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A Kintsugi Masterpiece

September 7, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Perhaps you too watched the episode of Antiques Roadshow when an appraiser analyzed a Kintsugi bowl.

This ancient Japanese art form involves mending broken pieces of pottery with gold or silver. The glimmering veins resurrect the ruins to create a beautiful work of art.

Such a transformation offers imagery for what happens when we allow the golden work of Christ to mend our brokenness from failures, sins, and shortcomings. As a result, each of us becomes a masterpiece [1].

But what about Jesus’ instruction, “Be perfect as my Heavenly Father perfect”[2] and all the itemized directives for Christian conduct in the New Testament—all 1,500 of them, give or take?

I can’t possibly measure up to such a standard, so what’s a cracked pot like me supposed to do? Is the pure gold of Christ’s work (on my behalf at his crucifixion, and in my life now) enough to make me acceptable to God, considering my faults and failures?

We’d do well to remind ourselves often: just as family members love one another in spite of shortcomings and wrongdoing, our Heavenly Father does the same.

Note the above verse doesn’t say the Lord has compassion only on those nearing perfection.

Then what did Jesus mean when he instructed us to be perfect?

The Amplified Version offers clarity for that key word:

“You, therefore, will be perfect [growing into spiritual maturity both in mind and character, actively integrating godly values into your daily life], as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

Matthew 5:48 AMP

‘You see? Jesus isn’t requiring angelic perfection; he’s directing us toward full spiritual maturity.

Jesus would also direct us away from unrealistic expectations.

Some think that unless we’re . . .

  • spending long hours in Bible study and prayer
  • attending every pertinent service and event at church
  • serving those around us
  • extending hospitality in our homes
  • discipling and mentoring others
  • sharing with everyone in need . . .

. . . we’re not doing enough for God.

So when is enough enough?

I’m reminded of the time I sat in the pediatrician’s office with one of our children when a young mom from our church, Nicole*, walked in with her infant son. Sagging shoulders and dark eye-circles gave evidence to the truth about parenting a newborn: it’s exhausting.

But this Mama was dealing with even more: another son, age three (whom Daddy was babysitting at that moment), and a full-time job. She worked nights as a nurse, and her husband worked days so they could avoid childcare costs.

Somehow Nicole was surviving on naps here and there, and a few hours of sleep before her shift, once her husband got home.

During our conversation, Nicole confessed it had become nearly impossible to spend quiet time with God in Bible study and prayer, and she felt terribly guilty.

In that moment God brought to mind an image of my loving, earthly father. If I were in Nicole’s situation and said to him, “Dad, I’d come see you in a minute, but with things the way they are right now . . .”

I knew what he’d do. Dad would interrupt and say, “Don’t worry–I understand! I know you love me, and you know I love you. When your schedule lightens up, then we’ll get together for an extended visit. For now, I’m delighted in these quick phone calls.”

I told Nicole, I think our heavenly Father would respond in the same way. (Remember Psalm 103:13 above?) Her heart was in the right place; she longed to spend quiet hours with God.

But in her current situation, it was perfectly fine to postpone such a plan until that debilitating season ended. Our God of grace understood; there was no cause for guilt.

Our God of grace would have us let go of perfectionism and unrealistic expectations.

He’d have us delight in the golden work Christ has done and continues to perform in our lives [3].

And though we do press on to live by God’s wise ways, he would have us embrace the beauty of imperfect perfection [4].

Like a Kintsugi masterpiece.  

*Not her real name

[1] 2 Corinthians 3:5; Ephesians 2:10 ISV

[2] Matthew 5:48

[3] 1 Peter 1:3-5; Philippians 1:6

[4] Philippians 3:12-14; Lamentations 3:22-23

Photo credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pexels.com/Tima Miroshnichenko; www. rawpixel.com; http://www.pexels.com/Alexander Dummer; http://www.pxhere.com/Forrest Cavale; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org./Ruthann Hurwitz.

Posted in Encouragement, God, God's Delight, God's Grace, Maturity, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 37 Comments »

Constant Delight

August 31, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Want to know three actions guaranteed to bring delight?

These actions are recommended by the One who designed us, God himself, because of the blessings he’s built into them. He would have us:  always rejoicing, always praying, and always giving thanks [1].

You might say, “I’ve experienced the delight of rejoicing in God’s goodness, and gratitude to him does uplift my spirit, but prayer? That seems more discipline than delight. Besides, how can we pray continually and keep up with the responsibilities of life?”

We’ll address the delights of prayer near the end of this post. As for praying always, we can relax. That’s not what God desires.

Continual prayer is more about an abiding attitude rather than an all-consuming pursuit–an attitude that includes:

  • Faith, believing God exists and rewards those who seek him.
  • Humility, as we acknowledge our dependence upon him for everything.
  • Honesty, knowing that God is near to those who call to him with integrity.
  • Expectancy, because he can do all things and is generous with his gifts [2].

