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Dazzling Christmas Joy!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Christmas, God's Grace, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , , on December 12, 2024| 46 Comments »

As his father prayed, little Isaac peeked through his fingers to see what was causing a rustling sound. His eyes spied a mouse crawling up a bell-rope, and Isaac giggled.

After family prayers, Father wanted to know what had possessed his son to be so disrespectful.

“I saw a mouse running up the bell-rope, and it came to my mind:

There was a mouse for want of stairs,

‘Ran up a rope to say his prayers.”

Father was not amused and reached for the rod. Isaac fell to his knees and begged:

“Father, Father, pity take,

And I will no more verses make [1]!”

Neither the little poet Isaac Watts (1674-1748) nor his father could have known where the boy’s penchant for rhymes would take him.

As a late teen, Isaac complained often to his father about the tiresome, chanted hymns of the church. How was a person supposed to sing them with joy as the Bible-psalms often urged, when the music droned in a minor key?

From a 1600’s hymnal

Mr. Watts finally suggested he turn complaining into composing and create better melodies and lyrics. Isaac did, and over the next fifty-plus years more than six hundred of his hymns were published.

Some people found fault with Isaac’s contemporary worship songs. But at least several prominent leaders supported him, including Samuel Johnson, Cotton Mather, and John Wesley [2].

Isaac Watts

Probably the best known of Watts’ hymns is “Joy to the World,” although Watts never set it to music. Decades later Lowell Mason felt inspired to do so and upon publication in 1848, the song soon became a beloved Christmas carol.

Some insist this hymn has no place in the carol-category, because Watts included no elements of the Christmas story in the lyrics.

But as Alyssa Poblete points out: This song celebrates what Christ came to do. And along with looking back at the grace accomplished in the past, we also look forward to the grace accomplished for our future, to the ultimate joy to be revealed [3].

That enlightenment helps explain that puzzling first line, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come” (emphasis added). I’ve often wondered why Watts didn’t choose “has come.”

Ms. Poblete gives us indication. God’s grace (explained in part by the acronym, God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense) is active in all of time—past, present, and future.

Our Messiah’s birth was long-promised for centuries. His coming ushered in a new kingdom of Light. Those who believe in Jesus gain release from the kingdom of darkness, and one day that evil kingdom will be utterly destroyed [4].

In addition:

Christ’s coming is an ever-present and ongoing engagement in the world.

–Darrow L. Miller [5]

The Lord didn’t just come. He is here! And we can sing with dazzling Christmas joy because:

  • One day the whole earth will receive her King. Therefore, let heaven and nature sing (v. 1) [6]! 
  • The Savior reigns forever and ever (v. 2) [7]
  • Sins and sorrows will be no more, when Christ returns (v. 3) [8]
  • He comes to make his blessings flow (v. 3) [9]
  • He rules the world with truth and grace (v. 4) [10]
  • The glories of his righteousness and the wonders of his love are on display everywhere (v. 4) [11]

These musicians capture well the dazzling joy of knowing our Savior reigns!

For the reasons listed above and more, Watts invites: “Let every heart prepare him room” (v. 1), and “Let men [all humanity] their songs employ” (v. 1)!

May we be just such people who sing with intention, from a place of authenticity [12].

In fact, take a moment right now if you can, and worship, celebrate, and sing with dazzling Christmas joy!

[1] Betty Dunn, https://www.powerofchange.org/blog/2011/12/16/isaac-watts-joy-to-the-world.html

[2] Erin Tabor, https://www.zmiinternational.org/daily-dose-of-encouragement/joy-to-the-world-the-lord-is-come  

[3] https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/joy-to-the-world-a classic-christmas-hymn-reconsidered/

[4] Isaiah 7:14 and 9:6; Colossians 1:14; Revelation 20:7-20.

[5] https://disciplenations.org/wp-content/uploads/202004/Music-that-Writes-Culture-Reflections-on-Joy-to-the-World.pdf

[6] Romans 8:19-23; Revelation 22:20; Psalm 96:1-4

[7] Revelation 11:15

[8] Revelation 21:4

[9] Psalm 5:12; 34:10b; 2 Peter 1:3

[10] John 1:14; Colossians 1:16-17

[11] Psalm 33:4; 145:17 31:21

[12]  https://passioncitychurch.com/article/joy-to-the-world/

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Icing for Your Christmas Joy

Posted in Bible Study, Christmas, Encouragement, God's Power, God's Salvation, Jesus, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on December 5, 2024| 36 Comments »

You’ve heard the Christmas story—probably multiple times.

