pray, and she said “yes.” We prayed. There in her room, at the age of 96, Grandma KNEW God loved her and accepted her!
I was given one of Grandma’s rings the year following, Grandma was no longer able to wear her beloved jewelry. The ring was designed just for her, using the diamonds from her two marriages, (both grandfathers proceeding her in death.) The ring with spiraling gold as it wraps around the diamonds fit perfect as I placed it on my finger. Grandma had the opportunity to see me wear the ring, and enjoy my inheritance. The ring is a divine reminder of that special day with Grandma. That there ARE times in life when we need to be bold, take the risk, ask the questions. There are golden opportunities designed just for us. Too, just like the diamonds, our lives are chipped away at to form a beautiful gem.
I believe, Grandma in her gentle tone would say “It is NEVER too late. You are LOVED and accepted!”
This week, may we be bold, take hold of golden opportunities, place our hand over hearts, share from God’s word and from our own knowledge of Him! You never know what the response may be!
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)
New Every Morning
“The LORD’s loving-kindness indeed never ceases, for His compassions never fail. 
They are new every morning. Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22,23)
It is as if God lays out compassion (mercy) for us each morning, like a mother laying out our wardrobe. We merely need to accept it, put it on and wear it! “So as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12)
Each morning we prepare for our day whether that be home, work or school. May we reach for what GOD has laid out for us to put on… His qualities. “They are new every morning…” Now THAT is a wardrobe! Dressed for success!
In Him, DeDe
Myrrh of CHRISTmas
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Often we read through the Christmas story and highlight the most spectacular parts, singing angels … “Fear Not…” statements, the Star of Bethlehem, and yes the 
dingy manger. YET, there are some quiet and seem less significant items to be had in the excitement.
Consider if you would, the Magi as they prepare for their trek out to find the child to whom the Star belongs. They are packing, dividing up the supplies list, then they come to the gift inventory, gold is given to the first, then frankincense handed to another, ‘O yeah, the myrrh is last’. How would YOU like to be handed the myrrh, and picture yourself bowing low, head to the floor while you offer M-Y-R-R-H (said with an Eeyore deep tone) to the King of Kings! You may think “Dude, why do I have to carry the white elephant gift???”
AH… the gifts, gold, frankincense and MYRRH. Have we ever really thought WHAT is myrrh? I can assure us all that it was not a last minute addition, or a ‘re-gifting’ of an unwanted gift.
The divine significance of myrrh:
Exodus 30:22-23 Myrrh ~ an ingredient used in the anointing oil of the Tabernacle and the priests.
Luke 7:36-50 Myrrh ~ (myron) perfumed oil/ointment poured over Jesus’ feet.
John 19:39-40 Myrrh ~ used as one of the spices to prepare Jesus’ body for burial.
Picture now, the Christ child, perhaps two in age, curly dark hair, possibly pudgy cheeks. At His feet, men of wisdom and honor now place gold, frankincense and MYRRH. The anointing oil of the TABERNACLE and THE Priest. “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us…” (John 1:14) The perfumed oil poured on His feet as a grown man, that soon would be pierced. The oil added to the spices wrapped around His body following His death.
Myrrh, how prophetic. A new appreciation for the gift.
Gifts given to Jesus have GREAT significance. It is our heart He wants. May we too bow low, offer what we may think insignificant.
Have a VERY blessed CHRISTmas!
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)
Everyday Can Be Like a Holiday
“Everyday can be like a holiday.” That is this years seasonal Christmas slogan 
posted in Starbucks. I think they might be on to something. As I hold my peppermint hot chocolate, topped with cool whip, and coco powder sprinkled over the top and it is FREEZING outside. Inside, content, I smile and think, ‘yes, yes it can.‘ Often we consider the season of Christmas to be the day after Thanksgiving, and lasting until New Years Eve. After that, the tree is taken down, the ornaments boxed up, the outdoor lawn reindeer stored in the garage rafters. Christmas a fleeting memory.
YET, the message of Christmas CAN be seen, felt and shared throughout the year. My favorite rendition of the Christmas story is documented in Luke chapter 2. I paraphrase: Mary and Joseph head to Bethlehem, as they check in at the lobby of the Inn, they are directed out back to their accommodations. I think the email memo for a Kingly setting must have failed to deliver. They quickly settle in. A dingy stable, with no fine linens, NOT fit for a King, but more for a humble servant. While the Savior was being born, a baby announcement was being declared in the sky.
We now eaves drop on the shepherds, while they were at work, ‘watching their flocks by night.‘ The angel appears and says… (the quick to the point version) “Dudes don’t be afraid, I bring you good news… today… a Savior… He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you… ” WOW!
