Showing posts with label john. Show all posts
Showing posts with label john. Show all posts
Over 2,000 years ago, Jesus Christ gave his life for you and me. It wasn’t about fame or fortune. He wasn’t trying to do a good deed or striving to be great. He died on the cross to cleanse our sins, to grant us eternal life, and to shower us with love and mercy we don’t even deserve. When you really stop to think about it, the name most befitting of this important day on the calendar would be Grace Friday.
Perhaps you look at the calendar and wonder what Easter is really all about. Deep within your heart, do you feel as if there must be something more, beyond the chocolate bunnies and plastic eggs? If you are searching for answers, look no further. Jesus Christ is the answer you seek. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The King of Kings and Lord of Lords gave his life as a ransom for every man, woman, boy, and girl on this planet. That includes you. Why? Because of the unconditional love he has for us.
Jesus could have called ten thousand angels to save him from the cross. He didn’t have to endure the pain and agony. He could have simply told his Father, “I can’t do it. I’ve had enough. I’m going home.” But he stayed there, because he knew that you and I needed a Savior. He knew that we would have no lasting hope on our own. Jesus wanted to give us the most heartfelt and important gift given in the history of mankind: eternal love and everlasting life. It is the gift that truly keeps on giving, through all eternity.
You may be sitting there, thinking, why would a King do this for me? I’ve failed, I’ve sinned, and I’ve done so many wrongs. The Bible says we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Not one of us is without blemish. We have all made mistakes. Still, his love for us is never-ending. Jesus shed his blood to forgive our sins. He bore all of the earth’s diseases to heal our sicknesses. On top of all of that, He granted us eternal life in Heaven with him, for everyone who has a personal relationship with him.
This weekend, cherish the time you have with family and friends. Enjoy the delicious dinners and sweet bunny-shaped treats. Above all, remember the reason for the Easter season. Jesus Christ gave his life for love (I John 3:16). On Good Friday, Jesus died. On the third day, he rose again. He is sitting at the right hand of God, interceding on our behalf. He bestows upon us unconditional love, even though we are undeserving. God’s Word says, “All are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24). No matter where you have been, what you have done, or who you are, his redeeming love is free to all. That is true, divine mercy. So whether you call today good or great, remember that Easter is really all about grace.
In Christ's Love,
Jennifer
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Think about this scripture. The God of the universe gave the only Son that He had just for you and me. He did not just send a bouquet of flowers or a box of candy. He gave His only Son. Jesus died on a cross, enduring excruciating pain and agony, so we could receive the gift of eternal life. Our Heavenly Father loved us so much that He gave a priceless gift. This kind of love is unlike any found on this earth.
We often say we love a particular animal, a food, a place, or some other thing. Personally, I love to travel, I love to bake, I love to write, I love to sing, I love to spend time with my family, and so much more. But this type of love is different from the type of love I show toward people. I love my dad, my grandma, and so many other special people. Yet, even though I love them more than words can express, Jesus loves me more than I could ever possibly imagine.
The love poured out upon us by Jesus Christ is unconditional, no strings attached. He loved us when we were still sinners. When we were unlovable, He loved us. Every moment of every day that we have lived on this earth, He has loved us with His amazing love. Before you were even born, He loved the very thought of you. Still today, He loves you with an everlasting love. Won’t you love Him in return?
Before you go to bed tonight, tell Jesus that you love Him. Thank Him for giving His life for you. Ask Him to come into your heart, so that you can enjoy eternal life. He will fill your heart with peace that passes all understanding. He will restore your joy, even in the direst circumstances. Jesus Christ is the friend who truly will stick closer to you than a brother. This Valentine’s Day, don’t just fall in love with that box of chocolates that someone gave you. Fall in love with the greatest Love of all. Fall in love with Jesus Christ!