You may even know interesting background information such as:

  • The number of miles Mary and Joseph traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem—about seventy—and the number of days on the road—four to seven
  • Angels not necessarily singing to the shepherds but most likely speaking their message [1]
  • The gifts of the Magi holding symbolic meaning: gold for Christ’s royalty, myrrh (used in embalming) for his humanity, and incense for his divinity

But perhaps a new insight or two about the familiar story will add a bit of icing to your Christmas joy!

For example, consider:

A Disadvantaged Upbringing

Most of us would choose a sophisticated city like Jerusalem (in the homes of priests perhaps) for the upbringing of the mother and earthly father of the Christ Child.

Instead, God chose Nazareth–a small, nondescript town that nobody cared about. That’s where Mary and Joseph, the parents for the Son of God, were likely born and raised.

We mustn’t think anyone too weak, untrained, or undistinguished to fulfill God’s plans.

An Unknowing Participant

The Roman emperor Caesar Augustus—not a believer in God—unknowingly carried out holy purpose [2]. Our Lord can and does use the most unlikely people; we mustn’t underestimate his influence and power.

An Unlikely Invitation

by Alexander Laureus, 1815

Neither the powers of Rome nor the priests of the Jewish people received an invitation to the birthplace of the King of kings. Instead, angels delivered the news of the Messiah’s birth to scruffy shepherds and told them where Christ could be found.

Often it is the lowly who are the beneficiaries of God’s special favors and blessings—more so than the rich or famous [3].

An Unassuming Humility

Our Savior God is a humble God. Even though he’s the sovereign power of the universe, Christ humbled himself to be born a helpless baby, grow into manhood, and suffer death in the place of all sinners who put their faith in him [4].

How dare I entertain even the smallest of prideful thoughts?

An Unexpected Circumstance

Our God loves surprises! Imagine the shepherds crying out in shock as an angel suddenly appears to them, only to be even more surprised by the angel’s message!

No doubt you’ve been surprised by God too, as he worked out impossible circumstances, miraculously supplied a dire need, or blessed beyond imagination. God’s surprises prove his creative capability to perform wonders that cannot be fathomed, and miracles that cannot be counted!

An Unlikely Juxtaposition

The shepherds visited the True Shepherd; the kings from the East visited the King of the universe. And that Shepherd-King (such a mind-boggling juxtaposition of humility and majesty!) now lives within us.

An Uncommon Possibility

When angels announced Christ’s birth to the shepherds, “the glory of the Lord shone around them [5].”

I wonder, might that celestial light have been rainbow-infused? Consider Revelation 4:3 where the Apostle John tries to describe the glory around God’s throne.

He wrote, “A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne.” Perhaps those same, glorious rainbow hues swirled in the light above the hills of Bethlehem that night!  

This is the only public-domain image that hints toward what I’m imagining!

Some people enjoy adding such facts and conjectures to their bank of knowledge.

Better yet is to let such information provide the icing on our Christmas joy—the icing of delicious astonishment and sweet encouragement that leads to worship.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I praise you Lord God, that your Word is living and active. No matter how often we read a passage or hear a scripture story, you can breathe fresh life into its meaning and impact.

The Christmas narrative is no exception. As we read and hear again the grand story of Jesus’ birth, may our hearts be open to your inspiration, may we overflow with renewed wonder, and in response, offer you our heartfelt worship.

Hebrews 4:12a; Proverbs 4:20-22;

Psalm 119:18; Psalm 40:5; Psalm 72:18-19

[1] Luke 2:13-14

[2] Luke 2:1-4

[3] http://www.examiner.com

[4] Colossians 1:17; Philippians 2:5-8

[5] Luke 2:9

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Giving Gratitude a Boost

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, Meditation, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , on November 28, 2024| 26 Comments »

We know that gratitude provides benefits–mentally, spiritually, and even physically.

We desire to become more thankful, to weave the attitude through the hours of each day.

But how?

Author Lysa Terkeurst provides this model:

Note the particular benefits she highlights: heightened awareness of God’s presence, and experiencing his powerful peace–each one well worth the effort of developing the habit of gratitude, yes?

So look around you in this moment. What can you be grateful for?