Continual prayer is also about an abiding awareness of God’s presence and communicating with him throughout the day. For example, we can offer sentence prayers such as these:

  • Thank you, Lord, for your strength; you will see me through today’s tight schedule.
  • Grant your wisdom for this decision, Father.
  • That woman over there reminds me of Tiffany. Bless Tiff, I pray; fill her with your joy and peace in spite of the challenges she currently faces.
  • Thank you for quieting my nerves during the presentation this afternoon.
  • What beautiful clouds you made today, Lord! I marvel at your artistry.
  • Oh God, forgive me for getting so upset with that rude driver. Calm the anger within me.
  • Such disturbing news heard just now. I pray against the forces of evil that cause such suffering. I pray that your right hand, majestic in power, will shatter the enemy at work in this situation [3]!

We’d do well to remember:

Edge your days with prayer;

they are less likely to unravel.

Unknown

Third, continual prayer is about persistence. When prayers go unanswered, Hannah of the Bible provides an example for us. “She pressed in ever closer, filling the space of her wait with prayer” [4].

I love that: “filling the space of her wait with prayer.” We too can experience delightful, calming confidence in God while persisting in prayer through the wait.

The great preacher, Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892), had this to say about continual prayer:

To pray continually takes effort; it’s easy to let distractions interfere. That in turn leads to such adverse effects as frustration, irritation, a lack of peace, confusion, a short temper, weariness, and discouragement [5].

Oh, but what delights result when we maintain an attitude of prayer —in addition to our prayers answered! What follows is just a short list.

Communicating with God:

  • Helps us focus less on trivial matters and more on glorious realities [6]
  • Fosters peace [7]
  • Increases our trust in God, our reliance upon him [8] 
  • Allows us to participate in what God is doing around the world [9]
  • Helps us build a life-enhancing relationship with God [10]

Unceasing prayer can grow to be something we do

not because of discipline but because of friendship.

Desire. It’s where we’re headed,

if we’ll let Him take us there.

Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 227

Oh, yes Lord, that’s my desire, to experience the constant delight of communion with you, through continual prayer. Keep me mindful to pray my way through every day.

[1] 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

[2] Hebrews 11:6; John 15:5; Psalm 145:18 HCSB; Matthew 19:26; Psalm 84:11

[3] Lamentations 3:22-23; Isaiah 41:10; James 1:5; Psalm 94:19; Job 5:9; Exodus 15:6

[4] 1 Samuel 1:1-20; Lysa Terkeurst, Embraced, 174.

[5] Ray Pritchard, https://www.preceptaustin.org/1_thessalonians_516_commentary .

[6] Sarah Young, Jesus Calling, 135.

[7] Philippians 4:6-7

[8] Jeremiah 17:7-8

[9] Matthew 6:9-10; Philippians 1:19 offers an example.

[10] Luke 11:9

Photo credits: http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (2); http://www.heartlight.org.

Posted in Blessings, Faith, God's Goodness, Perseverance, Prayer, Uncategorized, Waiting on God | Tagged , , | 36 Comments »

Along the Shoreline of Wonder

August 24, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Of the two art installations below, which piece appeals to you the most?

Jackson Pollock’s #31 (1950)?

Or, the rose window of Strasbourg Cathedral, designed by the architect Erwin von Steinbach in the twelfth century?

Pollock’s work impresses us for his unique creativity at the time, its size (nearly 9’ x 18’), the gnarled texture, and the illusion of movement.

The second artwork dazzles us for its intricate design, its size (nearly 50 feet across), and the precise, colorful artistry.

Another factor that draws our eye: symmetry—the quality of being made up of similar parts facing each other or around an axis.

Imagine the number of glass pieces required for the Strasbourg window, each carefully cut to exact dimensions in order to complete sixteen matching petals. Note that the number doubles where the sixteen sections become thirty-two.

Research conducted with babies has proven: humans are born with a predilection for symmetry, whether it’s in art, nature, music, or the people we find attractive.

Beauty is bound up with symmetry.

Herman Weyl, physicist [1]

Even Pollock employed symmetry in his work. There’s balance between the right and left sides, the top and bottom, in the amount of paint used, and in the ratio of gray, white, and black paint (albeit not as precise as a rose window)!

Of course, it wasn’t a human who introduced symmetry into the universe, it was God, and it is everywhere.

Countless examples can be found in four basic forms.

Bilateral, with matching right and left sides:

Except for a few anomalies, all animals fall into this category.

Radial, with parts radiating outwards from a center:

Aeonium arboreum

Biradial, which combine both radial and bilateral symmetry:

See all those hundreds of barbs on each feather? They’re bilaterally symmetrical too.

And spherical:

Globe Thistle

But then there are numerous variations, including:

Fractal, where the same shape or pattern in various sizes is repeated over and over.

Romanesco Broccoli

Wallpaper, with its repeating pattern horizontally and vertically.

Macro Photography of actual honeycomb

Fibonacci, based on the ratio 1:1.618 and called the Golden Ratio [2], is found in the double spiral of sunflower seeds.

Rotational, when an object still looks the same after some distance of rotation.

