There is a lot of talk about death surrounding Easter, and the time leading up to it. It's a difficult topic because I imagine there is nothing quite so scary to humanity as the end of being. Of course, for Christians, Easter is a time of joy because it promises the ending to this existence will be followed by a new and better kind of life.
When I was in grade school, we didn't have spring break. Instead, we had Good Friday and the Monday after Easter as holidays. Now, it's difficult to even find stores closed on the actual day of Easter. With so many people afraid to die, it's interesting that little consideration is given to the event that can alleviate that fear, or at least, most of it.
As a child, I couldn't understand why it was called Good Friday because, I surmised, it certainly wasn't good for Jesus! But now I believe two things: 1) If Jesus hadn't died, He could not have risen and there would be no point to Christianity; and 2) Jesus experienced what most of us have in our darkest hours. When He said, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" He wasn't questioning whether there was a God, but maybe only that He could not feel God's presence and wondered why He was still here. (I don't know for sure if that is the case; I'll leave that to the Biblical scholars.) We sometimes feel that way too, and it's our plea to "do something, God!"
Our pastor gave a sermon two weeks ago that included his experience as a former hospice chaplain. Many times, people were ready to die but could not understand why there were still here. His response was provocative − to show others how to die. I'm sure they would have preferred the Charles Dickens's version, "...if they be like to die, then let them do it and decrease the surplus population." Unlike Jesus who commended his spirit to God and then died, it's usually not our choice when that happens. The difference too is that Jesus knew what he was doing and why.
Sunday, I will celebrate Easter and rejoice in its message. I know that faith has made me a better person, not perfect by any means, but better because I've been shown how to live and how to die.
Happy Easter to the World!
Saturday, March 31, 2018
Friday, March 16, 2018
Tragedy − Too Close
I heard a number of sirens, but not the gunshot that summoned them less than 30 yards away. Apparently that noise was muffled by my washing machine and dryer.
It's not unusual to occasionally hear the screaming of emergency vehicles on the thoroughfare nearby, even over TV or music. But after ten years, I only notice them if there are many, and Wednesday night, there were. Because the sirens were so incessant, at one point, I went outside to see which direction the vehicles were going. I didn't stay outside long enough to see some of them pull into my own small community of town homes. It was just a short time later that I received a phone call from the wife of the president of our home owner association to alert me, as a Board member, to what happened.
Like all horrific incidents, there is always speculation and misinformation. At first, it was thought a domestic situation resulted in the shooting, and we soon learned a fatality occurred. A few hours later, it was known to be a suicide. All of this occurred so close to my town home that I can easily see the unit from my patio. When the draperies were opened, the multiple and lingering flashing lights confirmed that something bad had, indeed, happened.
It was even more unnerving to me for another reason. Just the day before, I was walking my grand-dog and encountered two of the three people living there. It is a rental and on the street separated by our common ground between the homes. We said hello and spoke briefly, not knowing that the next day held such a devastating secret.
Our neighborhood is comprised mostly of live-in owners in addition to some rentals, so we often don't know the names of transient residents, or sometimes even when they move in or out. But the wonderful thing about human nature is compassion, even when you don't really know someone. Whether it is an epic event like 9-11 or a cataclysmic natural disaster, people come together and want to help. And that's just what has happened during the last 48 hours in our small community.
It's not unusual to occasionally hear the screaming of emergency vehicles on the thoroughfare nearby, even over TV or music. But after ten years, I only notice them if there are many, and Wednesday night, there were. Because the sirens were so incessant, at one point, I went outside to see which direction the vehicles were going. I didn't stay outside long enough to see some of them pull into my own small community of town homes. It was just a short time later that I received a phone call from the wife of the president of our home owner association to alert me, as a Board member, to what happened.
Like all horrific incidents, there is always speculation and misinformation. At first, it was thought a domestic situation resulted in the shooting, and we soon learned a fatality occurred. A few hours later, it was known to be a suicide. All of this occurred so close to my town home that I can easily see the unit from my patio. When the draperies were opened, the multiple and lingering flashing lights confirmed that something bad had, indeed, happened.
It was even more unnerving to me for another reason. Just the day before, I was walking my grand-dog and encountered two of the three people living there. It is a rental and on the street separated by our common ground between the homes. We said hello and spoke briefly, not knowing that the next day held such a devastating secret.
Our neighborhood is comprised mostly of live-in owners in addition to some rentals, so we often don't know the names of transient residents, or sometimes even when they move in or out. But the wonderful thing about human nature is compassion, even when you don't really know someone. Whether it is an epic event like 9-11 or a cataclysmic natural disaster, people come together and want to help. And that's just what has happened during the last 48 hours in our small community.
