Easter in December

Christmas, 1980.

Angry Iranian students locked Kathryn Koob alone in a tiny bedroom. Crying, she gazed out through her small window at the treetops and blue sky. Freedom was so close and yet unreachable. How frustrating.

Soon her eyes focused on the communications antenna of the U.S. Embassy. The antenna's braces formed a perfect cross. Kathryn smiled and sighed as she realized this was God's message. Jesus Christ dwelt in her heart and he would help her endure whatever pain or loneliness lay ahead.

Singing hymns, reciting Bible verses, and frequently staring at that cross helped Kathryn, a hostage in a foreign country, celebrate Christmas. She worshiped her way through the holidays.

What about my Christmas?

 

 For my Christmas to have meaning, I too must center my thoughts on the cross and what it means in my life.

Christmas without Easter is merely a sweet story about a baby's birth. Add the ministry of Jesus, his sacrificial death and miraculous resurrection, and Christmas becomes life-giving.

As the holiday fanfare dies down, remember the significance of the cross. It will complete your Christmas joy.

God's rainbow of light shining through a window.

How can you continue your holiday worship throughout the coming months?

Christmas Blessings!

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulder. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9: 6)

                                                                                                                                                     (Photo courtesy Lorraine Eyer) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christmas Alone

Bear near me. Lord Jesus! I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven, to live with Thee there.

Tears streamed down my face as I watched Kathryn Koob, American hostage in Iran, sing that third stanza of Away in a Manger over world-wide television. It was Christmas, 1980, and she wanted to assure her loved ones she was leaning on God to help her endure an unjust imprisonment, which included solitary confinement.

In the midst of a cruel and confused world, this woman directed viewers to the Living Christ who protects and comforts us in our sorrow. Her Christmas worship consisted of forming a cross out of a silver gum wrapper and reciting the entire second chapter of Luke. She had memorized it as a child. What a witness!

Are you alone this Christmas, removed from family and friends? Are worry and anxiety your constant companions? Are you fearful about relationships or finances or health? Let Jesus fill your heart with his divine love and concern. He knows your loneliness for he, too, was alone. He knows your pain, for he also hurt.

Lift your spirits by praising God for his goodness. Lift up your hands and sing out loud to him a favorite chorus of praise. Thank him for everything you can imagine. Focus on how great he is and how much he loves you.

Don't host a pity-party for yourself. Recognize that sometimes even the noisiest holiday hoopla covers up dissension, despair, and estrangement. Let Jesus comfort you and care for you, so you can care for others.

Pray for yourself that God will be very close to you this Christmastime. Have a blessed celebration whether you're alone or with loved ones.

Home of Mike & Lorraine Eyer, Glendale, AZ       (photo courtesy Lorraine Eyer - Construction Mike Eyer)

Christmas Crib

Years ago, I owned a favorite Christmas book with pictures of different nativity sets from around the world. Each beautiful creche reflected facial features and costumes indigenous to the country of the artist.

The manger scene from Mexico showed Mary and Joseph with dark skin and the lovely brown eyes of the Mexican people. The one from Sweden portrayed Mary with blond hair and fair skin, while the set from Nigeria featured dark-skinned people, adorned with ornate African headwear. The Japanese nativity was delicate and decidedly Asian. The most accurate of all was the one from Israel. It showed the figures with handsome Jewish features.

This suggests we desire identity with God. When we see something of ourselves reflected in Christ's birth, then his life, death, and resurrection take on personal meaning for us. It does not deny Jesus' divinity. It allows us to come to him, even in our humanity.

Our need for Emmanuel, God with us, is shown clearly in Christmas art. Accuracy in depicting the manger scene is not as important as the message that God willingly became one of us. Praise him for that!

                                                   

Do you have a nativity set up in your home this holiday? Do you use it as a teaching tool for your children, or a reminder for yourself of the reason we celebrate?

Emmanuel

"I'm scared," Timmy wheezed as he grabbed my hand. (Timmy is now 40-year-old Tim.) "I know you are, Honey," I replied, trying to sound calm. It was the middle of the night and we were speeding toward the hospital with our six-year-old son who was having a severe asthma attack.

"I'll be with you the whole time," I promised. His handclasp relaxed just a bit and he leaned his head against my shoulder.

How many times have parents reassured frightened children with the promise, I'll be with you? Knowing we can't prevent life's traumas, our only recourse is to go through the experience with them.

As they grow older, we assure them of our spiritual fellowship, if not our physical presence: "I'm praying for you; I'm hurting for you; I'm here if you need to talk."

God, the Perfect Parent, promises the same thing. That's why Emmanuel is such an important name for Jesus: "God with us." We're blessed with the presence of a Parent who feels our hurt, loves us, and says, "I'm here if you need to talk."

When you are afraid, what helps you feel the presence of God?