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
When you were a small child, did you ever dream of being a treasure hunter? Of being that lucky individual who would find the elusive treasure map, follow the trail, and claim a chest full of gold coins, jewelry, or other valuables. I’m sure many of us would like to strike it rich, whether it is through the good fortune of finding a lost treasure, winning a cash prize, or receiving a large sum from a lucrative donor. But for the vast majority, the odds of our finances skyrocketing to new heights are quite slim. Nevertheless, there are treasures awaiting us if we just take the time to look for them. God’s Creation is full of awesome wonders that reveal His love for us in the most unlikely ways.
Think about the sand dollar. Have you ever swum down to the bottom of the ocean and pulled one of these unique sea urchins up to the surface? Or maybe you found the dried skeleton of one of these creatures on the shore. Have you ever looked inside one of these magnificent works of art? God, in His infinite wisdom, designed this creature so that it could breathe through pores that are arranged in a petal-like pattern. He also gave it spines, so it could move about the seabed. Perhaps the greatest feature of an sand dollar is the Aristotle’s lantern inside that functions as the sand dollar’s teeth. For these amazing objects are shaped like tiny little doves. Imagine...inside one of God’s intricate sea creatures, He placed miniature replicas of one of His beautiful birds of the air. Surely this was not an accident, but instead, it was part of His divine plan.
Did you know that doves mate for life? A female or male dove will not search for a second mate until the first one is no longer living. They also cooperate and work together to build the nest for their young. They are the true epitome of loyalty and devotion to one another. Jesus told His disciples to emulate their behavior when he told them to be “innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16 NIV). Even God trusted a dove to bring the olive branch back to Noah to let him and his family know that the waters had receded and that it was safe to return to the land. Without doubt, this special species is a symbol of peace and is a treasure in the sky. God trusted a dove with an important task, but I have a question for you and me. Can He trust us? Do we follow His guidance as the dove did after the flood? Or do we whine and complain when He tells us what we should do? Sometimes, it is easier to follow a treasure map than to blaze an uncharted trail as we follow the Holy Spirit’s leading. Inevitably, though, it is through devotion to God that we will find genuine and enduring treasure.Some people spend their whole entire lives looking for treasure, or searching for fame and fortune. In the end, what truly matters is what we have done for the cause of Christ. The things we accumulate in this world will not last. Although many people have tried through the centuries, you cannot take anything with you when you leave this world and enter into Heaven or Hell. Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) says, “‘Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.’” You see, friends, you and I need to focus on the important things in life that will have eternal value. These are the things that will last. Instead of worrying about the kind of car we drive, the clothes we wear, or the food we eat, we need to focus on what we can do to share the love of Jesus Christ with everyone we meet. The Bible says that our Heavenly Father knows our basic needs and that He will supply them (Matthew 6:32). He knows our needs before we even ask.
What about you? Are you tired of searching for a treasure that you cannot seem to find? I don’t know what you may be going through in your life at this very moment, but I can tell you that I am 100% certain that Jesus Christ knows exactly what struggles you face. He knows if you are dealing with financial burdens, physical or emotional battles, or something so difficult that you cannot even put it into words. Just like He will provide for the sand dollars of the sea and the doves of the air, He will provide for you. He knows your heart. He knows if you are hurting. Jesus Christ loves you so much that He gave His life for you (see John 3:16). Call on the name of Jesus Christ today. For the greatest treasure that any man can ever hold on this earth is not a chest full of gold, but the priceless knowledge that they have a personal relationship with the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
As I watched this moving depiction of the greatest story
ever told, I was reminded once again of how the stories in the Bible are much
more than stories. Unlike fairytales, the
stories in the Bible are real. The
people in the Bible are real. Jesus
Christ is real. To sit and watch this
movie, I felt as if I was watching a movie about my best friend. When I was a little girl, I gave my heart to
Jesus. Since then, He has always been my
best friend. While tears welled up in my
eyes as I watched Jesus cry out, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me,” I
was still smiling because I knew that God had not forsaken Him. I knew that three days later, He would rise
again. I knew that this was not the
final chapter in the book.
