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Potential

This was written by another but I wanted to share it!

“Ponder the potential of an egg. Ideally, under the proper circumstances of fertilization, the egg could become a baby chick. But just as most eggs do not become chicks – their highest fulfillment – so we, a humans, do not usually attain our highest dreams and ideals. Yet, all is not lost, for an egg that does not become a chick is still very useful!

Before this egg is useful, however, it must first go through various treatments. Initially, and egg just be candled and graded. In the candling process, a tube light shines through it to detect imperfections or cracks. It must have a healthy life cell. Just so, the searching light of the Holy Spirit must penetrate our inner life cell to be sure there is a new life cell in Christ and then to expose our imperfections.

Then this egg must be graded for size; some are small, others- medium, large and even jumbo. These are actually equally valuable in that there are occasions when a small egg is more desirable than a larger one and vice versa. Just so, each of us has varying capacities and gifts, but we are equally important and needful in the plans of God.

After the candling and grading process, the egg is boxed and then distributed warehouses and stores. The eggs have no say-so, but must go where they are sent. We, too, have assignments in life. Perhaps at times we feel all “boxed in”because of our circumstance in life. We may even be tempted to break out of the box – that confinement – but f we are to be useful, we must be patient and trusting.

After all this preliminary treatment, finally the egg is recognized for its importance; it is now taken off the shelf and purchased by a shopper. If only the egg new what lies ahead, it would undoubtably prefer staying right there on the shelf in the grocer’s cooler. Without any warning the egg is mercilessly plunged into a pan of cold water. And if that is not ruthless enough, it soon feels the flame beneath the pan. Gradually the water becomes hotter and hotter until it reaches the boiling point. The egg must wonder how it can possibly endure any more treatment – the fact is, some cannot…they crack in the intense heat!

By now, the egg must be asking apprehensively, “What next?” Suddenly it becomes aware of a cracking of its shell. And not only breaking, but then follows peeling – how humiliating! But that is the part of the process for our becoming useful – our outer shell must be broken. The self-protective facade must be cared so that the Christ life can be released from within.

The peeling is more distasteful than the breaking because of the humiliating exposure of our naked selves. How we resent others gazing upon our losses and failures.

“Surely, matters can’t get much worse for me than this!” the egg must be thinking hopefully. But it suddenly feels the sharp cuttings of a knife across its already peeled body. “Perhaps the chef is cutting me into attractive wedges so I might be used to garnish a salad…ah!…useful at last. But no…they are chopping me into small pieces.” the egg moans. And the eggs is mashed into nothingness.

Until we are aware of our nothingness – without God – we are not useful to God. So He supervises our candling, grading, distribution and then allows the fiery trials, the braking, peeling, cutting and mashing that we might become useful.

Now that the egg has been mashed into nothingness, the chef mixes mayonnaise, pickle, mustard, a little salt and pepper with it, and it becomes a delicious egg salad with which they prepare egg salad sandwiches to feed others! So as the processed oil of joy of the Holy Spirit blends our mashed nothingness with the life of Christ within, we become food and nourishment for hungry souls.”

 

By Ruth Shank Shira in her book, God Recycles Broken Dreams, 2013 ANM Publishers,Charlottesville, VA.22905

Scriptural references: Psalm 139:23-24; Romans 12:4-5; Micah 2:5; Psalm 37:23; Psalm 37:34; Isaiah 43:1-3; Psalm 34:18; I Peter 2:24;  John 3:30; Isaiah 61:1-3.

 

 

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I'm vintage but, I'm back!

I was unaware that I was “vintage”…on the verge, yes. But already there? Good grief!

On a recent afternoon I was editing an article I wrote when my computer shut down. I booted it up again. It shut down. I booted it up and, again, it shut down. It quit. As in “done”. Nada. Nothing. Gone. Over.

So frustrating. I called Apple. They were very patient as we tried a multitude of fixes. Nothing.

