Verse of the Day - Acts 10:35-36

Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation He accepts those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. ~ Acts 10:35-36 (NLT)

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In every nation, He accepts those who fear Him and do what is right...

When you think of certain countries, your prejudice radar probably comes up in a heartbeat and goes "ding, ding, ding" -- am I right? Iran. Iraq. China. North Korea. Afganistan. These countries have issues with America and Western civilization, so we prickle when these nations come into focus. But guess what? God extends eternal life for anyone who fears Him and does what is right. Jesus is available to all who will believe in Him.

It was true in the Cold Wars days, as well. Cuba. Russia. Or how about in the days of World War II? Japan. Germany. We can turn our backs on people in times of war, favoring ourselves above them and even believing that God disfavors anyone opposed to the Land of the Free and the Brave. But in the towns and villages of every nation are souls that God loves. He extends His hand of forgiveness through His Son, Jesus, to each one, regardless of where they live, what regime they're under, or even what religion they've been accustomed to.

Jesus is the Land of the Free and the Brave. And His borders are open -- wide open -- to any and all who step over the line in faith. God is no respecter of persons; with Him, there is no favoritism. That is why the crowd in heaven is so massive and diverse...

After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. And they were shouting with a mighty shout,
“Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!”
~ Revelation 7:9-10 (NLT)

All are guilty of sin, and all can receive forgiveness through Jesus. East and West, North and South. Asian and Anglo, African and Arabic. From the most free to the most oppressed. From the richest to the poorest. All are in chains, and Jesus has the key. He offers it to all nations, with the same love.

Oh, may we be like God, who sees the nations, not as political rivals but as people -- people in need of a Savior. Pray for the nations, that individuals will hear the Good News of Jesus Christ, and know Him, the lover of their souls. May we be lovers of their souls, too.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - James 2:1

My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism.
~ James 2:1 (NIV)

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Last Sunday, I watched the Academy Awards, and was impressed on many levels. Presentations had a very personal touch, mixed with heartfelt words and comic relief, along with some great musical entertainment segments in between. I'm really glad I watched. And wedged between all this great national and international talent was a 60-second commercial that grabbed my attention, about a person who doesn't' know the word 'favoritism':

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3AOzj7mVNQ

I was so impressed with her love for people, all people, especially the poor. She believes in her heart that the poor are people, too, that they deserve respect and dignity just as much as the Wall Street investor or the six-figure attorney. Is that God at work, or what?!? She's changing her part of the world by showing love in tangible ways, to help the downcast look up, with hope and help. Here is Inspiration Corporation's new video, from their website, with testimonies from those who have been helped by Inspiration Cafe:

http://www.inspirationcorp.org/inspvideo.html

God includes all who want forgiveness and love. He sees beyond our dirty clothes and our dirty hearts, and serves us dignity on the plate of His death on the cross. All people are homeless in the eyes of God, needing help off the streets of sin. I thank God that He's not a God of favoritism, or I'd be on the outside looking in. And so would you.

God is our model for how we need to treat other people, with the same love and care that He's treated us. Never forget that God made the individual. When you look in their eyes, you are seeing a creation of the King. And the King loves them so much, regardless of whether they're in suits or rags, whether they drive a Mercedes or ride public transportation, whether they own a home or a cardboard box.

Favoritism fractures; inclusion inspires. Be an includer, and watch God change the world!

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 9:16

The LORD is known by his justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.
~ Psalm 9:16 (NIV)

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TV cop shows have been around almost as long as TV has been around. And more than ever, it seems, we can watch any number of crime shows: CSI:(choose your city), Law and Order: (choose your task force), Without a Trace, NCIS, Cold Case, Bones...not to mention real-life shows, such as Forensic Files and The First 48 Hours. I believe the reason we gravitate toward these shows is that God, the God who loves justice, gives us a sense of justice in our hearts. And He prompts men and women to seek and pursue justice through the criminal justice system on behalf of the oppressed and victimized -- even if they don't acknowledge God themselves. They are doing God's work when they work for justice! And as criminals have gotten more savvy, God has given forensics experts the savvy they need to combat complex evil. I am constantly amazed at what DNA evidence can accomplish to bring the covert into the open and criminals to justice. Okay, I admit it -- I'm a crime show-aholic. :-)

When anyone serves on the side of justice, they are serving God. If you know someone in the criminal justice system, thank them today for serving God by preserving justice. They might be surprised to know they are being used by God, especially if they don't know Him. If they don't, it might open up some great dialogue about God and His love for what's good and right, and about His love for them.

Evil is present in this world -- this we know. But justice is present also, and God will not be mocked: a man does reap what he sows (Galatians 6:7). Praise God for His justice, and thank Him for all He does to provide that justice, through dedicated people who fight tirelessly to preserve it.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - John 18:37-38

"You are a king, then!" said Pilate.
Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
"What is truth?" Pilate asked.
~ John 18:37-38 (NIV)

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I think Pilate asks a question that plague many people today, that have plagued the generations. There are so many "variations on a theme" when they try to understand what's true and what's not. So many exceptions to the rule. So many addendums and attachments. How can anyone get down to basic truth?

Jesus says, Listen to Me. I speak truth. I come from the Father, Who is the Author of truth. Apart from Me, you are left to the devices of the father of lies, the evil one. If you really want to know what is true, listen to Me.

Some of what He said was hard to understand, but it's true nonetheless. It's all true. I believe Him with every fiber of my being. I stand in life on His words as absolute truth, and I'll go to the grave believing in Him. He says that those who believe in Him will have eternal life, and I believe that, too. I know I'll live with my Savior, my God, forever. That's the truth.

We won't understand everything Jesus says, but we can trust that He is true. I choose to trust that He is true. Do you? If you question Him, my question to you is: What makes your other sources more trustworthy than Jesus?

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Deuteronomy 32:7

Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you. ~ Deuteronomy 32:7 (NIV)

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"Not to know what has been transacted in former times is to be always a child. If no use is made of the labors of past ages, the world must remain always in the infancy of knowledge. "

Marcus Tulius Cicero (106-43 BC) Writer, politician and great roman orator


History is fascinating to me -- I don't know why. I love the History Channel and enjoy watching documentaries of real events. And the popularity of films that portray true stories of real people can't be underestimated -- their chronicles of triumph over adversity, of wisdom gained through mistakes made, of making a difference in a world of indifference. We eat this stuff up! Why? Because we're a story-telling and story-listening people.

The generations that have preceded us have a wealth of stories to tell. Our kinfolk have been through the fire of the years...and have learned many things as they passed through that fire. If we are willing to listen, we will learn many things that can shape who we become, that can shape what our history becomes. Are we willing to listen? More importantly, are we willing to learn?

Information is a great tool, but it's useless if it sits in the tool shed. It behooves us to take the information and apply wisdom for the future. This is the great "cause-and-effect". When we listen to our ancestors and see their mistakes, we can avoid those same mistakes by recognizing the truth of their cause-and-effect and applying wisdom to our future. When we hear of their victories over injustice and hardship, we can take courage in the effect of their tenacity and perseverance as we strive to do the same for our future.

God desires that we grow in wisdom, knowledge and understanding. These things come from Him, and are expressed often through the lips of our elders, through the whispers of our past. So, I say, sit down with grandparents and aunts and uncles. Hear their stories, and then ask them: What did you learn from that experience? Watch documentaries and listen to the heart of people who have been through the fire of life and learned from experience. They have something to say, and we need to listen.

