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Counting Blessings

Counting Blessings

As we approach the holiday called “Thanksgiving,” it seemed appropriate to share some thoughts on thankfulness.  I considered pulling together an extensive list of things I consider reasons for which to give thanks to God.

I’m confident I could have compiled a lengthy list, and even included a few intriguing additions.  Yet it would have been my list.  And even if many of the things mentioned would have been fairly universal, it still wouldn’t have been your list. 

So here’s the tack I’m taking instead.  I’m encouraging all of us to make our own lists.  I will make mine; you make yours.

Nor is this simply a fun and entertaining exercise.  Rather, I suggest that it might be a crucial one!

The last several years have been tough for everyone.  We’ve all had our challenges, our frustrations, our setbacks and our losses.  Stress has struck us all; anxiety become far too common; emotional and mental duress too prevalent.  We’ve all been impacted in multiple ways, and many seemingly more negative than positive.  We bear the scars of painful wounds. 

Consequently, the temptation is to dwell on the downers.  But dwelling on downers isn’t healthy.  In fact, it can become downright depressing.

If you recognize that this is the land where you’ve been living lately, then making a list of your blessings becomes more of a necessity than a meaningless exercise.  If this applies to you, I encourage you to seriously consider tackling this task.

Here are some suggestions that might be helpful:

1. Dedicate a set amount of time for compiling your list.  Give yourself as many minutes as possible!

2. Retreat to a comfortable place.  Go there when you expect to have quiet time for serious thought.

3. Physically record your blessing list.  Whether it’s pen on paper or fingers on keyboard doesn’t matter.  What does is that you have a reference point when finished.  (Of course, technically you would never finish the list of God’s blessings, but you did set a timeframe for this assignment.)

4. Begin with the significant blessings!  List as many as you can.  (Don’t neglect your spiritual ones, which are the most significant blessings of all.  And abundant too!)

5. If you can’t think of any more “big” blessings, then go back to the beginning of the list and start adding the “littler” blessings that are included in the big ones.

6. If you actually manage to complete this task in your allotted time, continue by summarizing some of the challenges in your life.  Then list the blessings that are wrapped up in those unpleasant packages.  (Trust me, there are some.  Or rather, trust God!)

Some might feel the best approach is to begin with suggestion 6 instead of suggestion 4.  If you think this would be more advantageous to you, then by all means start with 6!

Or take a hybrid approach: list 3 significant “good” blessings, then 1 “not-so-good” situation, along with the blessings resulting from it.  Do it however you deem best, but do it nonetheless.

I haven’t made my list yet, but I will offer a few speculations on the results of literally counting our blessings.

I suspect our lists will end up being significantly longer than we ever would have dreamed.  And undoubtedly our time ran out before completing them!

I also suspect that we will naturally gravitate to an attitude of supreme gratitude when we consider how very blessed we are.

So go ahead.  Count your blessings!  And after doing so, please give appropriate thanks to our good God who provided you with too many blessings to count. 

Finally, please share your observations from your count in the comments section below.  I’ll be glad to hear from you.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ephesians 1:3, 7-8
3  Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. … 7  In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8  that he lavished on us.

Psalm 136:1-3, 26
1  Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.
2  Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever.
3  Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever.
26  Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever. 

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Totally Out of Control

Totally Out of Control

No, I’m not referring to morality, the crime rate, politics or the party-animals down the street.  (Though those things may indeed be out of control.)  Rather, it’s my fantasy football teams!

I have two.  I began one league many years ago for family members; I began another one a few years ago for fun within our congregation.  I, of course, have a team in both leagues.

Most readers probably have a basic understanding of how fantasy football works.  But for those who don’t, here’s a brief summary: A fantasy football league consists of an even number of teams, each team directed by a different “manager” or “owner.”  There are set positions on the rosters, a certain number of “starters” for each week, and an additional number of players on your “bench.”  The rosters are primarily made up of offensive players (quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, etc.), though team defenses are also usually included.  The reason it’s called fantasy football is that the players on a fantasy team actually play on many different NFL teams.

At the beginning of the season, each manager sets his or her draft board, and tries to select the most top-notch players possible.  Then each week, he or she must manage their team, deciding whether to pick up available players on waivers or as a free agent, as well as setting their starting lineup.  The hosting platform for the league (we use Yahoo) has “experts” who will project expected point totals for each player to help the managers make the best decisions on whom to play. 

Perhaps this sounds complicated, but it’s all quite easy actually.  Except for making the right decisions!

If there is any simple exercise that demonstrates uncertainty better, I don’t know what it is.  The “experts” project the expected points each player will earn that week, so in theory setting one’s starting lineup should be easy.  Just plug in the highest projected scorers on your team each week and you are good to go! 

Except that the “experts” are only making educated guesses.  In reality, they have no idea.  Each week some players expected to earn many points actually score only a few or even none, while some players expected to do little rack up huge point days.  Some in your starting roster tank, while some on your bench explode. 

Furthermore, it can happen that some players unexpectedly don’t play in that week’s game, getting pulled from the lineup at the last minute; others get hurt early on and are knocked out of the contest.  And sometimes most of the players on your team have lousy games, which usually results in an “L” for your team.