The tech asked me when I bought the computer. I told him I thought about 2007. He then surprised me by saying Apple considers such an old computer as “vintage” – then went on to say they no longer make parts or service such “vintage” machines!!

My only recourse was to buy a new computer…talk about “planned obsolescence”! Unfortunately I have been an Apple user since the early 1990s. I did my college work on the early Mac – the all in one unit. (It took me a long time to finish my BA degree! But that’s a story for another day!) My oldest daughter took it to college and finished her college work on it! Now, that’s vintage!

I even remember the first PC that used the DOS system! That wasn’t so long ago – I didn’t think. But I guess that makes me more than vintage!!

So to the Apple store I went. And after much discussion and going from store to store, I had to buy a new computer. All the while my work was piling up and I was getting frantic. Finally, I found a local place that sold and serviced Apple computers. I,  sadly, could no longer afford to replace the one I had. I called my sister, Anne, who uses Apple products, and asked which one she liked and why.

I settled on a laptop but now have to get a larger monitor so that I am not hunched over… I already have the wireless keyboard and mouse. (They’ll be vintage soon.)

I am not a fan of technology…I use it because I have to. Nothing replaces hand-written notes or phone calls or face-to-face interaction.

Anyway, I am back on-line!

I am so glad God does not determine we are “too old”, vintage”, to rehabilitate, redeem and use for His glory! As a matter of fact, He seems to like “vintage” – think of Abraham, Moses, Elisabeth & Zachariah… Age means nothing to God. He looks for willing and obedient hearts.

Now, when I look at that standard I know I lack but I am a “pilgrim in process” – not yet finished. God isn’t finished with me. He won’t be until He calls me Home! That’s hope!

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Above Our Means

I am writing at my desk as my oldest daughter is in the kitchen homeschooling 2 very reluctant children that would rather be playing outside. Their negative persistence is remarkable as is her positive patience! It illustrates for me this truth:

The world is in turmoil. (Just like my grandchildren!) That is not really new. The speed with which the world is changing is new – and can be frightening.

The US President just reversed the policy of not negotiating with terrorists, releasing 5 dangerous men; a US Marine languishes in jail in Mexico; little girls are deciding they want to be boys and parents post the story on Facebook; veterans are dying as they await medical treatment; an ambassador is brutalized and killed in the line of duty; we find it hard to believe what the government and the President say; energy and food costs are climbing, as is the jobless rate… Rather a grim picture.

But we have treasures. We have promises.

The Apostle Paul wrote in II Corinthians 1:20, “All the promises of God in him (Jesus) are yes and in him (Jesus) Amen, unto the glory of God by us…”

The Amplified Bible says it this way: “For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes (answer) in Him (Christ). For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him – that is His Person and by His agency – to the glory of God.”

Ponder that a bit. All the promises – as many as there are. How many is that?

All the promises are answered affirmatively in Jesus.

We have the opportunity to put those promises into operation in our lives to the glory of God and His purposes. As we cooperate with Christ and God’s promises a whole treasure trove opens to us!

Think of the many promises of grace, peace, mercy, rest, strength, encouragement, forgiveness, protection, supply…you name it. It is all found in Jesus affirmatively. Not for our pleasure or ease but for the glory of God – the whole reason we are here on earth.

As we claim and operate in those promises we enter into a realm of God’s glory. A purpose far greater than anything known here on earth. We have the opportunity to walk in the heavenlies with saints and angels even while living out our lives here on earth in the midst of the turmoil. (Just like my daughter.) Talk about living above your means!

We don’t have in ourselves the means for peace, joy, grace, forgiveness, rest, strength, mercy, protection, encouragement, protection, supply…we’re bankrupt. He isn’t. He gives all we need for free!

My daughter is able to teach with patience and good humor because she goes to the treasury of God’s promises in the Person of Jesus and claims liberally all that He offers for her for practical everyday living.

It’s all available for you, too.

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Singles and God

I was invited to speak at Inspire’s first ever single’s conference in Houston Friday night. I have seen my friend Anita Carmen’s vision grow from an idea to a reality in the last 11 years. I was one of their first speakers along with Beth Moore 11 years ago! I am so proud of what Anita is doing for God.