Let it be a reminder that God is with you, lavishing you with his love, faithfulness, and compassion.

Think on that knowledge, note the peace enveloping your heart, and enjoy a very happy day of Thanksgiving–today and always!

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Martin Rinkhart

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, Heroes of the Faith, Perseverance, Suffering, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on November 21, 2024| 29 Comments »

Although the family gathered ’round him wept openly, Pastor Martin Rinkhart held back his own tears as men lowered another townswoman into her grave. It was his forty-second burial that day; and a few more would require his administration before sundown.

The next day promised more of the same as the plague ravaged the city of Eilenburg, Germany, Rinkhart’s hometown. But this wasn’t their only tragic circumstance. Long before in 1618 the Thirty Years’ War had begun, devastating much of Europe—especially Germany.

Now it was the mid-1630s, and numerous refugees had crowded into the walled city of Eilenburg to escape death and destruction at the hands of the Swedish army. The plague had soon followed.

Eight thousand people died, including many children, two clergymen from nearby neighborhoods, and Rinkhart’s wife. He would bury nearly 4,500—forty to fifty per day– before mass graves were instituted.

Martin Rinkhart could never have imagined such heartbreak when he earned his degree in theology in 1602.  He no doubt looked forward to shepherding a little flock of believers, leading them to grow in faith and ministering to their needs.

And for fifteen years or so, Rinkhart did serve as music minister or pastor in several locations. Then in 1617, at age thirty-one, he was invited back to his native Eilenburg.

Eilenberg, Germany today

Shortly after his relocation, the Thirty Years’ War began—one of the longest, most destructive conflicts in European history, taking eight million lives [1].

The Swedish army caused much suffering. Soldiers plundered livestock, food stores, and household goods.  They demanded to be billeted in citizens’ homes. Even as Rinkhart endured these same hardships, he continued to faithfully care for his hurting parishioners.

No sooner did the plague subside than famine gripped the land. Rinkhart did his best to help others, reducing rations for his own household until he found himself mortgaging his future income in order to purchase food and other necessities for them.

During this time, the Swedish army returned, besieging Eilenberg for several months. They finally demanded an exorbitant ransom to leave the city. Rinkhart met with the general to plead the city’s case, but he wouldn’t back down.

One account explains that Rinkhart called together his parishioners and others to pray. “Come my children,” he invited. “We can find no hearing, no mercy with men; let us take refuge with God” [2].

Evidently the general was present as Rinkhart prayed fervently for God’s deliverance. The Swede acquiesced, and lowered the ransom considerably.

During these decades of suffering, in 1636, Rinkhart wrote a mealtime prayer-song for his two children. They sang it at bedtime too.  

Most of us would expect a prayer pleading for relief and rescue by God’s power and mercy. Instead, Rinkhart focused on gratitude:

His prayer became the basis for a beloved hymn, chosen to be sung at the national thanksgiving service when the Thirty Years’ War ended. It’s still sung today:

https://youtu.be/ItfKjxkXhMk?si=TXR0eN0Tj9rP0Of4

I marvel how someone could write such lyrics—about the wondrous things God has done, his blessings along the way, and countless gifts of love—all while suffering terrible hardship and grief.

But I’m thankful for Martin Rinkhart’s example, demonstrating what it means to trust in the Lord with all your heart, in all circumstances [3].

Still, the question remains: WHY. “Why Lord?” we plead toward heaven. “Why must good people suffer?”

Herbert Lockyer would have us understand:

“Harsh plowing yields joyful, bountiful harvests . . . the believer ‘grows rich by his losses, rises by his falls, lives by dying, and becomes full of being emptied’” (Unknown) [4].

No doubt Rinkhart embraced those truths. He also understood: Gratitude to God nurtures hope in him, the One who brings good out of all circumstances [5].

[1] https://enjoyingthejourney.org/hymn-history-now-thank-we-all-our-god/

[2] https://www.thedestinlog.com/story/lifestyle/faith/2018/11/20/story-behind-song-pastor-gives-praise-thanks-during-darkest-of-times/8320618007/

[3] Proverbs 3:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:18

[4] Seasons of the Lord, 371.

[5] Romans 8:28

Additional Source: http://www.baptistnews.com/article/now-thank-we-all-our-god/

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Jump for Joy!

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Protection, God's Provision, Joy, Praise, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on November 14, 2024| 29 Comments »

The heading promised: “Expert Tips for Creating a Gratitude List.”