All of which slots fantasy football into the designation of “totally out of control!”  Not the experts, not the “owners,” not even the actual players, not anyone truly knows what will happen.

There is certainly some expertise involved in doing well in fantasy football.  But in reality, the winners each week and the champions of the league won by sheer good fortune.  They lucked out in their draft, in their players’ good health, in some of their decisions, and through opponents’ misfortune.

Which makes fantasy football a sort of microcosm of life.  Obviously, life decisions are far more important than fantasy football ones.  But the uncertainty in both is the same!

What field should I study for in college?  Which job should I take?  Where should we live?  Where should we send the kids to school?  Which of my many responsibilities is the most important at the moment?  How should we deal with this particular challenge?  How do we capitalize on this unexpected blessing?

Uncertainty is everywhere; unexpected turn of events are frequent. 

For example, two years ago to the day as I write this I had surgery to remove my left kidney, which the doctors expected was cancerous.  (It wasn’t, thanks be to God!)  Regardless, I had no idea that was coming.  In fact, I had never been hospitalized before. 

A year and a half ago the country (the world!) was largely shut down due to a pandemic.  No one saw that looming. 

Shortly after COVID hit, I began this blog.  I never anticipated that twist. 

In just the past six months, my wife has had multiple eye surgeries due to a detached retinue.  That definitely wasn’t on our bucket list of things to do. 

This past week both of my parents were diagnosed with COVID.  That wasn’t expected either.

You have your own drastic personal examples you could list.  It certainly seems that our life, our society, our world is totally out of control.

Well, it IS totally out of OUR control.  But it’s totally IN God’s control.

The Bible tells us, “… In all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Romans 8:28).  Notice the emphasis.  It’s not just in a few things.  Not just in some things.  Not even in most things.  But in ALL things God works for the good of his believers.

That unplanned kidney surgery?  It showed me some health matters of which I need to be aware, and allowed others the privilege of stepping up in ministry in our congregation. 

The pandemic?  As difficult as it has been and continues to be, the Lord is using it to accomplish many positive things – some obvious; others less so but which will be recognized one day. 

The unexpected blog?  Some people actually read it!  And now I use it as the basis for a weekly Bible study in our Wednesday evening services.  (That was totally unanticipated – at least by me.) 

My wife’s eye surgeries?  While always grateful for her sight, she has an even loftier appreciation of the gift of seeing now. 

My parents coming down with the virus?  The blessings aren’t all clear at the moment, but I have no doubt whatsoever that they are coming. 

And then there are the greatest blessings of all when struggling through hardships: God working in us through his Word and drawing us closer to him – helping us recognize how much we need him, how much he loves us, how good he always is … in all things, and how we have a much more wonderful life awaiting us in heaven.

“All this is for your benefit. … Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:15-18 – selected).

Things totally out of control?  Out of our control?  Always.  Out of God’s?  Never!

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Thoughts of Home

Thoughts of Home

It never fails.  If I happen to spot a flock of ducks or geese flying overheard, they always take my thoughts immediately back to the home where I grew up in Michigan.  It’s always immediate, and it’s typically bittersweet.

This may strike you as strange.  However, I recognize exactly why the view of a skein of ducks or geese winging across the sky transports me 2,400 miles across the Continent and 40 years back in time. 

I grew up about a mile from Saginaw Bay on the Southwest side of Lake Huron.  Every Fall, reams of ducks and geese in huge flocks flew … and still fly … over my parents’ house.  And every Fall I would watch with awe as they flapped rhythmically overhead, continuing their migration South or returning from foraging in the fields, to access the safety of the nearby Bay.

The number of flights seemed unending, and I could watch them untiringly.  Sometimes I would attempt to count the birds in a flock, and the totals in just one flock could easily reach hundreds.

I recognized the repeated V pattern of their skeins, of course.  (Sometimes the flights were in patterns forming a J or a W instead.)  However, I didn’t understand why they flew in those formations

There actually seems to be several reasons for the repeated flight patterns.  First of all, it is the most efficient way to fly as a group.  The staggered positioning results in a reduction of wind resistance for those in the following positions, conserving a significant portion of their energy.  When the leader grows tired, he or she falls back and another bird takes their place.

In addition, flying in formation seems to assist with the communication and coordination within the group.  They can more easily see one another and adjust their positioning and wingbeats accordingly.  The birds actually synchronize flaps based on the bird’s beats in front of them!

Ducks and geese typically fly at about 40 to 60 miles an hour, depending on the breed and the weather conditions.  However, their flight speed can actually be significantly higher when migrating with advantageous winds.  In such conditions, Mallards can fly up to 800 miles in 8 hours.  Astonishingly, Canada Geese can actually cover 1,500 miles in one day in favorable winds.   The elevation of ducks and geese in migration varies greatly, from as low as 200 feet to as high as 4,000.

Where we currently live in Washington with the abundant water supplies, it is also common to spot flights of ducks or geese.  (Though the flocks certainly aren’t as abundant or as large as where I grew up.)  But I am glad to see the ones I see.