When they spoke of places like Ephesus, I relived the moment
I set foot inside the theater where the Apostle Paul was run out due to the
fact that He was preaching about the one true living God as opposed to the god
of Artemis. The same theater where my
dad and I proudly proclaimed, “Great is the God of the Apostle Paul!” Through experiences like this as well as our
adventures in Rome, I have literally walked in the footsteps of many of Jesus’
disciples as well as Mary, the mother of Jesus. I have stood firmly on the ground where they
walked and I have tried to imagine what it was like when they walked upon this
earth.
I must say that I have thoroughly enjoyed walking in their
footsteps and I also enjoy watching dramatic representations of Bible
times. Nevertheless, there is one thing
I love even more than these. I love the
fact that one day, we will no longer have to imagine what it was like to sit
and have a conversation with Peter, Paul, or John. We will not have to watch a depiction of
Moses parting the Red Sea or a movie showing the Crucifixion and Resurrection
of Jesus Christ. For one day, we will
literally be sitting face to face with these heroes of the faith and with Jesus
Christ himself.
I recently saw where someone said they were sad to see The
Bible come to an end. While this
particular series they were referring to has come to an end, I couldn’t help
but think how the Bible itself has not come to an end. The Bible is a living book with prophecies
that have not yet been fulfilled. We are
seeing news every day that brings us one step closer to the long-awaited day
when Gabriel sounds the trumpet. Those
who have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ will rise to meet Him in the
clouds. All of the pain and suffering
and heartache will be no more. All tears
will be wiped away. The old will become
new. We will be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.
Until that glorious day, we have a mission. To share the love of Jesus Christ with
everyone. Like Jesus’ disciples, we are
called to be fishers of men. We are
called to spread His light throughout a darkened world. Perhaps you are still living in
darkness. I want to encourage you to
call on the name of Jesus Christ. Confess
your sins. Ask for forgiveness. Your life will be forever changed. You will have a personal relationship with
the One who gave His life for our transgressions. If you have already made this commitment, I
want to encourage you to live for Jesus every day. Bring the Bible to life through the way you
live for Christ every day. And one day,
you’ll discover that the final chapter is really just the beginning of a forever
life with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
Have you ever wondered why Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, rode into town on a donkey more than two thousand years ago? There was no champion thoroughbred, no luxurious chariot…just a donkey. The King of Kings entered Jerusalem on the back of a donkey just for you and me. He did it to carry out His Father’s plan that included a difficult journey from the cross to the grave. This journey of love began with a triumphant entry and transformed into a sorrowful crucifixion. Think about how Jesus must have felt, riding a donkey, knowing all the while that He would be crucified by the very people His Father created. One day, they were waving palm branches as He rode into town. A few days later, they would be waving their fists, shouting, “Crucify Him!” And to think, it all started on a donkey.
I wonder if Jesus ever questioned, “A donkey???” Did He ever think, “Come on, Father, you’ve got to be kidding?” Surely there must have been the slightest bit of hesitation when the Savior of the world was being asked to ride into town on a borrowed donkey. While Jesus may have never questioned this minor detail, I am sure that my often outspoken, human self would have had something to say about that. I know there are times in my life when I wonder why God gives me a donkey, so to speak, when I have requested a faster and more comfortable mode of transportation. Sometimes, God does not hand us exactly what we want on a silver platter. Instead, He gives us the things we need. Rather than giving us a “fast pass” through life, He wants us to trust Him to provide what we need when we need it. And Jesus Christ trusted His Father completely.Jesus knew that God would only ask Him to do what He could realistically accomplish. Although He may have questioned the events relating to His crucifixion, He remained steadfast in His love for His Father, fulfilling His Father’s plan. Even unto death, Jesus carried out the will of God. Jesus knew that He was the only Perfect Sacrifice. He knew that a world without His crucifixion meant that all would be lost forevermore. He knew that you and I needed a Savior. As the old song says, “He could have called ten thousand angels, but He did it all for you and me.” He knew He could not back out at the last minute…to do so would have changed the world for eternity. And in effect, it would have put an end to the notion of eternity for you and me. If Jesus had not trusted His Father, there would be no way for us to have our sins washed away and there would be no means of getting into Heaven. If He had not given His life for us, the end of our life on this earth would literally be just that - the end.
