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…”)

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.

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

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 …”)

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 …

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

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 …”)

“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

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.” 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…”)

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