But nowhere did the writer suggest who we’re supposed to thank. And that omission raises an important question: Can gratitude provide any value if there’s no one to receive it?

On the other hand, giving thanks and praise to God lifts our spirits as we review his unfailing love for us, expressed in countless ways.

Imagine King David’s euphoria as he wrote:

In Psalm 31, David included these five inspiring truths: our God is faithful (5), loving (7, 16, 21), good (19), merciful (22) and protective (23).

And as I considered theses scriptures, my thoughts turned to examples in our family’s lives when we’ve seen these attributes in action. For example:

God is faithful (Psalm 31:5) and shows us the wonders of his love (21).

Our son Eric needed slides of his paintings for a college application. However, several days of overcast skies made it impossible to sufficiently light his work and show it to best advantage. 

The deadline was fast approaching, and four paintings still hadn’t been photographed.

Eric decided he’d have do his best with the light available. But as he finished setting up and adjusting the painting on his easel, the sun came out! Three more times, just as he finished positioning, the clouds parted and the sun shone!

God stores up abundant good things for those who honor and trust him (Psalm 31:19).

Our family has experienced an abundance of good things—sometimes in miraculous ways (like provision for employment through an astonishing string of God-incidences [1]), and sometimes in smaller-but-no-less-startling events, like the one described above.

I’ve recorded hundreds of such moments in a notebook-journal kept since 1983 (as many of you regular readers know). Entry after entry proves our God is abundantly good and ever faithful [2].

We need not fear that we shall ever

come to the end of God’s goodness,

or any experience for which

He will have no blessing ready.

–J. R. Miller [3]

God hears my cries for mercy when I call to him for help, and he protects the faithful (Psalm 31:22, 23).

Years ago before GPS, I became hopelessly lost on a lonely, tree-lined road. To make matters worse, the gas tank was approaching empty, and I was going to be late for an appointment.

In near-panic mode I prayed, LORD HELP ME!, and tried to calm my racing heart by affirming that God would not fail me nor abandon me (Hebrews 13:5b NLT).

Suddenly a three-way stop appeared. I looked left to see a gas station about fifty yards down the road, almost hidden by the trees.

I turned the corner—into the 1950s. The style of the building and peeling paint indicated the age of the station; the pumps were just as old.

More alarm ensued as I studied one of the ancient pumps. What do I do with THIS?

And then an older gentleman approached (an angel, perhaps?) and kindly offered, “I’ll pump that for you.” He also directed me where I needed to be, and I arrived at my appointment just a few minutes late.

I could share SO many more examples. But it’s not just our family that’s experienced God’s goodness, faithfulness and love. All of us have stories to tell of God working wonders in our lives.

May we be quick to give him the thanks he deserves, and with King David, experience the euphoria of gratitude and praise that makes us leap for joy!

Now it’s your turn. In the comment section below, please share one of your stories that makes you leap for joy in what God accomplished!

[1] See https://nancyaruegg.com/2020/08/27/after-the-fact-2

[2] See https://nancyaruegg.com/2012/11/12/proving-gods-presence for how this journal came to be.

[3] Quoted by Herbert Lockyer, Seasons of the Lord, 199.

Art & photo credits: http://www.flicr.com (Evelyn Lim); http://www.biblepics.co; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (Paul Morris); http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.flickr.com (Bill Badzo); http://www.canva.com.

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Grow That Glow!

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, Joy, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on November 7, 2024| 32 Comments »

Surely you’ve met them—those glowing saints whose eyes always twinkle, smiles always dazzle, and whose faith and attitude always inspire.  We’re left wondering, how did they grow that glow?

No doubt it begins with strong trust in Christ, cultivated by scripture-study and prayer. They apply what they’ve learned about:

  • Giving all their concerns to God, knowing he truly cares
  • Focusing on the positive, the joyful, the beautiful
  • The pleasure of giving such gifts as time, encouragement, and a listening ear
  • Practicing God’s presence to experience his peace, strength, and more [1]

But researcher Michael Zigarelli discovered another reason why godly saints radiate joy: gratitude. He found that expressing continual gratitude to God actually energizes the practice of other spiritual disciplines, and altogether they contribute to growing that saintly glow [2].

Insightful author, Ann Voskamp concurs:

“The brave who focus on all things good and all things beautiful and all things true, even in the small, who give thanks for it and discover joy even in the here and now, they are the change agents who bring fullest Light to all the world” [3].

