Saturday, December 24, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Mend

Wintertide Tractations: Mend

Start.

Mend is a beautiful word.  It makes me think of something that was once new and shiny and attractive that somehow broke, or became old, or unattractive, and is now under repair by one who sees the potential it still holds. 

Throughout my life mending has been a part of our family's common practice. My mother used to say that when Kyrie was small she thought Mama could fix anything with Duct-tape.  Kyrie herself inherited the "mending gene" plus a huge combination of compassion and insight into the unseen "gold-mine below the surface" in any given cast-off.

I've been thinking of mending in a spiritual sense alot lately.  Friends who I had such confidence in, brothers in Christ whom I'd grown with, whom I respected...they're in need of mending.  A couple whose marriage is in tatters.  A little child I know, broken in heart by parents who made foolish decisions, now trying to figure out how to live "life in the aftermath".  

A few weeks ago, before these recent mending projects came to light, my mind flitted to another brother.  He, too, had become a mending project after life had blown up in his face.  But here I want to clarify: not my mending job.  No, this type of mending project, when it involves people, that's only something the Lord can do.  So as I thought of this brother in Christ, I realized how beautifully my Lord and Father had done true, deep, needed mending on his behalf.  Suddenly the perfect descriptive phrase popped into my mind, "Like it never even happened."  Maybe you've never heard of ServPro where you're from, but around here, one can often see TV commercials with green-suited people sliding down ropes and rushing to the rescue to repair some house or business after water or fire damage.  Their goal is to restore the building back to normal, as if the disaster had never occurred.  I have to say, my God does things far better than ServePro!  What kind of company could ever address the deep-down, painfully pervasive heartaches and spiritual diseases that mankind groans with?  None.  But my Savior diagnoses them perfectly and has the exact solution for each need: Himself! 

In His Word, we find the answers to all manner of problems....if we're willing to take the time to seek them out and find them.  It's not a flash-fix.  It's not microwave cooking: speedy-fast.  It takes time which some people don't want to give.  In God's hands, and on His schedule, transformation and real, health-inducing mending can take place.  I've seen that He can do it and that's my hope for these on my heart tonight.  If you're in need of mending, seek Him.  I love Psalm 147:3, "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds."  Yes, our Creator is the One Who can mend.

Friday, December 23, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Gold

Wintertide Tractations: Gold

When I consider the word "gold", the recent happenings of this Christmas season come to mind. 

First, I had the great privilege of being home and with my family for this blessed time.  The Grandparents' house was the perfect gathering place for four of my cousins and their broods over the holiday and it was delightful having them in the neighborhood and filling the dear place with laughter and chatter.  As I got to spend time with them, it was pure gold.  I watched one of my cousins interacting with her husband and smiled inside.  He made a joke which few seemed to catch, but her head went back in amusement; she got it, she understood him.  What a satisfied feeling to get to see the product of the Lord's arranging marriage. 

Another golden nugget was getting to meet with Treasure who was in the state for Christmas.  She moved last year or so to serve the Lord in Houston and any time she's back visiting her family, we try to get together.  Talks with her are like nourishment to my soul.  They are few and far between, but so precious.  The Lord is teaching her things through some sticky-difficult situations and I marvel continuously at her depth and the beauty of her heart. 

More than sweet family, more than dear friends, God's Word is real gold.  No, it's more than that.  Real gold melts and gets stolen and buried and lost, but God's Word has stood the test of time.  It's something I can treasure forever.  I can stock pile it in my heart and give it away and be rich and undepleted all at the same time!  I can be stripped of all comfort and possessions and still have a gold mine in my heart which no man can steal from me.  David, the king and psalm writer, said, "The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver." (Psalm 119:72.)   He said that he loved God's commandments above gold and knew that they were more desirable than fine gold. (Psalm 119:127   Psalm 19:10)  But the gold of God's Word can't automatically appear into my heart, nor can I hope by holding a Bible or being near one to discover the jewels therein.  I have to diligently read it, study it, and seek the Lord and then I will benefit from the spiritual wealth the Lord intends for me.

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Supply

Wintertide Tractations: Supply

Start.

My dear pastor, Bro. Earl, loaned me an incredible treasure: his brand-new hymnal from Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, CA, Hymns of Grace.   

Wow! Can I just say, this is a goldmine of theologically-deep hymns, both ancient and new!  I keep discovering one beautiful hymn after another, as well as some I already knew.

One of my favorites is the hymn "My Shepherd, You Supply My Need" by Isaac Watts.  Here are the words:

My Shepherd, You supply my need; most holy is Your name.
In pastures fresh You make me feed, beside the living stream.
You bring my wandr'ing spirit back when I forsake Your ways,
And lead me, for Your mercy's sake, in paths of truth and grace.

When I walk through the shades of death, Your presence is my stay;
One word of Your supporting breath drives all my fears away.
Your hand, in sight of all my foes, does still my table spread;
My cup with blessings overflows, Your oil anoints my head.

The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days;
Oh, may Your house be my abode and all my work be praise.
Here would I find a settled rest, while others go and come; 
No more a stranger or a guest, but like a child at home.

This version gives the tune, in case you want to sing along. 

Oh yes! how wonderful is my Father, my Shepherd Who is my supply!

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Remain

Wintertide Tractations: Remain

Start.