God is the greatest History teacher we will ever have, and He uses the previous generations to teach us wisdom, knowledge and understanding. I pray we can be good students of the past and become great livers of the future.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Proverbs 14:26

He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge.
~ Proverbs 14:26 (NIV)

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I play piano at my church, as primary keyboardist for the contemporary service and backup pianist (and alto singer) for the traditional service, when the primary pianist is "snow-birding" for the winter. For this service, we rehearse the songs at 8:30am on Sunday, and yesterday, I had quite an experience during rehearsal.

One of the hymns chosen was, "Jesus Loves Me," and immediately when I began to sing the alto part, my mind went racing back in time to my paternal grandparent's apartment in downtown San Francisco when I was very small, maybe 4 years old. This song was the first one I remember that my dad taught me to sing harmony. I remember standing in Grandma Coral's living room, with my fingers in my ears, so that I could stay on my harmony part, while my dad sang melody. I remember I took my fingers out of my ears but then landed right on the melody with my dad. :-) That memory caused me to realize so vividly how my family loved Jesus and how they introduced me to Him at a young age through music, which was very much a part of my family life. I became overwhelmed with emotion, and tears began to roll down my face. I couldn't sing for rehearsal anymore, so I just played. I thanked God for giving me godly parents and grandparents. And I thanked Him for hanging onto me when I took the rebellious road in my youth. Tears of gratitude and love wouldn't stop flowing, so I just let them flow.

As an adult, I took up the torch that my parents and grandparents carried, and taught my children about Jesus and modeled my love for Him to them in their growing up years. And I believe that God is faithful to that witness, to water those seeds sown and draw hearts to Him. Some seeds sprout at different times, but I hold firmly to the God who held me firmly. The torch of faith in the Almighty will be passed to future generations, I am convinced.

My father passed away when I was 16, and I'm sure I never thanked him for teaching me about Jesus. I was a teen and already rebelling -- I had no idea the treasure I'd been given. Since my mom is still alive, I will say, "Thanks, Mom...," for being a godly woman and pointing me to Jesus. I am thankful for your faithful witness. He is my refuge, as He is your fortress, just like this verse says. For now and through all eternity, God is our fortress and our refuge. Thank You, Jesus . . .

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Proverbs 24:30-31

I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of the man who lacks judgment; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. ~ Proverbs 24:30-31 (NIV)

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It's pretty easy to see who spends time in their yards, and who doesn't, huh? Either you have a well-manicured lawn and trimmed shrubs, or you have shaggy grass full of weeds and shrubs that threaten to take over the house! Given enough neglect, a home's landscape can and will look like a foreclosure, even though people still live there! How embarrassing is that?

The HGTV show, "Curb Appeal", helps homeowners spruce up their front yards, where neglect and ill-planning have made their home very unappealing. It takes hard work to bring it back into good repair, by pulling nasty weeds, bringing wild shrubs under control, planting new greenery and flowers, getting rid of peeling paint, and taking down broken-down fences. Yeah, alot of hard work!

Neglecting one's spiritual life will produce the same results. All kinds of nasty weeds will spout up when you don't take the time to keep them in check -- jealousy, envy, bitterness, complaining, nagging, distrust. Or how about the broken-down fence of apathy and complacency, that "Who cares? Not me..." attitude?

The problem with a neglected home, either physical or spiritual, is that we get "visual tune-out". If we look at it long enough, pretty soon we look right through it, and don't see it anymore. So, just as you might get out of your car and walk up the sidewalk and look right past/through that gargantuan weed that's sprouted in the flower bed because it's been there three months, so, too, we can look right past bitterness or hatred when we don't do something about it when it crops up to begin with. As you allow spiritual weeds to grow, eventually they become part of your lifescape, and you don't even see them anymore. Yet, everyone around you can see them. They hear them in your voice, and identify them in your actions. And they're ugly.

I pray we can seek the Lord daily so that our lifescape doesn't look like a sickly foreclosure. God desires us to be full of His beauty -- love, kindness, forgiveness, patience, generosity, peace. I'm sure we all desire this lifescape for ourselves, right? But it doesn't come automatically, just because we desire it. It takes work -- hard work! It takes constant attention to what springs up out of our hearts and minds (which, btw, will eventually come out of our mouths). Are they flowering plants, or nasty weeds? If you see a nasty weed, by golly, get rid of it quick, before its roots grow deep and wide! And be willing to listen to the counsel of God and others when they identify weeds and broken-down fences -- don't get mad, get busy! Take their words in love, and do something about it . . . be in prayer, absorb God's word, ask for clear spiritual vision where you've had "visual tune-out".

Don't let your spiritual house look like a foreclosure -- go to God for His "curb appeal". He will give you the tools, the materials and the motivation you need to be a person that reflects His character, a person that had godly "curb appeal"!

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Romans 3:20

For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are.
~ Romans 3:20 (NLT)

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When's the last time you read through your state's vehicle code? I can tell you when I last read through the CA Vehicle Code (CVC) -- 1977. That was the year I got my driver's license, on my 16th birthday. Gee, do you think it's changed at all since then? Hmm....I wonder how many laws I'm breaking without even knowing it. (BTW, just so you know, in California, it's illegal to drive without headlights when you're using your wiper blades -- just a bit if CVC trivia for all you law-abiding citizens out there. :-)

My point is, no matter how law-abiding you think you are on the road, my guess is that you break laws on the road all the time, whether you know it or not. Either you make a bit of a California stop (oh, and btw, why do Californians take the rap for that, huh? like we invented it?!? okay, so may be we did....:-), or make an unsafe lane change (if you change lanes without using your blinker, I believe a cop would say that's an unsafe lane change), or go above the speed limit. Even a little. Now, I know I got everyone on THAT one, 'cuz even my step-dad, who is the most cautious, safe driver I know does at least one mile over the speed limit. :-)

So, even if you're as careful as my step-dad, you could one day be blinded by the flashing red light in your rear view mirror, because of a traffic infraction. And all of a sudden, you're a "law breaker", and it could cost you a pretty little penny. Somehow, I don't think the officer would be too swayed if you laid out your case for not getting a ticket, by saying, "But Officer, I always stop before turning right on a red light, and I never park in a red zone, and I always use my blinker when merging, and I....I mean, doesn't that count for anything?" He's still gonna write you a ticket, because you broke the law. It doesn't matter how much good you do on the road and how good your intentions are. You break a law, you get a ticket. "Thank ya, Ma'am....and have a good day," he says, as he tips his hat and closes his notebook.

Many people think that being a "good" person is good enough for God, that it will be good enough to make them acceptable to God when they die and meet Him at Judgment Day. But the reality is that, in this life, we're all making unsafe lane changes and speeding....and a bunch of other illegal and dangerous life choices. Sinful choices. So, no matter how good you think you are, you're not perfect. Therefore, you are not good enough for a perfect God. The laws of God simply can't save you, because you can't keep them all. Too many and too rigid for our rebellious souls.

All of this could sound demoralizing and dismal, if it weren't for Jesus. He is our knight in shining armor, our lifeguard, our one-man search-and-rescue team! He knows that we're weak in the face of God's law, and makes a way for us to be perfect anyway! How? By covering us with His righteousness, through His shed blood on the cross. When we come to Him for forgiveness of our sin, He is faithful do to that, and cleans up our guilt and wipes out our punishment. He is that powerful. He is that kind.