"O come, o come, Emmanuel."

(If you know someone who needs to be reminded God is with him/her, feel free to share this using the social media buttons below.)

Let's Talk Classics

Many of you enjoyed the I Love Lucy special Sunday evening. I missed it but could probably tell you word-for-word what went on. As a child, I watched the original shows with my parents every Monday (?) evening. My mom laughed so hard she cried and couldn't talk.

Many years later, I enjoyed the re-runs during my lunch breaks as a stay-at-home mom. Thanks to Sunday's special, a new generation gets to delight in Lucy's straight-forward, slap-stick humor. They also get to witness how far women have come in the issue of equality (I know, not far enough but farther than poor Lucy, who feared her husband's wrath). For her time, Lucy was edgy and feisty, even though her gender corralled her.

 

 

Today's World

 

Compare the simple life portrayed in I Love Lucy to today's world. What we view on t.v. is frightening, out of control, angering even. We get news 24/7 and it ain't good! I think our minds can use doses of simple, classical, corny television. Maybe it would help wash out some of the reality we see on news stations and Hollywood tell-all programs.

Other Valuable Classics

 

The Dick Van Dyke Show, the one with Mary Tyler Moore, is one of my favorites. I own the set of all 150 episodes and yes, I can lip-sync most of the dialog because I watched the re-runs daily (again, during lunch. Hmm. I guess I took lo-o-ong lunches.). The script writing of the Van Dyke show was superb, thanks to Carl Reiner's genius. The themes were universal and are applicable to today's family issues.

Young parents: to learn parenting skills, watch Andy Griffith re-runs. He loved Opie yet firmly disciplined him to keep him "a good boy." He was a single dad at a time when that was an anomaly. Of course, he did have Aunt Bea. Wouldn't we all love to have an Aunt Bea in our kitchens, making Sunday pot roast and baking cookies?

Suggestion:

 

If you need a break from the ugliness of current events, treat yourself to some of those old classics. It will cleanse your brain.

Note to t.v. moguls: we need more good stuff.

Have a blessed, classical day!

A Person who Ponders

What do you ponder? Think about? Mull over? Daydream?

 Hmmm. A person who ponders is a powerful person at peace. Say that three times fast!

 

"But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart." (Luke 2: 19 RSV)

God chose a reflective young woman to mother his son. The shepherds' visit caused astonishment to all but Mary, who tucked the event into her memory bank. Years later, after the amazing incident of 12-year old Jesus with the Jewish teachers in the temple, we're told his mother "...treasured all these things in her heart." (Luke 2:51 NIV)

Mary is the picture of serenity in spite of living in a volatile society. Remember, she and Joseph eventually had to flee to Egypt for their baby's safety. Even as a lonely refugee in a foreign land, Mary was a woman at peace.

From what we know of her faith and willingness to be God's servant, we have to believe she surrendered Jesus to God's will, even as she witnessed his horrible crucifixion. How her mother's heart was torn.

But we also have to believe she was comforted by the God of peace. Did God cause her to remember all those thoughts she had placed into her mind for safekeeping throughout the years of Jesus' life? Did those thoughts fall into place like a divine puzzle?

Ponder Power

Are you in need of tranquility? Try imitating Mary's practice of pondering. Carve out time to read from the Bible and then just sit and mull it over. Look at the passage from many angles: God's perspective, your perspective, a non-believer's, and a child's. Dialog with the Lord and be immersed in his love and peace. Let his words soothe you as you faithwalk through your days.

During this hectic time of year, I wish you pockets of time to absorb God's Word and feel his unconditional love.

The Holy Family - carved out of olive wood from Jerusalem

Angel Party

Those angels really knew how to throw a party!

 

Imagine yourself a shepherd the eventful night of Christ's birth in the fields surrounding Bethlehem. You're caring for your sheep as you've done almost every night of your life, just like your father and grandfather. The routine of the sheep is embedded in your lifestyle.

Suddenly an angelic courier appears with a very special birth announcement: the long-awaited Messiah is born! You know what he's talking about for the scriptures were drilled into you as a Hebrew child.

Before you fully digest the news, an angel chorus bursts into song, their voices cutting through the crisp night air. Close your eyes and try to imagine the harmony, the grandeur, the beauty of the music. It is like no other choir you've ever heard.

This night of sameness comes alive with praises to God. Hopes soar, adrenalin flows, and you forget the animals, knowing you've witnessed something greater than life itself.

Our holiday celebrations, though terrific, are dull in comparison. Perhaps we never can duplicate the excitement of those angels but we can steep ourselves in the Christmas Scriptures and share their joy in worshiping God.

This Christmas make these words of praise your words:

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

May your holiday weeks be a time of peace and love and gratitude for our Savior.

And...
     Have an angelic party!