Faithfulness has been on my mind alot lately.  My rough definition of the word would be: 
     tenacity; the resolve to remain in a state or under a certain command;  to continue allegiance despite difficulty; to take action to protect or promote the welfare or good name of that to which the allegiance is applied.  

At times as I (in my mind) have looked out over the crowd of friends and family members I know and love, or as I have made acquaintance with new people, classmates, etc., my mind has touched on the idea of remaining.  

Will Pete remain at church? or will he quit coming and give up on the Lord in his personal life?  Will Grey and Ann remain faithful, remain married, or will they succumb to the pressures of society and break their promise to each other "for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer"?  Will Lesleigh, a freshman in highschool, remain fervent in her zeal for the Lord when she goes to college?

At times the state of society can make me want to curl into a ball in a dark room and stay there forever.  But I don't see that mentality commended in Scripture.  Instead, I see bold men and women sharing Christ in spite of the degradation around them (Acts 4:29-31).   I see preachers giving forth the Word of Life in the face of persecution (Acts 6:9-15), in the face of great immorality (Ephesians 5:3-4   this post).  I see believers exhorted to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17) and to be prayerful (1 Peter 4:7).

Perhaps the question I should be asking isn't about Pete or anyone but about my own self.  How much have I prayed for Pete or Lesleigh today or this week?  How much have I been praying for Grey and Ann this month, this year?  How much have I been taking their needs, their situations and sorrows to our Heavenly Father?  While I wonder whether these will remain, am I myself remaining faithful to pray for these my brothers and sisters in Christ?

Wintertide Tractations: Guard

Wintertide Tractations: Guard

Start.




{Disclaimer: I write using pseudonyms for most people and places directly involved with my life.} 

Our pastor at Victory Road Baptist Church where my family and I are members has been preaching through the book of Ephesians on Sunday nights.  In our study, Bro. Earl had taught into chapter 5 now and we have encountered the fact that being Spirit-filled will cause us to be thankful, will cause us to sing to ourselves or aloud (despite whether our voices are  "good quality" or not), will make us submissive to each other in the Lord (5:18-21).  

Now we are looking to begin those commands that are directed specifically to groups of believers in the church.  Wives are addressed in 5:22-24, husbands in 5:28-33, children in 6:1-3, fathers in 6:4, servants 6:5-8, masters 6:9.   Before we can understand those positions and the responsibilities that the Lord has placed on each, Bro. Earl wanted to reiterate the need to be Spirit-filled, submissive, thankful, and "songful".  (My word; not one that he used.)  He also gave us a background of the times and situations happening when Paul penned this Spirit-inspired Book.  This teaching went in direct contrast to the culture of his day, where much of the immorality we are seeing in America was rampant.  It goes in direct contrast to the sinfulness of man in any age.

One of the things Bro. Earl addressed was the sacred quality of marriage.  To follow this Biblical model in a marriage is to guard one's spouse and to see the best relationship that the Lord would have us experience.  
In marriages where two, naturally selfish people are constantly looking out for themselves, it's no wonder we see the demise of so many homes today.  But when the husband and wife are each seeking Christ, seeking to be Spirit-filled, seeking to be thankful, submissive, and singing in their hearts to the Lord, things look vastly different.  Beautiful, in fact!  My pastor wants to guard his marriage, he wants each married couple to guard their marriage, but far more than my pastor's wishes, the Lord wants to be our Guard.  

Although I am not married, it was a sweet thing to encounter this exposition of verses I had read over almost my entire life and yet had never seen in this way.  Putting this formula into practice isn't something I can do without Christ, but as I seek Him, I look forward to seeing Him produce these attributes in me!

Saturday, December 17, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Ready

Wintertide Tractations: Ready

Start:

When one is a child, it's easy to be ready for what is deemed exciting.  Just around the bend an adventure awaits and there's no need for delay or preparation in a child's mind.  "Diving in" and "discovering" are all the focus. 

Last night as my family was visiting with our youth pastor's family at a local lights display, Spice expressed eagerness over the nearness of Christmas.  She was ready for it to be here!  Mrs. Wynneth and I laughingly agreed that we were glad for the days we still have until then!  

That eager, child-readiness is something I do not want to let go of.  Not the hap-hazard, no-worries kind of mentality, not the childishness.  No, I want the childlikeness.  I remember The Grandmother once putting a very definite difference between the two and I've not forgotten it.  Childlikeness.  That anticipation for what's ahead, that sparkle in the eye that loves mystery and surprises.  That laugh that is genuine and comes from the pure joy of Christ.  That friendship that extends hospitality, a willing hand, a favorite possession, and genuine love to others, regardless of warts and blemishes and social taboos.  

I wish I could remember the quote by C.S. Lewis I encountered several years ago.  It had to do with an awareness of what was around a person, a rediscovery, as it were, of all those things that once were new and amazing to us.  His words encouraged me to feel the carpet under my sock feet, or the grass beneath my bare toes, the prickliness of pine needles during a walk through the forest, or the feeling of water running over my hand, a bird chirping merrily outside when adults all around me are engaged in "the important things of life",  the feeling of a freshly-washed pillowcase under my cheek, or the delight of biting into a crisp, juicy apple.  

Sometimes readiness takes the form of flexibility when one is an adult.  It's the transfer of the child-adventure spirit to the adult-leader spirit, the need to change quickly during unexpected hair-pin curves and sudden cliff-drops, keep a clear head, and land on one's feet.  Ha, I have to laugh inside.  That's the type of adult I'd like to be.  