So, though we are called to be obedient to His word and live holy lives as His followers, we are destined to fall prey to sin, either of omission (something we didn't do) or commission (something we did do). His perfect law is a continual pointer to our need for a Savior, because no matter how hard we might try, we will never get it all right.

Legalism vs. grace. One is a life of adherence to law, to win God's grace for one's supposed perfection. The other is a life of acknowledgment of law, to take God's grace for one's lack of perfection. God says one is viable, and the other is futile. I pray you can acknowledge your inability to fulfill God's law and can humbly accept the grace of God through Jesus Christ to provide the only righteousness that any of us can count on when we stand before the Throne of Judgment on that Great Day.

What can wash away my sins
Nothing but the blood of Jesus
What can make me whole again
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Oh, precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow
No other fount I know
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
~ from Nothing But The Blood, by Robert Lowrey, 1876


Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Colossians 3:12

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. ~ Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

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Okay, so here it is, 5:58am, and I'm just barely starting on today's VOTD. I basically have no time left, because I've been dinking around on the computer for almost an hour. Sorry. My bad...

But not really. See, I started a small team of volunteers through a local volunteer organization, and I got an email that a new member signed up, and then I went on the website to make sure her signup was activated, and then I started looking at projects and what else our team could get involved in. (breathe....) And then I boldly and brazenly signed our entire team up for a May event (yes, they can decline if they want/need to...:-). Whew! Lots going on in my a.m. hours! And then I started my daily ritual of searching several sites for verses to choose from for my VOTD. And, lo and behold, on Biblegateway.org's web banner, was an advertisement for another volunteer organization, called ChristianVolunteering.org. Okay, Lord, here goes...!

So, I clicked on the banner and went to their website, put my zip code in, and, bam! Multiple opportunities to participate in Christian community outreach right in my own town. Dang, this loving and caring stuff is addictive! I found an organization called The Greenhouse, located in a low-income neighborhood in North Sacramento, and I submitted my name to be a "Studdy Buddy" for 1st- through 6th-graders, two hours a week! I'm excited to see how God can use me in helping kids learn and grow, and in the process, give them an understanding of who God is and how much He loves them.

Like I said, it's addictive! I hope it's also contagious. God calls us to pour ourselves out into other people, as dearly loved children of God. I hope you will consider becoming a volunteer in your community through the wealth of opportunities that are available through the internet. When you connect with other people in the spirit of our Lord, you're making an impact for good and for God.

I challenge you to ask God what He has for you in the way of helping others in your community -- about how you can be compassionate, kind, humble, gentle and patient to a world that has seen and experienced so many negatives, so many opposites of what God is all about. The love of God can and does change lives. Are you willing to be His hands and feet?

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - John 12:44-46

Then Jesus cried out, "When a man believes in me, he does not believe in me only, but in the one who sent me. When he looks at me, he sees the one who sent me. I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.
~ John 12:44-46 (NIV)

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I have heard that to be an agnostic is the latest craze. The American Heritage Dictionary says this:

1. One who believes that it is impossible to know whether there is a God.
2. One who is skeptical about the existence of God but does not profess true atheism.
3. One who is doubtful or noncommittal about something.

Now, maybe it's true that proclaimed agnostics really believe they can't know God, but in many cases, I think this is a cop-out. I think the "non-committal" part of the definition is the essence of their claim. It's as if they think, If I say I'm agnostic, I don't have to think or talk about religion with anyone. Maybe they'll just leave me alone. Maybe they really do fear a God in heaven, so they don't want to go so far as to claim atheism, but they don't feel like dealing with the spiritual ramifications of looking at themselves in the light of a God who sees and, possibly, knows them. Just too uncomfortable to deal with, so they don't.

Jesus says if you hear Him, you have heard God. If you see Him, you've seen God. Pretty basic, huh? And He said that He brings light to the darkness. Truth to ignorance and deception.

Jesus claimed to have come from heaven -- God in human form. He did many miracles to back that up, including healing the blind and lame, and raising the dead. And since God is eternal, death is of no account to Him, so when men slayed Jesus' mortal body, it was only for as long as God allowed Him to stay in the grave. He deemed that to be three days -- predicted by Jesus, and fulfilled as He claimed. He walked and talked with many people afterward, so that there was no doubt that the Jesus they had met before the crucifixion was the same Jesus afterward. He said He would never leave His followers and that He'd come back some day to reclaim them for God for all eternity. And then He ascended into heaven in the presence of many witnesses.

So, an agnostic can say it's impossible to know God. But God says different. He says Open your eyes, and see Jesus. Open your ears, and listen to Him. I sent Him for your benefit. It is possible to know I exist and to know what I'm about. You have no excuse, now that He has come.

All that God is, is good. And Jesus shed true light on who God is, caring for the sick and dying, comforting the mourning, raising the dead. Who would not want to embrace Him?!? Well, that is the $64,000 question. And sin has the answer. Sin does not want to submit to righteousness. Sin loves basking in it's sinful ways and revels in it's sinful deeds. So, many who don't want to submit to God's authority can just claim agnosticism, the idea that there is no way to know if God is real. It's an easy out, in their mind. But reality can never be changed by supposition or theory. What is, is. And God is. One day, all will be laid bare and revealed, and there won't be any room for supposition or theory. Reality will be revealed in all His glory.

If you have entertained the agnostic faith or know someone who does, I challenge you/them to this question: Do you really care to know whether God is real, or are you just copping out? Because if you really want to know God, just look to Jesus. He came so you wouldn't have to be in the dark about God. And if you're just copping out, I ask you to reconsider. Jesus is asking you to reconsider. Because it's a matter of life and death.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Philippians 2:4

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
~ Philippians 2:4 (NLT)

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It's easy to be absorbed in our own stuff, huh? How many times have you been on the phone with someone, and you're saying, "uh-huh....hmm....uh-huh....really?...oh....uh-huh...", and all the while, you haven't really heard half of what they said, because you were secretly flipping TV channels, or reading your mail, or checking email, or whatever. I'll be the first to raise my hand.

How interested, really, are we in other people? How much do we really care about what they care about? How much are we really willing to invest in others, when it cuts into "me time"?

I think listening is one of the most valuable commodities when it comes to being interested and invested in other people. But that means we have to make time. Time? Who has time to stop and listen? I've got the kids' soccer practice and grocery shopping and laundry and dinner and dishes and my favorite TV show and doing my nails and...!

Yes. Time.

I had a gal come into my office last week to drop off some paperwork, who ended up sharing about her younger sister who'd come to stay in her home for her last remaining weeks on this earth, suffering from a terminal illness. My eyes welled up with tears as she shared her joy in being able to be there for her sister in that way, a bitter-sweet time. We only talked a few minutes -- well, mostly she talked and I listened -- but it was meaningful. I thanked her for sharing, and she thanked me for listening. I could've been clock-watching, thinking of a million other things. But I gave her my attention and my compassion, and I listened. And I believe God was pleased, because that is a reflection of His character. He always listens and cares for us when we want to talk to Him.

Community is a major buzz word these days, not only in the religious world, but in the secular world. And of course, not just the word, but the mentality and functionality behind it. Being your brother's keeper . . . having someone's back . . . lending a hand to those in need. Caring. Listening. Sharing. Loving. When people do these things, there is greater harmony, greater joy, greater productivity, greater vision for the future. It's community the way God intended.

You can be part of healthy community one individual at a time, just by listening. And don't just listen with your ears and walk away unchanged. Listen with your heart and allow God to move you to action, whether that's prayer, being generous with your resources, or putting your hands out to help however you can. Or all of the above!