In addition, author and theologian Warren Wiersbe would have us know:

“That’s all fine and good,” someone might say. “But right now I see very little to be thankful for. We’ve had one financial setback after another, my job is more stressful than ever, our son is having a hard time in school, and my brother and sister-in-law just announced they’re separating. ‘See what I mean?”

Yes, we do. Some seasons of life include multiple troubles all at once.

But take note of this good news: simply expressing thankfulness (even if we don’t feel grateful) has been proven to create positive change in our brain chemistry [4].

And we find: continual gratitude contributes to a sense of WELL-BEING.

Another surprise?

Continual gratitude provides HEALING for the wounds of distress [5] —especially appreciation for who our Savior God is and what he has done.

Think of it: He created all things! He sustains all things! He has supremacy over all things! He is our Emmanuel (God with us), our Good Shepherd, our Wonderful Counselor, and so much more [6]!

God hears us as we pray, loves us with an everlasting love, empowers us through the Holy Spirit, fills us with hope, and anchors us through the storms of life [7]. 

And as we cultivate continual gratitude for such realities, we find PEACE.

The truly thankful person

is a truly peaceful person.

—Lysa TerKeurst [8].

It makes sense. The more we thank God for all the benefits he bestows, the firmer our faith-stance in his competence to sustain us.

Third, continual gratitude cultivates JOY.

Turn [your] eyes toward Jesus and everything shines—

even the tough spots morph into excitement. . .

How is he going to solve my problem this time? . . .

When I am consciously aware of him,

life fills with wonder and wonder brings joy [9].

What better way to remain aware of God and expand joy-inducing wonder than with gratitude?

Last, continual gratitude “lays out planks of TRUST” [10].

Think of all the moments he’s been faithful, when:

  • an impossible situation worked out amazingly well
  • a potentially difficult conversation turned out to be restorative and beneficial
  • an inspired idea came to mind that cleverly solved a problem
  • a surprising bargain materialized, supplying a current need
  • a string of just-so-happened circumstances provided the answer to a prayer

Yes, some will call these coincidences. Around here we call them God-incidences, because “whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father” [11].

And every time we acknowledge such gifts of provision, protection, and guidance, we lay another plank of trust, constructing a strong bridge of faith from yesterday into tomorrow [12].

Now we know. Each of us can grow a glow as we embrace the power of gratitude.

And isn’t November—with Thanksgiving just a few weeks away—the perfect month to grow that glow a little bit brighter?

[1] 1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:8; Acts 20:35; Isaiah 26:3 NLT

[2] https://godsmissionarychurch.org/2018/10/26/growing-through-thankfulness/

[3] One Thousand Gifts, 58.

[4] https://www.focustsoul.com/blog/signs-of-maturity-in-christ-part-1-gratitude-and-joy

[5] https://cct.biola.edu/spirituality-suffering-gratitude/, emphasis added

[6] Colossians 1:15-20; Matthew 1:23; John 10:14; Isaiah 9:6

[7]  1 Peter 3:12; Jeremiah 31:3; 2 Timothy 1:7; Romans 15:13; Hebrews 6:19

[8] Embraced, 256.

[9] Deanna Chadwell, Soul Bare, 82-84.

[10] Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, 151.

[11] James 1:17 NLT

[12] Voskamp, 152.

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An Election Day Prayer

Posted in Decision-Making, Godly Character, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on October 31, 2024| 43 Comments »

Between the internet, TV, and our mailboxes we’ve been inundated with political ads for months. Not only do Republican and Democrat candidates oppose one another on numerous issues, each side also loudly complains about the errors and character flaws of the other.

No doubt we can all agree: it’s been another contentious election season.

We might also agree that the whole process is worthy of prayer. In fact, through the inspired writings of the Apostle Paul, God urges us to pray for our leaders:

Perhaps we might pray like this:

We praise you, O God:

  • That you are willing to use our earnest prayers to change the course of our nation, to stay your hand of judgment, and make us into the kind of people you long for us to be in the process [1].
  • That you are all-wise and all-powerful. There is no problem that can’t be alleviated, there is no argument that can’t be settled, when people seek your wise insight and revelation. May all of us turn to you with sincere hearts, eager to follow your ways, to live together in peace and unity [2].
  • For leaders already serving in city, state, and federal governments: may they strive to apply your wisdom, justice, and the Golden Rule on behalf of those they serve. Keep them strong in mind and spirit for the work ahead.