I got to meet Jonathan McReynolds, recording artist, who debuted at #3 on Billboard and Essence Magazine Top Gospel Artists to Watch in 2014! Such a sweet, humble guy. Loved him. <a
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And I met Michelle Bumgarner the “Mazda on the Road to Indy” race car driver. What a focused young woman who loves God!

I didn’t actually meet Kylie Bisutti, Winner of Victoria Secret’s Runway Angel competition and Author of “I’m No Angel: From Victoria Secret Model to Role Model” but we shared the podium. Such a sweet lady – sold out to Christ. In obedience to God she gave up her career. (I have reached and age and shape where I do not want to be in a room with a Victoria Secret model!!)

I was definitely the old lady in the bunch but I was able to give them what God has taught me. Experience counts!

I promised those there that I’d post what kind of husband the Lord is. I know I’ve posted it before…but it is worth repeating!

Psalm 104:34 “ My mediation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the Lord.”

In the Bible I read about what kind of spouse He is:
Powerful
Very handsome
He thinks all I do and say is fascinating
He tells me I am beautiful/handsome – perfect really
Loves me totally
Forgives me freely
Enjoys my company
Delights in my presence
Provides for my every need – even before I know I need it
Understands me perfectly
Listens to my every whisper
Never tires of me
Gives me beautiful clothes and jewelry
Is building me a mansion
He’s never grumpy
Exceedingly patient
His kindness is loving
He keeps everything in order
He’s never late but always on time
Never distracted when I am talking – pays close and full attention
Greets me at the door when I come home
Invites me into his arms
Holds my hand
Protects me
Carries my burdens
Smells good
Enjoys my music
Comforts me when I am sad
Soothes me when I am weary
Never lets me down
Never abandons me
Never rejects me
Never betrays me
Never belittles me
Wants me to be all I can be
He’s perfect in every way
He’s the best, safest, securest. And He always makes sure I get the best when I leave the choice to Him.

“For who in heaven can be compared unto the Lord? Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened unto the Lord?” Ps 89:6

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Shame, Guilt, Regret

Why did Peter deny His Friend?

Psalm 1 says, “How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers.”

When Jesus was arrested in the garden Peter did not flee the scene as had the others. He tried to defend Jesus by lashing out at Malchus, the high priest’s servant, cutting off his ear. As Jesus was led away to see Caiaphas, the high priest, Peter followed. (John chapter 18) Was it love and devotion?

My friend, James Robison told me once, “Often when our emotions get involved discernment leaves”. Perhaps this is what happened to Peter. He was walking in the crowd of the wicked. This crowd was easily swayed by mob mentality and emotion. We sometimes have a good intention; our motive is right, but we do it the wrong way and get ourselves in trouble.

At this point Peter could have left the crowd. He could have changed direction. How often our whole life changes on a simple choice. It becomes what I call a “hinge decision”.

But Peter not only walked with them – he stood with them and warmed himself by their fire. He was perhaps more concerned for his own comfort than what was happening to his dear friend. Luke (chapter 22) tells us that Peter sat with them to warm himself. It was there that the servant girl saw him in the fire light and recognized him. She told those around the fire that Peter had been with Jesus.

Peter denied he even knew Jesus. He denied he was “one of them” (disciples). An hour went by – time enough to change his course. A man said that Peter was a Galilean – he must have been with Jesus. Peter vehemently denied it. Before he even finished the denial, the cock crowed. At that point Jesus looked at Peter and Peter remembered that Jesus had predicted Peter would deny him.

At that point Peter left those by the fire. It was too late – the denials had taken place. Peter went out and wept bitterly. I cannot begin to imagine the sorrow and the regret. The “if only…”

I am not sure this compares well, but I have in mind the deep grief expressed and exhibited by the “Blade Runner”, Oscar Pistorius, this week in a South African court. Gut wrenching sobs. Sorrow. Regret. Shame. His life is forever changed.

