Never Too Late for Miracles
Grab a cosy seat because today, we're diving into a story about hope and our Saviour's incredible power. We're cracking open the pages of John 11 to uncover a moment that speaks right to the core of our hearts —a time when it seemed all hope was lost, but Jesus showed us that even in the eleventh hour, miracles are still possible.
John 11 tells us that Lazarus, a dear friend of Jesus, had fallen seriously ill. His sisters, Mary and Martha, were understandably distraught and sent word to Jesus, hoping He'd come quickly to heal their brother. Oddly enough, Jesus didn't rush to their aid but remained where he was for another two days.
The Power of Stillness to Refresh and Transform
Ah, the joys of automated technology and its misinterpretations! It never fails to surprise us with its unintentional comedy. The other day, I received a call on the automated announcement line from our beloved home church in South Carolina. Unfortunately, I missed the ring, and it went straight to voicemail. When I checked the message later, I laughed out loud. The visual voicemail system decided to have a little fun and mixed up "choir practice" with "quiet practice." Oh, the wonders of technology!
More Than Just a Book
Recently, Jason and I had the opportunity to meet and witness to a woman who received one of our promotion leaflets in the mail. Unfortunately, this dear lady has led a rough life and is very mixed up in what she believes. Being a self-proclaimed mystic, her behavior was peculiar and downright scary.
As she spoke of her guilt and shame, we assured her that there was no sin too great that God could not forgive it. We then went on to share some Scripture with her.
The Tess Tea Party
Tess, our precious terrier, loves people and does not appreciate being left alone. We’ve had a few occasions where she’s gotten into things around the house while we were away at the chapel, but most of the time, she’s an angel. Last Sunday, however, was not one of those times.
As we entered the house Sunday afternoon after our morning church service, we immediately spotted the debris covering the foyer carpet. Destroyed plastic containers dotted the area. Tea bags—some intact, many not—littered the floor. Loose-leaf tea covered the room like fallen leaves on an autumn day. Yes, for some strange reason, our pooch decided to ransack my tea collection. Bad dog! Nobody messes with Mama’s tea!!!
I’ll Go But Only If You Go With Me
Even though Tess was five years old when we got her, she wasn’t house-trained. She had spent much of her life in a kennel, so it took some training to help her realize the house was not a toilet.
All in all, she’s done well, and to make things easier, we installed a doggie door, so she could let herself out when she needed to go. We were hopeful there would be no more incidents in the house, but one thing we failed to consider is how much our pup hates inclement weather.
When All You Have Is Just a Little Strength
I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. - Revelation 3:8
Each time I come across this verse, I’m reminded of its usage in my favorite movie, Facing the Giants. Though it is a film centered around a football team (which is typically not my thing), the spiritual applications within the movie have impacted my life in so many ways.
Jesus Will Meet You Where You Are
We’re all probably familiar with the sisters of Bethany: Mary and Martha. Like many sisters throughout the ages, the two ladies were very different. From the picture the Scriptures give us, I see Martha as a doer. She hosted dinner parties, cooked a mean meal, and could organize with the best of them. I imagine she was the type of woman who made lists and stuck to a rigorous schedule though I could be wrong. She just strikes me that way. A real go-getter. Not afraid to speak her mind or put her foot down. Yes, that’s how I envision Martha.
My Heart Is Established
None of us likes to receive bad news. Our human nature can’t seem to cope with it. Some cry. Others get angry. Sadly, some turn to drugs, alcohol, or another vice. And in many cases, people are so distraught by the situation, they see no way out and end their lives prematurely. Yes, bad news can have detrimental effects on us, but according to God’s Word, it doesn’t have to.
He Maketh Me To Lie Down
Yesterday, we took Tess on a 4-mile hike. Oh, what an exciting time she had. There were so many interesting smells and tantalizing crevices to explore. And let’s not forget the sheep to chase (though she could only chase so much as she was on a leash). We climbed hills, crossed bridges, and covered every kind of terrain from tarmac to forest floor and rock. She was so alert and attentive the entire time, I knew she would be exhausted when we got home.
Doing God’s Work in Tight Places
We often give Gideon a hard time because he was hiding from the enemy, but from what I can see, he was the only one still working. Sure, he was hiding, but he was also trying to make sure the people of Israel had some food left after the current raid. Yes, he was in the wrong place, but he was making the best of a terrible situation.