Be our guide, O God:

  • That we might understand clearly the issues at hand, the problems we face, and the consequences of each policy implemented.
  • To elect those whose lives and leadership are based on truth and integrity.
  • To elect individuals who will not suppress those who profess faith in you. May they support, not detract from, opportunities that introduce people to Christ and the enhanced life he offers.
  • To elect those who will honestly consider the best practices (many of them Christ-centered), already implemented and working in some areas—best practices with high success rates in reducing poverty, substance abuse, homelessness, crime, and more. Conversely, may our public servants terminate those government programs that aren’t working and waste financial resources.
  • To elect people who value unity and are willing to seek creative compromises and solutions with those of different political affiliations. In the process, may such leaders contribute to healing the divide among us and strengthen our country [3].

We pray for:

  • Lies to be exposed and truth to shine with clarity.
  • A sense of serious responsibility in the heart of ALL Americans, that each might cast an informed, thoughtful, and prayerful vote. May we remember that men and women have died in order that we might exercise this precious freedom.
  • An honest election, untainted by fraud and interference. May those involved in such activities be exposed and held accountable.

And finally:

  • May the injustices perpetrated by dishonorable leaders be rectified.
  • May elected officials serve with integrity, stand against evil, and work toward the prosperity of all. May they be mindful they are accountable to you first, and then their constituents [4].
  • May YOUR power and greatness, justice and mercy, righteousness and goodness, wisdom and more reign supreme as elected officials take office.

In the powerful name of Jesus, we pray,

AMEN.

[1] Kay Arthur, His Imprint, My Expression, p. 157.

[2] Hebrews 10:22; Psalm 119:30-32; Ephesians 4:3

[3] Mark 3:25

[4] Hebrews 13:17

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Depending on Where You Look

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on October 24, 2024| 64 Comments »

This time of year, if you take a walk through the woods with your eyes on the trail, you’ll note languishing undergrowth, shriveled toward the dusty ground.

Daylight has waned, temperatures have cooled, and plant life is beginning to wither. Not an inspiring sight.  

But what if you look up? The trees display a cacophony of autumn color: golden yellow, burnt orange, and scarlet red. The brilliance can take your breath away.

And you’re reminded: Depending on where you look, you can be discouraged by dullness or uplifted by grandeur.

*     *     *

Take a look at your calendar or planner for next month. No doubt you’ll find some upcoming responsibilities you’d like to eliminate: the dentist appointment, your flu shot, getting the car serviced, and more—not the way you’d like to spend your time.

But what if you focus on upcoming delights such as the get-togethers of your small group or Bible study partners? The lunch date with old friends? A fun community event? Now the upcoming month doesn’t look so disheartening.

And you realize: Depending on where you look, you can become dispirited by dread or uplifted by anticipation.

*     *     *

Watch or listen to the news and you’ll hear about the cruelty, criminality, and dishonesty in our world. Overexposure to the mayhem can lead to anxiety and depression.

But what if you balance the necessity of being informed with the joy of being inspired?

Meditate on such Bible psalms as #16, #23, #103, and #145 to replenish your spirit with truth and hope. Turn to such websites as https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/ that offer articles about troubles relieved, problems solved.

Volunteers help with reconstruction after an earthquake in Haiti

And you’ll find: Depending on where you look, you can be discouraged by widespread wrongdoing or encouraged by the perfections of God and his activity around the world.

*     *     *

It’s easy to fixate on the disappointing and maddening stuff of each day, then tell someone else about it, and grumble together how people can be so incompetent, rude, and thoughtless.

But what if you look for the gracious people and share their stories–the kind interstate driver who let you merge into a tight line of traffic? The pharmacy cashier with the consistent and genuine smile? The school volunteer who faithfully reads to the kindergartners each week—from her wheelchair?

And you discover: Depending on where you look, the atmosphere can be clouded by negativity or brightened with positivity.

*     *     *

A change of view

can produce a heart renewed

—depending on where you look.

Art & photo credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (2); http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.public-domain-image.com; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com.

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A Quiet Time Notebook

Posted in Bible Study, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on October 17, 2024| 42 Comments »

Some time ago I mentioned my quiet time notebook in response to one of Linda Stoll’s thoughtful essays on Substack.