Peter knew what he had done. Peter, at that point didn’t realize he would ever see Jesus alive again. Seemingly sentenced to a life of total grief and shame and regret.

God had another plan for Peter’s life!

But before we go there…

Let’s take note of where Peter positioned himself. He walked, stood and sat where he had no business being. Where are you walking today? Close to the edge? Flirting with sin? Where are you standing? Are your friends a good, godly influence? Or do they pull you down to their level so much so that you are comfortable with them. Is your spirit trying to get your attention to warn you. Listen. Take heed.

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He Knew What Was Coming

Jesus rode into Jerusalem amid adoring throngs hailing Him as “one who comes in the name of the Lord; blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David…” He was riding a crest of popularity. He went to the temple and looked around. What did He see? People busy, weary of their busyness. People trying hard to obey all the religious laws. People wanting to please God. People trying to stay out of the religious leaders’ watchful, critical eyes. Women being put upon. The sick, lame, blind being pushed out of the way. The poor were ignored.

He knew what was coming.

He saw a fig tree that was not bearing fruit and cursed it so that it withered. A fig tree puts out leaves and fruit at the same time. To find one with leaves only was unusual. Perhaps an illustration of so many – those that have the leaves of religiosity but no fruit. Those that have all the trappings but no life. He cursed the fig tree. It reminds me of the story Jesus told of those on the Judgment Day who say, “Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons and in Your name perform many miracles?” But He will say, “I never knew you, depart from me.”

He knew what was coming.

He challenged the temple practices of the money changers. He violently turned their tables over and cast them out – not even allowing people to carry products through the temple. He called for he temple to be a house of prayer. This angered the religious leaders so much that they began to seek a way to kill Him. They challenged Him with trick questions which He met by confronting them with themselves. Angering them further.

He knew what was coming.

I wonder what the disciples were thinking the next day. They probably were saying to themselves, “It’s about time! He is going to set up His kingdom and we’ll have a place in it! I wonder who will sit at His right hand. Oh, boy, we can’t wait to prove to all the naysayers that He was right all along. This is going to be great!”

They did not know what was coming.

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God Hope

Last week I had the joy of speaking with my daughter, Windsor. We were the guest speakers for The Women’s Resource Center in Mobile, a pro-life organization that is doing a great job being a beacon of hope, love and truth right across the street from Planned Parenthood.

For years I have spoken for such groups because of Windsor’s and my story – she chose life 3 times. Two were unplanned pregnancies when she was in her teens – her baby girl she released for adoption and her baby boy she chose to parent. Her third child was born with significant challenges five years ago.

As you can imagine those were not easy times in our family but God has been so faithful to us. As I watched her stand before 1000 strangers to tell her story I thought back on our journey…the struggle, the anger, the tears… And she stood there looking lovely, poised, confident…all she wasn’t those many years ago.with Windsor in Mobile

We have just started to speak together – it is fun to have her along plus she tells the story from the birth mother’s perspective. We all applaud adoption and are so happy for the adoptive couple. But so often people forget that in the shadows stands a young mother with a broken heart. A woman who made a very courageous decision. Like Windsor did.

Windsor was articulate as she told of the ups and downs in her life with her cute self-deprecating humor. I am so proud of who she has become and the little family she has made. When all of it was happening I could never have imagine all God would do in both of our lives – the healing that has taken place!

It was a rough road. But we both know God in a way we wouldn’t have any other way. We grew in grace and understanding of each others and even strangers. God promises to make the crooked straight and the rough places smooth…He has kept those promises.

We’d like to encourage you – if you are in the thick of a difficulty – hold on, don’t give up. God is at work even if you cannot see Him. He has a plan and it is a good one. He will reveal it in time. Claim His promises. He always does what He promises. We get disappointed because He doesn’t meet our expectations. Our expectations fit our thinking not His. We have to align ourselves with His Word.