Icosahedral, with its adjoining faces, each connected to the others at the same angle, creating a spherical shape.

Model of the Carbon 60 Molecule

The Carbon 60 molecule is just one example of symmetry at the microscopic level. But it also occurs at the cosmic.

For instance, on April 8, 2024, Planet Earth will experience a total solar eclipse—another example of bilateral symmetry. Such a phenomenon occurs because the sun is 400 times larger than the moon, but also 400 times farther from the earth, making the two bodies appear the exact same size in the sky [3].

Nearly everywhere we look, some form of symmetry is bound to be within view.

And what might we learn about God from his use of symmetry?

The wonder of creation is,

every encounter illuminates

something about God.

Margaret Feinberg [4]

Symmetry indicates that he loves order and organization, pattern and design, proportion and balance.

Symmetry gives evidence of his intentionality in creation, his attention to detail, his care and precision in the execution of his plan.

Symmetry affirms Intelligent Design. All of these astounding patterns could not have happened by chance, any more than pieces of glass can randomly come together in a rose window.

The more we know of God’s works, the better we know him.

The better we know God, the greater our awe and wonder.

And wending along the shoreline of wonder leads to worship [5].

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Thank you, Glorious Creator, for the joy of discovery as we learn about you.  You ARE the Master Craftsman. Everything you’ve made has been thoughtfully and expertly fashioned by your hand. I delight in your deeds and happily sing in celebration of your handiwork!

1 Timothy 4:4a; Psalm 92:4

[1] Symmetry (Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1989).

[2] See https://nancyaruegg.com/2017/06/22/the-language-of-the-universe/ for a more detailed explanation and many astounding examples of the Golden Ratio in creation.

[3] https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/eclipses/science/geometry/

[4] Wonderstruck, 55.

[5] Though we intend our worship to bless God, he blesses us as we do. See https://nancyaruegg.com/2022/07/07/what-happens-when-we-pause-to-praise/

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com (Wally Gobetz); http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (Martin Kraft); http://www.flickr.com (Chris Bertram); http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.flickr.com (Brian Auer); http://www.pexels.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.pxfuel.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (2); http://www.wallpaperflare.com.

Posted in God, God's Power, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 45 Comments »

Truth vs. Lies

August 17, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Adventurer Gregor MacGregor, also known as Cazique (prince) Gregor of Poyais (an island kingdom in the Bay of Honduras), traveled to London in 1821. To all who would listen he enthused about his island, given to him by King George Frederic Augustus of the Mosquito Coast, Central America.

Cazique Gregor boasted about rivers that sparkled with gold, soil that produced abundant harvests, and a harbor where business thrived. He hoped to find investors in order to develop Poyais.

MacGregor displayed lovely engravings of his idyllic island, detailed maps, and even a guidebook. He carried official land grant forms in order to sell acreage, and offered to exchange the settlers’ pound sterling to Poyais currency, to facilitate their arrival in port.

At least 270 chose to settle there; many more became investors.

But the island turned out to be uninhabitable wilderness. MacGregor was not a prince, he was a con artist. All the documents, maps, currency, and more he’d created himself. His scheme had earned him £200,000 in just one year.

Some of the island-settlers died in the harsh conditions, some moved to Honduras, and still others returned to London. When the returnees exposed MacGregor’s lies, he escaped to France and repeated the deception, earning another £300,000.

Of course, MacGregor was eventually forced to leave France also. He and his wife then returned to her home in Venezuela, where MacGregor died in 1845 [1].

We humans are susceptible to deception. Even the most intelligent can be duped. Just ask those who recently invested with Sam Bankman-Fried.

But where con artists devour the assets of unsuspecting people, there is a “deceiver of the whole world” that seeks to destroy lives: Satan [2].

How does he do it? In the same way of all deceivers–with lies. For example, Satan would have us believe:

  • A loving God won’t punish those who try to live right.
  • All the world’s religions are valid.
  • The Bible is full of myths, irrelevant for today.
  • A good God wouldn’t let bad things happen to good people.
  • Everyone has to live by their own truth. What’s true for me may not be true for someone else.

But how can we know if these statements are lies?

We begin to recognize lies

when we know the truth.

Beth Moore [3]

The problem is, many people don’t want to know truth, so they don’t seek it. They’ve chosen beliefs that suit themselves and object to anything that interferes with their freedom to do as they like.

But what are the results of believing such lies as listed above, keeping God at a distance, and following our own way? It often leads to suffering– for ourselves and those around us.

Consider the following:

  • Depression is on the increase [4]
  • Suicide in the U.S. rose to an all-time high in 2022 [5]
  • Deaths from drugs and/or alcohol have more than tripled since 1990 [6]
  • About half of first marriages end in divorce; second marriages dissolve at a higher rate, and third marriages even higher [7]
  • One in seven children in America experienced abuse last year [8]

Granted, not everyone who lives their own way will fall prey to these ills. And we all know Christians who’ve succumbed in spite of their faith. But the statistics among the latter group are much lower [9].

