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“Sunshine is sweet; it is good to see the light of day.”  Ecclesiastes 11:7

Recently I had a conversation with a gentleman in Moultrie, Ga. who is helping our family with some land we own.  Our conversation turned to the large amount of rain we were getting at the time.  This part of South Georgia is the watermelon capital -in fact, I have a friend who was the Watermelon Queen in high school.  I asked him how the watermelon crop was doing, and his reply was, “Well, they sure do need some sunshine to sweeten them up.”

Sunshine is good for the soul as well, and it takes many forms.  It can be the actual sunshine that we see or feel, or it can be the “sunshine” that is brought into lives through small acts.

When we first moved to Mt. Bethel, we had the honor of knowing Miss Eleanor who was over 100 years young at the time and still very active.  On one occasion, we invited some of the ladies in a circle to lunch at our parsonage, and she was among the ones who attended.  Our driveway was very steep, so Randy picked the ladies up in the church van and delivered them to the door.  As they began to unload, it was clear that Miss Eleanor was struggling to get down the steps of the van, so Randy asked if he could help her. She smiled and said, “Honey, I thought you’d never ask!” He scooped her up in his arms, she put her arms around his neck,  and together they came inside. When they got inside, Randy asked her where she would like to sit, and she replied, “Oh, I’m fine right here –  this is like bringing sunshine to my soul.”  Just a touch can be sunshine to many folks.

I think a lot about ways to bring sunshine into lives of those I know and hold dear.  It really only takes a moment of my time to call, text, write a note, give a hug, or reach out in some way.  It can mean the world to someone, and I may or may not know if it’s needed, but I always know it’s appreciated.

I love the sunshine both physically and emotionally.  It provides more than Vitamin D – it provides sweetness to the soul.  A small deed done in the name of God can produce a lot of sunshine!

 

 

 

 

“Red sky at night, sailor’s delight.  Red sky at morning, sailors take warning.”  Dive Master Dan

Every day has a sunset whether you actually see it or not.  Some are brilliant and hard to miss, while some are hidden behind clouds.  No matter what, I love watching the sun set at the end of the day especially over a lake, ocean, or mountain.  It is God’s exclamation point on the day!

Weathermen go about trying to predict what the next day, next 5 day, next 10 day forecast will be by using all their radar, computers, etc. and most of the time, they get it wrong!  So, I choose to use the much simpler method which is stated above.  There actually is scientific proof that if the sky is red at night, that means there is a huge concentration of dust particles in the air.  This indicates high pressure and stable air coming from west – so good weather.  In contrast, if the sky is red in the morning, that means the good weather has passed and there is higher water content in the atmosphere – thus, rain on the way!

There is also Biblical confirmation of the red sky philosophy.  “When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather for the sky is red.’  And in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today for the sky is red and threatening.’  You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the sign of the times.”  Matthew 16:2-3

There are times in my life when I wish with all my heart that I could predict or interpret the future for myself, my children, my grand children, my family, my friends, and my church family, but then I would play God. Each sunset is different  – some brilliant red, some yellow, some orange, but all beautiful in a different way.   Each day in life is different with its surprises, joys, disappointments, unexpected happenings, and even grief. It’s the differences that makes life meaningful and beautiful just like a gorgeous sunset!  It might not always be the way we want it to be, but it is still a God given blessing.

At the end of each day, we have a choice to compare life to our expectations or to thank God for what we have actually been given.  We can rejoice in the small surprises and differences in each day if we only take the time and know that God holds each day in His mighty hand!

 

 

 

“I firmly believe that in every situation no matter how difficult, God extends grace greater than the hardship along with strength and peace of mind that can lead us to a place higher than where we were before.”             Andy Griffith

While walking on the beach last week during the beginning of a threatening thunderstorm, I saw a sight that I’ve seen many times before but never really considered.  In preparation for the storm, the seagulls were lined up – each one facing the wind. This wind was really strong, but they would not be moved!  In contrast, I found myself trying to turn away from the wind as I walked.

As I researched this phenomenon, I found that seagulls do indeed face the wind, and they do it for several reasons.  They face the wind to take advantage of wind speed. The wind speed determines their direction, and it makes it easier to vacate the beach quickly in case of danger or if food becomes readily available. When air comes straight toward the gulls, the special shape of their wings and body allows air to flow faster over the top of their wings than under the wings.  These forces that raise the bird are called LIFT, and it allows them to go up!