Recently as my eyes caught sight of a V-shaped flight overhead, it took me back again to the home of my youth.  Yup, bittersweet once again. 

But it occurred to me that instead of looking back, I should let the flying birds take my view forward.  They are journeying to a better and more pleasant place.  But so are we!  The journey is difficult, but the destination is sublime.

Furthermore, when the Lord calls us home, we will fly to him … just as the ducks and geese leave behind the impending winter and wing to the more pleasant destination.  Moses used this very picture in Psalm 90: “Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away” (Psalm 90:10).

Yes, the migratory birds always remind me of my previous home.  How much better if they took my mind to my future Home in Heaven instead?  My past home was marvelous; my future home wonderful beyond comprehension!  My past home holds many fond memories; my future home holds a joyous eternity of memories to be made!

And here’s what clinched this new viewpoint for me: The flocks fly in the formation of a V.  They are a visual reminder of the Victory we have in Jesus our Savior.  Victory over sin, death and the devil.  Victory in regard to our eternal destiny.  Victory!  Ultimate Victory!

“’Where, O death, is your victory?  Where, O death, is your sting?’”  The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

Yes, the sight of a skein of ducks or geese winging overhead will still take me back home.  But from now on they will also remind me of Home.

How to Interact on This Blog

To Comment – Please share your thoughts!  (Commenting is the fun part!)  To do so, click on the “Comments” tag under the title.  I, and many others, would love to benefit from your insights!

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A Mighty Fortress

A Mighty Fortress

Sometimes a story can impart information and convey truths better than a “dissertation.”  So I offer another allegory in this week’s post.  Of course, there are always weaknesses in stories; sometimes the finer details are missed.  However, it is my prayer that the main truths I am trying to convey are conveyed.  

Please note that the point is not just that the Lord is our ultimate fortress after we die, but also our fortress throughout our lives.  Nothing else besides Him and his promises provide security in this world.  As always, I pray that these words encourage you in your walk toward your heavenly home.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The ragged bunch arrived at the coastline at dusk, the tang of the salt water strong in the air.  The thick, dark clouds were stacked high upon each other like gray-black amorphous blocks; the wind was picking up in intensity, the ocean waves rising taller and more ferocious.  A light rain dampened their cloaks and spirits; the cool drops sluicing into the gaps of their protective wear and sending chills through them as it contacted their skin. 

The storm was imminent.  Conditions would only worsen; decisions needed to be made.

A few potential solutions presented themselves from their valley view.  Situated on a nearby rock cliff perched an old fortress.  On the opposite side of the path on the overhanging bluff sat a sizable city.  Beside the trail and below the city stood stables with healthy horses feeding in the fenced pastures.  Immediately in front of them were docked a number of sturdy ships, ready to cast off, the sailors scrambling over the decks in preparation.

The travelers paused, casting their eyes around and taking in their surroundings.  Lightning flashed from the dark clouds and a thunderous boom quickly announced the charge.  Time was running out. 

A young man scurried toward them on the trail, his arms crossed, his hands tucked under the opposite arms as he clutched his cloak tightly to himself.  He seemed inclined to skirt past the group, but one of their number, a man named Hapless, hailed him.  “Good man, could you spare just a few moments to give us some guidance.  The storm is near and we need shelter.”

The youth shuffled to a stop.  He glanced around nervously at the group gathered around him.  “Make it quick, stranger.  I’ve got to get to shelter myself.”  He dipped his head and shook it a few times to clear the beaded water from the brim of his cloak.

“Much obliged, friend,” Hap replied.  “We won’t keep you long.  We’ve just arrived and would like to better understand our options.  Where might we go for refuge from this storm?”

“Lots of options,” said the young man.  He pointed to their right.  “You can hike to that old castle over yonder.”  He pointed to their left.  “You can stay in that there more modern city on the bluff.”  Lowering his hand a bit, he swept it toward the stables.  “You can get yourself some horses and head back into the forest you came from to find cover.”  Finally, he turned and gestured to the ships.  “Or you can book passage on one of those fine boats and outrace the storm.”

Hap nodded his head.  “There truly are a number of options.  Anything else you can add to help us?”

“Well, entrance into the stone fortress is free.  All the others cost coin.”

“Really?”  Hap was surprised.  At least surprised that entrance into the castle was free.  “Why is the fortress free?”

“Probably because it’s old, cold, drafty and decrepit, and nobody wants to stay there.  You get what you pay for, right?”

Hap had heard rumors of the fortress, and how the son who lived there had given his life for the benefit of the people.  He asked their young advisor if that was true.  “Supposedly,” was his answer.  “But what good did it do.  The prince is dead, the king is left behind, and we still have problems.”  He raised his eyes to the sky.  “Like this nasty storm.”

Another thunderous explosion shook the air, causing everyone to cringe.  “So which option will you be using?” Hap inquired.

“Horses or ships are good options, I think.  But I’ll be staying in the city.  Costs the most, but I like the conveniences, so it’s worth it to me.”  The young man looked again at the darkening horizon.  “Hey, I gotta go.”  He began to walk away.  “Get yourselves to somewhere safe!” he called over his shoulder.  “It’s gonna be a bad one!”