This is our automated angel who sits atop our tree. Trouble is, her wings squeak as they move back and forth. I think she has a terrible case of arthritis. Hers is not the sound of the angelic chorus that visited the shepherds. Too bad.

Sensitivity Barometer

The following words come from my friend, Ellen Garst, who posted these on Facebook a few days ago. Ellen served as chairperson of the Math Department at Ironwood High School in Peoria, Arizona, for many years. She taught math at Orme School in Prescott, as well as at Ironwood.

I'll always remember Ellen for her innovative way of teaching her students the strength of the three-point triangle: she performed a handstand right there in class in front of her amazed students. They never forgot that concept.

Ellen is very sensitive to other people and I am touched by the words she shared. Thank you for the reminder, Ellen:

Some thoughts as we enter the holiday season...

It is important to remember that not everyone is surrounded by large wonderful families. Some of us have problems during the holidays and some of us are overcome with great sadness when we remember the loved ones who are not with us.

And many people have no one to spend these times with and are besieged by loneliness. We all need caring, loving thoughts right now....May I ask my friends, wherever you might be,...to give a moment of support for all those who have family problems, health struggles, job issues, worries of any kind and just need to know someone cares.

Do it for all of us, for nobody is immune....

Well, said, Ellen.

A recent "feel good" email circulating around the internet states it like this:  "Be kind because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle."

Let's keep our sensitivity barometers tuned up and cut everyone some slack, especially during the upcoming holidays.

Kindness Rocks!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

     What can I say? Thank you for reading my words. I appreciate anyone who gives up a few minutes in their busy lives to do me the honor of clicking on my blog site. Encouragement for Christian Living will continue to be the focus of my writing.

    

 Good Food Surrounds Important Events

     Food is so much a part of Thanksgiving, whether it's traditional, ethnic, or take out. Many Bible teachings center around the sharing of meals or feasts. Maybe God wants us to know he can satisfy our souls just as food satisfies and nourishes our bodies.

Esther - feasts play an important part in the entire story of Esther, from the king's feast, Queen Esther's several banquets, to the Feast of Purim, celebrating the triumph of the Jews.

Feast Days - throughout the Old Testament we see the Israelites commemorating important days of remembrance with large feasts--a way to celebrate God's care.

Wedding Feast in Cana - Jesus chose this celebration to perform his first earthly miracle.

Last Supper - the most important feast of all, just before the Messiah's crucifixion and resurrection.

     Enjoy your holiday meal, no matter what it looks like.

     My prayer for you, my electronic friends, is that you're experiencing a happy, restful, fun-filled day with people you cherish. If you're alone, I offer some verses to remind you God cares and knows your heart:

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." (Psalm 90: 14)

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" (Psalm 91: 1-2)

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Philippians 4: 19-20)

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41: 10)

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Beautiful lantana adding fall color to our back yard.

(In case you're wondering, I write and schedule these blog posts ahead of time. I am NOT writing this at 5:00 a.m. Phoenix time on Thanksgiving Day.)

Pre-Holiday Post

Read any of the December magazines or watch the home and garden shows on cable television and you'll come away feeling discouraged, like you don't measure up. I've always loved reading and hearing about lovely holiday celebrations but it can be a bit overwhelming.

Who can wrap the entire inside of their house with garland and tinsel? Who can afford to have 30 fully-lighted, artificial trees in their front yard at 100 bucks a crack, or a life-sized team of reindeer on the roof?

Who can seat 20 or 30 well-dressed, smiling relatives around a huge dining table overloaded with platters of perfect-looking gourmet food? (I think they shellac it for the photo shoot.)

And the turkey is always golden brown, with fluffy little paper things on the end of his drumsticks, gracing the table. Anyone knows he gets carved up and his sorry-looking carcas sits on the kitchen cupboard dripping juice all over the cutting board and perhaps the floor.

And don't even get me started on cookie baking. The tray of ten different kinds of intricately decorated cookies looks so perfect in the magazines. You can almost smell them through the printed page. Trouble is, cookie baking day as I remember it (I don't do that anymore with an empty nest and healthful eating habits...sigh), was extremely tiring and stressful. It's a lot of work! The clean-up is awful.

Those of you in the throes of busy family, home, and career lives are already over-scheduled. Add in all the extras of the holidays, and it gets really tough. There's shopping, wrapping, decorating, baking, school productions, parties, etc. (Journalist friend, Peggy, discourages me from using "etc." But, it's such a lovely catch-all word, and I'm finding it a hard habit to break. Sorry, Peggy. I'll work on it.)

Lighten Up and Edit

The point is: Lighten up on your expectations for yourself and your family. Don't be afraid to edit the events and activities you enjoy. All are good but all may not be necessary for celebrating a very important time of year.

