A Bottom Drawer Day

By Peggy Kleckner

“Why so downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”

Psalm 43:5 (NIV)

I had a difficult day. I was worn out physically, mentally and emotionally. No major trauma, just the stuff of life. A bit of disappointment, a measure of work frenzy and restless thoughts had added up to weariness. I took appropriate action when I got home from work….I went to bed and covered up. My friend calls this “turtling”! Yep, I tucked in and tuned out; however, I did have a meeting to go to that night. So there I lay pondering what God would have me do. Some days, a nap is the right choice followed by an evening of staying put, but other days it is a trap of the enemy.

I smelled dinner in the crockpot and thought I better get up and take care of it, after all, no one else was home. Now I was up. Next, a shower was needed as I smelled like ant spray… don’t even ask for the rest of that scenario! As I was combing out my hair, the thought came to mind that this was a bottom drawer day. Not top shelf…open and above; bottom… beneath and closed. I laughed to myself at the description as I thought that “bottom” certainly described my feelings, but then I remembered my “bottom drawer.” I have a desk in my study - - a desk with a bottom drawer. In that drawer, I have been collecting notes of encouragement, thank you cards and the like, knowing that one day I may need a “pick me up.” How kind of God to remind me!

I fed the dog, gathered my dinner and headed to my first meeting of the evening, a meeting with the friends in the bottom drawer of my desk. What a delight to first run across a friend who had given me a piece of writing about putting on the armor of God for our spiritual battles, next came notes from a Bible study that included a page of Bible verses on fear - - both on facing fear and on the fear of the Lord. What a delight to wander back through friendships and places where the Lord had sustained me or used me in the lives of others. What a cup of refreshment for my weary heart.

Needless to say, I did head out to my other meeting, fed, clean and renewed by the One who knows me best.

GOING DEEPER:

1. Do you have a small stash of encouragement for when you hit a “bottom drawer” day?

2. Have you sent any written notes of encouragement that others can pull out on a “bottom drawer” Day? Do they include some of His life-giving words?

FURTHER READING:

Proverbs 12:25; Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 58:11

Peggy is a wife and mother of four adult children - - two sons and two stepsons and is an active encourager at Oakwood.

The Least of These

By Brita Crouse

“...I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

It was a hot summer day, the kind so humid it makes you simultaneously sleepy and sticky. I was worn out after an exhausting day and still had things to do. But, before I attempted to finish any work, I sat down in the middle of a sea of children and immediately had a dozen tiny hands combing through my long, blondish hair. Within 15 minutes, my head was covered in neat, tight cornrows. It may seem silly, but this image is what epitomizes my summer at the Rescue Mission.

After my junior year of college, I worked as a Summer School teacher at a local rescue mission. This was uncomfortable for many reasons: 1) I’m not an education major and hadn’t really taught before, 2) I’m (very) white and was working within a predominantly black community, 3) I was working for a Christian organization, but most of my students didn’t know Jesus, and 4) several of my students were homeless, and many had families who could barely make ends meet.

I still don’t know exactly why God brought me to this place. So many tears were shed out of frustration, feelings of inadequacy, and utter heartbreak for my students. Many were looked down upon by their community and even by their own families. Many did not know Christ’s love and their words and actions proved it.

I had countless visible moments of frustration throughout the summer, but God continually whispered in my ear, “Love them.” So, I let them play with my hair; I let them take their anger about a situation at home out on me; I did my best to show them kindness and patience.

God is still teaching me things about that summer. I may never see the impact of my ministry at the Rescue Mission, but if one of those kids experienced Christ’s love, any of the tears cried or doubts had or anger felt was worth it.

Jesus tells us what we do for “the least of these,” for those who are outcast by society, we are doing for Him. That alone is enough motivation to care for those most people don’t care about. Loving “the least of these” goes against what society tells us, but it’s exactly what God tells us to do because it means we are loving Him.

So, go, and love “the least of these.”

GOING DEEPER:

1. Listen to “Your Love is a Song” by Switchfoot (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0rckZSB4_g). Start praying for opportunities to show love to “the least of these.” God may surprise you!

FURTHER READING:

Matthew 25:31-40; James 2:8

Brita recently graduated from Taylor University with a degree in Psychology, and is currently a helper for Oakwood’s Quest 56 and the Just Among Moms weekly childcare team.

Life-Giving Power of the “Son”

By Karen D’Amore

“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions - - it is by grace you have been saved.”