It seems the seagulls are smarter than I.  Instead of facing difficulties, problems, or situations head on, I tend to turn my back and hope things work out.  It would be so much easier to use my faith in God to face these obstacles head on and be lifted up and through.  God has given me the two things I need to face the wind – dependence on God and confidence in God.    As long as these two things are in place, difficulties will become easier, problems will be solved, and situations will have a successful resolution.  Like the seagull, God has made us to be LIFTED up if we only face the wind.

“Cast all your anxiety on Him for He cares for you.” I Peter 5:7

“When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolation cheers my soul.”  Psalm 94:19

Growing up in my small hometown, our family’s favorite recreational activity was water skiing.  We spent every weekend hauling our boat, The Sandikay, (named for each one of us girls) back and forth to Lake Seminole!  A group of friends and family always met at the dock on the lake.

We all skied, but it soon became a goal for all of us to learn to slalom.  We were taught to get up on two skis, get balance and prepare, wiggle one foot almost out of the ski you are preparing to drop, then drop that ski (or just let it go) when you passed the dock.  As you passed the dock, the crowd went wild with support and cheers!  One of the group would swim out and retrieve the dropped ski. If all went as planned and you stayed up, you were slaloming!  If you fell, you started all over again!  The art of getting up on a slalom is a slightly different story, but it was achieved as well!

It’s been years since I’ve skied, but I remember vividly the feeling of gliding along waters as smooth as glass, crossing the wake, and taking on wakes made by passing boats!  I remember laughing with whomever was skiing next to me (sometimes 4 of us) and the joyous feeling of fresh air and water.

Our Mama was a beautiful skier, and she was always the one in the water with us giving instructions.  I can’t even guess how many kids she tutored.  Her instructions were always the same – bend your knees, hold your skis together, lean back and let the boat pull you up,  and above all, if you fall, let go of the rope!!  There were several instances of people not listening to the last one.

These instructions apply to life as well.  Sometimes, I forget to just lean back and let God pull me up or out of whatever stressful or confusing situation in which I might find myself.  Often, I don’t drop one of the burdens I am carrying, and I don’t trust God to retrieve and handle it.  I also tend to hold on to things when I should just let go!  When I think of things that weigh me down, I try to remember the sense of freedom I felt when I just dropped one!  It’s almost as if God himself is cheering!!

“Some think holding on to something makes us strong, but sometimes it is the letting go.”  Hermann Husse

(The picture is of Randy tutoring Coop!  It worked for a minute!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Sit tall in the saddle, hold your head up high; Keep your eyes fixed where the trail meets the sky; Live like you ain’t afraid to die; Don’t be scared, just enjoy your ride.”  The Ride by Chris Ledoux

Our family took a trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming last week, and we had multiple chances to be near horses.  We took a trail ride one day with some gorgeous views of the Teton Mountain Range.  It was the first time on a horse for some of the boys, and as they mounted, the wranglers would always say, “Sit tall, hold the reins firmly, keep your belly button lined up with the horses’s mane,  stay behind the horse in front of you, and don’t let the horses eat grass along the way. Above all, enjoy your ride!”

I was near the end of the line, so it was easy to see how directions can fall apart when boys of any age want to enjoy the ride!  First, Reese, our 6 year old, dropped his reins and allowed the horse to wander up the hill and off the trail. This meant the wrangler had to abandon the lead to go and rescue this rider.  The diversion allowed Mason, who is 8, to let his horse begin to eat grass and wander up after Reese.  At this point, Lee, our 35+ year old, decided to change places in line, and that is not encouraged! The horses can’t get in the habit of passing one another to take the lead. Trotting is also not part of the program, but somebody allowed that to start, so we all got to do that as well!  When one horse starts breaking the rules, they all do, and these riders loved it!  I actually saw Cooper and Drew laughing!  I’m pretty sure there was someone (maybe several) encouraging bad behavior! I have to admit that I’m a rule follower, but married to one who isn’t, so I’ve learned to just sit back and enjoy the moment!