Don't let the marketers influence you to do more or spend more than you are capable of doing or want to do. See it as a contest of you vs. them. And then, win! Do what makes the holiday season meaningful for you, your family, and friends. You can go all out if it makes you happy, or you can slack off. I give you permission even to be a little lazy. Eliminate or add, do or don't. You direct a meaningful season.

It's o.k. if your etcetera (etc.) is imperfect or pared down so you can spend time on:

• personal worship
• connecting with or remembering special people
• perhaps interacting with strangers who need some company

Future posts will consider holiday issues such as:

1. Sensitivity Barometer
2. A Person who Ponders
3. An Angel Party
4. Christmas Alone

God's Holy Name

The ancient Hebrew scholars so revered God that they wouldn't even allow themselves to speak his name. In reading the scriptures, they would pause rather than let the name of the Almighty pass through sinful, human lips.

The scribes who recorded the scriptures used a brand new pen and then discarded it whenever they came to the name Jahweh. That's how sacred God's name was to them.

Compare that to our society. We hear the precious names of God and Jesus blasphemed in our homes, offices, schools, media, sporting events--all around us. How sad that must make God.


Challenge: if you've developed the loose habit of using God's name disrespectfully or flippantly, discipline yourself to eliminate this from your speech. Make a pact with all your family members to make yours a household that honors the name of God. Be aware of opportunities to speak up gently and ask others not to dirty the name of your God.

Today: think Hebrew concerning the holiness of God and reverence his name.

Hebrew Names

If you were an ancient Hebrew and your name described your personality, what would you be called?

• He who argues?
• She who scatters debris?
• He who makes peace?
• She who loves?

Names were important to the Hebrews. A study of the Old Testament is enhanced by knowing what the many characters' names mean. For example, Abraham means "father of a multitude." He was married to Sarah, "princess," and their son was Isaac, "he laughs." Read the story in chapter 18 of Genesis and these names will make sense.

In instructing the Israelites, God identified himself by many names. He was:

Elohim - Strong One
Adonae - Lord, Master
Sabaoth - Lord of Hosts
El Shaddae - Powerful Nourisher
Jahweh - I am

The most important name of all for God is Jesus, which means Savior. God's power is in that name that rescues us from the disaster of sin.

What does this mean for us? The almighty God reveals himslef to us at every milestone of our walk with him. He meets us at our point of need and offers life with him, on earth and for eternity.

Select a Hebrew name for God and pray to him, picturing what this name reveals.

What's Your Name?

• Your formal name given by your mom and dad
• Your nickname
• Your childhood name the family uses (ugh!)
• Your complete formal name used for business or medical purposes
• Your sports name
• Your alias (hope not)
• The name your special sweetie calls you!

Maybe you have a title that identifies you: Mom, Dad, Coach, Teacher, Pastor, Auntie, Grandpa. Or, you could still be someone's parent or someone's spouse. Years ago, my husband and I owned a business together and I bristled when someone referred to me as The Owner's Wife. Grrrr.

A Baby's Name

A lot of thought goes into naming a baby. It often takes months of discussion, thinking, considering, and cajoling to come up with just the right one. It may honor a family member or reflect a special occasion (think Joy Noel).

A child's name has to be one both parents like and it has to sound good with the family surname. It especially can't lend itself to teasing on the school playground. Someone who loved you spent a lot of time coming up with your special name.

Your Name and Your Identity

There are times, however, when you're not feeling too great about yourself or your life. You don't fit in, you're not comfortable, everyone else has got it all together and you're wondering where it's at. Others' lives look perfect while yours is unraveling. You're an adult but still striving to find your true identity. That can be a rough path.

There's a lovely praise song from a decade ago titled, "I Will Change Your Name" and it goes like this:

I will change your name.
You shall no longer be called
Wounded, outcast, lonely, or afraid.

I will change your name.
Your new name shall be
Confidence, joyfulness, overcoming one,
Faithfulness, friend of God,
One who seeks my face.

God Values You

 

The good news is, God knows your name and he values you. Your identity is tied up, not only in your name, but in the fact you are a child of God--royalty for sure--no matter what you're feeling about your life.

If you feel lately like you are:

"Wounded," Outcast," "Lonely," "Afraid," or a host of other negative labels...

then read the words to this song and let them sink into your consciousness. Better still, click on this link and watch a video of the Nebblett Family as they perform the song, "I Will Change Your Name."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liOzd21u5MY

  Let these words wash over you. They validate your worth to God.

TRUST - The Sequel

Sorry, more about birds. This will be the last, I promise.

My son in Corona, California, has an unusual timepiece in his back yard. Early every morning a group (we're talking hundreds) of loud, squawking, obnoxious, caustic, big, black crows flies from the east to the west across a reserve behind their subdivision. Then 5:00 every evening, that same group of crows retraces the route back to their favorite roosting place in a grove of trees. They truly are southern California commuters. You can tell the time of day from this strange, noisy activity.