Of course, my first response was to pray for the unfortunate, departed soul, and also for those left behind; that's something I will continue to do for a while. Even so, at the same time, I am also most grateful for what God has instilled in us − the desire to care for one another. Simply put, tragedy often shows us the real reason we are here.
Monday, March 12, 2018
Why We Are Here
I have recently finished reading Dan Brown's book Origin. It asks two questions about our existence: Where did we come from?Where are we going?
The book, like many others by Dan Brown, has had some negative response, especially due to its main character Robert Langdon who is somewhat agnostic. But strangely enough, the character asks the question which all atheists should ask. In the book, one of Robert Langdon's former students (Edmond) asserts, "...the laws of physics alone can create life." And then the paragraph continues with "but for Langdon it raised one burning question that he was surprised nobody was asking: If the laws of physics are so powerful that they can create life...who created the laws?!" Bingo!
We humans abide by a very linear timeline − things are finite in our world and we can't imagine how it all really began. But it did begin somewhere and many of us call that God. He created us and all that is. As I've said before in other blogs, I really don't care how God created everything, I just believe He (and Jesus, John 1:3) did it.
Now as to the other question (spoiler alert), asking where we are going, it alludes to becoming one with technology. That part is a little more difficult to refute. Already, advances have created bionics and implants that help to assist and regulate our failing bodies. It's also no secret that at some point, earth will become over-populated, long before our sun becomes a supernova. Although these issues are in the future, I am more concerned with the ever-present question and answer of why we are here.
I do believe in science, and I do believe in God, so in the end, the question of our existence isn't really a problem for me; I simply believe we are here to care for our fellowman. And for me, that's what really counts. Oh, one more thing − I'll also keep reading Dan Brown's books for entertainment.
Friday, February 16, 2018
Ups and Downs
Just like the stock market, life has its ups and downs. Fortunately, most of us know how to weather the bad and enjoy the good. Christians, I think, are especially fortunate because we have faith "in our corner" to see us through whatever challenges we face, and grateful hearts for happiness. For me, the past week has held some very happy times, and I am savoring every detail as a blessing.
Last week, I was able to secure a SKYPE call for our Kansas Authors Club district with Amy Newmark, the Executive Editor and co-owner of Chicken Soup for the Soul. It was an incredible opportunity for our group as well as honor that she chose to make contact with us. Amy discussed what they look for in stories for their publication, and answered any questions we had.
Our scheduled 30 minute conversation turned into nearly one hour. During that time, Amy announced one of my stories was already chosen to appear in their annual Christmas book this year (which was a big surprise since they haven't finished accepting entries as yet)! It will be my 5th time in one of their anthologies, and I am excited and humbled with each selection. I know the call encouraged others in our group to make submissions, some for the first time, and it certainly made my day!
And then on Valentine's Day, our singles group from church gathered for lunch at a local restaurant after Ash Wednesday services. At the luncheon, these wonderful ladies gave me a "Grandma Shower" with fun items to keep at my home for when my new little grandson visits. The gifts included anything from toys and books to practical items such as bibs and spoons, photo album, pacifiers,clothing, and a teether-rattle. These friends knew how excited I was to become a grandparent and graciously asked to see photos too! (What grandparent doesn't like to indulge in that?)
In both of the scenarios, the key element was sharing − one shared helpful knowledge including information that elated me, and the other shared in my joy. Both were also great examples of how God sends others our way, whether in times of need or in times of happiness.
As a Stephen Minister in my church, we call ourselves care givers. God is the cure giver who uses us to provide physical presence of His love for the person who is facing a particular life challenge or experience. It is truly a blessing to be a servant in that manner.
So, as I contemplate this past week, I will file it away as one of blessings. I don't know what will follow tomorrow, next week, or next year. But whatever comes, I know there will be others sent by God to cross my path to give comfort or joy, depending upon whatever is my circumstance.
Last week, I was able to secure a SKYPE call for our Kansas Authors Club district with Amy Newmark, the Executive Editor and co-owner of Chicken Soup for the Soul. It was an incredible opportunity for our group as well as honor that she chose to make contact with us. Amy discussed what they look for in stories for their publication, and answered any questions we had.
Our scheduled 30 minute conversation turned into nearly one hour. During that time, Amy announced one of my stories was already chosen to appear in their annual Christmas book this year (which was a big surprise since they haven't finished accepting entries as yet)! It will be my 5th time in one of their anthologies, and I am excited and humbled with each selection. I know the call encouraged others in our group to make submissions, some for the first time, and it certainly made my day!