I find it fascinating, that the angel addresses their fear, do you know how many times in the Bible man is admonished NOT to be afraid? Many! After the fear factor was addressed, the presentation of ‘good news’ was given, the choir sang, and service was over. I wonder… if our pastors approached the pulpit, and opened their sermons with ‘FEAR NOT’ would we pay just a tad bit more attention? (just kidding).
Yet, the message is clear, think of our day to day routines. We face many obstacles, stress keeps our focus captive, and we just go about our business. What if ~ (humor me) JESUS comes to us, saying “Don’t be afraid, TODAY, I Christ the Lord, YOUR Savior … here’s YOUR sign…”
I love the word ‘sign’ in the Greek, (actually used 77 times in the NT). One scholar defines it as “A miracle by which the power and presence of God is manifested” Notice it doesn’t declare how big or small the manifestation. Sign, a distinguishing mark noting significance. Do we see these? Do we LOOK for Jesus to manifest 
Himself before us? Is He there? Tenderly, I declare HE IS. He walks along side us, pointing, “here see this, see … ME! THIS is for YOU! ” It may be a gentle whisper you hear in the breeze, a wondrous sunset, a wildflower brilliant with color. Or a check in the mail, JUST when you need it. Your car starting after sitting in the snow dormant for a few days. Coincident? NO!
FEAR NOT! TODAY! I, CHRIST am here!
This year, may we take the Christmas message beyond the borders of the calendar setting… Jesus here NOW, with us! May we too see the ‘sign’, the confirmation of divine authority all around us! Yielding to the manifestation. O Jesus, open our eyes, our ears, that we too would do as the shepherds did “When they has seen Him, they spread the word…” (v. 17) God is good.
Blessed Christmas!
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)
Bless’em !
As Christmas approaches, folks are beginning to talk the lingo, with words of the season such as, trees, presents, wish list and Santa Claus. Have you noticed the shift from ‘Merry Christmas’, to ‘Happy Holidays’. It is even becoming ‘politically correct’ among many. Although it may look pretty splashed across our Christmas cards, I believe Jesus came for…. more. (do I hear a hardy AMEN! )
We tend to wrap our ‘happiness’ around the external – possessions, position. The concept that we know today for ‘happy’ is not actually found in the New Testament. 
The word happy comes from ‘hap’ which means ‘luck or favorable circumstances’. Now remove the modern perspective of this, and see what really is intended.
Happy ~ blessed! Makarios! ‘The state of one who has become a partaker of God, to experience the fullness of God.’ * We find this expressed in Matthew 5, in the sermon on the Mount, from Jesus’ own lips. ‘Blessed is he…..’ He goes on to explain, all that is intended for those who are aware of their need for God, this leads to mourning over our own spiritual condition, thus we are open, hungering and thirsting for HIM. Blessed are those who step into that arena, and find and experience HIM.
This season, as we stand in the line for the cashier, or walking in the halls of our children’s school, or merely waving at a neighbor, may I offer ~ that we bypass the attempt at their ‘happiness’, by flippantly saying ‘Happy Holidays’ and be so bold to make the statement of blessing … and take it a step further “blessed Christmas!” speak over them the prayer that they too would experience the fullness of HIM. Bless’em! They won’t even know what hit them!
Have a God-loving, partaking of Him, and passing it on – week!
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4, You thrill me, LORD!)
* Definition: Makarios by Bill Klien – Professor of Biblical Greek at Masters Graduate School of Divinity
Thanksgiving ~ Being Empty Handed
This week I had the wonderful privilege of speaking at our Adults Alive Thanksgiving Luncheon. What a fun group of folks. I didn’t want to share the same old ~ same old turkey, Plymouth Rock, bow your head and 
thank God for all the calories we are about to consumeth. I did however express a different spin on having a thankful heart.
In today’s culture, most would say and believe (fueled by the media and Hollywood) that to HAVE equals happiness. The more we can get, the more our hands are FULL of STUFF, our contentment level rises. But it is not just ‘stuff’, the items that fills us up. There are the STUFF, the troubles of life, stresses, concerns, these too fill our hands, (representing our lives). As I walked to the platform to speak, my hands were full of STUFF, everyday objects, so full that I fumbled with them. I brought no attention to these as I spoke. At one point, I handed a few items to a gal to ‘hold for me’ (I am a walker as I speak).
Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.” The Hebrew word for ‘give thanks’ is yada. You’ve heard it used in slang, to emphasis ‘etc. etc. etc.’ or ‘blah, blah, blah.’ Yet THAT is as far from the meaning used here as it can be. Yada ~ thankfulness, worship with outstretched hand, and to confess. We confess much in our daily lives, expressed in our attitudes, actions and what we say. Are we confessing God? How is our attitude when we do so? Are we confessing that He is GOOD, or are we pretty much stuck in the wilderness of complaining (see the book of Exodus).