Another important fact: the number of Americans who identify as Christian has decreased from 90% in 1990 to 65% in 2022 [10].

Might it be that a lack of fortifying faith in Christ contributes to the increased rates of suffering listed above? The obvious correlation warrants consideration.

Such statistics also add credence to what scripture has taught for centuries:

As for what happens when we die, should we trust our own thoughts on the subject, or the One who made us, the only One with supreme power over life and death?

Gregor MacGregor’s victims had no way to verify his claims or determine the validity of his documents. We, however, can verify that Christ’s claims and the Bible are true, basing our conclusion upon the wealth of factual evidence available–if we’re willing to seek it out [11].

Each person must decide:

Is it possible I’ve been duped by lies?

If so, what am I going to do about it?

[1] https://www.britannica.com/story/the-craziest-scam-gregor-macgregor-creates-his-own-country

[2] Revelation 12:9; 1 Peter 5:8

[3] Praying God’s Word, 76

[4] https://news.gallup.com/poll/505745/depression-rates-reach-new-highs.aspx

[5] https://www.nbcnews.com/health/mental-health/cdc-data-finds-suicides-reached-time-high-2022-rcna99327

[6] https://www.addictioncenter.com/addiction/addiction-statistics/

[7] https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/divorce/divorce-statistics/

[8]https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/childabuseandneglect/fastfact.html#:~:text=Child%20abuse%20and%20neglect%20are%20common.,year%20in%20the%20United%20States.

[9] https://news.gallup.com/poll/144980/religious-americans-report-less-depression-worry.aspx ; https://humanjourney.org.uk/articles/health-benefits-of-christian-faith/ ; https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/mar/27/christianity-helps-curb-drug-use-study-finds/ ; https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/divorce-rate-in-the-church-as-high-as-the-world/; https://www.quora.com/Are-Christians-more-likely-to-abuse-their-spouse-children

[10]   https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2019/10/17/in-u-s-decline-of-christianity-continues-at-rapid-pace/ and https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2022/09/13/how-u-s-religious-composition-has-changed-in-recent-decades/#:~:text=Only%20a%20few%20decades%20ago,thirds%20of%20adults%20are%20Christians

[11] https://www.focusonthefamily.com/faith/how-do-we-know-the-bible-is-true-2/

Other posts that include examples of the factual evidence available:

Photo credits: http://www.nypl.getarchive.net; http://www.rawpixel.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pickpic.com; http://www.wallpaperflare.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | 29 Comments »

Oxygen for the Soul

August 10, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Cincinnati Museum Center

When our daughter Heather and her family from Washington State come to visit us here (including her two brothers and their families), we take the two granddaughters to the Cincinnati Museum Center.

This last time, Sophie (age eight) particularly enjoyed the simulated rock quarry, where children can learn about simple machines. Tools like shovels and wheelbarrows are part of the equipment provided.  (That was three year-old Elena’s speed.)

NOT Elena, but another little quarry worker

Some of the equipment is more complicated, including, a rope-and-pulley scoop for picking up foam rocks then lifting them off the ground, and a crane to move the scoop over to a dump truck.

By trial-and-error Sophie figured out how to adjust the ropes for maneuvering the scoop into the pile of rocks, then tilt it upright. A tall, brawny, football-player-in-the making came along to join in the play. He was probably about ten years old. I watched to see if he would use his size to take over the operation.

Instead, he and Sophie began to work together. He would pile foam rocks for her to scoop, then jump up to the heavy crane that would transfer the scoop over to the truck. He never bossed, but spoke respectfully. They had a grand time experimenting and problem-solving.

Or you can play Frustrate-Your-Sister!

Once or twice the boy spoke to his mom. She was very busy keeping track of a younger son and toddler daughter who liked to go in opposite directions. My thoughts returned to the exhausting days when our three children were young.

On our way out of the quarry-area, Heather, the girls, and I passed by that busy mom.

“Your son is a fine gentleman,” I said, then shared with her my observations.

A beautiful smile transformed her face. “Oh, thank you!” she enthused. “You never know if they’ll remember their manners.”

“Well, he sure is minding them this morning. You’re doing a great job!” And with a light squeeze on the young mother’s arm, I hurried to catch up with my girls.

That’s when I noticed the atmosphere had changed; the air seemed purer.   Those positive words meant to bless a busy mom had blessed me too, and an afterglow of refreshing joy filled my heart–just for trying to make someone else’s day a bit brighter.

Those wise words of Solomon proved true again:

Of course, more important is the affirmation-afterglow in the life of that young mother. My prayer is our little conversation provided her with encouragement and confidence to press on in her conscientious child-rearing.

I’m very hopeful of a such a result, based on my own experience at that stage of life. At least a couple of times when our children were small, a stranger stopped at our table in a restaurant and commended them for their calm behavior.

Now, more than thirty years later, I still remember those spirit-lifting, confidence-building comments. (Although I must confess: at home they were anything but calm!)