The frantic discussions began immediately among his companions.  “I vote for taking horses back the way we came.  Get on those strong animals and get back into the shelter of the forest.” 

Some agreed, but others argued, “The ships are the answer!  Board onto one of the best constructions craftsmen can make, guided by a seasoned captain, and maybe we can escape the storm altogether.”

Still others said, “I think the city is the best option.  Lots of shelter, and lots of smart and stout people.  Safety in numbers!”

Hap listened as they debated.  He was stunned that the castle wasn’t even mentioned.  Finally he spoke up.  “Why not go into the fortress?  It looks like the safest and strongest option by far, and it doesn’t cost anything.”

The others scoffed.  “That worthless old place?  Imagine how uncomfortable and cold it would be to stay inside rock walls on top of rock.  Brrr!  And it’s probably really dark and dreary too!  Doubt there are many other folks there.  And how could that be a safe place when there’s no entry fee?  Sounds like a miserable destination.  No thanks!”

A gust of wind rattled their clothes and flipped some hoods backward.  Time was running out.  Urgency set in; security was needed.  People began making choices. 

A small group took the path to the stables; they trusted the strong steeds to take them back to safety.  Another bunch set out hurriedly to catch passage on a ship before it embarked.  Their confidence was in men’s creations and cunning to deliver them to a brighter future.  The largest segment, however, headed into the city.  They were convinced that the wisest decision was to stay there, residing with the majority in comfort among all the latest conveniences.

Hap found himself alone at the intersection, tears trickling down his cheeks.  His companions were going their separate ways as the storm encroached.  Which option was best?  Hap didn’t know, but he was drawn to the sturdy fortress where the Prince who had died for the people used to reside.  Perhaps their young advisor was right; free was frivolous and foolish.  Nevertheless, he desperately longed for security, and the fortress certainly seemed most likely to offer that.

He stepped onto the path leading toward the bulwark.  It was narrow, winding and difficult, lined with rocks and roots – clearly a trail seldom used.  Resolutely he trudged upward.  Eventually the soil path gave way entirely to rock, the ridges and ruts punishing his aching feet; the surface slick with the moisture falling from the sky.  The wind velocity increased as he climbed; lightning flashes strobed more frequently, the ensuing thunder so intense it physically rattled his body.  It was imperative that Hap get out of these elements.

He hurried his pace, keeping his eyes downward, determined to follow the faint path worn into the stone.  Whenever he briefly lifted his head, the fortress appeared taller and closer.  It almost appeared to be carved from the very rock upon which it sat.

Hap wearily crested a rock hummock to find himself standing before a small door.  It was simple and unembellished, except for the words, “Come, weary and burdened.  Find rest!”  To his astonishment, the door swung open.  A handsome man with black hair, a black beard and brown eyes stepped out, wrapped his arms around him, and embraced him firmly.  “Welcome, Hap!  You were looking for shelter, and you have found it.”

Hap’s head was spinning.  Who could have anticipated such a warm welcome?  And how was it that this man knew his name?  “Who are you?” he stuttered. 

“I’m the Prince,” was the answer.

“But I heard you died!”

“I did indeed.  But do I look dead now?”  No, he definitely didn’t.  In fact, he appeared very much alive.  Vibrant even!  The Prince gently pulled him toward the open door.  “A storm rages.  Come inside!  It is safe here.”

As Hap entered the enclosure, he was bathed with light, causing his eyes to blink in adjustment.  A pleasant warmth engulfed him.  This wasn’t dreary and drafty at all!  The sumptuous smells of an abundance of food swept through his nostrils.  The Prince’s eyes twinkled, and the edges of his mouth rolled into a smile.  “Yes, Hap, there is a feast waiting for you.”

It was a thoroughly comfortable evening – a most delicious dinner at the King’s table set before a roaring fireplace, with delightful conversation, followed by a deep sleep in a comfortable bed.  Throughout the night, the storm’s intensity grew.  Hap could hear the wind howling and the horrific thunderclaps.  Though muted, the mayhem outside was still evident.  Yet the stone fortress never moved.  Hap had never felt so secure.

The next morning Hap’s curiosity compelled him to boldness.  He blurted out his question to the Prince.  “Why aren’t there more here in this wonderful, safe place, my Lord?”

Sorrow covered the Prince’s face.  “Because they think there are better options.”

“That’s ridiculous!” Hap retorted immediately.  Then he paused and reflected.  “But everyone else in my group did chose other options to try to find security from the storm.”  His thoughts turned to his former companions.  “I wonder how they fared.”

The Prince locked eyes with him.  “Not very well, I’m sorry to say.”

Hap stared at him.  “Those who chose the horses?”

“They died from exposure.”

“What about the ships?”

“Overturned.  The people drowned.”

Hap was floored.  “Those in the city are alright though, aren’t they?”

The King’s Son slowly shook his head.  “The bluff they were on was washed away by the roaring waves.  They are gone too.”

“This was the only safe place,” Hap whispered.  “Here in this fortress built on the rock.”