My favorite example of a strong confession of thankfulness, praise was Thomas in the New Testament. Poor Thomas, can you imagine being cast FOREVER as ‘Doubting Thomas’? After Jesus’ death and resurrection, He spent ‘quality’ time with His disciples, one such instance was when He approached Thomas, stretching out His nail scarred hands, ‘Look and feel’. Thomas’ confession? “My Lord and my God!” What a heart of worship! I choose to believe that Thomas may have fell to his knees at that moment. Confession, being in agreement, and aligning ourselves in like manner. My Lord and my God!
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.” Yada means to worship, praise, to confess… but there is MORE. It is also translated as to throw, to cast. Hm… are we not told to “Cast all your 
cares on Him because He cares for you.” (I Peter 5:7) Cast, literally mean to pitch — toss that puppy!
YEARS ago, before all these fancy Playstation games, we used to play a game on the computer at work (yes at work, head hung) I believe it was called Dungeon. It was an adventure, strategy game. We would go through corridors and passage ways. On this journey we were to pick up items along the way, such as food, water, map and supplies. YET, when coming to a door, we were to find the key- dilemma – my hands are now full. I had to choose what I was going to lay down, and release, so I can pick up the key to unlock the door. Empting my hand got me through the door.
Here’s a question I would like to pose. Could thankfulness, the releasing of our cares and concerns to worship Him, be the key to unlock the doors in our life? As the commercial on TV states: “What’s in your wallet?” may I offer, “What’s in your hand?”
Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God…” some translations word it as ‘cease striving’ and know that I am God. Cease striving, is rapa (raw-faw) it means to slacken, to release and relax, to let drop. It conveys the word picture as to hold something tight in your hand, then to relax your grip, and allow it to fall. Thus an open – and empty hand. Release those stresses, concerns and the STUFF of life…THEN we can know and experience God as designed. I think we all would be AMAZED at what God will put in our hands … HIS stuff!
Remember the stuff in my hands while speaking? I released them into a basket and asked the folks if it was a distraction to see me carry all that, they agreed it indeed was. Our stuff is a distractions to us AND those around us. We even at times ask others to hold some of our stuff for us, now our stuff is in their hands too. I am NOT talking about ‘sharing a burden’, I am directing our attention to the un- necessary STUFF – fretting – anxiety – items that hold our attention.
Thanksgiving … the yada of our heart. We take our stuff, with outstretched hands, and give them … um.. 
throw them to God (O He can handle it!) Now our hands are what? Empty. Being empty handed means God can now fill them with Himself! You’ve heard the saying “More of Him, less of me.”
Thanksgiving ~ being empty handed.
Have a blessed Thanksgiving Holiday ~ In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)
* my daily blog http://butgod.blogspot.com/
Be Careful What You Ask For!
Ever see something in a magazine and in awe think “Wow that’s nice, would love one of those!” Then as time goes on, you begin to see that same item all over the place, in the shopping malls, in the display windows, in cars as they drive by, every channel on TV declares this is a MUST HAVE and NOW your neighbor has one! OH the injustice of it all! “I want one too!” Before you know, to have one ~ consumes you.
As Ecclesiastes says, “…there is nothing new under the sun.” The nation of Israel too found themselves wanting. In 1 Samuel chapter 8, I paraphrase: The prophet Samuel was getting old, the Israelites were ready for something ‘new’. They observed around them that the other nations had a ‘king’ – “WE WANT ONE TOO!” ( grumble, grumble – whine, whine!). Not at all pleased with this . ‘Give us a king to lead us’ demand (v.6). Samuel went to the Lord. God assured Sam, that the Israelites were not rejecting him, but God Himself as King! So, God says give them what they want, BUT, give them the disclaimers of getting what you want, (yes, there is always ‘fine print’). Verse 9, “but warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will do.”
Let’s think on this for a moment, we want something because others have it… hm… do we even consider, does what they have make them happy – are they fulfilled by it? Does that high tech gadget bring them satisfaction? I am sure if the Israelites were to REALLY examine the other nations closely, that having a ‘king’ was not all what it was cracked up to be.
Samuel proceeds to tell the people, if you get a king, this is what will happen; you will become enslaved to him. What was yours now becomes his. This reign of a new king will affect you AND your family. He will rule you. Samuel basically then tells them, there will come a time when you will be sorry you asked for this.
EVEN with this being said, knowing the negative affects of this choice, they still demand a king. “No”, they said, “We want a king over us. Then we will be like all the other nations.” (verse, 19,20).
Are the Israelites suppose to be like all the other nations? NO! Are we to be like the rest of the world? NO! Oh there is nothing wrong with wanting things, position, a title, even wanting more, or something new. But do we consider the cost of getting it? Will what we want begin to ‘rule’ us?