And then on Valentine's Day, our singles group from church gathered for lunch at a local restaurant after Ash Wednesday services. At the luncheon, these wonderful ladies gave me a "Grandma Shower" with fun items to keep at my home for when my new little grandson visits. The gifts included anything from toys and books to practical items such as bibs and spoons, photo album, pacifiers,clothing, and a teether-rattle. These friends knew how excited I was to become a grandparent and graciously asked to see photos too! (What grandparent doesn't like to indulge in that?)
In both of the scenarios, the key element was sharing − one shared helpful knowledge including information that elated me, and the other shared in my joy. Both were also great examples of how God sends others our way, whether in times of need or in times of happiness.
As a Stephen Minister in my church, we call ourselves care givers. God is the cure giver who uses us to provide physical presence of His love for the person who is facing a particular life challenge or experience. It is truly a blessing to be a servant in that manner.
So, as I contemplate this past week, I will file it away as one of blessings. I don't know what will follow tomorrow, next week, or next year. But whatever comes, I know there will be others sent by God to cross my path to give comfort or joy, depending upon whatever is my circumstance.
Friday, February 9, 2018
It's All Relative
When I was a preschool director years ago, I joked that I never enrolled a child of average intelligence. That statement alluded to what I often heard from new parents − "my child has above average intelligence." Sometimes that was actually true, but usually not.
There is something within most of us that doesn't want to be average, even when average is okay. We humans want to be unique, to be of special value, and the funny thing is the best way to do that is sometimes not to purposely try to stand out among the crowd. I'm thinking of Jesus.
Jesus was more than happy to teach us about God and how to live, but he did so without trying to stand out as special himself. He didn't brag, "I'm the son of God, so you better treat me like it!" Instead, it was his willingness to be part of the crowd that ultimately made him not just another face in it.
When my sons were young, I marveled at every accomplishment that was above average, or appeared to be. I even have a picture of my oldest son sitting up at 3 1/2 months. Now before anyone wonders, it wasn't that he had the strength or ability to do so. It was because he had such a round little belly, that when propped up, he only had one way to go and that was sideways! (Although sitting up wasn't really exceptional, he did begin to potty train early at 12 months, and that is true. He wasn't pushed; it was all his choice.)
A few days ago, this same son sent a picture of my grandson at just under 3 weeks of age. If I hadn't seen the picture, I would not have believed it − he's holding his bottle! It appears this isn't some fluke and is actually an exceptional feat, and I'm certain there will be many more such above average occurrences. But, while those of us who love him will smile with pride at whatever above average things he does, I'm hopeful he will be just one of the crowd who stands out because of it.
There is something within most of us that doesn't want to be average, even when average is okay. We humans want to be unique, to be of special value, and the funny thing is the best way to do that is sometimes not to purposely try to stand out among the crowd. I'm thinking of Jesus.
Jesus was more than happy to teach us about God and how to live, but he did so without trying to stand out as special himself. He didn't brag, "I'm the son of God, so you better treat me like it!" Instead, it was his willingness to be part of the crowd that ultimately made him not just another face in it.
When my sons were young, I marveled at every accomplishment that was above average, or appeared to be. I even have a picture of my oldest son sitting up at 3 1/2 months. Now before anyone wonders, it wasn't that he had the strength or ability to do so. It was because he had such a round little belly, that when propped up, he only had one way to go and that was sideways! (Although sitting up wasn't really exceptional, he did begin to potty train early at 12 months, and that is true. He wasn't pushed; it was all his choice.)
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
A Timely Word
Proverbs 15:20 states: "A man finds joy in giving an apt reply − and how good is a timely word!" That was never truer than last week for me.
While leaving after visiting my new grandson at Overland Park Regional Medical Center in K.C., my sister and I had difficulty with the scooter lift in my car. The boom came out of the car, went up and down just fine, but would not go back in. That left the rear gate open and no way to shut the door. Finally, after multiple attempts, it began to go back inside, but required at least 5 incremental times pushing the "In" button.
Once my scooter was safely inside, that meant I wasn't going anywhere later because I could not risk having my scooter lift fail. Even if one of my sons could manually lift the scooter (assuming they were with me), there would be no way to shut the door. Long ago I lost the manual crank that takes forever to use.
When I called about parts and repair, I was quoted more than $500. Ouch! That's quite a chunk of change for most of us, and I had other things I'd rather spend it on. But then I remembered reading something from the latest book I'm editing. This was the timely word for me.
The author wrote a daily devotional based on Dave Ramsey's "Financial Peace University." It's unlike anything I've ever read before because it is a personal account of how she and her husband paid off more than $191,000 in unsecured debt in five years to become totally debt free. One of her devotions was about not freaking out about a large auto repair bill. She realized it was a blessing to have the money to do it. Voila − my apt word!