“Yes, Hap.  That’s right.  This is the only truly safe place.”

The Prince shared a sorrowful smile with him, then placed a soothing arm over his shoulder.  “And by the way, I am giving you a new name.  You are no longer Hapless, but Hopeful.  Because here with me you have an unwavering hope and unending security in an immovable fortress.  Now and forever.”

Hope lowered his head and wept.  But the tears were born of joy, not grief.  He was finally and fully safe.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Psalm 18:1-2
I love you, LORD, my strength.  The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 62:1-2, 5-8
Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.  Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.  Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Matthew 11:28
(The words of Jesus)  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 7:24-27
(The words of Jesus)  “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.

But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

How to Interact on This Blog

To Comment – Please share your thoughts!  (Commenting is the fun part!)  To do so, click on the “Comments” tag under the title.  I, and many others, would love to benefit from your insights!

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For Convenient Perusing

For Convenient Perusing

“Perusing” is a marvelous word.  I’ve always wanted to use it in a heading, but never had the opportunity to do so until now.

I also want to encourage perusing.  That is, perusing of the various posts I’ve shared over the past several years. 

Do you remember an article that was particularly encouraging to you and would like to read it again, but don’t remember when it was shared?  Do you enjoy certain types of posts or posts on particular topics?  Would something previously presented provide some insight to someone you know and love?  Have you considered reading some of the past write-ups for devotions?

Well then, by all means peruse the newly added “Categories” feature on this site!

Every past post is included in at least one of the designations.  All the future ones will be as well. There are 18 different choices, from “Allegories” to “Faith/Trust” to “Thankfulness.”  Simply click on the title of the category that interests you, then scroll down to find a post that appeals to you.

If you access “Heading to Heaven” on a computer, you should see a sidebar on the right with various resources listed.  At the very bottom of the sidebar,  under the “Archives” feature, you will find the different category headings.  Simply peruse, then pick.

If you typically use your phone to enter the site, the sidebar features aren’t readily visible.  However, you can pull them up by locating the “Comment” tab immediately below the title and clicking on it.  That should open the extra features for you at the bottom of the article, including the various categories.

Please check them out!  As always, I pray that something I have shared will encourage you in your walk toward heaven.

How to Interact on This Blog

To Comment – Please share your thoughts!  (Commenting is the fun part!)  To do so, click on the “Comments” tag under the title.  I, and many others, would love to benefit from your insights!

To Subscribe – Go to the “Follow This Blog Via Email” column.  If you don’t immediately see that box, click on the “Comments” tag under the title, and scroll to the very bottom.  You should find it there.

Seeking Sweetness

Seeking Sweetness

I was about to open the gate from our backyard to our front yard when I spotted it.  A lovely Rufous Hummingbird was feeding just a few feet away from me.  Seeing Hummingbirds around our place isn’t unusual at all.  I have various flowers in beds all around our property, and some are particularly attractive to the colorful birds: New York Asters, Russian Sage, Cardinal Flower and Purple Bee Balm, just to name a few. 

But at this time of year, there aren’t many blooms available.  However, in the front yard immediately beside the gate, the red trumpets of a Pineapple Sage linger.  And that’s where I saw the hummingbird, hovering a few feet away, drinking deep from the Sage’s nectar.  It darted away, only to return and drink again.  Zipped away.  Zipped back.

What magnificent creations of our God these fascinating birds are!

All of the Hummingbird species live in the Americas, with most in the tropical Central and South America.  There are approximately 350 variations of Hummingbirds in the world, which makes them the second largest family of birds, while also averaging the smallest size in the bird kingdom.  (In fact, they are the smallest animals in the world with a backbone.)  Most of the birds are 3-5 inches long and weigh only a few grams.  Hummingbird eggs are about the size of peas, and the newly hatched offspring are no bigger than a penny.

The birds earn their name from the soft humming sound their wings produce while flying.  Hummingbirds in flight average 20-30 miles per hour, but can reach as high as 60.  Their wings beat between 50 and 200 flaps per second depending on the direction of flight, the purpose of their flight, and the surrounding air conditions.  The rapidity of their wing beats allows the birds to fly in all directions – forward, backward, sideways and even upside down!  And, of course, they are the only bird which can hover.  (Again, due to their rapid wingbeats.  Somewhat like treading water, only in the air!)  They are the ultimate aerial artists, demonstrating astounding agility in flight.

But God made them this way because their primarily source of sustenance is the nectar they extract from flowers through their long bills.  They don’t suck up the nectar; they lap it up with their fringed, forked tongues … tongues that lick 10-15 times per second when feeding.

“Hummers” must consume approximately one-half of their weight in sugar daily, and the average Hummingbird feeds 5-8 times per hour.  They can eat up to 3 times their own weight in food every single day.   In addition to nectar, these birds consume pollen as well as small flying insects and spiders, and may also sip tree sap or juice from broken fruits.  The birds digest natural sucrose—the sugar found in floral nectar—in 20 minutes with 97 percent efficiency for converting the sugar into energy.