Isn't God's creation orderly? Dependable? Just think, not only the animal world, but the seasons, climate patterns, rock formations, plant life, and other sciences have God's stamp all over them. All of the "-ologies" we study in school are God-created entities. A good friend taught geology for years at a local high school. He once said, "The more I learn about science, the more I believe in God." I remember that comment whenever anyone tries to lure me into disbelieving God's omnipotence in creation. But...that's for another post.

Back to those crazy birds. Their behavior leads to a familiar Bible passage about God caring for us. It's so familiar it threatens to become a cliche, causing us to overlook the power of its teaching.

"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" (Matthew 6: 26-27)

A rough paraphrase of this verse applied to the daily migration of those crows might be something like this:

if God cares enough to instill survival instinct in these dumb, loud, annoying, stupid birds, surely he will take care of my _____________________ (insert whatever problem is plaguing you today).

Specifically, this passage speaks to:

• God's timetable
• God's dependability
• God's provision

All are things we desperately need and count on. It can be summed up in the word, TRUST. Why all this on trust (2 posts--enough already!)? I think it's because it is something I've struggled with the past several years and I'm trying to nail it in my own walk with God.

Where do you and I need to trust?

1. Family life
2. Relationships
3. Spiritual life
4. Health
5. Work
6. Life's direction
7. Finances

 God will honor your sincere prayer for guidance in any of those areas. It is his promise.

"...neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us [you] from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8: 38-39)

"I [you] can do everything through him who gives me [you] strength." (Philippians 4: 13)

TRUST

What is it about Arizona quail and Brian Williams on NBC Nightly News? Every evening at 5:30, when my husband and I turn on Nightly News, quail come to our back yard to feast. Not just a family, sometimes as many as 19. Their timing is precise and it almost never fails.

These unique birds must have a time clock embedded in their miniscule brains to know just when to come for juicy bugs and world news. The weather's pleasant and the door is open so I'm sure they're listening. Note to Brian: would you lighten up on world news a bit. There's a covey of little quail listening.

Bible Quail:

This reminds me of the quail story in the Bible. You knew I was going there, didn't you? When the Israelites roamed the desert for forty years, God met all their needs, including sending daily nutrition in the form of manna. There it was, every morning when they walked out of their tents: coriander-like wafers ready for the picking. It was nutritional and sufficient for the day. If they picked too much, it went moldy, emphasizing God's message to trust him for each day's provision.

True to human nature, the Israelites started grumbling. They ate manna in the morning and a little meat from their limited livestock in the evening. Still, they tired of the menu. God must have been exasperated, as he is with us sometimes. He provides but we grumble.

Well, he showed them. He sent quail. Lots and lots of quail. A year later, after a major gripe session, the Bible tells us, "Now a wind went out from the Lord and drove quail in from the sea. It brought them down all around the camp to about three feet above the ground, as far as a day's walk in any direction." (Numbers 11:31) Now that's a lot of quail!

We're told the people gathered and ate and while the meat was still between their teeth, the anger of the Lord burned against them and he struck them with a terrible plague.

What is the sin here?

It's grumbling and not appreciating the provisions of God who loves mankind. Period. As I look into my own heart, often I take for granted God's daily provision and forget to rely on his care for me. I am called to trust, even in the middle of life's greatest issues.

The quail who come to hear the evening news (I know, I know. They're not listening. It's a joke.) remind me since God provides for his creatures through their inner clocks and bugs in our yard, then surely he will guide me through life. He just wants my trust.

Can you join me in trusting God for the issues you're facing right now?

(Helpful Hint:  you can put an icon for this blog on your desktop and it will be easier to click on than typing in a web address. It also will remind you to check each Thursday and Sunday for new posts. Just left click on the little gray icon next to my blog address in the upper left corner, hold and drag it to your desktop. You might have to first move the blog window to the right of your screen so you can see the desktop and screen at the same time. It's easy-peasy.)

Comfort

What speaks comfort to you? Is it a:

• Cuppa - cocoa or coffee?
• Quilt made by someone who loves you?
• Down pillow reminiscent of your favorite plush toy as a child?
• Comfortable home waiting for you at the end of a workday?
• Meal with your favorite foods, with no regards to calories?
• Special person?
• Family in harmony?
• Sense of safety when "all the chickies are in the nest"? 

     This photo shows a beautiful sunrise a few Fridays ago when God blessed our Arizona skies with soft clouds and amazing colors. It was as if he threw a multi-hued blanket over our whole valley. A friend who teaches high school shared this photo--her reward for having to get up early for work. By the time I got up, I missed the colors but saw the blanket of clouds.

                                                                        (Photo courtesy Jamie McQueen)

     How does God comfort?

• Through his understanding and care 

In spite of the huge issues going on in the world today, God lets me come to him with my problems. My concerns are valid to him, no matter how small.