Thanks to God’s amazing love for us, and the love His Son Jesus has for us, we have hope for eternity. If you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, you will live forever. John 3:16 (ESV) says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus doesn’t want us to live without hope. He doesn’t want us to see death as the ill-awaited doomsday of our life. And He doesn’t want us to fear the future. Instead, He wants us to cherish the time we have on this earth, all the while, joyfully awaiting the moment we walk into Heaven’s gates. He wants us to believe that He is the Son of the Living God. If you believe this to be true, you will not die, but live. I Thessalonians (NIV) says, “He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.” Jesus wants to walk beside you on this earth, and when your earthly life is over, He wants you to live with Him in Heaven. If you have asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life, you have a life filled with hope. You have the hope of eternity.
So, the next time you see a donkey, think about the animal that, over two thousand years ago, carried the King of Kings upon its back. And the next time you wonder why God chose a donkey, take a closer look at the donkey’s back. I know that God, the Creator of this hard-working creature, must have seen the significance in the design upon its back: a cross. Since the beginning of time, God knew that His only Son would ride upon a donkey on His journey to Calvary’s cross. He knew that His only Son would die for every man, woman, boy, and girl. And yes, He knew that some people would love Him, and He knew that others would reject Him. He knew that the name of Jesus would be praised and adored, and other times, this holy name would be criticized and mocked. Yet, He did it all, just for you and me. Jesus Christ loves you unconditionally. Will you love Him in return?In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
("A Donkey" was originally published April 17, 2011.)
Have you ever become frustrated while trying to unscrew the lid of a pickle jar or some other container? No matter how hard you try, you just can’t get a grip on the lid. Yesterday one of my friends was trying to remove the lid from a travel mug and finally decided to wait until she got home. We both agreed that one of those nifty rubber grippers we have in our home kitchens would likely do the trick. And of course, if all else fails, we can always rely on the assistance of the man of the house! In reality, life bears a striking resemblance to our attempts to get a grip on these various types of containers. In the same way we experience frustration while trying to unscrew a lid, there are times in life when we become frustrated due to the circumstances surrounding us, to the point of almost giving up. No matter what we do, there are moments when we simply cannot get a grip.
Whether it is a traffic jam on the way to work, a power outage right in the middle of dinner preparation, or a call from a telemarketer when you’ve just sat down to relax after a long day, there are always unforeseen things that happen to interrupt our otherwise routine schedule. Sometimes these interruptions, though often miniscule and unimportant, become blown out of proportion when we are dealt one on top of the other. It’s the same way with the pickle jar analogy. Even though unscrewing the lid off of a jar should not be a big ordeal, it can cause severe frustration if multiple attempts do not produce success. And while these daily interruptions like an unexpected phone call or an extra stop at a traffic light should not ruffle our feathers, there are times when all of the frustrations of the day and of life in general surmount to the point where we find it hard to keep things in perspective. Although it is often hard to keep our perspective, we need to focus on Jesus Christ. He is the Solid Rock on which we can stand, even in a world of uncertainty.
From the eleven o’clock news to the local newspaper, it becomes more difficult every day to come to terms with the troubling stories as they unfold right before our eyes. A father takes his own life and the life of his children. A prominent individual slanders the name of Jesus Christ. A drunk driver causes a tragic accident that kills innocent bystanders. Seeing all of the sorrow and pain in the world, it makes us wonder how this world can last even another day. Jesus said, “‘You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places’” (Matthew 24:6-7 NIV). But do not be discouraged! You see, He also said, “‘I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world’” (John 16:33 NIV). No matter what happens, there is hope in Jesus Christ.
What about you? Perhaps you are fighting a battle of your own. Maybe you are dealing with depression, feeling as if you cannot get a grip no matter how hard you try. Every day, you try to focus on the positive only to drift back to those negative thoughts of disappointment and despair. Or you may be struggling with an addiction, whether it is drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, or even an addiction with food that is the cause of your obesity. There may be moments when you feel that there is no point to trying to wean off of the habit, with the firm belief that you could never make a change. You could be sitting in the waiting room, wondering when your family member will finally get well enough to come home, having been in the hospital for days or weeks or months. It may seem like there has been no improvement and you wonder if they will make it through. Whatever you’re facing today, don’t lose hope. Jesus will help you cope with your circumstances. He will help you get a grip on your emotions, your health, and your life.