The demand for a king began a roller coaster ride for the Israelites. Samuel did anoint a king for Israel, Saul was the first. Then history was set in motion, some good, some NOT, those who loved the Lord, and those who “Did evil in the sight of the Lord.” We never know, how one demand to have, can change the course of our future forever.
Can the Lord redeem unhealthy (stupid) demands, O YES! I am all over redemption from poor choices! GO GOD!
Be careful for what you ask for, what you think you must have, just because it appears the rest of the world has it. And if given to you, it may seem great and fitting for a short time, but then it has the potential to fall apart, lose it’s strength and turn out to not be such a grand idea.
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)
The Oil Will Not Run Dry
Ever hit that ‘wall’? The wall commonly known as the athlete’s wall. Picture a runner, nearing the end of the race, all energy has been spent, their breathing is labored, their body screams in agony. Doubt, fear, and confusion, even anger now rage through them. “There is nothing left, I have nothing left to give!” is their cry. 
Yet and yet, they do finish the race.
There are many ‘walls’ of life. Moments when we feel we have little left to give, and what we do have, we feel we need to conserve it to make it to the next day. Perhaps, our supply is empty, there is nothing left. For many of us, we have opted to just allow ourselves to dry up and die. I have been there, it is painful.
Recently I was awaken very early in the morning. Still dark, I could hear the rain just outside the window. My thoughts went to Elijah. How often do our thoughts go to Elijah at 3:30 am.? The story of the widow and her son came to mind, out of 1 Kings 17. They had just enough flour and oil to make one last meal, after that nothing was left, they surely would die. In walks Elijah in the story, asking her to make him a meal first. Telling him of her plight, and empty cupboards, he tells her “Don’t be afraid” God says, “your supply of flour will not end, and the oil will not run dry.” She does what he says, and miraculously there is plenty of continuous oil and flour.
‘The oil will not run dry,’ what a wonderful promise. This encouraged me. Just when we think we have spent 
all that there is in us … there will be more. More coming from HIM. More energy to face another day. When our breathing is labored …more power to enable us to fight the good fight. When all that is in us SCREAMS … there will always be more. The oil will not run dry, a continuous flow of God is offered to us. We accept the oil by doing what God asks of us. Take what we have and give it to HIM, He increases it.
Whatever we are facing, whatever our race, “Don’t be afraid”, the walls of life are met with a jug of oil. Allow its continuous flow.
In Him, DeDe (Psalm 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)
Caught of God
Recently I revisited Genesis 3, where God came to meet with Adam in the garden. It says “…He was walking in the garden in the cool of the day…” This said with such ease, as if it where a daily occurrence. Can you imagine God taking a stroll in your backyard? Yet today, this was no casual stroll. You see, Adam and Eve had just eaten from the only tree that God planted a sign in front of ‘no eateth.’ Sure enough, our ancestors of all ancestors duth eat! Now they were hiding. Hiding from God.
Next, hear the very love and compassion of God, “But the LORD God called to the man…” God asks one of the most important questions ever stated in the Bible, in my estimation, “Where are you?” God being all-knowing, He knew exactly where they were. The question was not intended to find the answer, it was intended for … Adam. “Where are you?” This spurred Adam to consider his location … he was hiding, placing intentional distance between he and his God. His situation… he disobeyed. His fear … “I heard You in the garden, I was afraid.”
“But the LORD God called to the man, ‘Where are you?'” God was pursuing Adam. Sure He could have rigged the tree with a divine security system, that at the mere touch, heaven would zap Adam and Eve with enough force to turn them both back into dust. But He didn’t. He pursued them. We know the rest of the story, banishment from paradise, consequences, sweat and pain. “But the LORD God called to the man…”
God has called throughout history. The Bible is the story of God’s pursuit of man. He pursues you, and pursues me. He has provided every avenue for us to respond to His call. God loves us so much, that at times there is the need for Him to ask us again, “where are you?”
I have given this much thought over the past week. Often our relationship with God, is one as a child, we cozy up in His lap, but there are times we squirm out and run off and play. “Where are you?” Another question has settled in my heart, “what would it look like, really look like, in God’s pursuit of me, if I allowed Him to catch me?” O to be caught of God. David said in Psalm 139 “O Lord, You have searched me and You know me… You hem me in behind and before.” Saying also, “You are familiar with all my ways.” The Lord knows where we are, He would like us to know where we are.
So where are we? Has God visited our backyard recently, perhaps we are hiding. Has our disobedience caused us to fear? Do we hear Him calling? Can we stop and allow Him to catch us in the pursuit, and be caught of God.
It doesn’t matter where you are … “But the LORD God called to the man”
Inspired Fountain 