In the Bible, I read of a man who seemed to be just like that.  As a youth he was taken suddenly from his homeland, taught a brand new language and customs, and expected to have wisdom and dignity about him.  He did.  In fact, Daniel had such wisdom, that he dared to stay faithful to his God in the face of possible death or at least punishment.  Because of his allegiance to the Lord, he was promoted again and again.  He was sentenced to death at one point for his worshiping the One True God, but was miraculously saved when the Lord sent an angel to protect him.  Over and over kings realized his insight and understanding of dreams.  One king went out and was replaced by another.  Through it all Daniel's relationship with the Lord seemed to give him level head and gracefulness.  Despite all he saw and suffered, he never stopped following the Lord and for that he has been loved and admired by believers for generations.  (You can begin reading Daniel's incredible story here.)  

I want to be eager-ready, trusting in the Lord.

Wintertide Tractations: Grow

Wintertide Tractations: Grow

Start:

It's December 17.  Most of you probably already knew that.  Here in the wonderful southern countryside where I live, we've enjoyed lovely warm weather today.  This afternoon my family spent some outside time together.  My parents raked leaves and invited me to join them and Kyrie kept us company on the front steps working on a Christmas gift project we've been hired to do.  {Besides the rush on making the Christmas gifts, we only have two and a half rakes. (Yes, I did say half.  Somehow the handle is not the comfortable normal size.)}  It was delightful outside in the Autumn-like breeze as we raked enthusiastically in our short sleeves.

We burned off the garden weeks ago, but Dad's greens are still vibrant against the blackened earth although they have about reached a state of being too tough to eat.  This evening I discovered Dad's row of pepper plants that long ago fell over are still faithfully bearing fruit.  The poor, withering-looking plants rewarded my visit with seven good-sized peppers.  Those little plants are an inspiration to me.  Even with the cold weather they've experienced, even with the fire that raged around them devouring all the rest of the garden (except the greens), even with the weight of their produce bringing them to humbly kiss the earth, even now that summer is over and our visits are less frequent, they continue to push life-giving nutrients into growing peppers.  They are a tribute to their Creator.

They remind me of some verses from Psalm 92, "The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; To shew that the LORD is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him" (vv. 12-15).

I want to be like that.  There in the presence of the Lord, there in the place where His name is worshiped, right there do the righteous flourish.  Even in time of old age and grey hairs, they continue to live for the Lord and bring honor and glory to Him.  ("Fat" in these verses doesn't have a bad connotation, but instead seems to indicate richness.)

Every day that I live my life I would love to know that I grew closer to the Lord, stronger in my faith, deeper in my love for His Word, His coming  Kingdom, His people, and the lost to whom He would have me reach.  Growth is something our Creator-God must love.  He created the Garden of Eden with all its beautiful foliage and fruits.  He created babies to get taller and mature into capable beings.  He inspires growth in every aspect of nature.  Even burned areas, (like our garden), begin almost immediately to show tiny sprouts that have refused to be defeated after the all-engulfing flames.

In my Bible are 38 instances of the word "grow" but perhaps a verse in 2 Peter is the most familiar to me. It comes as the last of the verses.  Peter has been reminding and exhorting and warning.  Now he says, "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen"  (v. 18). 

Friday, December 16, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Other

Wintertide Tractations: Other

Start:

As I mentioned in a previous post, Kyrie is a gift-giver.  Just now as I was in my room, she came in with two clay pitchers/sauce dishes she picked up at a recent garage sale.  She insisted that I take one, knowing that I admired them after the ooing and aahing we did when she showed us her "loot" that evening after the sale.  She knows that I, with my dream of one day having a "white, clapboard farmhouse" like things that are simple, beautiful, and useful, not to mention retro, old-fashioned, or down-to-earth if possible.  (What's more down-to-earth than pottery? *wink*)  And so, she, with her unquenchable giving-ness, made me choose one of the darling clay vessels.  


She reminds me of the verse in Philippians, "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves" (2:3).  

Esteeming "other[s] better than myself" is not something that comes naturally for me.  I'm a selfish human being in desperate need of more Christ-likeness.  Jesus Christ never exhibited selfishness, He always thought of us, unworthy humans. 

In fact, later on in the chapter are some verses that I love very much, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross"  (Phil. 2:5-8). 

Christ came and sacrificed His all so that others (us; all who believe in Him) can have life with Him forever! 

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Ring

Good evening!  The word for this Wintertide Tractation is: Ring 

Start:

Perhaps there are some of you readers who, like me, notice jewelry.  Tonight while I was at church I noticed several of the rings on those women who I associated with this evening and now that this word has come up, I realize that I had subconsciously stashed away the pictures of them.  

Our church pianist and I have been working on a duet for Christmas morning and as we sat in close proximity to each other, I noticed her flashy wedding set.  It pleases me.  She is greatly loved by her quiet, thoughtful husband and as a wonderful lady I am glad that he would lavish such upon her.  

I noticed another wedding set on my good friend and fellow teacher in the children's class I help with.  She and her husband are frugal.  He works hard so that she can stay home with their children, but yet again I was happy to see the "sparkler" that she wore, a token of his devotion to her.

Rings are funny things.  They're displayed on TV, in sale ads, and on billboards.  The captions accompanying them promise that the purchase of such will either secure the man adoration from his wife or fiance, or will show the woman just how valuable she it.  Most of the time, the rings pictured are much too gaudy to my liking.  