Friend, I want you to know that everything is going to be okay. I realize that life may seem hopeless. Your mind is likely filled with doubt, having struggled with something in your life to the point of complete and utter frustration. But even in the darkest of midnight, there is sunshine awaiting you. Jesus Christ is the Light in a world of darkness. Just like the times you’ve tried to grip the lid on a pickle jar, you might need some assistance. Don’t rely on your own strength to unscrew the lid. Rely on God, the One who created you in His image. Isaiah 40:29 (NIV) says, “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Depend on Jesus Christ who loves you unconditionally. Whenever you’re frustrated to the point of wanting to throw the jar on the ground, or throw your life by the wayside, allow Him to be your strength when you are weary. Allow Him to help you handle life’s problems as they come your way. Allow Him to help you get a grip! Even when you feel like you’ll slip and fall, Jesus will always be there. Grip His hand tightly because He will never, ever let you go.
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
The Christmas trees are being taken down, the decorations
are being carefully packed away, and the gifts are being put to good use. All of the Christmas cookies have been eaten. And many people have likely placed their
Christmas music in storage until next December.
That is, of course, unless you are like me. You may still have one of your favorite
Christmas CDs in your car, holding on to the Christmas season as long as you possibly
can. In my SUV, that CD is “A Brooklyn
Tabernacle Christmas.”
This particular CD reminds me of the wonderful memories I
have of sitting in the Brooklyn Tabernacle hearing the angelic voices join
together in song to celebrate the Savior’s birth. Then, I start to recall the overwhelming peace
and joy I felt as the congregation sang the words from the beloved carol, “O
come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, Christ
the Lord.” It was in this moment that I
realized once and for all that Christmas is not a season or a holiday. Christmas is a time to adore Jesus
Christ. Christ is all about adoring Him.
You see, Christmas is not just a day at all. Christmas is a state of mind. It’s the way we smile a little bigger,
embrace our loved ones harder, and laugh a lot more. It’s the way we give more, complain less, and
maintain a cheerier disposition. It’s
how we sing a little louder and love our family and friends even more. Ultimately, Christmas is about the moment we
realize that Jesus Christ truly is our Lord and Savior, the King of Kings who
was born in a manger of hay in a stable.
And Christmas reminds us that He was not only born one Christmas night,
but He grew up to be a man.
For the little boy whose birth we celebrate on December 25th
each year is the same One who gave His life on a cross for the sole purpose of
washing away our sins. He suffered and
died just so that you and I could have eternal life. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world
that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not
perish, but have everlasting life.” You
may be wondering why God sent His only Son to die on a cross. The answer is simple. He wanted to give us the greatest gift that
has ever been given. That’s how much He
loves you and me, not just on Christmas, but every day of the year.
While I realize there may not be room in our homes for a
Christmas tree all year through, I pray that there is always room in our hearts
to remember the most miraculous birth ever recorded in the history of
mankind. I challenge you this year to
keep the spirit of Christmas alive in your heart every single day. Do something nice for someone when they least
expect it. Call someone to let them know
you were thinking of them. Write a note
to someone to let them know you are praying for them. Visit a nursing home, volunteer in a school,
or donate to a local charity. Hug your
family and tell them you love them even more.
Do something in the spirit of Christmas every day of the year. Why?
Just because.
Oh, and about that Christmas CD in your car…keep that there,
too. People always say they adore their
kids, their husband, or their wife. They
even adore their house, puppy, kitten, car, motorcycle, smartphone, laptop, sweater,
jeans, purse, you name it! While all of
this is well and good, I am sure with all of this adoration being spread around
that no one will look at you funny if you listen to a song adoring Him, even in the month of January. So, please join me in raising our voices in unison
as we maintain a Christmas state of mind all year through! “O, come let us adore Him!”