(DO visit her at https://lindastoll.substack.com!)

This notebook provides a place to keep Bible study notes, scripture memory work, prayer-starters, and more. Then when I sit down each morning to spend time with God, I have what I need in one place.

Linda replied to my comment, “One of these days you’ll have to tell us more about that notebook!”

Well, today is the day! Here’s a brief explanation of its contents.

First, I’ve chosen looseleaf over spiral, allowing me the freedom to move things around, even remove pages and file them to make room for newer material.

The set-up of various sections allows me to organize by category, making it easier to find what I need.

Below you’ll find more details for each section, plus suggestions for others.

THE COVER

Here’s a chance to be creative! It might be as simple as a scripture coloring page (Many free ones are available online.), a favorite Bible verse or quote written with colorful markers, or an inspiring photograph. Make your notebook a pleasure to pull off the shelf.

PROMPTS FOR PRAISE

Many of us follow the pattern-for-prayer based on the acronym, A.C.T.S. A = Adoration, C = Confession, T = Thanksgiving, and S = Supplication.

To add freshness to my praise, I decided to focus on just one of God’s attributes each day, to avoid a repetitious list-prayer.

For each trait I’ve collected scriptures and quotes that help me express adoration for who our God is. That collection is the first section in my notebook.

CURRENT BIBLE STUDY

If I’m not using a workbook—a study by the likes of Jen Wilkin or Priscilla Shirer—I keep my notes together in this section.

When I finish journaling or verse-mapping through a book of the Bible (for example), I file these pages so, if needed, I can find them again.

However! Purging has been necessary now and then. Had I kept every study throughout the decades of my life, I’d probably need two or three file cabinets!

Also in this section: ideas for scripture meditation, to add variety to the ways I study. These too are available online. (One example: https://biblicalspirituality.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Meditation-Methods-Summary-17.pdf).

MEMORY WORK

I keep a typed copy of each chapter I’ve memorized, the many shorter passages, and individual verses. Reviewing a page or two each day helps to keep the passages fresh in my mind.

PRAYERS

Some people keep a prayer list in this section. But years ago I transitioned to a prayer box of 3 x 5s. The cards provide more room to write, as some requests go through stages toward fulfillment. It’s encouraging to see God at work through the process, as well as in the final outcome.

So this section of my notebook isn’t for requests, it’s for model prayers that have especially touched my heart. I can turn to these when the words won’t come.

An index helps me find an appropriate one. For example, when I need discernment I turn to a prayer of Thomas Merton, for hope, John D. Rayner, and for peace, Teresa of Avila.

FROM THE INTERNET

Occasionally I come across articles and blog posts worth keeping close at hand: how to’s, poetry, inspiration, information, and more. (I need to create an index for this section too!)

WORD OF THE YEAR

Sometimes I participate in this practice of prayerfully choosing a word to focus on for a year. That focus can include searching out related scriptures, writing them out, journaling meditative thoughts, and then praying through them.

The goal is to allow such focus to form our character and enhance our relationship with God.

OTHER POSSIBILITIES

There are those who include a reflection journal, gratitude journal, written out prayers, and/or other personalized pursuits. I prefer actual journals or separate notebooks for certain endeavors.

One example: my God Is Faithful journal, mentioned here now and then.

The first pages are starting to show their age!

Dozens of pages offer a record of God’s faithfulness to our family since 1983. At first this journal did reside in my quiet time notebook. But it soon grew and required a notebook of its own.

And now, gracious readers, I’d love to hear how you organize your quiet time materials. Please share in the comment section below!

All photos: Nancy Ruegg

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God Makes Himself Visible

Posted in Dreams, Encouragement, Faith, Generosity, God's Faithfulness, God's Power, God's Provision, Heroes of the Faith, Perseverance, Service, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on October 10, 2024| 37 Comments »

Young Klaus-Dieter John read the last page of another “jungle doctor” book by Dr. Paul White—his favorite series. The adventures, based on the missionary doctor’s experiences in Africa, never failed to capture Klaus’s imagination and heart.

The boy sighed. How great would it be to live in the jungle and help people as a medical missionary.

That dream stayed with Klaus through high school in his hometown of Weisbaden, Germany. As graduation neared in the late 1970s, he felt certain God wanted him to become a doctor and serve in a third world country.

Another person in his school carried the same dream, a pretty girl named Martina. Soon Klaus and Tina were a couple.