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Romans 8:35-37

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. ~ Romans 8:35-37 (NIV)

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Have you ever wanted to put a message in a bottle and throw it in the ocean, just to see if someone would find it and maybe contact you? We've all heard amazing stories of that happening, sometimes over thousands of miles' distance. It's astounding to see how resilient a corked bottle can be, even through the rough waters of stormy seas.

That's how it is to be a believer in Jesus Christ. We are riding the ocean of life, with a message inside of us that says, "I am yours, and you are Mine. I love you...God", and no matter how we get tossed by the waves or whisked along by the wind, we always surface again, because we're filled not only with the message, but with divine air. The air of the Holy Spirit. He keeps our soul buoyant and alive!....even when the clouds roll in and darkness overtakes our seas.

Ever feel like your bottle is sinking? I know you have, as have I. Troubles come, and we feel like we're gasping for spiritual breath. Feeling as if we're drowning. But God says, No, you're not drowning. You're really floating, with dives underwater here and there. You'll come up to the surface again soon. And don't forget my message inside -- that's important for you to remember, especially during the downtimes. Trust the Holy Spirit inside you to keep you afloat. He will never leave you, because I have given Him as a seal of my promise of eternal life, My life with you.

But now, this is what the LORD says—he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. ~ Isaiah 43:1-2

A uncorked bottle thrown in the ocean will sink like a rock. But putting a cork in it seals the air inside, and it floats along to parts unknown. Without Jesus, we are uncorked and unable to stay afloat in this life. But when Jesus seals the message of His love and forgiveness inside us and places His Spirit within us, we are changed. No longer sinking, but instead, we're riding the waves.

Don't let fear of the stormy waves cause you to doubt. Trust in the God who loves you and be a high-seas conqueror!

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Deuteronomy 15:7-8

If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs.
~ Deuteronomy 15:7-8 (NIV)

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I used to have a hard heart when it came to beggars on street corners. They stand out there with their cardboard signs that say things like, "Homeless vet/hungry/any help is appreciated/God bless!", and I used to size them up and judge them as lazy con men and women. I was very tight-fisted with my money in their regard.

But something changed.

I can't tell you when or why my heart changed toward these poor people. But God changed my heart. Yes, there may be those who are being dishonest out there, raking in the greenbacks under false pretenses. But God has given me a more gracious, giving heart, a heart that isn't concerned about a beggar's sincerity or insincerity. Frankly, I don't think most people that don't need money would stand out on a corner in the cold rain with a soggy cardboard sign and beg for help. God tells us to help the poor, to have compassion on those without means to make it in this life. Have you ever thought that part of their need is heart-need? That they need hope besides cash? And do you think that possibly their hope might be aided by the generosity of others?

When I give at street corners, I always remember that God has given me so much -- I'm not rich, but I'm far from being poor, and I thank Him for His blessings. I am just one person, but God can use what I give for good and can multiply it like He fed the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish. So, I choose to humbly obey God and leave the results to Him.

I can't make you be kind toward beggars. I can't stop you from judging them because you think they're scamming. But I will simply remind you that God has a soft heart for the poor. And if you're reading this, you have a computer or access to one. You probably have a roof over your head and food in your stomach. By all accounts, you are richer than many people who use shopping carts for transportation and cardboard for their shelter. If they are outside in the elements of winter, they are cold and wet. And they're most-likely hungry. And God cares for them. He calls us to care for them, too.

Oh, and in case you're trying to qualify these verses as only pertaining to "brothers", such as other Christians, God was clear that the Israelites were to be kind, even to the foreigner, to those outside their race/religion. And Jesus had an answer for the qualifiers when he refuted the idea that a neighbor is only someone you're close to, in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Those in need are those we are should be kind to, whoever they are. Period.

We can be tight-fisted, or open-handed. We can be hard-hearted, or tender-hearted. Hmm...which pleases God, and which pleases self? If you find yourself on the tight-fisted, hard-hearted side, please know that God can change you, if you are willing. God can and will give you His heart, if you desire to be like Him.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Acts 13:38-39

Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins. Everyone who believes in him is declared right with God—something the law of Moses could never do. ~ Acts 13:38-39 (NLT)

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These verses come from a sermon Paul preached in a synagogue in a town called Perga, addressing "the men of Israel, and you God-fearing Gentiles." He was in a God setting, speaking to men to were connected with God's ways. But in today's society, this word from God doesn't resonate with alot of people. Sin? What's that, and who cares? God? Sorry, but I don't believe in God, so "being right with God" makes no sense or difference to me.

Paul's words are no less true than they were 2,000 years ago, but the audience today is, in many ways, vastly different. How, then, do we communicate the simple message of the gospel of Jesus Christ to a world that could care less about sin, God, eternal life, or anything else that rings spiritual?

One thing I know, and that is that only God can convict men of sin. We can shed light on what God has to say about the fallout of a sinful heart, but we cannot bend a sinful heart into submission to the gospel -- only God can do that. What we can do is tell our story about what God has done for us and through us, about how God convicted us of our sin, and the beautiful power of His forgiveness. And if we show sincere love from God for others, so that they don't think we're just trying to sell them a Bible or get a donation for the church, perhaps -- just perhaps -- they might think about what you've said for themselves. They might think even twice or three times about it. Perhaps they will mull over in their mind their own life and what a self-driven life has done (or not done) for them. Perhaps then, the Holy Spirit's voice can be heard over the noise of ego, rebellion, and doubt.

Paul spoke differently to those in the Jewish synagogue than he did to the Athenians in the meeting of the Areopagus (Acts 17). He considered the culture and the belief systems of the people, and made his delivery of the gospel relevant to them, in a way that they could grasp. So, although Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever, how we communicate Him to a post-modern world with no reference to God will most-likely have to change. If you desire to impact the world for God, be ready to listen to Him regarding how you communicate the gospel. Know your audience by listening to them, and allow the Holy Spirit to adjust your method to meet their needs.

Everyone has needs, and Jesus is the answer to every one of them. Always and only.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
~ Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

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Okay, so yesterday at work, I was asked to be on the lookout for some loaner medical equipment that might be arriving via FedEx or UPS that was needed STAT for an outer clinic. The hospital courier gal said she knew of their urgent need, so if these items came in by 9:30 or 10am, she could swing back through the hospital before heading to that region. I said okay, but I wasn't convinced the items would come in that day. I meant to talk to the technician in charge about it, but sort of forgot.

Around 10am, on my way back from the restroom, I remembered what she said. As I walked past the inbound shipping table, I thought about whether to go to the back of the shop and talk to this technician, or just head back to my desk and not worry about it. If they come in and get to the clinic, fine -- if they don't, oh well... That thought ran through my head in an instant. But God's spirit -- the word of God within me -- said, You should do the right thing. In that nano-second, I decided to head to the technician's desk to talk to him about it. At least I made an effort, I told myself.

When I got to his workbench, lo and behold, I saw all three of these loaner devices sitting on the floor in front of his desk! I was so glad the Lord prompted me by His Spirit to go check -- gladder still that I listened. I raced back to the front office and called the courier on her cellphone, so she could make the pickup and help this clinic with their operational needs. I also found out later that that particular technician was on vacation, so if I had not made the effort, that equipment would've simply sat their til Tuesday, and our customers and their patients would've been left without.