Ephesians 2:4-5 (NIV)

Blindsided by winter’s sudden arrival, I entered the season ill-prepared for what was to come. With a relentless scorn, winter snarled, pounced and bit like a raging lion…over and over again. Windows and walls insulated me from the frigid and frozen landscape. My heart ached to see my beloved wildlife forage relentlessly to ease their hunger since winter had robbed them of their natural food sources.

Finally, we had a day of reprieve where winter recoiled and the powerful sun was the victor. The rapidly melting snow - - puddled into micro-pools - - drew birds to flock for refreshment. Color emerged from beneath the thick blanket of snow and symphonies of birds shouted melodies of spring. From the dead of winter, the outside world came alive… resuscitated by the power of the sun.

Venturing beyond my protective barriers, I immersed myself in the thawing environment. With my lawn chair aligned with the unobstructed sun, I basked in the outstretched rays, drinking in every morsel of warmth.  And as the brilliant sun penetrated the surface of my skin, it seemed to awaken my soul. For the first time in months, I felt revived and alive. There was a stark contrast between how un-alive I’d felt throughout the frigid dark winter and how I felt moments after exposure to the powerful sun. As exposure to sunlight infuses our body with nourishing vitamin D, it restores, renews and replenishes us. God masterfully created the sun  to be life-giving!

I recall a season in my life when I experienced this stark contrast… spiritually. I was a prodigal daughter wandering in darkness and dead in my sin. Once my soul was exposed to the “Son,” I saw the Light and re-committed my life to Christ. After experiencing the power of the “Son,” I felt instantly resuscitated, restored and renewed! For the first time in my life, I felt truly alive.

As sun-deprived seasons affect us emotionally and physically, Son-deprived lives suffer spiritually. Are you suffering from Son-deprivation? Are you in need of restoration and renewal? Turn your face to God and bask in the eternal-life-giving power of His “Son!”

GOING DEEPER:

1.  How can you prevent Son-deprivation?

FURTHER READING:

Romans 6:11; Romans 8:2, 9-11

Married to Dan, Karen, a retired police officer, currently works as a Manicurist at Craig Berns Salon and Foot Care Specialist at Shorehaven Senior Facility. She’s on the Oakwood Women’s Ministry Special Events planning team.

Pursuing Hospitality

By Susan Klein

“Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” 

Romans 12:13 (NIV)

I remember a time from my early childhood when moms would gather in our kitchen to discuss child-rearing, how to get stains out of clothes, and what to fix for dinner. I also recall the costume parties where neighbors from our street gathered in our four-family apartment building’s basement to unwind and have a little fun together. If someone was sick, children would be shuffled off to the neighbor’s or meals would be prepared and taken over. There was a sense of peace and security about this community of people.

I also remember how my dad loved to just “go for a drive” on a Sunday afternoon. We’d all pile into the car and inevitably end up at someone’s house for “just a quick visit.” It was not uncommon back then, and even welcomed. Not so much the norm today. To just show up at someone’s door would mortify some. Now we have to check our busy calendars, plan in advance, and hope nothing more important comes up that requires our attention. Times have definitely changed. Gone is the sense of peace and security (for many people) that comes with “community.” Our time is divided by so many things that there’s hardly room left for hospitality.

But God’s Word says that we are to practice hospitality; to spend time with guests and strangers. In fact, “practice,” in this case, is “to continually pursue” it. It’s really not optional. It’s what we are here for. God created people to live in community with each other, to do life together, to help carry each other’s burdens, and to celebrate life’s joys together. Oh, how we miss out on the blessings God has for us when we don’t pursue hospitality! One of my own greatest joys in life is inviting people into my home to get to know them, to share a meal with them, or to pray with them. Much laughter and many wonderful conversations have taken place around our kitchen table. It truly is a blessing for all involved. (And they really don’t care if my house is clean.) So, why do we let “other things” rob us of this blessing?

What if we were to start a new (old) trend? What would happen if everyone committed to setting aside some time every week or month to pursue hospitality? I’ll give you a glimpse of what would happen. New friendships would be made, peace and security would return, blessings would flow, and God would be glorified. Now, what could be more important than that?!!

GOING DEEPER:

1. Invite someone you don’t know very well over for lunch after church, or drop in on a shut-in. Be creative!

FURTHER READING:

Hebrews 13:2; 1 Peter 4:8-10

Susan enjoys teaching Bible studies, writing, and tutoring with the Literacy Council. She and her husband Mark co-lead an on-site small group studying 2 Corinthians with Oakwood's Wednesday Night Community.