• Through the avenue of prayer 

I can pray anytime, anywhere, any place. I can pray out loud, in my head, formally, or informally. The lines of communication are always open.

• Through my reading of the Bible

God's letter of love is there for me to absorb. (See August 4th post) Everything I experience is in that book! It takes a little delving on my part to find answers, but they're available.

• Through the Holy Spirit 

The Spirit is a little mysterious and somewhat puzzling. We don't talk about him as much as we talk about God or Jesus, but the Holy Spirit comforts, counsels, and empowers. I'll save the theological discussion for the preachers and scholars, but I know he exists.

When you need comforting, and who doesn't in today's world, ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with a feeling of peace. Life may continue to be turbulent, but you will experience inner calm that comes only from God.

What is the biggest problem causing you stress right now? Imagine a soft, fluffy cloud blanket from God caressing your shoulders.

God blankets you with his love and strength to walk through whatever is in store.

View from the McQueen Backyard

Learn, Learn, Learn #2

     The previous post listed the nine different intelligences identified by Harvard professor Howard Gardner. He suggests each of us has a comfortable way of learning new material if it's presented in line with our "intelligence".

In case you forgot, they are:

Naturalist/Musical/Logical-Mathematical/Existential/Interpersonal/Bodily-Kinesthetic/Linguistic/Intra-personal/Spacial

What About the Rich and Famous?

     A fun activity is to consider famous people and plug them into one of these categories. Obvious ones are:

Michael Jordan

Yo-yo Ma

Dr. Phil

Frank Lloyd Wright

Bill Gates

Dalai Lama

Maya Angelou

Jane Goodman

     I hope you took the online quiz that helped identify your personal learning preferences. Remember, you probably have more than one. It's fascinating to learn how our brain works and how it affects our lives.

Your Devotional Life

We can apply these learning styles to our study of God and his Word. Identify your favorite way of learning and then apply it to your walk with God. Where do you feel closest to him?

• hiking up a mountain trail
• listening to the Bible or Christian books on tape
• delving into a passage using commentaries and concordances to help you (even going to the Hebrew and Greek translations)
• serving in a hands-on mission experience
• participating in Christian music

     You get the point. God created you with specific learning styles and abilities. Alter your study of God to your style. It will not only be effective, it will be enjoyable and worshipful. The Creator wants to reveal himself to you in ways that are natural for you--a good fit.

    Now, get back to class, whether it's indoors or out.

Learn, Learn, Learn #1

Allow me to get a little academic today:

     Howard Gardner, noted Harvard Professor in the Graduate School of Education, developed the theory of Multiple Intelligences. He determined our brains demonstrate many areas of intelligence but are usually dominated by one or two. He labeled them Intelligences and is quick to point out they are not learning styles. The difference is highly academic and he writes about it in an article for the Washington Post.

     For our purposes, here are the nine intelligences he identifies, and it's helpful to me, regardless of what the good professor says, to think of them as "the best way we learn": (See if you can see yourself in one or two of these categories.)

Nine Types of Intelligences

By Howard Gardner

1. Naturalist Intelligence (Nature Smart)

Designates the human ability to discriminate among living things (plants, animals) as well as sensitivity to other features of the natural world (clouds, rock configurations). Think chef or botanist. 

2. Musical Intelligence (Musical Smart)

Musical intelligence is the capacity to discern pitch, rhythm, timbre, and tone.  This intelligence enables us to recognize, create, reproduce, and reflect on music, as demonstrated by composers, conductors, musicians, vocalist, and sensitive listeners. They are usually quite aware of sounds others may miss.

3. Logical-Mathematical Intelligence (Number/Reasoning Smart)

Logical-mathematical intelligence is the ability to calculate, quantify, consider propositions and hypotheses, and carry out complete mathematical operations.  It enables us to perceive relationships and connections and to use abstract, symbolic thought; sequential reasoning skills; and inductive and deductive thinking patterns.  Detectives, scientists, and mathematicians fall into this category.

4. Existential Intelligence

Sensitivity and capacity to tackle deep questions about human existence, such as the meaning of life, why do we die, and how did we get here.

5. Interpersonal Intelligence (People Smart)

Interpersonal intelligence is the ability to understand and interact effectively with others. It involves effective verbal and nonverbal communication, the ability to note distinctions among others, sensitivity to the moods and temperaments of others, and the ability to entertain multiple perspectives. Educators, sales people, counselors, and political leaders are probably strong in this area.

6. Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence (Body Smart)

Bodily kinesthetic intelligence is the capacity to manipulate objects and use a variety of physical skills.  This intelligence also involves a sense of timing and the perfection of skills through mind–body union.  Athletes, dancers, surgeons, and craftspeople exhibit well-developed bodily-kinesthetic intelligence.