I recently watched a movie called "Princess Cut".  The main character, Grace, starts out with her heart set on having the perfect engagement ring, a Princess cut, with seemingly no care as to the type of guy that puts it on her finger.  As the movie progresses, she realizes that the character of the man is far more important than the style of the ring. 

When my parents were picking out rings before their marriage in the eighties, they decided on yellow gold bands as wide as they could feasibly manage because, according to my Mother, "I wanted people to know he was taken". (I know my Dad would echo those sentiments about my Mother.)

As I've grown up seeing those bands on my parents' ring fingers, seen the ads with the glitzy over-done engagement jewels, heard the divorce rates, and learned a little about the struggles of marriage, I'm beginning to think there's something my parents know that the advertisers (and those that are tricked into buying their wares) don't.  

A wedding band or an engagement ring is only as beautiful as the love that's behind it.  The simplest diamond is worn with dignity when the woman knows that her man is the real "priceless gem".  The most dazzling, diamond-studded ring is worthless when the relationship is built on selfish motives and not Christ.  

Yes, invariably, every topic eventually winds back to Christ.  After all, He's the One Who created the world, and that includes marriage.  He's the One Who has true wisdom for those involved in it. Those who enter that sacred bond without Him set themselves up for great heartache.  

Whether I marry or not, whether I get a stunning setting or a simple piece of jewelry, I most desperately want the Lord, my Savior, to be the Author of my marriage.  In His hands, a ring is only a side benefit.  

I often think of a simple but precious song I learned as a child,

"Lord, You are more precious than silver.
Lord, You are more costly than gold.
Lord, You are more beautiful than diamonds,
And nothing I desire compares with You."

                                                                          
                    (I believe the author is Lynn Deshazo)

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Wrap

It seems that I may have finally gotten caught up with my Wintertide Tractations!  The word for the day is: Wrap.

Start.

When it comes to gift-giving, I must admit, I struggle.  At times, I'll pass that very special something and think of some friend that I'd love to give it to.  But more often, I come to an important occasion and find myself at a loss as to what to do for the ones I love.  Perhaps it has to do with a budget too narrow to afford what I know they'd like and then a blank brain about anything that might actually fit into my spending amount.  I don't seem wired to be a giver of purchased or handmade items.

Kyrie, on the other hand, is a terrific gift-giver.  She peruses little shops and sale racks all year round, spotting items right and left and tucking them away for the perfect occasion and then, voila! she produces a lovely gift that exudes thoughtfulness and love.  Her gifts are often cleverly packaged with some delightful paper or decorated with a natural or specially-handcrafted ornamentation.  When a gift comes from Kyrie, it delights from wrapping to contents.  

Whether one is a gift-giver or gift-wrapper or both, I'm reminded of Jesus Christ.  He came as the Greatest Gift in wrapping that men found it hard to see past.  

The angel told the shepherds in the fields, "...Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:10-12).  In swaddling clothes? God's Son?  Lying in a feeding trough?  That didn't sound like a place for the King of kings!  But He came humbly, without fanfare, without seeking applause.

The Jews that heard Jesus teach when He ministered around Galilee couldn't believe that this Man was God's Son.  They expected something far different than what Jesus appeared to be.  In John 8:56-59, Jesus has a conversation with some of them: "Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.  Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?  Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.  Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by."

Though so many rejected Him then and few seem to worship Him now, still, "being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Phil. 2:8-11.)  One day, every scoffer and every worshipper shall see the Lord Christ as Who He is: the One Who came wrapped in human flesh is truly the Son of God, the Redeemer of mankind!

Wintertide Tractations: Darkness

I'm still trying to get caught up with my daily Wintertide Tractations.  The word is Darkness.

Start.

During this Christmas season when I think of the word Darkness, my mind goes to one of the pieces from my favorite oratorio, Messiah, by Georg Frideric Handel.  

The words of one of the movements come from Isaiah 60:2-3, "For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.  And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising."


The song opens in deep, almost foreboding tones.  What does this mean that darkness shall cover the earth?  I had never really thought about it; the song wasn't one of my favorites from the CD I have.  But then come the words that turn the song bright, "but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee."  As I pondered the words in bed last night, suddenly, the meaning came to me.  


At Christ's crucifixion, Matthew recounts, "Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour" (Mat 27:45).  It was just as Isaiah had prophesied!  

But Christ did not stay on the cross.  Isaiah's prophecy was further fulfilled when He brought Himself to life again by His Divine power!  In Paul's sermon in Acts 13, he says of Jesus, "And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre.  But God raised him from the dead:  And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.  And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee" (Act 13:29-33). 

The Lord arose and I have the privilege of joining with so many of His people who declare His glory!  I am one of the Gentiles prophesied of so many centuries ago.  I have seen the light of Christ for myself and darkness has given way to life through His name!

Wintertide Tractations: Nourish

For this Wintertide Tractation, I have the privilege of using a word that I love: Nourish

Start.

I mentioned in my last post that my family went to Atlanta over the weekend.  One of our favorite things to do when we're away from our church is to find a church to attend and this vacation was no exception.  In the morning, my Dad found out about a nice church just around the corner from our hotel.  In the evening we discovered a different one and had an experience that truly nourished my soul.  