Which the little dynamos desperately need!  An average Hummingbird’s heart rate while perched is 225 beats per minute, but it climbs to more than 1,200 beats per minute in the air.  (We humans average only 60-100 beats per minute when not active.)  While resting, a Hummingbird averages 250 breaths per minute!  When flying, that number also increases.

However, Hummingbirds are one of the few types of birds that are able to transition into a brief torpor when needed, such as during a cool night.  Torpor is a very deep, sleep-like state in which metabolic functions are slowed to a minimum (1/15 of their normal rate) and a very low body temperature is maintained.

Hummingbirds are one of God’s key pollinators.  As the birds sustain their own lives by going flower to flower, they also sustain the flower species by enabling reproduction.  Interestingly, hummers can’t smell, but have keen eyesight and are attracted to brightly colored flowers, especially those in shades of red, orange, and bright pink.  The birds instinctually recognize that their sustenance is found in the sweetness of nectar, so they are always seeking sweetness.

While this is all extremely interesting, (or at least I find it so), how does this encourage you and me in our walk to heaven?

In a number of places, the Bible actually describes God’s Word as sweet.  Both the prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 3:1-4) and the Apostle John (Revelation 10:8-11) are told by the Lord to eat scrolls with God’s messages on them, and then relay those messages to God’s people.  The scrolls tasted sweet!

The psalm writer was moved by the Holy Spirit to describe the Scriptures this way: “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psalm 119:103).  David used the same description regarding the words of the Lord in Psalm 19: “They are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb” (Psalm 19:10).

Solomon wrote this: “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (Proverbs 16:24).  His wise phrase is appropriate for both the words one person speaks to another, as well as the words God shares with us.  But especially the words that God shares!  Passages that show us God’s grace and love and forgiveness are indeed “sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (and heart!).

Why does God describe his words as “sweet?”  Because most people crave sweet things, and the Lord wants to impress upon us that it is proper for us to crave his truths!  The parts that address our sinfulness aren’t so attractive, (though they are necessary), but the Gospel message of God’s love and mercy sure “tastes” wonderful!

And that Scriptural “sweetness” provides spiritual energy too.  Joy, peace, and certain hope.  Confidence and security.  Motivation to live for God and love one another.  A purpose for now and an eternal destination for later. 

So seek the sweetness of God’s Word, and let it fuel your spiritual metabolism.

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Sought After and Found

Sought After and Found

I used to be on display.  Customers used to see me … consider me.  Some picked me up and turned me to and fro, admiring my green leaves and glorious flowers.  I was even in a shopping cart once!  I was sure I was going home with someone to be planted in their flowerbed.  I knew I would flourish and produce lovely blooms there.  But the man settled on another type of plant and placed me back on the rack.

It was springtime; the ideal time of year to plant lupines like me.  Surely someone would want a hardy perennial like me, wouldn’t they?  Surely someone would have a place to display me?  More people checked me out.  Lifted me up and looked me over carefully.  Compared me with other lupines near me.  But I was always returned to the shelf; was always passed over for other choices.

The numbers of my relatives around me dwindled.  I watched as people swept them up and took them away.  Once I was one among many.  Gradually I was one among a few.  Eventually I was the only one.  The other lupines were all desired; no one apparently wanted me.

Spring turned to summer, and the days became hotter and longer.  Gardeners were now looking for different types of plants; their spring bloomers were already well settled and flowered in their beds. 

I was all alone.  No one afforded me even a passing glance anymore.  One day one of the attendants at the store raised me from my perch.  Had someone requested me?  Did someone finally want me? 

Apparently not.  I was unceremoniously dropped into the gloomy place under the display shelves where people never looked.  The sun barely reached me there.  The waterers didn’t bother to quench my thirst.  My leaves wilted; my life was ebbing away.  All I could muster was one tiny, green shoot.  So this is how it ended for the unwanted and undesirable.

But then came the morning when he came looking for me.  I overheard him talking to one of the workers.  “Hey, you don’t happen to have any lupines left, do you?  I’ve been looking all over for one.  I transplanted one at my place and it didn’t make it.   I’d like to replace it, if I can.”

“Here!  Over here … tucked under this shelf!  I’m a lupine!” I wanted to shout. 

“I’m sorry, sir.  I don’t think we do,” stated the woman.  “I haven’t seen any for some time now.

I was frantic.  “Yes, you do!  Yes, you do!  I’m right here!”

The man replied, “Yeah, I know this isn’t usually the time to buy them and plant them, but I thought I’d try anyway.  I’ll just check to make sure.”

And he started walking toward my hiding place, his eyes scanning both on the shelves and below.  He was looking carefully.  He drew closer.  He spotted my distinctive multifaceted leaves, yellow and wilted though they were.  He gasped, and he eagerly pulled me into the sunlight.  He lifted me up to display me to the saleslady.  “You DO have one!”  He was ecstatic.  “Looks pretty rough but I’ll trim it back, plant it, water and fertilize it.  I bet it will be gorgeous this next spring.”