It isn’t easy but it is real. There is hope. A good hope – which is not wishful thinking. It is a hope based on the unchanging character of God.

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Glenn Beck

Now that the interview has aired on The Blaze TV I feel I can write about my time with Glenn Beck and his family.

Some years ago I heard that Glenn had invited 30 evangelical leaders to meet with him – 29 came. He had been shunned by one. I decided I would reach out to Glenn and ask him to meet with my father – knowing my father’s grace and love. I emailed Glenn’s program thinking he would never respond. Well, his “chief of staff” contacted me quickly and told me that the Beck’s would love to visit my father. I was able to make arrangements for Glenn and his family to meet with my father. As much as I wanted to be there to introduce the two, my schedule prevented it. But they had a meaningful time together. Daddy enjoyed it as much a Glenn did and felt a real love for Glenn – still does.

We had the opportunity to talk several times by phone as we shared mutual interests. Then when I had the opportunity to invite Glenn and Tania come sit with my family at my father’s birthday this past November I did so and, they readily accepted. I was looking forward to finally meeting him! I was told there was a VIP reception that evening to which my guests were invited. What I didn’t know was that there was a VVIP reception which my father attended to which we were not invited. That was where Mr and Mrs. Donald Trump, Bill Marriott, Sara and Todd Palin, Greta Van Sustern as well as other notables, and my father were. If Glenn felt slighted he didn’t show it, he was more than gracious. And he understands the “circus” that surrounds such an event.

Glenn and Tania sat with my children and me several tables away from my father. They were so engaging, gracious and kind. I was deeply impressed by his humility and tenderness – so much like my father’s own spirit. Many people were crowding around my father, trying to speak with him. I took Glenn and Tania over to greet my father who was happy to see them. Even as I approached his table the security gave me a “look”. I just looked back – this was my father! We sat together as the video, My Hope, aired. We were all moved as my Father gave the Gospel as clearly, as simply, as gently, and tenderly as one could. It was precious.

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My children at Daddy's b'day party

My father enjoyed the evening and for days afterwards enjoyed reliving the occasion.

That evening as we sat there watching it all, I turned to Glenn and asked if his children hated the “circus” as much as I did. He said yes they did. When so many claim the time and attention of the one you love, it can be hard – you seem to be the one shut out. Though you are the one that has every right to be there!

Some days later, Glenn emailed me to thank me and asked if I would consider coming to Dallas to do an interview with him about growing up Graham. He has a deep appreciation and genuine love for my father. I was concerned about my father’s health at the time so asked to put it off until a later date.

Well, I went to Dallas at the end of January. It was so much fun and a delight to spend time with Glenn and his family. The interview was done in his home and afterwards he showed me his amazing collection of George Washington artifacts. Even the President’s compass! (Glenn and I share a deep appreciation and admiration for our first President.) It is like a private museum. Glenn was gracious to show them to me personally then he and Tania and I sat down to just visit – ask questions about each other’s views on things of mutual concern. Very comfortable. I am a sucker for genuine, authentic people. Glenn and Tania real. I was impressed with Tania’s wisdom and gentleness. They have quite an enviable partnership.

They invited me to join the family for dinner around the kitchen table. The conversation was interesting and included his children. Afterwards he brought each of us a Bible – King James Version – and we took turns reading around the table from Matthew 16 – the whole chapter. He would stop us after each verse and ask a question and discuss with us what we had read. He was teaching his children in a gentle, dear way. Oh that evangelical homes would do that so well and consistently!

I came away with deep respect and I love him like a brother.

Now, I am aware that there will be those that want question me about Glenn’s being a Mormon. I know he is. I also know God loves Glenn and has changed his life in significant ways which Glenn acknowledges. Glenn’s faith is very real and dear to him. I respect that – we have a mutual respect for each other. I know he has a tender heart and a gentle spirit – we respond to that in each other. God is at work in both of us.

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Bookending the Day!

Psalms 92:1-2 says, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord…to declare Thy lovingkindness in the morning, and Thy faithfulness by night.”