As we were driving along late that afternoon on an erand, my Mother noticed a sign that indicated that Romanians met for services there.  We were excited, having had friends that served as missionaries in that country for several years.  On our return we decided to stop in.  The Lord worked it out that we were right in time for the night service.  People dressed in their best filed in, greeting each other in Romanian with smiles and hugs.  Many extended greetings and smiles to us as well.  

When one of the elders learned of our presence, he came over and asked us about ourselves.  We mentioned that we were in town for Operation Christmas Child and stopped in because we love the peoples of the world who love the Lord.  

We were expecting the services to be in Romanian (which none of us understand), but he very graciously insisted that we use the church's headphones and gracious translator so that we might enjoy the services all the more.  "In heaven you won't need headphones," the elder said, "but here, you do." 

The music and the preaching were so filled with a desire to magnify the Lord that my heart thrilled at these dear people's love for my Savior.  How it amazes me over and over whenever I encounter others who know Jesus Christ and are faithfully serving Him in their corner of the world!  I love to be with God's people! 

Monday, December 12, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Fragile

Hello again! I've gotten behind a bit due to a trip I was blessed to take with my family.  The word for this Wintertide Tractation is Fragile. 

Start.

We just returned from a trip to Atlanta to participate in the Operation Christmas Child shoe box processing.  It was quite amazing how careful and expedient the whole undertaking is!  One of my jobs was to search the boxes for anything perishable or breakable.  No chocolate, no snacks, and no glass (among other things).  Fragility was the underlying factor.  

Life itself is fragile, isn't it?  As we traveled back today I got to talk to a cousin.  The fragility of life struck me hard as she reported that an acquaintance of her family passed away.  It was so sudden.  He had been in a car wreck some months ago, but had seemed to be doing much better...and now this.  Although they had met him before, they barely knew him, having become better friends with his brothers.  Suddenly his life is over and he didn't know my Jesus. 

I'm astonished.  I grieve.  I didn't even know the young man, but I feel like I know his family through what my cousins have said.  I cannot really take in what it means for a soul to be on the earth and suddenly drop off into eternity without knowing Jesus.

All around me this weekend in Georgia, I saw people whose faces for one reason or another caught my attention and whose need twisted my heart.  Is this a taste of what Jesus felt when Matthew reports,  "But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd"  (9:36)?  This "compassion" is an internal yearning.  There's so much need, so many hurting or uncaring, so many who are clueless about the state of their soul, about their need for the Savior Who came so that we "might have life, and that [we] might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).  

I feel at such a loss that I crumple up inside.  What am I to do when all around me people are dying without knowing Jesus Christ and have no idea of what it means to know Him? 

The overwhelmedness I have been feeling should bring me back to the verses that follow Jesus' gaze of compassion: "Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;  Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest" (Mat 9:37-38).  What does this mean?  It think it is in the book Radical where I encountered a deeper meaning to this passage than I had seen before.  Of these verses, David Platt writes that the need is great, but the Lord is greater.  The labourers are few, but the One Who sends out workers is in control.  Returning to Him and petitioning Him over the heart-wrenching need is exactly what I must do. 
Christian who might be reading, seek the Lord.  Plead with Him to call more workers to serve Him.  Be submissive to His direction in your life.  Don't miss what He wants to do with your fragile existence. It would give you more joy than you can comprehend!

Friend, you who have no idea what I'm talking about, life is fragile.  We come into this existence in a moment and we drop out of it just as quickly.  Are you ready for eternity?  Do you know that there is only one of two places you will go when you breathe your last breath?  One is a place of glory and beauty where one can forever be with the Lord, our Creator.  The other is a place of torment and horror where one will  forever be in pain, separated from the Lord and all comforts.  The Bible speaks of this in Luke 16:23.  Do you know that you are a sinner and worthy of punishment by our Righteous Creator?  At one point in my life, I came to realize this devastating fact.  Romans 6:23 says, "...the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."  We deserve a paycheck for the work we've done on this earth.  But our work is sin and the deserved paycheck is death.  This certainly does not sound appealing; therefore, how glorious to learn that eternal life is offered as a gift based on the work Jesus Christ did when He took the wrath of God on our behalf!  Yes, Jesus Christ paid the penalty that for any who will believe in Him, repenting of their sins.  Jesus said, "All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out" (John 6:33).  Oh, friend, call out to Jesus Christ, the Son of God!  Don't wait any longer.  I would like to encourage you to read the Bible for yourself.  Let God convince you through His Word.  I would recommend beginning in the book of John, but this is just a starting place.  Read freely from the Bible and would love to hear what you learn from it!

Friday, December 9, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Twinkle


 Guess what, folks?!  The ninth of Wintertide Tractations and I am excited to share some photos from our recent family decorating!  The word is, very appropriately, Twinkle!

Start.

Little did Kyrie know, when I asked her to come up with 31 words for me to write about back in October, that her little sister would be writing about them in December and the word Twinkle would be drawn the day after we finally got our Christmas ornaments out.  Yes, my sweet family kindly waited 'til I was done with my last final of the semester to put out our decorations for the season!  It felt so strange: listening to Christmas music, practicing Christmas songs at church for our Cantata, seeing lights and signs of the season in yards and at school...and having absolutely nothing adorning our home to affirm that, yes, Christmas is actually here again! Now school is out and the festivities have begun!