I, for one, want to grow as an encourager—to strengthen the hearts of others as they face life’s challenges. Maybe you do too.

Just how might we achieve that goal? Possibilities include:

  • Share positive words based on our observations—even with strangers like that mom at the museum, or with diners at a restaurant.
  • Be specific and give examples about the positive traits we see.   Folks are often blind to their own commendable behaviors.
  • Express appreciation for anything and everything. (We’ve mentioned this behavior before, but I need the reminder.) We can also increase the power of a thank-you by adding a smile, eye contact, and maybe even a touch on the arm if appropriate.
  • Show interest in the thoughts and activities of others. Validation is even more powerful than praise.
  • Encourage the encouragers! We can tell others how their words have blessed us, to keep determination and confidence flowing among us.
Quotefancy-167343-3840x2160

Encouragement is indeed a powerful force, fostering perseverance, strength, and hope.

Best of all, it brings glory to God as we affirm his character in those around us.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Thank you, Father, for the privilege of ministering encouragement, for the delight you engineer in the heart of the one who receives and the one who gives. May I breathe strength, hope, and confidence into others wherever I go.

Art & photo credits:  www.commonswikimedia.org; http://www.visitflyovercountry.com; http://www.inventorsoftomorrow.com; http://www.stocksnap.io; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.pxfuel.com;  http://www.quotefancy.com.

(Revised and reblogged from August 1, 2016 while we enjoy family house-guests.)

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 52 Comments »

Holy Whispers

August 3, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Imagine hosting an ultra-special guest in your home, someone well-loved and well-known. One evening you pass the open door of his room and see him kneeling by the bed in prayer.

His words are barely audible but in that moment, you happen to hear your name.

Would you stop and listen, to see what this respected man considered important for you? I’m thinking you would.

Long ago, someone well-loved and well-known did pray for you and for me—Jesus—and at a most unexpected time, the night before his crucifixion.

Painting by Marcilio Soares

Think of it.  Jesus–the most significant Person in all of history–prayed for you and me.

If I knew that tomorrow would be a day of horrific pain and then death, I’d be praying for strength and courage. But Jesus’ prayer centered on his disciples and then he said:

That’s us—the people down through the centuries who’ve heard the story of Jesus and believe in him as the Son of God.

Are you curious about what Jesus considered important? I’m thinking we should be.

What follows is a selection of those requests, the holy whispers Jesus presented to our Heavenly Father that night:

First, “keep them in your name” (John 17:11).

This is a prayer of protection, that we’d be preserved in the name of God, through his attributes at work for our benefit: his compassion to care for us, power to sustain, goodness to bless, wisdom to guide, and more.

Not that we won’t experience difficulty, but Jesus prayed we won’t be overcome by it.

Second, “possess the full measure of my joy within” (v. 13).

This is not the joy we experience in human relationships or happy events. This is the joy we experience in Christ alone, based on who he is and what he’s done as our Savior, Shepherd, Immanuel (God with us), and Light of life—to name a few of his titles.

These glorious realities can cause joy to well up in our hearts, even while troubles seethe around us. This is what Jesus desires for us.

 Third, “protect them from the evil one” (v. 15).

Satan wants to take us out. He tirelessly works to increase our desire for harmful things. He’ll tell us it’s no big deal, offer excuses for the behavior, and minimize our ability to think through the consequences of sinful choices. 

BUT! Jesus has prayed for our protection. We can fight against temptation with God’s Word, just as Jesus did, as well as exercise his power to fight.  We also have the assurance God won’t allow any temptation that we can’t withstand [1].

Fourth, “sanctify them by the truth” (v. 17).

Jesus would have us consecrated to God, growing into his likeness through obedience, and becoming more intimate with him.

How? We begin by spending time in His Word. That’s how we come to know him.

To truly know him is to love him, and to truly love him is to want to please him by obedience.

Many believe following God’s ways will lead to dissatisfaction in life, but in reality obedience leads to peace, joy, and contentment [2].

These are the qualities of life Jesus desires for us.   

Fifth, “be with me and see my glory” (v. 24).

I’m reminded of Christmastime, when empty-nesters such as Steve and me look forward to the full gathering of family, to share in the glories of the season together.

Similarly, Jesus looks forward to the day when we’ll all be together with our Heavenly Father, to share in his celestial glory!

Study further this prayer of Jesus and discover more concerns that he addressed, and then understand: this was not a single prayer offered once for all time.

He is still praying for us continually [3]—holy whispers of love and compassion, with a desire that we experience his best.

Soak in the wonder of such a reality.

P.S. Another quality Jesus prayed we’d experience? Unity. See Jesus’ Prayer for You for a meditation on that topic.

[1] Luke 4:1-13; 2 Peter 1:3 NASB; 1 Corinthians 10:13

[2] Job 22:21; John 15:10-11; Psalm 119:35

[3] Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1

Art & photo credits: http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (Marcilio Soares); http://www.commons wikimedia.org; http://www.dailyversers.net (2); http://www.canva.com; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (George Hodan).