Kids, young adults, and adults live with so many rules whether made by those in charge, self imposed or otherwise, that sometimes, it’s just necessary to ask forgiveness rather than permission and enjoy a different ride!  Often, we just need to break out of the rules and enjoy this ride called life!  These moments make the best memories!  It’s OK to be the lead dog sometimes!

As Lewis Grizzard once said, “If you ain’t the lead dog, the scenery never changes!”

 

 

 

Our family had the opportunity to attend a rodeo in Wyoming a couple of weeks ago.  They start this event with riders on horseback carrying the American flag.  As the rider gallops around the arena with the flag waving, the announcer recites the essay Old Glory.  I was so moved with the scene and the words, that I wanted to share a part of it.

“My name is Old Glory; I fly atop the world’s largest buildings; I stand watch in American’s halls of justice; I fly majestically over institutes of learning; I stand guard with power in the world.  Look up and see me!

I stand for peace, honor, truth and justice.  I stand for freedom.  I am confident.  I am arrogant.  I am proud.  I bow to no one.  I am worshiped, saluted, loved, revered, respected, feared.

I have fought in every battle of war for more than 200 years.  I was flown at Valley Forge, Gettysburg, Shiloh, and Appamatox.  I was there at San Juan Hill, trenches of France, the Argonne Forest, Anzio, Rome, and the beaches of Normandy. I was there in Iraq and Afghanistan, and atop the World Trade Center.

I was there.  I led my troops.  I was dirty, battleworn and tired, but my soldiers cheered me, and I was proud.

I have been burned, torn and trampled on the streets of countries that I have helped set free.  I shall overcome for I am strong.

I have borne silent witness to all America’s finest hours.  But my finest hours are yet to come.  When I am torn into strips and used as bandages for my wounded comrades on the battlefield or when I am flown at halfmast to honor my soldiers or when I lie in the trembling arms of a grieving parent at the grave of their fallen son or daughter.

I am proud.  I am the flag of the United States of America.”  (There are several versions of this, but this one is by Howard Schnauber,)

As we celebrate, the fourth of July, I pray for the USA and the flag that proudly waves!

 

“To Thee I lift up my eyes, O Thou who art enthroned in heaven.”  Psalm 123:1

The phrase “Heads UP” is usually shouted at baseball games when a foul ball or line drive threatens to hit some unsuspecting person on the head while they are eating a hot dog or looking in another direction. Lately, I’ve found myself using an adapted version, “Look UP”  more and more in the grocery stores, sidewalks, and other places.

There are many things about cell phones about which I marvel, but one of the most annoying things about them is that they encourage people to walk and try to text at the same time!  If walking and chewing gum is hard, this feat is impossible!

Randy and I were literally running through the airport the other day because our flight was late, and we had a connection.  As we were threading our way through the crowd of people, I kept having to say, “Look UP, please.”  It’s sad to me that these folks miss so much of what is going on around them because they are always looking down!

They miss the servicemen being deployed; they miss the veteran who is walking with a cane; they miss the little boy who is marveling at his surroundings; they miss the couple holding hands and gazing into each other’s eyes; they miss moms and dads who are herding their kids; they miss loved ones kissing and hugging good bye; they miss grandparents taking their grand kids on an adventure; they miss the chance to meet new people; they miss the chance to give direction to those who seem lost; they miss Starbucks;  they miss the excitement of travel; they miss watching the planes land and take off; they miss the uniformed pilots and flight attendants who walk through; and they miss the beauty which is human kind.  They are locked away in their own world.

While on vacation in Wyoming with our family, we looked up from our window to see a beautiful rainbow in the sky.  It always reminds me of God’s promise to us, and what an amazing God we serve!  We miss a lot of blessings if we don’t remember to keep our Heads UP and Look UP!

“Keep looking up!  I learn from the past, dream about the future, and look up!”  Rachel Boston

 

“As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you.  Abide in me.” John 15:9

On this Father’s Day weekend, I am so fortunate to have and have had great men and Dads in my life.  My Daddy was a farmer, a “developer”, a man of faith, and a family man.  Randy’s Dad was a salesman, a sports figure, a man of faith, and a family man.  Randy is a minister, sports lover, a man of faith, and a family man.  Rob is a director of sports, lover of sports, a man of faith, and a family man.  Lee is a medical salesman, a lover of everything, a man of faith, and a family man. I love that the tie that binds is family and faith.