I guess I have to add, Kyrie helped out with a yard sale a few days ago and found the above reindeer, so our house wasn't completely void of decorations.  The deer were in need of some TLC so she brought them home, mended them, and now, I am happy to say, they have joined the ranks with our other Christmas pieces.  They're so noble and delightful to me.

We have a few pieces that seem to embody certain ideas to me. One of these is an ornament made by my dear Mother.  One year Kyrie came up with a project for us to do as a family and we sat at the dining table after supper one evening and made miniature wreaths to hang on our garland.  Each one is different, but my mother's speaks of a quiet, peaceful, country Christmas like I love. 


The soft, inviting green yarn she used and the down-home plaid ribbon take me on a daydream.  I walk down a country road. It's winter in the South, cold, yes, but breaking up the monotony of bare woods are green pastures, testament to a farmer's careful attendance to his herds' needs.  I see a white, clapboard farmhouse and cheer inside at the wisp of smoke curling up from its chimney.  I climb the porch steps and notice work boots lined up neatly outside the back kitchen door.  A Christmas wreath wishes me a "Merry Christmas!" as I knock timidly.  The door swings open to reveal the woman of the house, her hair pulled back and coming out a bit here and there, wiping her hands on a generous white apron.  She invites me in neighborly and I smile at the smell of the homemade Chex mix baking and the sight of warm persimmon muffins cooling near the stove.  I hear the sound of children and catch sight of one or two as they dash giggling past the kitchen doorway.  I find that I am home.  I feel loved and accepted.  I suddenly become the mother of these children, the wife of the man of the house, the overseer of the home.  I am where I belong.   {In dreams I've had, sometimes I fade from one person into another. Perhaps you've had similar experiences?}  I probably cherish this dream too much.  I desire to be content with whatever the Lord gives me, whether that's singleness my whole life, or marriage without children, or a home overflowing with little ones.  Whether that's an apartment in a bustling city instead of the farmhouse in the peaceful pasture. 

Wow! I've gotten off track.  Christmas ornaments have a way of taking me down side-trails and imaginings.... 



This arrangement has been one of my favorites for awhile now.  Some years ago Kyrie purchased these darling little balls and it seems just the right touch to have them on the coffee table.  They join our “Pinecone Family” in a way that appeals to me.  Classy plus simple, elegant plus sincere and down-home; hard to beat in my mind.  Additionally, my Christmas bell and a long-standing member of the team, my cinnamon-candle holder made when I was about five, add to the congregation on the coffee table this year. 

When we finally had decorated enough to suit our fancy, it was rewarding to sit back on the couch with all the lights off except those on our garland and take in the twinkle and the warmth of our signature Christmas decorations.  The holiday is certainly about so much more than the way my family decorates, but there's a degree of "specia-lness" about decorating together, remembering the stories behind this or that piece, exchanging life happenings with each other, and enjoying a simple, quiet evening at home.  I'm so thankful for the family that the Lord has given me!  Without my Dad, Mother, and Kyrie, I feel certain there would be far less twinkle in the lights and ornaments for me.  The Lord has been gracious.

Wintertide Tractations: Height

Hello, folks! I've gotten a tad behind with my Wintertide Tractations
Please excuse me.  Due to studying late Wednesday night for a final, I missed that day's word and did it yesterday.  Therefore, the word for yesterday was Height.  So without further ado,

Start!

Before my mother's mother met her husband, my mother's father, she dreamed of marrying a tall man.  She was about 5' 9" when she was in her early twenties (I was trying to remember if this was right and asked Kyrie and she, without knowing what I thought the Grandmother's height was, gave the same number!).  The Grandmother had certain preferences when it came to shoe height and she hoped that she would marry a man who would be taller than her when she wore her four-inch heels.  I smile as I think about it: the Lord allowed that youthful dream of the Grandmother's to be realized when she met and married the Grandfather, a tall, handsome man.  

Because I've been measured right around the same height as the Grandmother and because of the fact that I am her granddaughter, perhaps it is not too silly of me to hope likewise that my husband, if I ever marry, will be tall as well.  

I come from a family of tall people (but perhaps that goes without saying now that you've heard about my Grandparents).  Three of the Grandparents' four sons are/were quite tall men and I suppose all three daughters were relatively tall as well.  Many of their grandsons and a few of us granddaughters inherited the "height gene".  

Recently I saw a friend of the family after many years, and he remarked that "height is a good thing".  Of course, that was encouraging since I tower over many of my friends.  More important than height or good looks, however, I read in the biblical book of Proverbs that "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold" (22:1).  What better way to have a good name than by trusting in and devoting one's life to the Lord and His glory?  As another of the Proverbs very plainly says, "The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot" (10:7).  I'd much rather have the reputation of being just/righteous before God and be remembered as such when I'm gone (no matter what I look like or what status I hold), than to be known for good looks or a nice height or great riches in this present life and be known as wicked.  

Thursday, December 8, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Plant

Wow! Already it's been a week since starting Wintertide Tractations!  Here is: Plant.

Start.

When I came to this word, I was stumped.  "Planting" is not something I typically think of at Christmastime.  Sure, my dad's greens that he planted for the autumn season are thriving, especially after the abundant rain the Lord sent us recently.  But greens aren't what automatically come to mind when I think of Christmas, and admittedly, Christmas is primarily on my mind these days. 