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Hope, Jesus, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 40 Comments »

Standing Strong

July 27, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Gunfire blasts and booming cannons surrounded Union Army Private, William Carney. His regiment’s objective: to capture Fort Wagner near Charleston, South, Carolina.

The 54th Regiment of Massachusetts at the Civil War battle for Ft. Wagner, July 18, 1863.

Jerking movement nearby caught Carney’s eye. The color guard had been shot. As the dying man fell, the U.S. flag he carried began billowing toward the ground. Carney scrambled to rescue the flag from desecration and took a bullet himself.

Carney continued to crawl toward the fort, holding the flag high and calling encouragement for his fellow soldiers to follow. He was hit at least three more times, but made it to the walls of Fort Wagner, planting the flag into the sandy soil and holding it upright “until his near-lifeless body was rescued” [1] .

Even then Carney refused to let go of the flag until he was returned to his regiment’s camp. His heroism that day inspired a vital victory for the Union Army.

W. H. Carney with the flag he carried that day.

Years later Carney explained his motivation for joining the Union cause: “I had a strong inclination to prepare myself for the ministry; but when the country called for all persons, I could best serve my God by serving my country and my oppressed brothers. The sequel is short – I enlisted for the war” [2] .

Yes, Carney had been an oppressed brother himself, born into slavery in 1840. But during the 1850s he arrived in Massachusetts, either through the Underground Railroad, or perhaps his father—already a freed slave—was able to purchase his son.

Either way, Carney began to enjoy the freedoms that Blacks of the South were denied—freedoms like traveling, assembling, learning to read and write, and receiving pay for work. He passionately desired other slaves to experience the same.

That God-given passion for his fellow man surely inspired Carney that day at Fort Wagner, to give the fight his all no matter what duty fell to him. And for his tenacity and courage, William Carney received the Medal of Honor in 1900. He was the first Black soldier to do so.

Someone might ask, how was William Carney able to stay so strong?

Undoubtedly his firm stance was the result of:

  • Strong attention toward his God
  • Strong determination to live by God’s ways
  • Strong faith in God’s promises, confident that whether he lived or died, all would be well

We too can stand firm in what we face by applying the same.

Strong attention toward God includes not allowing our emotions to control us. For example, sorrow, fear, and exhaustion will insist we can’t go on, but God tells us he gives strength to the weary and increases power for the weak [3] .

Strong attention toward God includes being in relationship with him, through prayer, Bible reading, worship, and more. We can’t expect to sense his peace and strengthening presence if we never spend time with him.

Security is not the absence of danger

but the presence of God

no matter what the danger.

Unknown

Strong determination to follow God means choosing to live by his truth. Scripture is full of examples of men and women shaped by their faith and obedience in God, becoming as strong as steel: Huldah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Mary (Mother of Jesus), Peter, and Paul are among them.

We see such Bible heroes as extraordinary, but I’m sure they’d tell us they were just ordinary people who trusted in their extra-ordinary God.

Strong faith in God’s promises means we can hold on to hope with confidence and courage.

I wonder if scripture-promises echoed in William Carney’s mind as he held that flag high and emboldened his comrades–promises such as these?

 

  • “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11).
  • “With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall. It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect” (2 Samuel 22:30, 33).
  • “If I live, it will be for Christ, and if I die, I will gain even more.” (Philippians 1:21 CEV).

You and I may never fight in battle, but these same promises can echo in our minds as we confront such enemies of our souls as discouragement, anxiety, stress, guilt, and temptation.

Like William Carney WE can stand steadfast and strong [4] .

What helps you to stand strong? Please share your experience in the comment section!

[1]https://www.army.mil/article/181896/meet_sgt_william_carney_the_first_african_american_medal_of_honor_recipient

[2] https://www.nps.gov/articles/william-h-carney.htm

[3] Isaiah 40:29

[4] 1 Corinthians 15:58

Photo credits: http://www.picryl.com (2); http://www.nypl.getarchive.net; http://www.dir.es/album/hiking-in-wales-2019; http://www.wallpaperflare.com.

Posted in Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Strength, Heroes of the Faith, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 37 Comments »

With Every Sunrise

July 20, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

No matter how many sunrises a person might witness over a lifetime, who could tire of the majestic spectacle, with its mesmerizing shades of lavender, scarlet, apricot, and golden yellow—all aglow with the backlight of the sun, and each dawn different than all those before.

I’m filled with wonder as the morning sky begins to fill with light and “the heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship”[1].  He is the supreme Artist.

My favorite sunrise-displays are those when clouds are positioned just right to create magnificent gleaming rays reaching into infinity.

Perhaps God inspired the prophet Malachi with just such a sunrise as he wrote: “The Sun of Righteousness [our Messiah] will rise with healing in his wings for you people who fear my name”[2].

Wings refers to sunbeams, bringing to mind the unending healing of God’s forgiveness, available to all who put their trust in Jesus. He provides for us the dawning of a new day as we choose to move out of darkness and into his marvelous light [3].