The Look of Love

By Elizabeth Cole

“When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.”

Matthew 13:14 (NIV)

I once heard an extremely engaging speaker tell our church’s moms’ group a story about her face. She said that when she was a young woman, she had inadvertently glanced in a mirror as she passed by, and was utterly shocked by the scowl that reflected back. It so startled her that she had to sit down and give thought to it. Considering herself to be an inviting personality, she was saddened as she realized that this was the face her children and husband saw most…and it wasn’t even an accurate portrayal of her feelings toward them! What was simply “deep in thought” came across as frustration and irritation. At that point in her life, she decided to purposefully guard her facial expressions and conscientiously look her family members in the eye and smile…every day.  

I’m grateful for her decision. All my conscious memories of my precious mom are after she’d made that choice!

There’s something about a look that conveys so much, isn’t there? A furrowed brow, the lack of eye contact, a disapproving wrinkling of the eyes, the downturned mouth. Or consider the opposite: a gentle glance, a warm gaze, a tender smile. I can’t help but think that Jesus must’ve had that kind of face as He walked among the crowds of broken people. What kind of approachable look did He have that would cause little children to run to Him, lepers to approach Him, an outcast woman to touch His cloak, or crowds to follow Him to a remote place in search of healing? Surely His face conveyed His compassion, and His availability.

I’m challenged today to reflect my Savior’s love and availability in the way I look at…and to…others.

GOING DEEPER:

1. Take a glance in the mirror. How can you intentionally convey compassion without words?

2. How will you create enough margin in your life to authentically communicate availability?

FURTHER READING:

Proverbs 15:13; Mark 10:21; Luke 19:1-10

Elizabeth is a wife and mother of three grown daughters. She is the Director of Connecting and of We Women at Oakwood Church.

Love in the Middle Of

By Lexi Cole Ellis

"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!..."

1 John 3:1a (NIV)

In 1882, George Matheson sat alone on the night of his sister’s wedding. Twenty years prior, Matheson was first in his class, a promising minister and engaged to be married. Devastatingly, he gradually became blind and his fiancée left him because of it. His sister cared for him, but life was changing with her marriage. Alone and blind, this accomplished minister struggled with resurfaced feelings of loss.(1) 

Loss is universal. The older I get, the more profound loss I see in my life and in the lives of people I love: loss of a relationship, loss of health, loss of a job, loss of a dearly loved one. Some loss is chosen; often, it’s loss we never asked for. Recognizing his own loss, Matheson wrote this hymn in five minutes:

O Love that will not let me go,
I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe,
That in thine ocean depths its flow
May richer, fuller be.

O light that follows all my way,
I yield my flickering torch to thee;
My heart restores its borrowed ray,
That in thy sunshine’s blaze its day
May brighter, fairer be.

O Joy that seeks me through pain,
I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
And feel the promise is not vain,
That morn shall tearless be.

O Cross that lifts up my head,
I dare not ask to fly from thee;
I lay in dust life’s glory dead,
And from the ground there blossoms red
Life that shall endless be. (2)

There are two things that have touched me through this hymn. The first speaks of a love from a powerful God that is unfailing. The mere fact that His love is steadfast is extremely powerful. His is a love that will never let us down…it won’t let us go. Secondly, Matheson alludes to the Holy Spirit who follows, seeks and guides us. In the midst of loss, we can choose to be in relationship with the Creator of the Universe who comforts His children and guides them through His Spirit.

Our loss is oh so real. Our God comforts and heals in the midst of our brokenness, and  His love is forever constant. Matheson experienced loss - - loss of his sight, loss of a loved relationship, loss of a hoped-for future - - but in that, he chose to cling to His God of Love.

GOING DEEPER:

1.  How have you seen your God of Love at work in the middle of your own loss?

FURTHER READING:

Isaiah 66:13; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

(1) http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/o/l/oltwnlmg.htm

(2) When I was in college, we sang this hymn arranged by my director. Here’s another arrangement of this hymn (some classic Gaither) if you would like to listen to it.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAH1HuUqLZo

Lexi is married to Andrew, serves with Oakwood’s Children’s Ministries, teaches at Lake Country Christian Academy and is the Fresh Start Coordinator.

I Can Hear You Now

By Jeannine Sawall

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us -- whatever we ask -- we know that we have what we asked of Him."