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
Have you ever looked at someone else and thought, “Wow, they sure have a lot of flaws?” Perhaps their social skills were rusty and they talked way too loudly. Or maybe they needed to polish their personal hygiene regimen since it seemed their body odor lingered a mile away. It could be that the person you were examining simply had no ambition, unwilling to do anything productive with their life. Or they could be someone who has been given the gift of a family, yet they take their loved ones for granted. It is always easy to notice someone’s faults. Our tendency to focus on a person’s shortcomings often prevents us from seeing their true potential. Thankfully, God sees the potential in all of us. He looks past our overwhelming flaws and into the depths of our heart.
When I think of the word “flawed,” I think back to a program I recently saw on television titled, The Big Waste. The premise of the show was to reveal how much edible food is wasted in the United States each year. I was saddened to see the vast quantities of food that are thrown away every single day. Farmers leave behind mountains of edible items, produce stands discard anything with a blemish, and grocery stores throw away items even if they are only one day past their date. A few weeks later, I found myself purposefully choosing a not-so-perfect tomato at the grocery store, with the knowledge that it would likely be thrown away if I did not volunteer to take it home with me. But this tomato just had one bad spot and the rest was flawless.
This tomato has a lot in common with you and me. The last time you went to the produce section in the grocery store, were you able to find a perfectly round, spot-free tomato? There are tomatoes with warped shapes, soft spots, and blemishes that come in nearly every color of the rainbow. Finding the perfect tomato is virtually impossible. Just as you will not find the truly “perfect” tomato, you will not find a perfect human being either. Romans 3:23 (NIV) says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” God’s Word doesn’t say that one or two people have sinned. It says that we have all sinned. None of us are perfect. Not one of us is without blemish. All of us have imperfections; all of us are flawed in some way. But because of God’s unmerited favor, He loves us, despite our many flaws.
I am reminded of the woman in the Bible who had committed adultery. She was sentenced to be stoned as a result of her actions. Jesus did not condemn her, but instead, He said to those gathered around her, “‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her’” (John 8:7 NIV). People began, one by one, to walk away. Soon, everyone was gone, except Jesus and this woman. Jesus questioned her, “‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’” (John 8:10 NIV). Upon seeing no one, she told Jesus that no one was there to condemn her. “‘Then neither do I condemn you,’ Jesus declared. ‘Go now and leave your life of sin’” (John 8:11 NIV). You see, Jesus didn’t approve of her actions. But He saw beyond her outward appearance and sinful choices. He knew that she had potential. He knew that she was not past repair. He knew that her imperfections could be erased through the unfailing grace of God.
Are you in a similar situation in your life? Have you done something that you feel is unforgiveable? Maybe you are like the woman who committed adultery, or maybe you are physically or verbally abusing someone else. Or perhaps you lied to a friend, or you may be struggling with an addiction to drugs, alcohol, or some other negative influence on your life. It doesn’t matter what you have done. It doesn’t matter where you have been. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you came from. Jesus Christ loves you. He wants you to know that through God’s unmerited favor and everlasting grace, you are loved. You are adored by the Savior of the world, even with your spots, blemishes, and imperfections. Just like each shiny or not-so-shiny red tomato, Jesus created you as a unique, special individual. Sure, you may be flawed, but to God, you are perfect.
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
Think back to the most memorable summers in your lifetime. What is the one experience that truly stands out? Perhaps it was one of those rare moments when you had the luxury of sitting on your grandmother’s porch swing, sipping ice cold lemonade and indulging in her famous double chocolate chip cookies. Or maybe it was when you had the chance to go fishing with your dad, enjoying his undivided attention. Your most memorable summer may even be the very first time you were blessed with the opportunity to take your own children to Walt Disney World. Whatever your summer memories, I am sure there are times when summer was the best season of the year. And there are likely times when summer was the most difficult season to muddle through. This summer, focus on the dreams that God has for your life. Surround yourself with summer joys.