I often think of this verse when I awaken in the morning because I want to do what it says – declare God’s lovingkindness first thing. I have wondered if the Psalmist had it backwards – to remember God’s faithfulness in the morning and His lovingkindness at night – but he didn’t get it backwards. I can do both at both times!

To me night is a time to reflect on His lovingkindness during the day just past. His provision and care for me. His protection through all the activities of my day. And in the morning I remember His faithfulness during the night. Good rest. Safety. Shelter. Warmth – especially this bitterly cold winter!

God cares for His children. I talked with a man this morning who felt God had abandoned him. There was nothing I could say to him to make him feel differently. And since I had a period in my life when I felt abandoned by God, I was sympathetic with his feelings.

The scripture is clear that God does not abandon, forsake, leave, forget His children. Ever. No way!

The awesome Almighty God, Creator of the universe, Redeemer of mankind thinks of me! Now if that doesn’t make you sing of His lovingkindness in the morning I don’t know what will. And this same dynamic God has me engraved on the palm of His hands, protects me with His strong right arm, guides me with His eye, inclines His ear to me, carries me when I am weary. I can sing of His faithfulness all the time.

It’s good to bookend my day with praise. It corrects my focus – off of me and onto Him. It enlarges my vision to see the world in need of Him. It tenderizes my heart for others. It humbles me to recount His many blessings in my life. And yes, sometimes blessings do “come through raindrops”, but even those He uses to strengthen me.

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Reverse Direction

This morning I helped deliver Meals on Wheels with other members of my church – we take the month of January for delivery. I was paired with a terrific lady and it has been fun to get to know each other during these weeks. Since I have a station wagon, I drove while she navigated then both of us would get out to deliver the meals at the various homes or apartments.

We went to an area of town my Mother used to call, “the gentle side of town”. These folks appear to have been worn down by life, tired. They are grateful for what we bring. To be honest, today, it didn’t look very appetizing: sort of an orange colored piece of meat with a side of gray-green butter beans, a small carton of milk and a piece of bread – maybe a fruit though I didn’t see it.

Since the forecast is for snow we took an extra meal – something canned and prepackaged. Like I said, not very appetizing.

It takes a lot of work to get those meals out the door to each home. The ladies in the kitchen get up early each day to cook and have the meals hot for us when we arrive at 10:45. It takes organization to know who gets what taking into consideration dietary needs. It also takes patience to figure out the routes for each group. And each week there are some whose meals have to be held for whatever reason but we need to know which ones. Then we have to have the addresses…it is quite a job…they do it day after day, week after week, month after month.

But anyway, today we had a new person on the route. My partner grew up in town so I relied on her to tell me where to go…she relied on her memory of who this person was and where he lived. A couple of times that did not work so well and I had to back up or turn around. She apologized. I told her, “That’s why I have a reverse gear.”

When we went on our way, I thought about that. God has given us a “reverse gear” in life. (This is not a theological treatise!) When we are going in the wrong direction what do we do? Assess the situation and recognize we are in the wrong place. We are not where we intended or want to be. We have to stop. Then we have to turn around. Often that means putting it into reverse.

There is nothing wrong with that. As a matter of fact, there is a lot right with that! We all make mistakes and need to turn around. To pretend that we don’t will mean we get into a bigger mess farther from where God wants us to be. Or to continue down the road thinking we can correct it later…Or think we can figure it out on our own…It will be more painful and harder to make the correction. Not impossible – nothing is impossible with God – but harder and more painful.

What if the Israelites had recognized their error sooner and changed direction…they wouldn’t have had to wander in the desert for 40 years!!

Ok. We assess where we are, recognize we are wrong and decide to change direction. We stop. What’s next?

Look for signposts to tell us where we are and where we want to go. Ask for directions. Get help. Then move forward in the right direction and continue! In time you will arrive at your intended destination.

Don’t waste time beating yourself up for making a mistake! We all do. God allows us to begin again! He restores us and sets us on the right path – no matter how far off track we go!