1 John 5:14-15 (NIV)

Two years ago, I spent a few days in the upper peninsula of Michigan. It was a great place to escape, with beautiful snow-covered landscapes and quiet days in the cottage. I had planned a reflective time to finish a couple writing projects I was working on. In the middle of one of the projects, I realized I needed the internet and we do not have internet access at the cottage. No problem…I have a smart phone. However, being as rural as we were, I was not getting a strong enough signal. My wireless devices left me without the ability to communicate. 

As I sat there grumbling, growing more frustrated by the failure of my technology and watching my productive day go down the drain, I heard the Lord whisper to me, “I can hear you now.” What? “I can hear you now,” He said again. I smiled as He reminded me His prayer line is always available. I bowed my head, thanked Him that His service always has a strong signal, and told Him my needs. A short time later, the neighbor came home and, after hearing my technology issues, graciously offered me their internet I.D. and password to use anytime we came up to the cottage. I was back in business.

Most of us depend on technology every day. We google information, share our joys and heartaches on Facebook and wouldn’t think of leaving the house without our cell phone. However, each of these communication technologies can fail us at times. How blessed we are to have the Lord available at anytime and anywhere. He always has a strong signal, He never drops a call, and His wi-fi is never password-protected! While technology is a great thing, having the Lord available at all times is an even greater thing. Instead of choosing to search the internet or dial up a friend when faced with trouble or joy, we can make the choice to reach out and up to our Lord. He is waiting to hear from us, He has answers, and He can hear us now…and forever.

GOING DEEPER:
1. When faced with trouble or joy, who do you choose to share it with first: the Lord or others?

2. How much time do you spend with Jesus compared to Facebook or other technology?

FURTHER READING:
James 1:5-6; Matthew 7:7-11; Hebrews 4:16

Jeannine is a wife and mother of four active boys. She works in the property management business. Jeannine is actively involved in ministry to those walking through grief.

He Knows My Name

By Brita Crouse

“But now, O Israel, the LORD who created you says: ‘Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.’”

Isaiah 43:1 (NLT)

I will be the first to admit that my name is a difficult one to figure out. I have been called every version and variation possible, but I’m most commonly called “Brit-ah,” and then usually asked, “Like the water filter?” (In case anyone is wondering, I DO hear that all the time!) My name is actually pronounced “Bree-duh” and derives from my Norwegian ancestry. It has no meaning, at least not in the English language, and is fairly uncommon. In fact, I’ve never met someone with the same name as I!

A name is an important part of a person. It can be a representation of heritage or culture, and is especially chosen for us by our family. A name gives a sense of self and belonging. It’s probably one of the first things you learned how to write and it’s one of the first things you tell someone about yourself. When you call someone by name, you are reaffirming their significance as a person. See how important a name is? It’s truly a part of our identity.

It’s probably accurate to say that my name is mispronounced more than it is pronounced correctly, but I take solace in this truth: God knows my name and exactly how to pronounce it.

Even more than that, God knows every other identifying and intimate aspect of my life. And, He knows just as much about you, too!

• He knows our actions and thoughts (Psalm 139:2).
• He knows our past, present, and future (Psalm 139:3).
• He knows our words before we even speak (Psalm 139:4).
• He always knows where we are and what we are doing (Psalm 139: 7-12).
• He knows how we were made because He was the One who created us (Psalm 139: 13-15).
• He knew us before anyone did and knows about every day we will live (Psalm 139:16).

Yes, God knows all these things about YOU! He knows your name (and how to pronounce it), and calls you by that name. God desires an intimate and personal relationship with each of His children and He shows this desire when He calls us by name, when He calls us His own.

Take joy in the fact that you are known and called by name by the One True God!

GOING DEEPER:

1. How does knowing how much God loves and knows you change the way you will live your life?

2. This week, try addressing everyone by name. See what a difference it will make.

FURTHER READING:

Psalm 139:1-16; John 10:1-5, 11

Brita recently graduated from Taylor University with a degree in Psychology, and is currently a helper for Oakwood’s Quest 56 and the Just Among Moms weekly childcare team.

The God Of All Comfort

By Susan Klein

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles… ”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4a (NIV)

If given a blank canvas, how might you paint a picture of “comfort”? Perhaps your idea of retreat involves a big bowl of pasta or some other comfort food. Or, maybe you’d paint yourself in your favorite comfy clothes curled up under a big blanket. For some, conversing with a trusted friend or a day at the spa brings the best repose from one’s woes. We’d each paint our own unique picture of what soothes our souls in trying times.