Sunrise is also God’s daily reminder that his faithfulness is great and his mercies begin anew each morning . Perhaps he wanted us to understand that his faithfulness to us is as certain and consistent as the sunrise, yet full of surprise and creativity as well [4].

The dawn brings hope, reminding us that:

  • Just as the sun is bigger than any planet in our solar system, so God is bigger than any challenge we might face.
  • Just as the sun always shines whether in full view or behind clouds, God is always with us whether we sense his presence or not.
  • Just as the sun never fails to rise, so the Son will never fail to rise, bringing the light of his salvation, truth, and wisdom.
  • Yesterday’s disappointments and failures are past; a new day with fresh blessings and possibilities has dawned [5]!

In addition to hope, fresh joy comes with the morning light.

But to see the dawn and experience its pleasure, a person must look at the sunrise. If we’re going to see joy and experience its pleasure, we must look to the Son, the source of joy [6]. Then, each day becomes an opportunity to live in wild, blissful amazement of God.

When you do witness a glorious sunrise doesn’t it make you smile—if not on your face, then in your spirit? We can augment that joy with gratitude—not just for a breath-taking dawn, of course, but for all the beautiful, remarkable, and pleasurable things God generously bestows.

Author Roman Payne wrote in celebration of the sun: “O, Sunlight! The most precious gold to be found on Earth!” And surely we’d agree, a golden sunrise especially proves his point.

But just such a sunrise might better serve as a reminder to celebrate the Son:

O SonLight, more precious than all the gold to be found on Earth!

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I praise you, God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, for your light that is brighter than the brilliance of a sunrise! You are the source of all blessing, the brightness of our days, and our guiding Light to show the way. Without you, life is like twilight with dark night ahead. But with you, it is the dawn of morning with the light and warmth of a full day ahead.

(Psalm 84:11 PTP; James 1:19; 2 Samuel 22:29; Psalm 119:105;

last sentence based on Philip Schaff quote.)

[1] Psalm 19:1 NLT

[2] Malachi 4:2a

[3] 1 Peter 2:9

[4] Lamentations 3:23, and an idea inspired by Eugene Peterson, Run with the Horses, pp. 115-116.

[5] Philippians 4:13; Psalm 23:4; 27:1; 119:105, 130; Ecclesiastes 2:13

[6] John 15:11

Photo credits: http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.peakpix.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.rawpixel.com.; http://www.peakpix.com.

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Praise, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 49 Comments »

Seven Surprising Things to Celebrate

July 13, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

My quote-collecting hobby started with a gift over thirty years ago–a charming floral journal.

Now there are three volumes. Two binders include typed notes and quotes from many books I’ve read.*

The newest journal for quotations is an elegant shade of lavender, which, it turns out, is the perfect color for a such a collection, based on a Rudyard Kipling quote I came across recently:

He wrapped himself in quotations—

as a beggar would enfold himself in

the Purple of Emperors.

Rudyard Kipling

It’s true, many quotes do provide rich enhancement for our lives, succinctly bestowing wisdom, challenge, encouragement, or humor. Great impact can occur in a matter of moments.

For this post I’ve culled just such quotations, with the potential of changing our perspective on troublesome circumstances—quotes that might inspire us to even celebrate them.

For example:

Hurray for Difficulty! 

Because: “Great things never come from comfort zones”—Ben Francia.

And . . . “The secret is Christ in me; not me in a different set of circumstances”—Elisabeth Elliot.

Hurray for Discouragement! 

Because: “If you knock with a heavy heart, you shall yet sing with joy of spirit. Never be discouraged”—Charles Spurgeon.

And . . .  “Do not get discouraged—it may be the last key on the ring that opens the door”—Stanisfer.

Hurray for Failure!

Because: “Failure is the fertilizer that feeds success. It stinks and is unpleasant to handle but without it, success is unattainable”—Unknown.

And . . .  “When something goes wrong in your life, just yell, “Plot twist!” and move on—Author Molly Weis.

Hurray for Hiddenness!

Because: “When we know we are seen by the one who created praise itself and he is the one who gives us a word of affirmation—when he is the one who notices us pouring ourselves out in secret—we realize that this is what we craved all along . . . Being elbow deep in soapsuds and breakfast sausage grease looks and feels different when we know God sees us there”—Sara Hagerty (Unseen;51).

And . . . “How can I feel depressed by the smallness of my life when the most important Man in the universe died for me? . . . When the most important Man in the universe has always been thinking of me?”—Anne Graham Lotz (The Vision of His Glory; 13, 14).

Hurray for Inadequacy!

Because: “God is attracted to weakness. He can’t resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need him”—Jim Cymbala (quoted by Beth Moore in Praying God’s Word; 260).

And . . .  “Never mind your weakness; it is the very thing that qualifies you. Never mind your feelings of inadequacy; it is God’s work, not yours. Simply make yourself available, and let go of any need to impress others, or prove yourself worthy, or achieve ‘success.’ What matters is that God has chosen you, and that God claims you as his own”—Br. David Vryhof.

