Month: June 2019

Precious Promises

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There is no better known symbol of precious stones than the diamond. But of even greater value are God’s promises in the middle of the real struggles in our lives. Peter writes these words as he faces the end of his own life at the hands of executioners. He looks back for a moment remembering how at the Lord’s invitation he had walked on water. In his mind he still sees the fish and loaves multiplied for 5,000 and a blind man by the roadside receiving sight. He could still recall his own tears when Jesus had looked at him while words of denial echoed in his mouth. Then only a few days later Jesus met with him to renew His promise that Peter was still loved and had been specially chosen to care for people just like us. How amazing and precious are these promises that Peter now passes on to us!

Strength to the Powerless

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Are you trusting or even just wishing for God’s help in some area your life this morning? Is it a broken relationship with a family member or the disabling shame of a past memory? God is not far off nor is He waiting for us to get smart enough or strong enough to get it right. In fact Isaiah tells us that it is quite the opposite.

I who am not so great or good at many things am hopeful at His promise. God has a lifeline prepared for folks just like me. He is not looking for someone to impress Him. He is not reserving a seat next to the throne for “important” people. He is simply waiting on us to come to the end of ourselves and find in Him all the strength anyone could ever hope for! What a wonderful God we serve!

Three Lessons from Laura

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But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! John 15:7 NLT

My little friend Laura is just 1 1/2 years old. Because Laura is a Down’s Syndrome child some people have few expectations of her abilities but in her special way she has already taught me three of the most important lessons about faith.

As I sat with her at the church picnic she smiled bigger than any of us “normal” folks because she knows that only this moment counts. By her laughter she is pointing the way to the bottomless well of joy just resting in Jesus.

When Laura’s Mom or Dad come to pick her up she wiggles and snuggles deep into their arms. She doesn’t have to work up courage to go because she is confident that she can go anywhere in the world as long as she is with them.

When she waves her arms reaching out for what she needs she is not ashamed. Whether she is asking for her book a kiss or a cookie it is all the same. She is delighted to ask for anything trusting that her parent’s love is the guarantee she will receive.

Thanks Laura for the lessons and thank you Lord for sending her!