We are given the opportunity every day to make the decision to do what's right, and I believe that God speaks to people about those choices. I had a bit of a lazy, nonchalant attitude in my heart about the situation when the courier told me of the clinic's need. But the word of God came into my spirit and said, Is that really how you want to be? Is that really how you want to treat the situation? Oh, and how will you feel if you do nothing, when you find out you could've done something for the good? And so I listened and did what was right. It took me about 20 minutes to coordinate that effort, which was probably outside of my scope of work, and not in my agenda for the morning. But I listened to God, and rightness was served. My customers were served. God was served.

We often think that "the word of God" is just the Bible. But don't underestimate the living Word of God, who is Jesus. And He says, "I will be with you, even to the end of the age." He does that by His Holy Spirit that lives inside the heart of those who claim Him as Lord. I believe that the word of God is constantly speaking to us, getting down to the nitty gritty -- the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Because the heart is the rudder that steers the ship.

I pray you will be sensitive to the voice of God, as He speaks to you in your specific life situations. Allow His Word to make a difference in how you think and react, whether from the pages of your Bible, or through the lyrics of a country music song, or "the voice that isn't a voice" that you know is God speaking to your heart. Allow His Word to penetrate the layers of your heart and mind, to make righteous change on the inside and the outside of your life, for the glory of God and good of the world.

Let God move the rudder of your heart to steer your ship into waters of righteousness, peace and joy. It makes your voyage with God a beautiful adventure, rather than a tragic shipwreck.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 34:3

Join me in giving glory to the Lord. Let us honor him together. ~ Psalm 34:3 (NIrV)

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David loved corporate worship, gathering together with others who love God and call on His name. He loved to sing and dance in joy with other people of God for all that God is and had done . In short, he was a party animal! :-)

There is something very blessed about sharing in the joy of the Lord with others who love Him. People say, "I don't need to go to church -- I worship God with my football game from my recliner...", but they are missing out on community living with people who share the same spirit. And connecting with these souls who share commonality with God is revitalizing to us and pleasing to God. When we see someone praising God with their being, we are encouraged to do the same. When we hear someone giving testimony of God's working in their lives, we are encouraged to look for the same in our lives. When we hear about the struggles of other believers, we are encouraged to know we are not alone in our own struggles, and know that there is a place where needs can be shared and prayers can be offered.

I hope you know the joy of a local church family, where you can worship together, grow spiritually, and develop friendships that can support and encourage you. God made us for community, to be connected together as we love and serve Him. He is worthy to be praised, so let's do it together!

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - 1 Corinthians 13:6-7

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
~ 1 Corinthians 13:6-7 (NIV)

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Well, that's right, folks -- only two more days until the schmoochiest, googliest, most red-and-pink day of the year is upon us -- that's right, Valentine's Day. It's Saturday this year, so if this nod to all things romantic has caught you unaware, you are in luck! You still have two days to get that special something for that special someone. Of course, by now, the greeting card section of most stores is highly picked through, so don't be alarmed if you're forced to buy the only card left -- "To my Uncle and his beloved 4th wife on Valentine's Day". You can always put stickers over the parts that don't apply.... :-)

When we think of earthly love and the Bible, the "Love Chapter" comes to mind, doesn't it? That's 1 Corinthians 13. Paul, at length, gives us some great comparisons and examples of love, and brides and grooms through the ages have gravitated toward this passage in their wedding ceremonies. In the movie, "Wedding Crashers" (which I don't recommend, really, but I did watch part of it recently while flipping channels), two guys are masters of crashing weddings, down to analyzing family history, in order to fit in, be popular, and pick up women. With so many crashed weddings under their belt, some things seem like a given, as they sit through yet another loving ceremony...

Father O'Neil: And now for our next reading I'd like to ask the bride's sister Gloria up to the lectern.

John Beckwith: 20 bucks, First Corinthians.

Jeremy Grey: Double or nothing, Colossians 3:12.

Gloria Cleary: And now a reading from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians...

Some things you can almost count on, huh? (I know you're chuckling because you probably had 1 Corinthians 13 read at your wedding or know someone who did... :-)

But, let me have you put on a different set of glasses and read that familiar nuptial passage again. This time I want you to read this as it pertains to the Author of love, Jesus Christ, and His love for you, and for me...

Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails.
~ 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)

Please don't be tempted to judge your, or other's, love by flowers, candy hearts, and nice dinners. Those are all well and good to honor our love for someone else, but the meat of it all is in the actions from a selfless heart of love. And Jesus is our model for that kind of love. He lived and breathed love while on this earth, and He breathed His last breath on the cross with love for us. And He continues to live and breathe out His love for us, as the Living God, guiding and comforting us by His Holy Spirit.

So, the next time you're at a wedding and hear that familiar passage about love, turn your thoughts toward Jesus and remember the example He gave us to follow. His love for us outshines all the Valentine's Day stuff that, in a couple of days will wilt, melt, or get stuck in a drawer. :-)

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 86:11

Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. ~ Psalm 86:11 (NIV)

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When two people are totally in love with each other, one would say that they have an undivided heart. They are totally committed to the other, and their heart is not partially sitting in another camp. Their devotion, their level of emotion, their resolve is "all in" for that person. Not 50 or 75%, but all in. 100%. And when two people both commit to "all in", that relationship is solid and thriving! Cupid's arrows may try to create this kind of "magic", but an undivided heart isn't fashioned from candy hearts, flowers and chocolate, but from intentional devotion to one another.

We have all either experienced firsthand or seen in our family or friends the ramifications of a divided heart. When commitment begins to wane, watch out, because that 10% that starts sitting over there in the alcohol camp to escape, or that 20% that goes and pitches a tent in the flirtation camp to get some kicks, or that 30% that sets up a folding chair in the resentment/hatred camp because they avoid communicating is dividing the heart. And then you're no longer "all in", but only "part in". It goes without saying that this methodology is a relationship killer. And the divorce statistics are right there to give a sad, ''amen...''

Our relationship with God is the same. When we are sold out to God with no room for devotion splinters elsewhere, there is joy and contentment in our walking journey with Him. But when we splinter off part of our heart toward doubt, false teaching, complacency, or rebellion, how can we have a decent relationship with Him? David knew his penchant for a splintered heart, and he was honest with God about it. He also knew that God could give him what he needed to be "all in" with Him. So he asked.

I pray we can examine our heart toward God, and see if we identify any splinters. If we have fractured our devotion to Him, praise God, it's possible to be "all in" again, by the power of His Holy Spirit. We can recommit our hearts to the Lord and make an intentional choice not to allow the distraction and deception of sin to divide our heart for God. We can ask Him to give us an undivided heart so that we can respect Him and keep our love relationship with Him intact and healthy.

God's heart is "all in", 100%, toward us. May we choose the same toward Him.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - 1 John 1:9

But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
~ 1 John 1:9 (NLT)

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They say a rose by any other name is still a rose. They also say that a leopard can't change his spots. What is, is --plain and simple.

Wickedness is not something we do so much as it's something we are. What we do is just a manifestation of what we are. We are a black rose that smells rotten. We can dress it up and tie a pretty ribbon on it, but a rose by any other name is still a rose. And we are still wicked at the core, no matter how much we try to mask it with nice clothes, proper etiquette, education or religious piety. What is, is.