He searched for me – for me! – and he found me.  He loved and joyed in me despite my horrible condition.  Before he came,  hope had been gone; death was certain.  But then against all odds and practicality, he came looking for me and rescued me.  He saved my life!  I’ll be healthy and beautiful, and I’m so grateful.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

This is a true story.  (Other than the lupine thinking, of course.)  I was the man who came looking for the flower, and who rescued it when it was in dire straits.  It is now nestled in a special planter in my back yard.  While the time of year doesn’t lend to the flower flourishing, it is definitely more healthy than when first found.  (The picture above is the actual plant.)  The original sole shoot has grown considerably, and more are sprouting.

There was another who was hapless and hopeless, headed for certain death.  It was me.  But Someone came looking for me.  The Lord sought me in great love and eagerness, and he found me, withered and broken … as undesirable as I could be.  Detestable, even!  Yet the gaze he settled on me wasn’t filled with contempt, but with joy.

His search for me began before the world was formed.  He loved me already then!  He nurtured that love throughout history.  Eventually his search brought him to a manger and finally to a bloody cross.  His search continued as he exited the tomb, alive again, and as he ascended victoriously to heaven.  And even from heaven he sought me, providing his Holy Spirit and his Word to reach out to draw me close to him. 

It’s an astounding love; an incredible search.  In his grace, the Lord sought me and found me.  He saved my soul.  He nursed me to health and made me beautiful, and I’m so very grateful.

That same Savior has sought and found many others as well.  He continues to search.  He will always search.  And he will always rejoice when he finds hearts open to him.

How incredible to have One such as He searching for ones such as we!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ezekiel 34 – selected verses

“My sheep wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill. They were scattered over the whole earth, and no one searched or looked for them.”

“… This is what the Sovereign LORD says: ‘I myself will search for my sheep and look after them.  As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. 

I will bring them out from the nations and gather them from the countries, and I will bring them into their own land.  … There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture … I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign LORD.  I will search for the lost and bring back the strays.  I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak …’”

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Avoid the Noise

Avoid the Noise

The door into my home office happens to be only about 25 feet from the living room television.  That may seem a fair distance away but is actually closer than you might think.  This, by the way, is the same television that is often being watched by someone.  And the same television where my sons play their friends or brothers in online Xbox competitions.  Perhaps you can imagine how boisterous that becomes at times.

Yes, I can shut the office door, and I sometimes did.  But even that didn’t block out all the distracting noise erupting from and in front of the tv.  Plus, there isn’t a heater vent in my office, so the room can grow rather chilly at times if the door is closed.  Another approach I’ve tried has been playing music off my iPod on my iPod player.  This helped, but also failed to fully resolve the dilemma. (Unless I cranked up the volume … which only compounded the problem.)

But finally I found a solution!  I ordered a pair of Bluetooth noise-cancelling headphones from Amazon, and – eureka! – problem solved!  I slip those babies on, and I hear nothing except the music of my choice floating softly into my ears.  (I also don’t hear when my wife tries to ask me something, but that’s another situation and story.)

I realize that some can function just fine with background noise, but most of us find it distracting.  Or at least somewhat distracting. Yet, aren’t our lives pinballing with distracting “noise?”

Our families, our relationships, our property, our jobs, our many responsibilities, our personal wellbeing and our hobbies all ratchet up the noise levels in our lives.  As do our bills, difficulties, challenges, frustrations and anxieties.  COVID has spawned a plethora of additional distractions.  Through it all, our heads and hearts “are on swivels” as our attention is constantly diverted, trying to take everything in.

Friends, this is how it often is for us, but this is not how it should be.  This is not God’s recipe for contentment.

So how do we put on our spiritual noise-cancelling headphones and cut out the distracting noise all around us?  As always, God’s Word provides insight.  The one-word summary is … focus; the two-part approach is … focus on God’s Word, and focus on God.

Want to mute out the distractions of your life?  Step one is dial in the sweet music of God’s Word.  The Lord encourages us to “pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words.  Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body” (Proverbs 4:20-22).  “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds” (Deuteronomy 11:18).

Step two is to lock our attention onto our God.  That’s kind of obvious, isn’t it?  But it’s easier said than done.  Yet that is Scripture’s encouragement to us; that’s the second part of the Lord’s noise cancelling solution.  

“Fix your thoughts on Jesus” (Hebrews 3:1).  “… Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:1-3). 

And here’s some more noise cancelling words: “Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: who created all these?  ‘To whom will you compare me?  Or who is my equal?’ says the Holy One.  Do you not know?  Have you not heard?  The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.  He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.  He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:25-26, 28-29, 31).

As long as we sinful people live in this sinful world, we will be inundated with potential distractions.  But thanks be to God, he provides us with a wholesome and helpful solution to the racket of the world.  The more we focus on the Lord and his Word, the less distracted and dismayed we will be.

This was illustrated to us in dramatic fashion by our Savior himself on a visit with his dear friends, Mary and Martha:  (Luke 10:38-42)

“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him.  She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.”

“But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made.  She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself?  Tell her to help me!’”

 ‘“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.  Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”’

Too often we are Marthas; Jesus encourages us to be Marys.  Block out the distractions and concentrate on what is truly important.  We will be the better for it!