The next decade included university, medical school, and marriage. Further training took the Johns to England, Johannesburg, and finally America. Klaus studied at Harvard, and then completed his surgical residency at Yale.

Meanwhile, Tina earned board certification in pediatrics, in Germany and America.

God used a backpacking trip through Peru in 1991 to draw their hearts toward the Quechua people, descendants of the Incas. These Indians live on high plateaus and in deep valleys of the Andes Mountains, impoverished and illiterate.

At that time, just four doctors served 40,000 people. The Johns knew immediately: this was where God wanted them to serve.

First they volunteered for five years at a well-established mission hospital in Ecuador. During that time Klaus and Tina founded the Diospi Suyana organization to alleviate the suffering of Peruvian Indians.

In Quechua, the words mean, “We trust in God.”

But they desired to do much more. “What if,” the couple dreamed, “we could establish a hospital for the Quechua people near Machu Picchu—not just a bare-bones clinic but a true hospital with everything necessary to provide excellent care?”

Just saying the words out loud highlighted the implausibility of their desire. How could they raise the millions of dollars necessary? And even if they could build such a facility, how would they keep it staffed and equipped?

But God propelled them forward.

In 2004 the Johns began seeking financial support for their vision, first in Germany and then in other countries. A trickle of donations at first grew to a steady flow. Several companies even committed to provide equipment and materials.

Also during this time, Klaus and Tina moved their family of five into a mud home in the village of Curahuasi, a village strategically located between three Peruvian cities.

By May 2005, the Johns were participating in a miracle: the ground-breaking for Diospi Suyana Hospital—a project that would cover eight-plus acres of land, and cost $100,000 each month to construct [1].

The couple was determined not to incur debt. God would either supply the needed funds or construction would be discontinued.

Supply he did—through more than 50,000 individual donors who’ve contributed to the hospital’s ministry [2].

As the complex took shape, fifteen miles of computer cable were set in the walls, as well as “countless miles of pipes for suction, compressed air, and oxygen” [3].  

The dedication of the facilities took place in August, 2007. By 2017, 300,000 Peruvian patients had received care at Diospi Suyana—patients who only pay 20% of the cost of their care—at most; the other 80% is paid by generous donors.

Each day begins with a worship service. Thousands of Peruvians have heard about Jesus and been told of his gift of eternal life. For those who accept that gift, one of the hospital pastors visits their home and connects them to a local church [4].

The ministry has expanded over the years to include dental and eye clinics, Kids’ Clubs, a school for six hundred children, and a radio station [5].

Many miraculous provisions have contributed to the flourishing of Diospi Suyana.

For example, in January 2006, while Klaus was in Germany on a speaking tour, he met with a good friend. Klaus mentioned they needed a civil engineer to oversee the hospital construction, but the person had to be willing to serve without pay.

“I know someone who might be interested,” declared the friend and he made a phone call, setting an appointment for later that day with the engineer Udo Klemenz.

Meanwhile, when the phone rang at the Klemenz’ home, Udo and his wife were in the midst of praying about their plans for the future.

At the meeting that afternoon, Klaus made his proposal. The couple gasped in surprise for this near-instantaneous answer to their prayer.

“Come to Peru for as long as you can stay,” Klaus invited.

Udo and his wife soon traveled to Curahausi—and stayed for eight years [6].

Klaus affirms often, “God has become visible in my life” [7]. (Emphasis added.)

Indeed, he has.

[1] https://cvm.swisshealthweb.ch/fileadmin/assets/CVM/2018/cvm.2018.00564/cvm-2018-00564.pdf

[2] https://cbn.com/news/news/hospital-built-faith-proof-me-god-real

[3] https://cvm.swisshealthweb.ch/fileadmin/assets/CVM/2018/cvm.2018.00564/cvm-2018-00564.pdf

[4] https://cbn.com/news/news/hospital-built-faith-proof-me-god-real

[5] https://www.diospi-suyana.de/diospi-suyana-2-2/?lang=en#

[6] https://cvm.swisshealthweb.ch/fileadmin/assets/CVM/2018/cvm.2018.00564/cvm-2018-00564.pdf

[7] https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/2014/3-october/features/interviews/interview-klaus-dieter-john-founding-director-diospi-suyana-hospital

Photo credits: http://www.pixabay.com (2); http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.travelingteacheronline.com, H. McElwee; http://www.pxhere.com.

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