One of the greatest miracles of God is that He, and He alone, has the power to change a black stinking rose into a pure white rabbit. He can change a leopard's spots from evil to good. Those who believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior from sin are divinely transformed from wickedness to righteousness. When God forgives our sin, what is, was. It is no longer. And because of that transformation, we are able to stand before the throne of God, even though we didn't do anything on our own to aid the transformation. We simply fell at Jesus' feet and said, "Please do this, Lord. I am a wretch on my own -- only You can turn me from what I am into something I am not. Only you can change these leopard's spots."

Miracles are a radical departure from natural order. Think of the parting of the Red Sea. Or the healing of the man born blind. Or the instant calming of a violent storm. When Jesus cleanses a soul of wickedness, that is a divine departure from our natural state. It's a miracle, and if you've experienced God's grace in your heart, you know the miracle firsthand, and I pray you can ponder today your radical, divine departure from wickedness to righteousness. Your spots have been changed because of God's amazing grace. Wow...

I wish I could tell you that because of this transformation, we never sin again. Yeah, I wish. For your sake, and mine. The reality is that the war against our carnal flesh and our transformed spirit rages on, despite our cleansing. This does not change our position as children of God, who are able to stand before the throne of our Father because of Christ's righteousness. We are simply challenged to relinquish our rights within ourselves daily, so that Christ can mould and shape us into the likeness of Himself. So, please don't be discouraged when you fall down in the proverbial mud. Don't think you've blown it one too many times. God is bigger than that and does not forsake His children. But He does call us to holiness, and for that we strive, by the power of the Holy Spirit. And on the journey goes...

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Colossians 1:13-14

For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.
~ Colossians 1:13-14 (NLT)

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Imagine you lived in a country where the King was corrupt, as well as all his officials. They stole women out of their homes, raped and murdered them, just for fun. Children were like the dogs and worked to death in the factories. Property was confiscated and people forced to scavenge for food like wild animals. Unlawful raids on businesses kept their owners in constant fear. Never enough food. Continual violence. Terrible cold in the winter and searing heat in the summer without proper protection. Imagine you lived in this country, with no way out. Would you be tempted to slit your wrists to escape?

Now imagine a country you hear of -- rumors circulating that there is a land where the King is a good king, who doesn't take bribes and serves the people, instead of the other way around. Justice is the way of things, and people are valued and cared for. Love is the guiding force, and protection is the name of the game. There is enough food and clothing for all, and families enjoy being together, knowing the security of a safe environment. Businesses and crops thrive under good and fair management. There is peace and harmony because of the King's leadership and love for his people. What it must be like to live even a single day in that county..., you think. But you realize that there is no way out of your country and no way to get to wherever this paradise is that you've heard of.

But then the rumors begin that the Prince of "Paradise" has seen your deplorable living conditions and your oppression and declared war on your evil King. He has come to rescue you from the stench of death you and your countrymen are living in. Your mind doesn't want your heart to get excited over a pipe dream, but you can't help it. I and my family could actually be saved from this death-living?!? Who would not jump at the chance of being rescued from death-living into alive-living?

This is not an allegory, my friends. This is real. These kingdoms are real, and the battle is real. The spiritual warfare is all around us, and it's manifested in the physical realm in amazing clarity. Jesus is constantly fighting for the souls of humanity, knocking on the doors of men's hearts, asking them, Do you want to be rescued from this death-living? I am here to rescue you, if you are willing to follow me out of here. In My kingdom, you must surrender to my authority, but I am the Good King, and only want what's best for all those under my protection. I love you and will not only be your savior, but your friend. Does that future sound good? Please say 'yes', because you have no future with the evil one, except eternal death-living. I loved you enough to rescue you from that, if you're willing...

Without God, our souls are death-living with the devil in the hell-hole of sin. God's kingdom of righteousness and justice stand in stark contrast to what the devil forces us to live in, and Jesus, the Prince of Paradise, comes to the rescue and offers a way of escape from our endless misery. All it takes is for us to choose to take His hand and walk out of the deathtrap of the evil one.

So, which king is your King, and which kingdom do you live in? If you read this and know that you have been death-living with the devil, today you can know the protection of the Good King. Jesus can give your soul life, and you can begin the alive-living that He offers. Just ask Him to rescue you, and be willing to submit to His authority. Your other option is to sit in the fear and filth of what the devil offers, now and forever. It almost seems like a no-brainer, huh?

Jesus gives you a choice. It is yours to make. He hopes you will choose Him...

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - 1 John 3:16-18

We know what love is because Jesus gave his life for us. That's why we must give our lives for each other. If we have all we need and see one of our own people in need, we must have pity on that person, or else we cannot say we love God. Children, you show love for others by truly helping them, and not merely by talking about it. ~ 1 John 3:16-18 (CEV)

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Yesterday, some friends and I had a yard sale, to benefit one of our friends who has been sick and needs help covering the medical expenses. We put the call out for donated items to a few folks and planned on the date. And despite the threat of rain, we forged ahead, organized our stuff all over the lawn and driveway, posted signs, and worked our tails off all day selling to a blessed number of customers God sent our way. At the end of the day, I felt like Trish Suhr, "Yard sale Diva", from the TV show Clean House, when I held the wad of cash and told our hard-working friends how much we made to help our dear friend in need -- it was just over $500......PRAISE THE LORD!!! We were completely exhausted by the end of the day, but we felt blessed in spirit to give our all to our friend. Being dead-dog tired never felt so satisfying!

God calls us to love each other the way Jesus loves us. That requires actions beyond the words. It's so easy to rattle off the words, "I love you...", but doing good for that person you say you love is the witness to your words. Your actions stand up in the courtroom of life and say, I vouch for the testimony of this person's love for the other. What they say of love is true from the heart, and I, called "Action", am here as a witness to prove it.

I pray that you can search your heart and see where your love witness is. Are you just spouting words, without a witness of action to testify on your behalf?

They say love is a verb. Jesus certainly knew all about that action word. May we follow in His footsteps and make our life a life of love in action.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 97:10

Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
~ Psalm 97:10 (NIV)

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Have you ever thought about why Got hates the things He hates, and why He doesn't want His children to associate or participate in that stuff? Why is lying such a big deal to God? Why is it bad to steal? Why does God care what we do with our bodies sexually -- homosexuality, prostitution, adultery, etc.? What difference does it really make if I hate my neighbor, or my brother?

At the core of who God is is all things good and right. At the core of who the devil is is everything opposite of God, because the devil opposes God. Everything God is about, the devil wants to flip upside down in the mud. So God hates these things, because they are a direct slap in the face of His character. They disgust Him with their damaging effects and ability to turn people away from Him. They hurt His heart, because His kingdom is not built on slander, malice, sexual perversion, murder, lying and stealing (to name a few among countless evils); rather, it's built on the foundations of His pure and holy character -- the opposite of all that the devils holds dear -- love, peace, faithfulness, hope (to name a few). We can wonder how anyone would buy into the devil's bill of goods, since the contrast that he plays out every day in the lives of people is so stark compared to God. Or is it?

Sure, we see the evil of the crack dealers and gang bangers and go, Yeah, now that is a sharp contrast to Mother Teresa and Billy Graham. But what about the insidious evil that the devil weaves every day that doesn't contrast so strongly against the goodness of God? What about the little things that slip under the radar if we're not paying attention? The little white lies, or half-truths? The gossip that you only write in an email but don't speak out loud? The nagging buildup of resentment and hatred for someone else in your heart?

The reason God gives His people rules to follow is to show them what is character is about, and what it's definitely not about. He's not just trying to keep us from experiencing "life" (although experiencing evil is really experiencing death), or somehow wielding His authority like a bullwhip. It's just that He can't stomach evil -- it's like putting salt in a wound, or eating rotten food. Painful and disgusting.