When I was a little girl, I fondly recall the times when I would have the privilege of riding with my Papa Joe and Grandma Ethel in their blue and white pick-up truck. On the way to town, Papa Joe and I would sing the song, “In the Good ‘Ole Summertime,” at the top of our lungs. There was nothing like sitting in the cab of that pick-up, feeling the breeze on my face with the window rolled down, and feeling the warmth of the sunlight as we drove down the little country road. Since then, the truck has been sold and Papa Joe and Grandma Ethel have gone on to be with the Lord. Still, the memories will be with me forever and I am thankful for these summer memories.
Other summer joys I clearly recall are the times my mom, dad, and I were able to spend with my Grandma Lucille and Papa Sig at their condominium in Fort Myers. Whether combing the beach for seashells, building a giant sandcastle, or swimming in the Gulf waters, we always had such wonderful family time together. I first learned to swim in the condo’s pool. And I will always remember the last day of each visit, when we would have to each eat an ice cream bar, a glass of orange juice, a handful of fruit, and countless other things, due to the fact that we had all stocked up way too many groceries for our stay there. Since then, the condo has been purchased by someone else and Papa Sig has gone on to be with the Lord. Many things change from year to year, but I am happy that I can hang on to these memorable moments.
All of my life, my parents and I have always enjoyed a summer vacation (or more than one!). We have so many memories, as well as thousands of photographs documenting each and every moment. Whether we were visiting relatives in Virginia, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains, or sailing the Caribbean waters on a cruise, we always enjoyed spending time with each other. Even now, my dad and I enjoy traveling during the summer. We find summer joys on land and on the sea, and even in the air. Still, summers are not quite the same without my mom here with us. Yet, I am thankful for the summer joys that God continues to give us, as well as the fond memories we have of summers past.
Although I am grateful for the summer blessings that God has bestowed upon me, I cannot help but think about the absence of my mom. In particular, the month of August is especially difficult for me. And our camper in North Carolina is not what it used to be. You see, my mom passed away unexpectedly in our camper, while we were on vacation on August 2, 2008. I have prayed and searched the pages of God’s Word for peace concerning this date and location, yet there are still moments when I do not have complete focus on August 2. And there are times when I cannot bring myself to sit on the sofa in our camper. Even so, I know that God has given me victory over these things. He wants me to enjoy life, no matter what day it is and no matter where I am. He loves me unconditionally. He wants me to live a life full of joy.
What about you? Are there summers that you look back on with pleasure or disappointment? Or are there summers when something caused you to lose sight of the good things and solely focus on the bad? Maybe there is a particular location or a certain date that you find difficult, even though it previously brought you joy. John 16:24 (NIV) says, “Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” Don’t let the sorrowful summers get you down. Ask Jesus to help you overcome these difficult memories and enjoy making new ones. Spend time with your family and friends. Cherish each and every moment this summer. Let go of the summer sorrows. Let Jesus surround you with summer joys.
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
When I think of the phrase May Day, I do not solely think of the times when my Mom and I enjoyed such happy times together. I also think of the times in my life when I was venturing through a dark storm. There have been times when I felt I would drown in a sea of sorrow, due to the torrential rain pouring down upon me. You could liken my distress to the captain of a ship who has suffered a breach to the hull of their ship, striving to remain focused on getting the lifeboats launched and other emergency operations under way. Other times, I felt like a pilot who is flying in the darkest of night, with zero visibility, unable to control the plane due to the wind, rain, and hail falling down from the heavens above. Certainly, in a dire circumstance such as this, the pilot would immediately call out, without hesitation, “Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!”