I wonder, though, if anyone would paint God. “Well,” you might (rightly) say, “We don’t know what He looks like!” True, yet Scripture tells us God is the Father of compassion and the God of ALL comfort. Usually when I read this passage above, my focus tends to fall on the last part of verse four, which says; “…so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” As I’ve re-read and meditated on this passage, a few new insights have come to mind.

First, we are to go to God to be comforted before turning to other people or things. While He is the giver of good gifts such as food, friends, blankets, He desires for us to seek solace in Him more than in His gifts. Nothing else can compare with His perfect peace and everlasting compassion.

Secondly, we shouldn’t be too quick to rush in and offer others comfort ahead of God. If we do, we may be robbing them of the best comfort that only He can provide. We’d be practicing true sisterly love if we pointed them toward God first, then offered our chicken soup or listening ear.

Finally, we are to offer the comfort “we ourselves have received.” God’s provision of comfort is not solely for our benefit! We are often used by God to help another who is going through a similar trial. For example, when I lost a baby, I received the most comfort from other women who had lost a baby as well. Not to say we can’t provide solace to anyone in need, but drawing from our own experiences and the comfort God has shown us is often the most helpful.

In being reminded of these insights, perhaps a better question is, “If given a blank canvas, how might you portray the Great Comforter?”  

GOING DEEPER:

1. What creature comforts might you be turning to before your heavenly Father?

2. How might your own provision of comfort overflow into someone else’s life?

FURTHER READING:

Isaiah 66:13; John 16:33; 2 Corinthians 7:6-7

Susan enjoys teaching Bible studies, writing, and tutoring with the Literacy Council. She and her husband Mark co-lead an on-site small group studying 2 Corinthians with Oakwood's Wednesday Night Community.

Crown Me

By Vernette Kureck

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the Righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - - and not only me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

2 Timothy 4:8 (NIV)

In my mind, I was walking the beach collecting seashells. In reality, I was sitting in the dentist chair having a molar ground down for a crown fitting. The tooth was cracked and had quite a few fillings, so the crown will make my tooth feel, look and function better. My seashell bag was full, so my thoughts drifted to different types of crowns and what they signify. 

First, I thought of the game checkers. Once you reach the other side, you get crowned and can move in any direction. According the verse above, as believers reach “the other side” known as heaven, Christ will give a crown to all those who have walked with Him and have longed for His return. This is not just any old crown, but a Righteous crown. It demonstrates royalty and blamelessness. As children of the King and Judge, we will experience true freedom.

Next, I thought of my granddaughters and their love of playing princess. Even at their young age, they get that the function of royalty has certain privileges and responsibilities. Not only do you look and feel good, but your decrees and judgments are to be fair and honorable. 1 Corinthians 6:3 states that as believers, we will judge the angels. For the Final Judgment, people of God will be reigning with Christ and judging.

Yes, playing checkers or princess is only a prelude to the work that will be done in heaven. Crowns can weigh heavily on royalty. Perhaps that is why “the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, ‘Worthy are you our Lord and God, to receive honor and glory and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created’” (Revelation 4:10-11, NIV).

The prep work was all done and I was wearing my temporary crown. I was ready to leave. “Come back in two weeks and we’ll put on the permanent crown,” the dentist said. I smiled and said, “I’m looking forward to it more than you’ll ever know.”

GOING DEEPER:

1. Have you been enjoying your walk of grace with Jesus and longing for His return?

2. Are you ready to lay your crown down before the throne?

FURTHER READING:

Philippians 3:12- 4:1

Vernette and her husband Ken have been married 45 years. They have been blessed with eight grandchildren from their two sons and their wives. She serves Oakwood on the prayer chain.   

I Want To Be Like…

By Tracy Smith

“And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.”

1 Corinthians 11:1 (NLT)

This past January, in Wednesday night youth group we watched a series of videos from the I Am Second  website.  This website is full of 5-10 minutes videos of people of faith sharing their journey and how living for God has changed them. I was really enjoying these videos, so I decided to visit the site and watch more videos at home. I found one by Major League baseball player Albert Pujols. All I really knew about Albert Pujols was that he was a major reason that my team, the Milwaukee Brewers, did not advance to the World Series in 2011! Despite that, I decided to watch his video and I’m so glad I did! [1]

He spoke eloquently about his wife (then girlfriend) introducing him to Christ. One of the things he mentions in the video is that his daughter has Down Syndrome and he started a foundation to help families of kids with Down Syndrome. I was intrigued enough by his testimony to visit his foundation website. On the page with his testimony, Mr. Pujols says this, “I've heard kids say they want to be just like me when they grow up. They should know I want to be just like Jesus.” [2]

This was such a great reminder to me! We should always be striving to be imitators of Christ. I love that Albert Pujols says that kids who want to be like him should know that he is striving to be like Christ. 