7. Linguistic Intelligence (Word Smart)

Linguistic intelligence is the ability to think in words and to use language to express and appreciate complex meanings.  Linguistic intelligence allows us to understand the order and meaning of words and to apply meta-linguistic skills to reflect on our use of language. Teachers, writers, lawyers, and poets fall into this category

8. Intra-personal Intelligence (Self Smart)

Intra-personal intelligence is the capacity to understand oneself and one’s thoughts and feelings, and to use such knowledge in planning and directioning one’s life.  Intra-personal intelligence involves not only an appreciation of the self, but also of the human condition.

9. Spatial Intelligence (Picture Smart)

Spatial intelligence is the ability to think in three dimensions.  Core capacities include mental imagery, spatial reasoning, image manipulation, graphic and artistic skills, and an active imagination. Architects, sculptors, and designers share this intelligence. 

(Summarized from: Overview of the Multiple Intelligences Theory.  Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development and Thomas Armstrong.com)

Now for the fun part... 

  

     Plug yourself in. Where do you fit? You can take a simple on-line quiz to determine your personal learning style at http://psychology.about.com/library/quiz/bl-mi-quiz.htm.

     Once you identify the way you learn, it's easy to see why certain subjects were easy for you while you struggled in others. It might explain the difficulties and successes you experienced in the classroom. It also might help you in relating to your child in assisting with homework or in selecting teachers. And...it may help you understand your spouse. What a promise.

Next Post:  Using these Intelligences in Your Devotional Life 

 

 (Using the social media buttons below, share this info with a friend who might benefit from learning about these nine intelligences. Perhaps you know a parent who is struggling with homework battles each evening.)

   

Grow in God's Classroom

     School, for some, brings up painful memories. For others, time spent in school was a delight. For a few, it may have been an escape from an embattled home life. I suppose the majority of students merely tolerate the whole idea of education. It is their job and they are expected to do their best.

     Be honest. What kind of a student were you?

Eager-beaver, Over-achiever
Reluctant Learner
Challenged
Middle of the Row Silent Sam
Class Clown
Plodder-Diligent Worker
Do-just-enough-to-pass Pupil
Front Row Student

     The good news is we all are God's students and there is a special seat for each of us in his classroom. Best news of all, he is the Master Teacher. He meets us where we are and gently pulls us toward him--even if we're in the very back row, resisting his tug. The key is to be teachable. Are we willing to listen, trust, and learn?

     The Bible is God's textbook and has answers and advice on whatever a human being might need to know. How happy it makes me to turn to this book, the Word of God, for anything occurring in my life. Reading scripture, no matter what version or medium used--e-book, tablet, phone, wrist computer, eye glasses computer, or even a book with real pages--enriches lives.

     Are the lessons tough? You bet. Incredibly tough sometimes. Do they produce results? Yes, if I am attuned. Too often I must repeat the lessons until I finally get the message. The bottom line is God always will be involved in my life and I feel privileged he loves me enough to show me who he is.

Favorite Students

     During my career teaching high school English, my favorite student was the one who walked into the classroom on Day One and muttered, "I hate English!" I would smile, knowing that student was my target. If I could reach him or her, I would have the whole class in tow. Planning lessons to engage a reluctant student made for a fun classroom experience. It didn't always work but sometimes magic happened and when it did, angels clapped!

     You are one of God's favorite students. Stay teachable.

Next Post:  Identify YOUR Personal Learning Style

 

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Faith and Bumper Stickers

     Years ago a colleague reported for jury duty and was surprised at one of the questions a lawyer threw at the prospective jurors:  "What bumper stickers do you have on your car?"

     At first she was puzzled but, the more she thought about it, the more she realized what we slap on the bumpers and windows of our cars often reveals our attitude about a lot of things. Bumper sticker decals speak to our faith, our political persuasion, our taste in music, our membership in organizations, our cynicism, how well our children are doing in school, and even the number of people in our families. If we have no bumper stickers, that, too, might say something about us. It was an interesting way to whittle down the jurors to the lawyer's satisfaction.

     Bumper stickers can be fun. The last two posts have been rather serious so it's time to get a little silly.

Here are bumper stickers I'd like to see:

Survival:

Cut Me Some Slack

 I'm Doing the Best I Can

 Bad Hair Day--So What!

 Perfection is Overrated

Children:

You Need How Many Cupcakes, When?

Play More and Clean Less

 Go Fly a Kite--No, Really. Go Have Fun!

 Reading with a Child Rocks

 The Worry Train has Left the Station!

Perseverance:

Move Aside, I'm Comin' Through!

Don't Mess with Me Today

 I'm Going to Pursue This 'Til It Dies or I Die!

Aging:

Retirement:  It's Nice to Have the Time to Be Busy

Message to Retirees:  Stay out of the Stores on Weekends!

Where was I Going with that Thought?

What Did I Come Into This Room For?