So, if we say we are God's children by deciding that following Jesus is the only way, then God says to us, Okay, you are My witnesses of what I'm about. I need you to live in keeping with My character, because I just can't stand the evil. And there's a world out there who doesn't know Me -- how will they see Me and what I bring versus the vileness of the devil, if you don't show them the difference? You need to be My sharp contrast, shining the light of love and goodness to people who are blinded by the devil's darkness.

But a word of caution: Do you think a person who lives life according to the devil's rules is apt to run to God, if God's children are pious and self-righteous about their godliness? Do you think it's attractive at all for a person in the dark to want light from someone who says, You can look at my light from a distance, but I won't let your filthy hands actually touch my flashlight... ? Do you wonder why unbelievers flee from Bible-thumpers, who ram the do's and don'ts of God's word down their throats like a kidnapper puts a rag in their victim's mouth? Not a pretty picture, is it?

Living a righteous life is our calling as believers in Jesus Christ. But if we live it without love, we get the Pharisee Syndrome. Living God's character in the light of love gives us the Jesus Syndrome. That's what I want - the Jesus Syndrome. How about you?

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Luke 6:46

"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?" ~ Luke 6:46 (NIV)

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What's in a title, huh? Turns out, a lot, according to Jesus.

I remember being struck when I read this verse years ago - it pierced my heart with sadness, as I realized that I do what the people long ago did, giving lip service to His title and not honoring that role with my actions.

Lord is not Jesus' first name, just as Christ is not His last name --Lord is a title that acknowledges His authority over us. And we can use this title with quite a bit of flippancy, can't we? We love to use this term when we pray, but Jesus is asking us to search our hearts and evaluate His real Lordship in our lives.

Basically, don't say it if you don't mean it. Ouch.

Our new U.S. President is Barack Obama. We call him President Obama, because he was elected into office and that's what he is. But our relationship with God is a choice -- He's not elected into office by the masses and is, therefore, our Lord. He is not our personal Lord unless we personally and individually choose to put ourselves under His authority. He is not our Lord until we submit to His Lordship. So when we say 'Lord' to Jesus, He wants to know we mean what it implies -- our surrender to Him. Our surrender to His authority.

God's not interested in hearing us throw around lofty titles on His behalf. He wants authentic acknowledgment of His position in our lives. So, we need to check ourselves and see if "Lord" is just a meaningless title we throw around carelessly, or whether it's a meaningful proclamation of our surrender to the God of the universe.

There are a couple of songs that our church sings that help us remember Jesus' authority in our lives and our need to choose submission. May they be your prayer to Jesus, the Lord. May He be Jesus, your Lord...

Take my life take all of me
Take everything it’s all for You
Take my dreams take all my fears
Take everything it’s all for You
It’s all for You, it’s all for You...

Jesus, I surrender
Jesus, I am Yours

Take everything I am and make me new oh God I pray
Until all that’s left is all of You

Jesus, I surrender
Jesus, I am Yours.
~ Surrender (Take My Life), by Kelly Delp and Nathan LaGrange

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I'm giving you my heart, and all that is within
I lay it all down for the sake of you my King
I'm giving you my dreams, I'm laying down my rights
I'm giving up my pride for the promise of new life

And I surrender all to you, all to you
And I surrender all to you, all to you...

I'm singing You this song, I'm waiting at the cross
And all the world holds dear, I count it all as loss
For the sake of knowing You for the glory of Your name
To know the lasting joy, even sharing in Your pain

And I surrender all to you, all to you
And I surrender all to you, all to you.
~ Surrender, by Lincoln Brewster

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 33:5

The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.
~ Psalm 33:5 (NIV)

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Wherever you see rightness and justice, there God is in the midst of it -- and although the daily headlines are full of the evil that men do, you will also see God's unfailing love if you choose to see it...

As believers in Jesus Christ, we are commissioned by God to exemplify and manifest His penchant for righteousness and justice, and to administer His love to those we meet. Are we part of the negative or positive headlines? Are we championing the cause for the things that please God, or please ourselves?

I think of people of old, who championed God's causes for righteousness and justice. William Wilberforce, a British abolitionist in the late 18th century, was one of those people, who stood up for God's causes, highlighted in the 2006 film, "Amazing Grace"...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6Cv5P9H9qU

Actually, I haven't seen this film yet, but after shedding tears just by watching the trailer, I plan on seeing it soon!

We all have the ability to stand up for God's ways, to fight sinful tendencies, and help others to see the godliness in choosing right actions and defending and promoting justice. It can be as simple as doing the right thing and returning incorrect change given by a cashier, or treating a waiter or waitress with courtesy and respect. It is looking at people as people, made by God, not as this color or that race. It is giving aid to all who have need, not just those who can repay. It is loving the way God loves us --

I challenge you to seek out the headlines today and see where God's righteousness, justice, and love are being seen through the actions of people -- whether they know it or not, they are championing God's causes. Let us be champions, too, for the things that God holds close to His heart, by being doers of what's right and just and loving.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 18:1-2

For the director of music. Of David the servant of the LORD. He sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. He said:

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

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David had many talents and wore a lot of hats during his lifetime. One, I think, that we may forget is that he was a musician. He was hired by King Saul to be his personal musician very early in David's life, playing the harp to soothe the king when he was stressed/distressed, and went on to became a prolific song writer/lyricist. So, it's not surprising that, when he became king, he commissioned whole groups of musicians for the worship of God! (1 Chronicles 15)

When you read the psalms, you find that David wrote songs from his heart. So many of them were very intimate prayers to God set to music. They were relevant to David because he was expressing his life experiences with God to God, and to others. And I just wonder if this is part of what the Bible talks about when it says, "Sing a new song to the Lord..." (Psalm 96, Psalm 98, Psalm 149, Isaiah 42) Relevant. Now. Connecting with your current walk with God through music.

When you listen to worship music, does it help you recall situations in your life where God connected with you in a tangible way? Do you remember the times you walked away and then returned, to know again His loving arms? Do tears run down your face as you acknowledge His magnificence in your life? If you have a relationship with Jesus Christ, I can't help but believe all these things are true. And guess what? I believe all of those heart connections are 'new songs' to the Lord! Your heart is singing a new song each time you lament or rejoice in your spirit over yesterday's events. Or last week's events. Your relationship with God is active and present, and so is your communication. It's now. And so you create music in your heart every day for God. And with God.

You may not think you're a musician. Maybe you can't sing a note. But God created music, and He enjoys it! Most people do, whatever the genre. Somehow, it speaks to our spirits. So, enjoy listening and singing -- even if it's just in the shower or your car. Don't be afraid to make up your own lyrics to tunes you know well -- let your story become a new song! That's what King David did. And allow lyrics you know well to inspire your heart and mind to sing new songs of praise to God as you recall how He's ministered to you in the past and how He continues to work in your life now.

So, what's your story with God these days? Has He been a Rock and Fortress? Has He been a help in times of trouble? Has He been your strength and shield? I hope you can say 'yes'. I hope you can even sing 'yes'! Music speaks to the soul. I hope you can use music to inspire your heart to worship . . . whenever and wherever.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 17:6

I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray. ~ Psalm 17:6 (NLT)

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I confess that lately, I've felt a little fragile emotionally. I'm usually a very "up" person, outgoing and gregarious. I was a cheerleader in high school, and I feel like I'm often a cheerleader in life. But lately, I've begun to feel rather burnt out. Just not feeling like I have enough in me to lift myself up, let alone others. And so, this morning, before turning on my computer, I sat in my living room, looking at my now-quite-almost-well-yeah-pretty-much-oh-okay-really dead Christmas tree, and prayed, Lord, I feel like I've got some emotional issues right now. I need Your help...