When people see me, do they see an imitator of Christ?

GOING DEEPER:

1.  Who are you imitating?

2.  Is it someone that is imitating Christ or do you need to reevaluate this?

FURTHER READING:

Ephesians 5:1-2; Philippians 2:5-11

[1] Watch Albert Pujols’ “I Am Second” testimony here: http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/albert-pujols/

[2] http://www.pujolsfamilyfoundation.org/faith/testimony.htm

Along with being a wife and mother to two boys, Tracy is an administrative assistant at Oakwood, serves on the Women’s Ministry Special Events Team and leads a great group of Junior High girls.

Rest Under His Reign

By Karen D’Amore

“…My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all my good pleasure.”

Isaiah 46:10b (NIV)

The symptoms mimicked those of the previous tumors. With the new lump being in close proximity to the last surgically-removed tumor, a biopsy was inevitable. The first available appointment with my doctor, or any other in the network, was months away. With my cancer history dictating a sense of urgency, I was added to a waiting list while I waited for my scheduled appointment. To add to the lengthy wait, a scheduling error by the doctor’s office delayed my appointment another week longer than originally scheduled.

Aware of my reoccurring cancer and the lengthy wait for a medical diagnosis, my friends and family were frustrated. I worked to maintain an utmost trust in my sovereign God. With a heart filled with peace that only comes from Him, I was neither anxious nor fearful. My prayer requests were specific: I desired to see God’s hand in the medical delays and that He be glorified in the process…regardless of the outcome. God had allowed  the scenario to play out exactly as it did. Though the reasons were unclear to me at the time, I wanted to trust Him. “Logic” continued to dictate a strong sense of urgency with my family and friends. And though my “logic” initially wrestled with the same concern, faith overrode logic. Confident in God’s sovereignty over every detail of my circumstances, I continued to work on trusting Him and choosing His peace. 

The doctor visit played out exactly as I suspected with the lump being biopsied and my being sent home to wait another week for the results. Moments after leaving the medical facility, my attention was drawn to a lake alongside the interstate. Sitting atop the snow-encased lake was an elegant white swan, basking in the frigid winter sun. The oddly displaced creature and the unlikeliness of such a sighting drew me to sense the consuming presence of God.

With the biopsy disclosing no malignancy, my immediate future remained cancer-free! Though I was elated with the news, I was in greater awe of my Lord. He knew the diagnosis before the process began, and every delay had been held purposely in God’s hands. He already knew there was no cancer urgency!

When we trust in God’s sovereignty, peace and joy can reign over our bleakest of circumstances. We can rest secure in the assurance that no matter what we’re facing, our God reigns. And while He is using God-allowed circumstances to accomplish His will in our lives…we can rest peacefully under His reign!

GOING DEEPER:

1. Are you fretting or resting under God’s reign?

FURTHER READING:

Psalm 47:7-8, 103:19; Romans 8:28

Married to Dan, Karen, a retired police officer, currently works as a Manicurist at Craig Berns Salon and Foot Care Specialist at Shorehaven Senior Facility. She’s on the Oakwood Women’s Ministry Special Events planning team.

Choosing to Look Forward

By Jeannine Sawall

“Then the Lord rained on Sodom and Gomorrah sulfur and fire from the Lord out of heaven. And he overthrew those cities, and the entire valley, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and what grew on the ground. But Lot’s wife, behind him, looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.”

Genesis 19:26 (NIV)

The Lord had provided a way out for Lot’s family. He had instructed them to flee from the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah as judgment was imminent. Lot and his family were told to leave everything behind and to go and do not look back. Lot loved the Lord more than he loved the world and when commanded, he fled and did not look back. Unfortunately, Lot’s wife chose to identify herself with the city coming under judgment. In choosing to focus on what was behind her, she missed what God had in front of her and gave up the salvation the Lord had provided for her.

We might look at Lot’s wife and think turning into a pillar of salt is definitely Old Testament stuff, yet the lessons remain the same. Oftentimes, we are tempted to look back at our sinful life and think of it nostalgically - - “the good ol’ days,” so to speak. Yet, as new creations in the Lord, we are to look to God for His salvation and not yearn for the days in which we were still in bondage to sin. There’s no getting around the fact that sin can be pleasurable…for a time. But sin eventually shows itself for what it is, with damaging consequences.