Hurray for Waiting!

Because: “If God makes you wait longer than you could wish, it is only to make the blessing doubly precious”—Andrew Murray.

And . . . “What we are waiting for is not as important as what happens to us while we are waiting. Trust the process”—Mandy Hale (quoted by Jean Wise in Christmas Crossroads; 53).

Do you see a theme here?

“The eternal substance of a thing never lies in the thing itself [like difficulty, discouragement, or failure]. It’s in the quality of our reaction to it.

“If in hard times we are kept from resentment held in silence, and filled with inner sweetness, that is what matters. The event that distressed us will pass from memory as a wind that passes and is gone. But what we were while the wind was blowing has eternal consequences”—A. Wetherell Johnson.

I pray the wisdom and encouragement shared in these quotes will give uplift to the quality of our reactions.

*A large collection has limited value without an index, so I’ve created those too—prompted by a touch of OCD, no doubt.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pixabay.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pickpic.com; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com.

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Wisdom | Tagged , , , , | 58 Comments »

In Awe of God’s Magnificence

July 6, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

During Covid I began journaling through some of the old hymns. Such an exercise allows me to slow my thinking and discover more meaning in the lyrics than when I quickly sing or read through them.

Today I invite you to contemplate with me the hymn, “O Worship the King” by Robert Grant (1779-1838), that sublimely ascribes to God the glory, honor, and veneration he deserves. To include all five verses would make too long a post, so I chose just the first:  

I praise You, O God, King of the universe, who has all authority and power over everything—every detail of creation down to the last sparrow, every detail of history including deposing kings and raising up others, every detail of the lives of those who delight in You [1].

I praise You, O God, “all glorious above,” ruling from Your lofty and exalted throne, a throne ablaze with flames. Surrounding Your throne glimmers a rainbow, and Your train fills the temple, indicating Your majesty and splendor, riches and power [2].

Above You seraphs cry “Holy, holy, holy,” and around You angels and saints worship You. Lamps blaze, lightning flashes, and thunder rumbles [3]!

Just these few details fill my heart with wonder at Your magnificence.

How is it that You, an infinite God who is glorious beyond words, should love humanity? You even love me! With the hymnwriter I “gratefully sing [of Your] wonderful love”—a love expressed in countless ways.

You’ve:

  • Provided the way to enter Your kingdom
  • Forgiven my sins
  • Filled me with Your Holy Spirit
  • Sustained me through difficult times
  • Attended to all my needs
  • Blessed me far beyond what I deserve
  • Planned out my days with purpose
  • Calmed me with Your presence, guided me with Your Word, and given me hope through Your promises [4]

For all these reasons and more, I praise You for Your unfailing love.

I praise You, O God, for being “our Shield and Defender,” for Your willingness—no, Your eagerness—to protect us from the enemies of our souls, the mischief they want to cause and the lies they want us to believe.

I praise You that “In all dangers You protect us, and either You will be with us or we will be with You, so all will be well [5].” Thank You, Father, for the freedom and peace that comes from resting in such truth.

I worship You, O “Ancient of Days!” You existed before the first day was even created. You are God of the past, present, and future; You have always been omnipresent, omniscient, and eternal.

And because this is true, I don’t need to be troubled by distressing events happening in our world. As our Ancient of Days we can trust You to wisely wield Your power and bring all things to their rightful conclusion, at the right time.

You, O God are “pavilioned in splendor!” I think of the grand cathedrals of Europe with their soaring ceilings, finely-detailed plasterwork and stonework, ornately carved woodwork, magnificent frescoes, and stunning, stained-glass windows.

The Rose Window of Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, almost 42 feet in diameter

Yet these awe-inspiring structures pale in comparison to the splendors of Your heaven. John the Revelator gave us a glimpse of the New Jerusalem to come, with its precious jewels, pure, transparent gold, and its twelve gates, each one made from a gigantic pearl [6]. Again, I am filled with awe, contemplating such glories to come.

You, O God, are “girded [encircled] with praise,” as the twenty-four elders seated around Your throne exclaim:

NASA photograph of Cosmic Cliffs,

at the edge of a new star forming

My heart also overflows with awe in Your glory–Your magnificence–on display in the expressions of Your attributes, Your creation, Your dominion over all things.

May I too offer continual worship for the great things you have done, the great things you are accomplishing now, and the great things yet to come.

May I faithfully express the glory, honor, and praise You deserve!

[1] Matthew 10:29-31; Daniel 2:21; Psalm 37:23

[2] Isaiah 6:1; Daniel 7:9; Revelation 4:3

[3] Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 5:11-12; 7:9-12; 4:5

[4] John 3:16; 1 John 1:9; Ephesians 1:13-14; Isaiah 46:4; Psalm 31:19; Philippians 4:19; Ephesians 2:10; Psalm 23:4; 119:24, 14

[5] Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus p. 177

[6] Revelation 21:18-21

Art & photo credits: http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.pxfuel.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.photocircle.net; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.pixabay.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | 43 Comments »

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