Especially since my last final of this semester was today, Christmas break and celebrating the beauty of the season with my family and friends is at the top of my mental list.  But there's another type of planting that should never go out-of-season in my mind.  That is, planting seeds of the Gospel.  The Gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ, God's Son, became a Man, grew up, suffered a human existence without any sin, invested His whole life into undeserving people.  Then, our dear Savior died on a brutal cross, experiencing God's wrath that I, and every other sinner deserves.  Three days after His death, Jesus brought Himself back to life through His Divine power.  This is the reason that Christmas means so much to me; it's not just about a little baby in a stable, but about the Son of God Who came out of love for mankind!

Recently, the Lord has been giving me the opportunity to talk to some people about Him.  Before I pulled out of my driveway this morning heading to school, I asked my parents if they would pray that I would have opportunities to talk to my classmates and that I would recognize the opportunities that the Lord was giving me. 

As I left the classroom, one of my classmates was leaving, too, and we naturally started up a conversation.  We chatted about Christmas traditions and I laughed about the fact that a week into Christmas my family didn't have our decorations up because they had sweetly waited on me to get done with my classes so I could help.  Suddenly as we walked together, I realized: this is the opportunity I had asked my family to pray about!  All semester long I hadn't had the opportunity to talk to this classmate by herself like I had wanted and the Lord opened up the door for me to do so!  It came so natural, without any effort on my part. 

I would like the Lord to use me, to bring souls to Himself, to plant seeds in the hearts of those around me and somehow use me as He does it.  At the end of my days on this earth, may I be able, like Paul to say, "I have planted, [others] watered; but God gave the increase." (1 Corinthians 3:6.)  As the Lord gives me life and mercy, may I also have a humble heart to say, "So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase." (v.7)  Maybe Christmas is more about planting than I'd ever really thought.

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Utmost

For this Wintertide Tractation, the word is Utmost.

Start.

When I hear or see the word "Utmost", I typically think of the title to Oswald Chambers' well-known volume, My Utmost for His Highest.  While I've never read the book, the title alone causes me to pause and self-reflect.  

What would it mean if I gave "my utmost" to Almighty God?  

As a believer, it would stand to reason that I already should be doing that.  Oftentimes, though, as awful as it is to admit, I hold back from the Lord what is rightfully His. 

Our dear pastor at Victory Rd., Bro. Earl, preached Sunday night on the topic of submission from Ephesians 5.  Never before had submission looked so beautiful as he verbally took us step-by-step through what it means to be submissive to each other.  Not only is it not weakness, it is true strength as we consider our abilities and apply them to serving others unselfishly for the sake of our Lord's Name! 

So what would "my utmost" given to my Savior look like? 

More responsible living.  Considering what requirements are upon me and not procrastinating.  Not sifting through Pinterest when three chapters of test material are waiting to be reviewed for tomorrow's final.  Considering what my family's needs are and putting aside lesser activities to assist them in some way.  Considering what would benefit my physical self so I might further Christ's Kingdom.  {Such as, making an intentional effort to exercise on a regular basis and avoiding the unhealthy foods that seem to abound this time of year (or maybe just year-round).}  Considering what would benefit my soul so I might further Christ's Kingdom.  Spending more time memorizing Scripture and reflecting on it as I do.

What else?  Deeper prayerfulness.  Praying for that long-forgotten neighbor who randomly pops into my head.  Or asking the Lord to guide our political leaders.  Or sitting in silence and just considering Who my Savior is and how amazing it is that He saved me!  As Andrew Murray in his book, Waiting on God, said, "Wait on God till you know you have met Him; prayer will then become so different" (25).  How I hope to experience that difference for myself.

All these things and more.  But Christianity isn't meant to be legalistic.  It's a lifestyle based on a relationship with the Creator of the Universe!  It's radical and it changes the person who I once was into a productive member of society in the present... and with regard to the Eternal Kingdom that is coming in the future!

I want more of Christ!  As I surrender to the prompting of His Holy Spirit Who lives inside me, I change in ways that are positive; sometimes uncomfortable, sometimes quiet, sometimes noticeable, but definitely in ways that exalt the Lord of Glory Who has the right to control all I do, and say, and think.  

That's just the tip of the iceberg, though.  Maybe, in these last few days before the dawn of 2017, this should be my "sprint goal", my "race to the finish line", my driving force: What would it look like to live the remainder of 2016 (and the remainder of my minutes on this earth!) as wholly dedicated to the Lord?  My Utmost for My King.

Monday, December 5, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: My

Today is the fifth of my Wintertide Tractations; thanks for stopping by!  
(If you're curious about the backstory of the word Tractations, you can follow this link.)   

I haven't gotten far into the month, but this is the most thought-provoking and unexpected of Kyrie's words so far, today's is: My

Start.
 
As I listened to the words of one of my new favorite Christmas songs, ("I Am" from the CD Everlasting Savior  by Sarah Mikowski, Anna, & Faith Hainline), I couldn't help but be swept away.  The soaring music, beautiful sister-harmony, and the words of the song reminds me again what a blessed Daughter of the King of kings that I am! 

The Lord gave me the opportunity to talk with one of my classmates from Spanish class the other day.  A few weeks ago, I overheard her talking with some others in the class about some of her decisions and wondered what she would consider her spiritual health to be.  We got to have a little conversation before class began and, based on what she said, I'm not sure whether she believes in Christ Jesus for herself or not.  She seemed to be relying on the fact that she's "always been a Christian" based on her foster parents' religious doings.  The conversation brought to my mind anew how that what my ancestors decided concerning Christ doesn't automatically pass on to me; it is not hereditary.  I get to make the choice for my own self.  Yet, because of His unfathomable mercy, He gave me simple faith to believe that what He says through His Word is true: that I am a sinner in a hopeless condition without Him and that He is a gracious Savior, ready and waiting to forgive me of all my evil doings.  

