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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.
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.
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.
What Are You Doing There?
A few mornings ago, I awoke to birds chirping outside my bedroom window. With my eyes still closed, I enjoyed the birdsong and sounds of life waking to a new day. When I opened my eyes and looked out the window to view the peaceful pasture behind our house, I noticed something very peculiar. A single white wildflower protruded from the top of the nearest bush. It was the oddest sight.
Stray Sheep
Now that we’re finally settled and getting into somewhat of a routine, I’ve been able to resume my daily prayer walks. Each morning, I put on my walking shoes and head to one of two roads to begin my stroll. Both roads are quiet and offer me beautiful mountain views, lots of ups and downs, and sheep pastures as far as the eye can see. I meander along--deep in prayer--for anywhere from three to five miles, depending on the weather, my current health, and how much I have to say to the Lord. It’s a wonderful time to improve my physical and spiritual health (not to mention it does a lot for my emotions).
When the Wind Blows
I love living in Wales! The people are so kind and gracious. The scenery is breathtaking. The sheep are interesting beyond measure. And believe it or not, I even enjoy the weather. Take today, for example. It’s the 4th day of July. The weather was partly cloudy, with a few light sprinkles this morning. And the temperature? It was a low of 54 degrees and a high of 62. Isn’t that awesome! Despite the often drizzly weather, I’ve come to enjoy the Welsh climate.
The Cleft of the Rock
Over the past couple of weeks, the weather here in Wales has been beautiful, so I’ve taken to walking the property here on the farm. Not only are there various hiking trails available within walking distance of our temporary home, but there is also a beautiful little lake with views overlooking the mountains and other scenery. So, each day, I pull on my boots and stroll along the winding paths. Some days, I pray. Others, I think. And some, I just watch the world around me.
Bowed Down By Burdens
And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. - Luke 13:11-13