I have the money to make the repair; I just didn't want to spend that much, and having the resources to do it is a blessing I almost forgot. Usually, I'm a pretty grateful person who recognizes her many blessings, but I really needed that apt word. I couldn't wait to tell Lisa, the author, about the appropriateness of her words and thank God for the timing in reading them.
I really have everything I need, including money for repairs, and what could be a better blessing than that? Oh, and I'll also share the name of the book, to which I referred, when it is published because I can almost guarantee there is an apt word for everyone else too!
While leaving after visiting my new grandson at Overland Park Regional Medical Center in K.C., my sister and I had difficulty with the scooter lift in my car. The boom came out of the car, went up and down just fine, but would not go back in. That left the rear gate open and no way to shut the door. Finally, after multiple attempts, it began to go back inside, but required at least 5 incremental times pushing the "In" button.
Once my scooter was safely inside, that meant I wasn't going anywhere later because I could not risk having my scooter lift fail. Even if one of my sons could manually lift the scooter (assuming they were with me), there would be no way to shut the door. Long ago I lost the manual crank that takes forever to use.
When I called about parts and repair, I was quoted more than $500. Ouch! That's quite a chunk of change for most of us, and I had other things I'd rather spend it on. But then I remembered reading something from the latest book I'm editing. This was the timely word for me.
The author wrote a daily devotional based on Dave Ramsey's "Financial Peace University." It's unlike anything I've ever read before because it is a personal account of how she and her husband paid off more than $191,000 in unsecured debt in five years to become totally debt free. One of her devotions was about not freaking out about a large auto repair bill. She realized it was a blessing to have the money to do it. Voila − my apt word!
I have the money to make the repair; I just didn't want to spend that much, and having the resources to do it is a blessing I almost forgot. Usually, I'm a pretty grateful person who recognizes her many blessings, but I really needed that apt word. I couldn't wait to tell Lisa, the author, about the appropriateness of her words and thank God for the timing in reading them.
I really have everything I need, including money for repairs, and what could be a better blessing than that? Oh, and I'll also share the name of the book, to which I referred, when it is published because I can almost guarantee there is an apt word for everyone else too!
Monday, January 15, 2018
He's Here!
I first fell in love with Maddox when I learned of his existence and viewed his sonogram. And, of course, I think he is the cutest and most adorable grandchild ever to be born! I'd post pictures to prove it, but I am respecting his parents' wishes not to publicly splash his picture across the Internet!
Maddox was due on January 6, but finally made his appearance, after 3 futile attempts to induce labor, via an unplanned c-section yesterday morning (Sunday, January 14). The roads were not great into KC, and I slid through an intersection on a red light while all other cars were fortunately stopped waiting for the light to turn. (For the record, I was going very slow, but ice doesn't care.) I'm certain the intersection was clear of vehicles because God listened to me praying the whole way there!
Maddox continues an uncanny occurrence in our family. There may be 365 days a year, but we seem to like duplicate birthdays. I have 2 nephews born on my paternal grandmother's birthday; a great-nephew born on my sister Lesta's birthday; my son Ryan was born on my sister Bette's birthday, another nephew was born on my paternal great-grandmother's (with whom I share my middle name) birthday; a niece was born on her paternal grandmother's birthday; and Maddox was born on my maternal grandmother's birthday. He missed my father's birthday by one day.
As you might imagine, Maddox is the screen saver on my Samsung tablet and I can't stop looking at him. At 8lbs, 12oz he can easily fill an entire page. He also very much resembles his father's baby pictures so that's another reason to love him even more!
Maddox was due on January 6, but finally made his appearance, after 3 futile attempts to induce labor, via an unplanned c-section yesterday morning (Sunday, January 14). The roads were not great into KC, and I slid through an intersection on a red light while all other cars were fortunately stopped waiting for the light to turn. (For the record, I was going very slow, but ice doesn't care.) I'm certain the intersection was clear of vehicles because God listened to me praying the whole way there!
Maddox continues an uncanny occurrence in our family. There may be 365 days a year, but we seem to like duplicate birthdays. I have 2 nephews born on my paternal grandmother's birthday; a great-nephew born on my sister Lesta's birthday; my son Ryan was born on my sister Bette's birthday, another nephew was born on my paternal great-grandmother's (with whom I share my middle name) birthday; a niece was born on her paternal grandmother's birthday; and Maddox was born on my maternal grandmother's birthday. He missed my father's birthday by one day.
As you might imagine, Maddox is the screen saver on my Samsung tablet and I can't stop looking at him. At 8lbs, 12oz he can easily fill an entire page. He also very much resembles his father's baby pictures so that's another reason to love him even more!
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