Yeah, I know. I also need to pray that God will give me the motivation to get rid of my dead Christmas tree. That's a given.

The beauty of my prayers is that I know God hears me. I don't wonder if He's too busy or asleep or not even real. I know He's real and ready with a listening ear to hear my prayers, whenever and wherever. And I also know that He answers...every time. Not always the way I want, but that's part of the parent/child relationship we have. But I think I need to pray more when it comes to my own life. Turning my focus toward God and His abilities to aid me sometimes takes a back seat to all of the other needs around me. The intercessory prayer list is long and I do care about these people and these concerns -- but sometimes I forget that I need God. And I need to turn my attention toward Him daily for my needs. I guess it is possible to be spiritually co-dependent. Hmm...

Do you sometimes feel selfish when you pray for your own needs? We hear all the time, "It's not about us...", so we can tend to think that bringing our own needs and concerns before God is a selfish thing to do, and that we should just turn our attention toward others and not ourselves. I do understand the need for balance in our thought and prayer life, needing to be careful not to be self-absorbed. But on the flip side, if you ignore your own needs because you think it's unspiritual, you're misinformed and shooting yourself in the foot. If you want an honest example of prayer for oneself, read the Psalms. David unabashedly goes to God constantly for his own emotional, mental, physical and spiritual issues. He holds nothing back from God with how he's feeling and thinking! It is healthy to open it all up to God in prayer -- the whole can of worms! When we get things all out in the open before our own eyes and God, He's able to help us sort things out, see things as they really are, see where change is necessary, see Him in the midst of it all.

I hope you can know that God is real and available to those who choose a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. He is not far off in the distance yelling across a chasm, "I can't hear you...can you yell a little louder?!?" He doesn't have to press the 'hold' button on you, while He talks to 4,532,669 other people praying at the same time. He is the Almighty God, and He is intimate with His people. One on one. Every time.

I am so grateful God is a good listener, aren't you? The God of the universe offers intimacy to all who come to Him with an honest heart through the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ, our Savior. You don't need a rosary or a prayer shawl for Him to listen. You don't need to rely on St. Christopher medals and other religious paraphernalia. Rely on God and God alone. And talk to Him. Alot. Because He's all ears for His children.

Now, God, about that Christmas tree...see, here's the deal...

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - 2 Peter 3:9

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
~ 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

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The other day I was in the "In -n- Out" drive-thru line, and I only saw three or four cars in line. My lucky day, I thought. If you know anything about this fast-food chain, you know they are busy....ALL THE TIME. It doesn't seem to matter whether it's 11am or 11pm, the joint is hoppin'! I drove up to the speaker almost immediately and gave them my order and was feeling pretty good. But then -- nothing. The cars in front of me didn't move. And didn't move. I look out my window, and I'm still staring at the speaker. I keep wondering how the workers know I'm still here and don't think I'm another car, but I guess that's a science I don't really need to learn. The driver of the truck in front of me was becoming visibly irritated and finally honked her horn. I finally said to the speaker, Uh, excuse me... The voice on the other end said, You've given your order already, right? I said I had, but was wondering why the cars weren't moving, as there were now about 10 cars behind me! (I'm thinking they must've had a french-fry machine malfunction, or an armed robbery -- something disastrous like that to keep us waiting so long). Just at that moment, the cars began to move. Sheesh! Impatient irritation was beginning to seep out of my pores.

We, as a society, are so geared for speed and efficiency. We have the self-check lines in the grocery store, so that we don't have to wait for the slow checker who wants to talk about whatever. We have microwave EVERYTHING -- heaven forbid you'd have to turn on your conventional oven (do they even sell those anymore?!) Bigger freeways, faster internet connections, and streamlined processes for everything from getting a cup of Starbucks to paying your church offering on-line! (I really did see this on several church websites recently...) Wow, I'm not sure I even need my blow dryer anymore. I think I'll just stand outside with my wet hair, and let the speed of the earth just pass me by!

With this mindset, we look at God and say, "Hey, where's your efficiency? Where's your swiftness? We have issues down here! Can't you just hurry up and rescue your church out of this hellhole?!?" Wars, hunger, poverty, disease, violence and crime. What a mess! And we want out. NOW.

All I can say is I thank God that He is slow to close the final chapter on this world, because maybe I would've been left behind. Or you. Who are we, as believers in Jesus, to say that just because we've been saved by His grace, that the rest of the unbelieving world can go to hell? That is the antithesis of God's compassion on a world that has no relationship with Him! He is patient, oh so patient. He was patient with you. And with me. We need to understand His heart for those who don't know Him, and be diligent in prayer and active witness, rather than bemoaning our lot at this time and place on this earth, and looking at our watch and tapping our feet with impatient irritation, wondering when God is gonna fire up His microwave on this place and get things moving at a pace that suits us.

God's ways and God's timing are not ours, and we need to be very grateful for that. The next time you wish the Lord would hurry up and return, stop and pray for your unbelieving neighbor or relative or co-worker. The work of the Holy Spirit is not done until God says so. So, let's be in partnership with Him, taking advantage of the time we have. His return may be tomorrow -- it may be 100 years from now. Let's not keep looking at our watches, but instead look at the faces, the faces of those who need God, the faces of those who were us before we met Him.

Love,
Joelene

Verse of the Day - Psalm 20:7

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name
of the LORD our God. ~ Psalm 20:7 (NIV)

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Chariots and horses were symbols of wealth and status, power and military strength in David's day. If you owned chariots and horses, you had money, so you were "better" than poor folk. You could get where you want to go faster without getting tired or kick a foot soldier's tail in a fight like nobody's business. Simply put, you were a serious contender if you had a horse and chariot.

When symbols of strength give us the success and fame our ego is after, it's easy to give great kudos to those symbols. We begin to rely on them to keep us "on top", believing that these are what make us "great". Maybe it's a very nice salaried position in a successful company, maybe it's the luxury cars in your three-car garage, maybe it's that nice retirement fund you've been nursing for many years. You feel good. You feel successful. You feel "on top".

But when the strong, successful world you've built begins to crumble underneath you like a high-rise in an earthquake, what then? Where is your strength when the layoffs roll around, and suddenly, the foreclosures and repossessions leave you empty-handed and homeless? Folks, it's happening all around us -- to our friends and families, our neighbors, ourselves. What are we trusting in when the bottom drops out of all our symbols of strength and success?

When Pharaoh's horses and chariots followed the Israelites, who were on foot, into the dry floor of the Red Sea (Exodus 14), it looked like the Hebrew children were done for. But God was the Israelites' strength, and horses and chariots were no match for Him. What appeared weak ended up being the victor because of the God surrounding them.

The Lord has to be the Rock we cling to for our strength. Things of this world that promote a sense of power and control are hollow if God is not behind them, amen? When Pharaoh's army is nipping at your heels, are you looking for a horse and chariot of your own, or are you getting on your knees and calling on God? I pray you can give your full trust to God to guard and protect you, to give you what you need to survive and thrive in this world, to help you stand firm in your faith in Him when the battles rage.

Don't trust in the things God made; trust in the God who made all things...

Love,
Joelene