There may also be times when the Lord is moving us into something new, yet we don’t want to leave what’s behind. Satan brings doubt into our lives by making us question God’s good intentions. Those questions can pop up when we are being taken into a new life, new place, new ministry or anything else that takes us out of our comfort zone. Our natural inclination is to be fearful, to want to stay put, to be like Lot’s wife…we like what we know: It’s comfortable and familiar. However, our God will never take us where His grace can’t keep us. If we choose to stay focused on what we’ve left behind, we will miss an opportunity for blessing. The alternative? Choose to look forward and trust God to bring about His good works.

When we decide to walk with the Lord, we need to be purposeful in our choices to go forward with Him, no matter where He’s taken us from or taking us to. He always has a better plan and all He asks is that we choose to trust Him and go forward.     

GOING DEEPER:

1. Where is God asking you to trust Him as He moves you forward into something new?

2. Is there an old habit that continues to draw you back into sin?  Ask the Lord to help you see His way out.

FURTHER READING:

Isaiah 43:18-19; Jeremiah 29:11; Philippians 3:13-14  

Jeannine is a wife and mother of four active boys. She works in the property management business. Jeannine is actively involved in ministry to those walking through grief.

Choosing Not To “Weary”

By Susan Klein

“You have wearied the Lord with your words. ‘How have we wearied him?’ you ask. By saying, ‘All who do evil are good in the eyes of the Lord, and he is pleased with them.”’

Malachi 2:17 (NIV)

Little is known about the prophet Malachi. Though considered to be one of the “lesser” or “minor” prophets, he packs a pretty powerful punch in his description of what was happening in the end of the Old Testament period. Here, God speaks through Malachi to admonish His people. Malachi informs them that they are “wearying” the Lord with their dismissive tolerance of sin and their own wrongful words and practices. He exhorts them to return to God so He can return to them. Hmm…almost sounds like this could have been written yesterday.

History seems to have a way of repeating itself. As in Malachi’s time, tolerance of sinful behavior and the “anything goes” attitude are still the norm. With such diversity in our culture, everyone seems to decide for themselves what is or isn’t acceptable behavior. One man’s sin becomes another man’s standard. As Christ-followers, we must hold every action to Scripture to discern what is right and what is wrong. God does not look favorably on evil deeds, nor should we.

Unlike the people in Malachi’s time, we are not awaiting a Messiah. Jesus has come and has blessed us with His finishing work on the cross. We’ve been set free from the bondage of sin, mistakes, and historically repetitious failures, if we choose to follow Him. We also have the gift of God’s written Word to know for sure what is truth and what is not, and to learn from the consequences suffered by those who chose wrongly before us. Romans 15:4 reminds us, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (NIV). Our hope is in Christ, not in the ever-changing ways of the world.

As Christ-followers, let us not become entangled in wrong thinking. Let us be pleasing to God, as Malachi was, by having His Word “dwell in us richly as we teach and admonish one another with all wisdom” (from Colossians 3:16, NIV). Let us choose this day, not to weary our Creator.

GOING DEEPER:

1.  Pray for wisdom, guidance of the Holy Spirit, and discernment of truth and lies.

2.  How might you show love to someone without being “tolerant” of their sin?

FURTHER READING:

Romans 12:2; 1 Peter 1:14; Isaiah 5:20-21

Susan enjoys teaching Bible studies, writing, and tutoring with the Literacy Council. She and her husband Mark co-lead an on-site small group studying 1 Corinthians with Oakwood's Wednesday Night Community.

Soil Testing

By Lisa Boyer

“Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop - - a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

Matthew 13:8-9 (NIV)

It’s spring and my work place will soon be receiving calls from people looking for information on soil testing. They’ll collect a soil sample from their garden and ship it off to be tested. A few weeks later, they’ll get the results and a recommended treatment plan. If they properly prepare their soil, they can expect a good harvest.

The thought of soil testing has had me pondering the “The Parable of the Sower” in Matthew 13.

As you may recall, the seed falls on four types of soil: the path (hard soil), the rocky places with shallow soil, the soil containing thorns, and the good soil. Jesus explains the Parable in Matthew 13:18b-23 “When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

Jesus wants everyone to understand and receive His message, so maybe part of the point He was making in the “The Parable of the Sower” is actually a warning about the condition of the soil. Life is a difficult journey and any number of things can damage the heart (soil). Maybe Jesus was pointing out that the soil (the heart) needs to be properly prepared to receive the seed (the message) before we sow it.