If you look at the one factor that most closely correlates with success in a family, it is the presence of a father.  “The DADS should provide Direction, Availability, Discipline, and Spirituality.  The most important of these is availability.  If you are not available, you can’t be there to give direction, your discipline will be resented,  and your spiritual guidance will be rejected.”  If Dads aren’t there for their children someone else will be, and it won’t always be someone you will like.

I love seeing Dads who coach their kids in sports, attend church with their families, give lots of hugs to their kids, put their arm around their children’s mom, encourage their children, and lead their family spiritually.  These guys set the example for their children, and they are giving them quite a gift!

On this Father’s Day, it is fitting that we honor the men in our lives who are strong in their faith, character, and love.  They exemplify the Father’s love through their own.

“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.”  Jim Valvano

Happy Father’s Day, guys!

 

 

 

“I lift up my eyes up to the hills from whence does my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.”  Psalm 121: 1-2

While visiting Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland, we rode a gondola to the top of this incredible mountain. As I looked down upon all the beauty, someone said, “How can anyone deny the existence of God amidst this creation!”  I agree.  It defies all logic and can only be the product of a loving God.

I couldn’t help but think of Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music,  and for some unknown reason, the childhood book, Heidi, came to my mind with the vivid pictures of mountains, goats, and fresh air.  Ironically, the gift shop downstairs had the book, so I bought it and read anew the story by Johanna Spyri.

The story is of an orphan girl who comes to live with her grandfather on the mountain (Shirley Temple played Heidi in the movie).  A crotchety old soul, Heidi wins him over with her love of his mountains, his stories, and his ways.  She thrives in this setting with fresh air, sunshine, friends, and love.  Her happiness and joy leads the father of an ailing child to seek Heidi out to be his daughter’s companion.  He moves her to the city away from her strength, her help, the mountains, and she begins to die a little each day from homesickness even while lifting the spirits of his daughter with tales of her life in the mountains.

The father has compassion for Heidi and transports her back to her mountain home where she regains her strength. Klara, the sick child, comes to visit, she is cured and walks again.  A simple, childlike, feel good ending, but it is so possible with God.

Many times through circumstances or by my own hand, I find myself homesick for scripture, prayer, bible study, Christian friends, and so many other things.  When this happens, I find myself ailing and need to return to the strength they provide.  God has compassion for my situation, and always sends the help I need.  God’s word is the greatest healing force and help on earth!  We only need to read it, believe it, stand on it, and practice it!

“It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.”  Sir Edmund Hillary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“One generation shall commend your works to another, and they shall declare Your mighty acts.”  Psalm 145:4

Randy and I recently returned from a Rhine river cruise which was our retirement gift to each other.  My sisters and husbands accompanied us, and we celebrated our Mom as well.  As we toured these countries, I was in awe of all the churches, cathedrals, and castles dating back to 1000 AD.

The French and Germans celebrated the holiday of Ascension while we were there which comes 40 days after the resurrection of Christ. Shops, banks, and businesses were closed to celebrate.  Although it is a religious holiday, I saw no evidence of worship or celebrations other than giving people a three day weekend.  What’s missing?

The beautiful churches are empty except for tourists, the crosses on top have been replaced or overshadowed by golden roosters (which remind people to get up earlier on Sunday to attend church), and the mood of the people is leaning toward the secular.   What’s missing?

Almost all the people there with whom we had conversations say they are Christian with Catholics being the majority.  Do they attend church?  Not regularly, just for special days, is the answer.  They hold Sundays for family, outings, and social events. They dress in their finest, have brunch, but don’t worship.  What’s missing?

It occurred to me that although I was quick to judge them, we are not always so different.  We attend worship when it is convenient, volunteer when it suits us, and give when we can.  We have many beautiful churches that are becoming less crowded as the years go by.  As someone said, “There is a lot of “blue” hair there.  Yes, there is, but these are the people who sacrificed and built these churches for the faith and Lord in which they believed.  They are still the faithful ones.  Everyone can learn from them.  What’s missing?

I pray that the next generation will realize that they are “what’s missing”, and work with the older generation to extend Christianity and build a bigger and better kingdom.  One group does not need to exclude the other to make God’s kingdom on earth a stronger, better and more unified one.

What’s missing is a unified church which exists for one purpose – to glorify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

“Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress; working together is success.”  Henry Ford