Now I can refer to Christ with words that reflect my personal relationship with Christ!  I do not vaguely base my understanding of Who He is through my parents' or grandparents' love for Him, or because of the church I attend or the friends I associate with.  
I can say with Job, "I know that my Redeemer liveth!" (Job 19:25.)  
With Thomas, I believe in Jesus' ability to bring Himself to life again and I echo that faltering disciple as I exclaim, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:24-29.)  
With David I confess that the Lord is my Shepherd Who supplies my every need perfectly--with Himself! (Psalm 23:1.)  
With Moses my heart sings, "The Lord is my strength and my song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him." (Exodus 15:2.)   

The Scripture is full of verses that show saints who claimed a personal attachment to the Lord of hosts...and because of His mercy, I have the same privilege of addressing Him so!  He is my Master, my Savior, the Healer of my heart and the constant Guide for my feet.  How can I keep quiet when such a God is mine?!

Sunday, December 4, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Way

Good evening, the word for this fourth Wintertide Tractation is Way.  

Start.

I had hoped that my father and I could visit a new friend of ours this evening following church.  The man is a security guard at a local rest stop and we became acquainted with him back about July when my family and I were on an outing.  After awhile, Dad and I hit on a routine that we try to visit the man, (I'll call him Mr. Justice), every two or three weeks. 

Mr. Justice is a gentlemanly gentleman, but he has a very serious problem.  He has never been able to come to terms with the loss of his wife at the age of fifty.  Now in his mid-eighties his bitterness at God has made him blind to what the Lord is doing in his life.  

I understand loss that is painful and permanent, but I also have been blessed to have the presence of my loving Heavenly Father on Whom I can lean even through times that are hard and heart-wrenching.  Mr. Justice's case is not singular.  I have known of many dear people who have had loved loves near to them to be taken from them suddenly.  One instance is a couple whose baby was born with them knowing they only had a few months with her.  My grandparents had two of their sons to die.  Aunts, cousins, and friends of mine have lost unborn children.  A young friend in his early twenties was killed in a car wreck.  In these instances, the families, while shaken, were not destroyed by the hardships; they were strengthened by drawing strength from the Lord Who works all things out for our ultimate good. (Romans 8:28.)  But Mr. Justice cannot see this because he is spiritually blind to it.  He does not know that all things work together for good because he does not love God; he has not been awakened to the fact that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, lived and died and came back to life for his redemption and for his healing. 

How I wish for Mr. Justice to see that Jesus is the Only Way to be at peace, to come to terms with life! (John 14:6.)  Jesus is the only Truth we can bank our lives on.  He is the Life that brings light to our souls.  

Without knowing Jesus, there is no real foundation to one's life.  It is as Jesus said to His disciples,  
"...whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:  And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.  And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:  And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."  (Matthew 7:24-27.)

Friend, I would love to encourage you, let hardships draw you to Jesus Christ, not drive a wedge between you and Him.  What He allows He intends to use for His glory.  See what love it took for Him to come to this vile world and give up His life so that you and I could go free!  He sacrificed so much for us (sinners!); won't you surrender to Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life? 


If this has meant something to you, or you have questions, feel free to leave a comment. 

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Wintertide Tractations: Middle

Hello! Third day of Wintertide Tractations.  The word is Middle.

Start.

Today Kyrie and I participated with our church's outreach, handing out gift bags to the children in a nearby neighborhood.  Our youth pastor and his wife led the delivery and three of their children joined in the group that went.  Their daughter, Spice, is the middle child, being sandwiched between two boys older than her and two younger.  Spice is merry, like pumpkin spice, full of delight and wonderfulness.  Across her cheeks is a sprinkle of freckles, like nutmeg spice on the top of a creamy goblet of eggnog.  Her light brown eyes glow and study the world with curiosity and a measure of analysis that makes me feel like she knows far more than we adults imagine.  At seven, she's smart, mischievous, and wiggled her way into my heart a few weeks after her family arrived back in April.  For some reason, Spice attached herself to me and I loved having her catch up to me time after time and sleep her little hand into mine.  She wanted me to sit on the same seat of the bus with her and periodically would lean her head on my arm (she doesn't reach my shoulder yet, of course), or give me spontaneous hugs.

Being the middle child can be tricky, just as any position in a person's sibling line-up.  My mother knows what it's like to be the middle daughter in her family.  For some middle children, there is a tendency to "fall through the cracks", not being a "big kid" and not being a baby, or at least not considering oneself one of the "littles".

Spice has needs and one of those is that I pray for her and her parents and brothers.  She may never know whether I do or not, but as her friend, the best thing I can do for her is to pray for her precious life that she would grow up to love and honor our Savior and for me to live my life as close to Jesus Christ as I can as an example for her. 

If, as the Proverb says, "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." (20:11) then surely an adult's doings are evident.  I must be very careful, with the Lord's help, to live in such a way that this little soul, as she watches me, will not be led astray by anything I say or do.  It's too big a job for me, but the Lord Who cares can help me and this precious middle child and friend, Spice.