Isn’t that what Jesus did while He was here on Earth? Wasn’t He nurturing the hurting hearts of those around Him with love and compassion and healing? Jesus’ second greatest commandment, just like the first, is about love… and perhaps soil preparation and maintenance.

Before sharing the message with those around us, let’s take a moment to test the soil; then let’s prepare the soil… with love.

GOING DEEPER:

1. Have you been wanting to share what you know about Jesus with a friend? Today, ask God how you can nurture them in preparation for that, knowing that ultimately it is the Holy Spirit who changes hearts.

FURTHER READING:

Matthew 13:3-8; Matthew 22:36-38

Lisa has been married to Ted for more than 20 years and they have two teenage sons. Lisa administers Fresh Start’s Facebook and blog, and loves hanging out with and impacting teenage girls for Christ.

Wonder of Wonders, Miracle of Miracles…
By Elin Henderson

“He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.”
Job 9:10 (NIV)

Okay, for all of you musical aficionados…what film does this title come from? If you guessed Fiddler on the Roof, you are right! It is sung by Daughter Number One’s fiancé-to-be. He is expressing that of all the great miracles of God, the greatest is that He has given him this wonderful girl to be his wife. It is all quite touching and romantic!

As I think on the miracles that God performs throughout Scripture, I wonder, what is the greatest? God defeating an army of hundreds of thousands with Gideon’s small army of 1,200, or the miracle that took place in Gideon’s heart to trust in the Lord? Is it Jesus’ healing the ear of the soldier or the work of the Holy Spirit that changed Peter from a sword-wielding dynamo to a humble servant of God?

Truly, I think the work that takes place when a heart turns to the Lord and says, “Take me, use me, I am yours” is the miracle of all miracles. It’s even beyond the feeding of five thousand and the dead coming back to life. While we are created by God, we are not robots…we can still choose to walk with Him or to turn away. He does not pre-program our wills and make us follow Him. Otherwise, we would be like computers that just do exactly as He says. But rather, He sends His eyes over all the earth, seeking those whose hearts are open to Him. Why? To “show Himself strong” on their behalves. WOW! That is the wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles that He is after! A heart that is open to Him. Then, He says to that person just as He said to Moses before He began a whole series of amazing miracles in Egypt (both physical and spiritual), “Stand back, and watch the wonders I will do in your midst!”

GOING DEEPER:
1. What wonders has He wrought in your life that you can rejoice about?
2. Are His eyes upon you? Are you open to Him? If not, why?

FURTHER READING:
Exodus 3:20; 2 Chronicles 16:9

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson (a registered nurse) and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to thirteen-year-old Callie and ten-year-old Elias. They are currently in America on Home Assignment.

Loving Others

By Tracy Smith

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interest but each of you to the interests of the others."

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)

A couple of months ago, while on Facebook, I came across a video about a middle school football team who plotted and planned to help one of their teammates score a touchdown. [1] This teammate had special needs. In some schools, he may have been the object of bullying - - and maybe this boy had been in the past, or is dealing with bullies in other areas of school - - but not on his football team. These friends cared enough about him to plan something so amazing for him.

The plan went like this: His teammates got the ball as close to the goal line as possible. In the next play, they gave him the ball and surrounded him to protect him from the defense and ran with him across the goal line. TOUCHDOWN!

As touching as that was, it was the interviews with the boys on the team that brought tears to my eyes. One boy had tears tracking down his cheeks because he had not thought of the plan. He talked about how he had changed from someone who only cared about himself to someone who cared about everyone. What a life-changing lesson these young men learned!

The Lord wants us to care about everyone - - not just those we see as “popular” or who are worth our caring. He also wants us to care for others - - not just when it’s easy, but even when it’s hard. Philippians 2:4 tells us to intentionally look to the interests of others. In John 13:34-35 (NIV), Jesus says, “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Jesus wants us to be known by how we love.

May we be like the young men in this school. May we be those who are kind and care about everyone; who love.

GOING DEEPER:

1.  Is there someone in your life who could use some encouragement? If so, what can you do to make him or her feel special?

FURTHER READING:

Micah 6:8; Romans 15:1-3

[1] Want to see this inspiring story? Watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8_RpyfyNs4.

Along with being a wife and mother to two boys, Tracy is an administrative assistant at Oakwood, serves on the Women’s Ministry Special Events Team and leads a great group of Junior High girls.