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Always and Never

Always and Never

The times are certainly changing!  The fall season is upon us.  Vacations are over.  Children are back in school.  The days are shorter, the temps cooler, the rains have returned in Washington, and the leaves are turning.

Fall is certainly a season of dramatic change.  But then we’ve been enduring almost constant change for the past year-and-a-half!

When I was younger, I used to hope that there would be a time in my life when everything would be finally settled, and changes would be behind me.  The concept is appealing … but unrealistic.  There will never be a time when something in our lives isn’t changing.  If you’ve lived a bit, you know this to be true.

But there actually is something that never changes.  (And I’m not referring to death, jobs to do, or taxes!)  The one thing that never changes, that is always the same, is the Lord. 

The Bible informs us that “God, who is enthroned from of old, does not change” (Psalm 55:19).  Furthermore, “the [Heavenly] Father … does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17), and “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). 

The fact that our God doesn’t change, and isn’t changing, and won’t change is incredibly comforting at a time of incredible change – whether that time of change is the fall season or a pandemic or something else altogether.  Though everything in our lives and in the world seems to be in continual flux, God is not! 

And since God is immutable (unchanging), then his “purpose” remains “unchanging” as well! (Hebrews 6:17).  In the same way, his promises won’t change either (Numbers 23:19), and his words are eternally true (Luke 21:33).  Jesus’ redemption of us and his resurrection are also unchanging facts.  As are his love for us, his care, provision and protection of us, and his presence with us.  Best of all, the Lord still has a special home prepared for his children in heaven.  These wonderful truths all remain unchanging!

The Lord’s attributes (characteristics) don’t change either.  The eternal God will always be eternal, and the almighty God always almighty.  He will always be present everywhere; always all-knowing; constantly good; continually faithful; forever merciful, gracious, loving and forgiving.  None of God’s characteristics have ever shifted; nor will they.

Change is constant in our lives.  Some are temporary and cyclical; others are radical, life altering, eye-opening, and unforgettable.  In this constantly changing world, we need some stability.  Thankfully, we have it in our unchanging God.

Everything God has been, he still is, and he always will be.  He is the always-the-same God, the Lord who never changes.  And that’s wonderful news for us who are living ever-changing lives in an ever-changing world!

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Never Ending

Never Ending

I had never seen it before, but I’ve seen it several times now.  Same couple; same procedure.  It’s difficult not to notice them.  They are an elderly Asian couple who take brisk walks through the park … while continually holding their arms straight up in the air.  It doesn’t matter where they walk or what they are walking over or through, their hands remain high over their heads.

I presume they are following some prescribed fitness approach.  I did a fair amount of searching on the internet, but couldn’t find anything promoting such a walk routine.  One article suggested some potential benefits from lifting one’s arms over one’s head; benefits such as releasing shoulder tension, improving posture and opening up the chest and lungs.  But the write-up was recommending lifting the arms temporarily; not maintaining that pose while walking.

Clearly the man and the woman have a reason for what they are doing, and it is undoubtedly health related.  But here’s what struck me the last time I saw them.  It appears as if they are lifting their hands in never ending praise to God.  Sunshine and blue skies – hands raised.  Rain, puddles and mud – hands still raised.  Sweet scent of flowers – hands raised.  Passing garbage containers or a dead opossum – hands stay raised.  People or cars passing by – raised.  All alone – raised.

You get the idea.  As I watched them carry on their walk while carrying their hands high, it occurred to me that this is how we as Christians should walk spiritually through life.  With our hearts (and hands?) raised in praise to our gracious God.

Whether experiencing big blessings or great challenges, seeing blue skies or storms, feeling healthy or heartsick, enduring the uncertainties of youth or the frailty of age, whether in private or in public … we are continually praising the Lord.

I’m not suggesting we go through life with our hands held physically over our heads.  But I am suggesting we continually embrace an attitude of gratitude to our God, a heart and mind overwhelming with praise for the one who loves us, cares for us, and saved us.

This concept of praising God is strewn throughout the pages of the Bible.  And how could it not be?  The Lord has literally given us everything we have – our life, our talents, our families, our friends, our every possession, our faith, our forgiveness, our peace, our joy, our future, our eternal salvation.

So the Scriptures urge us to praise our Benefactor.  Repeatedly!  Continually!  Unendingly!

Here are just a few examples of the hundreds given, as well as the reasons why we praise and some of the ways we do it:

“Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.  Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:1-2).  “Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you, [O God].  I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands” (Psalm 63:3-4).  “I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.  For great is your love toward me!” (Psalm 86:12-13). 

The encouragement to praise our Savior, and praise Him constantly, appears abundantly in the Old Testament.  And especially in the psalms.  But it flows throughout the New Testament too!

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).  “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!  In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade” (1 Peter 1:3-4).  “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name” (Hebrews 13:15)

And this unending praise to our God will continue without end in heaven too!  As the Apostle John witnessed: “Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!’” (Revelation 5:13).

Never ending indeed!  So should it be, and so will it be!

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To Comment – Please share your thoughts!  (Commenting is the fun part!)  To do so, click on the “Comments” tag under the title.  I, and many others, would love to benefit from your insights!

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