 When You Die, All Your Treasures Go In A Yard Sale

Don't Ask How I Am, Ask What I'm Doing

Miscellaneous:

I'm Multi-Lingual:  I Can Smile in 7 Languages

Success Re-defined = Contentment

Goal:  To Be the Best I'm Capable of Being

Garbage In, Garbage Out

You Might Wanna Try De-daf

Faith:

Heaven Looks Better All the Time

The World Needs God

Love Conquers Most Things. God's Love Conquers All

My Favorite Bumper Sticker:

Eternal Life is God's Idea of Success

     The Bible has bumper stickers. It's called the book of Proverbs. I always smile when I read that book because it conjures up a mental image of an old Grandpa or Grandma rocking on a front porch, sharing wisdom with a group of youngsters seated at their feet. And, yes, they're smoking corn cob pipes. The Old Testament book of Proverbs is God having a little fun. He distills wisdom clothed in marvelous Jewish humor.

     Ann Zwemer, former missionary nurse in India and a dear friend, has been legally blind for the past ten years. However, that hasn't kept her from publishing a book titled, Just a Moment! Daily Reflections for Thinkers. The book is formatted in large print with two reflections per page so readers who are sight-impaired can enjoy it. Behind each is a world of wisdom gained from her walk with God.

Your Turn...

      Now it's your turn. Today, whenever your family gathers together, see if you can make a list of possible bumper stickers that reflect your family's philosophy or belief system. Be creative and have fun. The kids will probably come up with some winners.

If you come up with some good bumper stickers, publish them on the Comments page so we all can get a chuckle.

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God Speaks in the Valleys

     Here is the lovely view from my front porch.

     It's called Ludden Mountain and it has a secret:  there are two American flags up there, one on each peak. No one knows how or why they got there. There are no hiking trails, just rugged terrain and a steep climb. I can't imagine what it took to get those flags to the top and standing strong--strong enough to withstand our powerful dust storms.

     You can see the flags on a very clear day only if you know where to look. Binoculars or the zoom on a camera help. The mystery intrigues me. Who? When? Why? Most of all, how?

     This is a small mountain, nothing like the rugged peaks and valleys of Colorado, the Pacific Northwest, or Canada. But, it's my mountain. I appreciate it every day whether I'm on the porch, biking through the neighborhood, or driving into the subdivision. I enjoy it in the extreme summer heat, in the pleasant winter months, and especially during the rare desert thunderstorms. I really like my mountain.

     Mountains and valleys pretty accurately describe life for all of us. When all is well in our lives, we love being on the peak, feeling like we can conquer the world. Inevitably we descend into a valley of some sorts caused by, well, everything from health to relationships to...whatever. It's life and it's common to everyone.

Here are a few quotes from one of my favorite authors, Oswald Chambers:

"We are built for the valley, for the ordinary stuff we are in, and that is where we have to prove our mettle."

"The mount is not meant to teach us anything, it is meant to make us something."

"...but it is in the valley that we have to live for the glory of God."

                                   (from My Utmost for his Highest, Oswald Chambers, Discovery House Publishers)

Here's a suggestion

     Find some graph paper (the old-fashioned kind from 5th grade math) and chart your life events. Put some sort of scale along the side, and along the bottom list important memories from the time you were very young to the present. Put dots in appropriate places, indicating the level of sadness or happiness of each event. When you're done, connect the dots and you should have a mountain range on your paper. It's interesting what we remember--incidents might seem inconsequential but if you remember them, they're obviously important. Take a look at your mountain range and ask if it reflects your life accurately.

     Now, take a different color pen and map out your faithwalk, your closeness to God. Superimpose this over your life events. You'll have times when you were close to God or far away from God or maybe even questioning his existence. You should now have two mountain ranges, one on top of the other.
What do you see? When I first did this I discovered, not surprisingly, I was closest to God in the valleys of my life--the times that were the toughest. (See blog post from September 28, "The Mighty Saguaro" http://sueraatjes.blogspot.com/2014_09_01_archive.html) Isn't that amazing and uplifting? The surprising revelation for me was that I was farthest away from God while a student at a Christian college. Go figure.

     Now for a third line. Make a thick red line running straight through your two overlapping mountain ranges. Yep. That's God's love and direction in your life. He's always there, always has been, and always will be. Whether we're on mountaintops or valleys the steadfast love of God is ever-present and available.

"Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal." (Isaiah 26: 4)

     For each of you, my readers, I pray your mountaintops are more prevalent than your valleys. In your valleys, may you feel God's presence, strength, and love.

You can put the crayons away now!

 

     Oh, and that mystery on my mountain? I think it's best left unsolved. I've formulated many stories in my head about how and why those flags are up there. Finding out the true scoop would spoil the fun.

(Notice the sidebar for Bible Study Resources to the right. I will continue to add links to various sites to help you in your study of the scriptures.)