While the distress signal “Mayday” is primarily used by mariners and aviators, the term would be quite appropriate for any sort of emergency. The term Mayday comes from the French venez m'aider, meaning “come help me” (Dictionary.com). Even though we do not have a radio on which to call for help, there is never a time that we cannot call on the name of Jesus Christ to help us. God’s Word says, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear” (Hebrews 13:6 ESV). If you find yourself drowning in despair, call out to Him. If you are struggling to find a reason to get out of bed in the morning, ask Him to give you strength and purpose. If you feel like you are in a sinking ship, or if you feel that you are flying in a plane that is about to collide into the mountains ahead of you, call out to Jesus, saying, “Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!” Jesus Christ will answer your request, and come to help you.Personally, I feel a little like calling out, “Mayday,” myself right now. One week from today, I will be delivering the special music on Mother’s Day. Not only that, but I am singing one of my Mom’s favorite songs that I have written. My heart strings are being pulled in every direction. My mind is worried. Will I be able to sing on key? Will I cry in front of everyone? Will I forget the words, due to my distress? I have been calling on the name of Jesus to help me. When I am talking to our Heavenly Father, it seems like a hand rests upon my shoulder. I feel a sudden calm. It’s as if Jesus is saying to me, “I heard your distress call, my child. I’m here to help you. I know it will be difficult for you, but you can do it. I know you can. And I will be standing right beside you, holding your hand, guiding you all along the way.”
Jesus Christ does not desire for any of His children to experience fear, hopelessness, or despair. He does not want us to feel as though we are being drawn into a dark tunnel from which we will never escape. He wants us to see the light. Not just the light at the end of the tunnel, but the Light. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12 ESV). Jesus is the Light of the entire world. He can take away the darkness that surrounds you. He can make the sun shine again. With Jesus on your side, the shipwrecks and plane crashes of life will seem less treacherous. The hurdles you are required to jump over will seem less strenuous. And when you feel the walls are closing in around you, He will be there to help you. Call on the precious name of Jesus. He will take your miserable Mayday nightmare and turn it into a beautiful May Day dream.
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
Thankfully, I am in good company. As Jesus and His disciples were partaking of the Passover meal, the disciples did not feel worthy enough to have their Master wash their feet. Jesus said to them, “‘You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.’ ‘No,’ said Peter, ‘you shall never wash my feet.’ Jesus answered, ‘Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.’ ‘Then, Lord,’ Simon Peter replied, ‘not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!’” (John 13:7-9 NIV). Although Simon Peter did not feel worthy, Jesus explained to Him that his feet must washed in order to remain a part of the Lord’s work.
Many times, I do not feel worthy of the love that Jesus continually bestows upon me, but I know there are times when Jesus must cleanse me and at times, even carry me through a difficult time in my life. As a child of God, I cannot refuse the love of Jesus Christ. To do so would be to turn Him away completely. Even if I feel unworthy, I know that I have been bought and paid for by the blood of the Lamb. I have come to realize that Jesus graciously wants to help me. Like Simon Peter, I want to be all in. I want to give my entire being, all that I am, to the work of the Lord. Why should I do otherwise? It is the least that I can do, considering the fact that Jesus gave His all for me.
Last night, I had the opportunity to experience an Easter drama portraying the events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As I sat in the congregation, I felt as though I had been transported back in time. I truly felt as if I was there, in the crowd, when they shouted, “Crucify Him.” I became saddened and angry that other humans, just like me, could hold that level of hatred toward the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. How could anyone look upon Jesus’ face and see anything other than compassion for you and me?
As the soldiers beat Jesus, I flinched each time I heard the snap of the whip upon His back. Then, I found it difficult to watch as Jesus struggled to carry His own cross to Calvary’s Hill. Not only did He carry the heavy cross upon His back, but God’s Word says, “He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities” (Isaiah 53:5 KJV). Just imagine what it would be like to endure every sickness, every affliction, and every sin simultaneously. Surely, no human could withstand such pain and suffering. Even though Jesus could have called ten thousand angels, He remained on that cross, out of love for you and me.
Inevitably, the crucifixion of any other human being on this earth would not have done anyone an ounce of good. You see, Jesus Christ is the only perfect human being who ever walked among men. He was the only Perfect Sacrifice. Only His blood was pure enough to erase the sins of the world. Only the Son of God could endure such a horrifying death and then rise victorious three days later. Only Jesus Christ can heal a broken heart, restore someone’s joy, and save a person’s soul.
God gave His only Son. Jesus Christ gave His life for you and me. What more could we possibly ask for? Surely, we should expect nothing more. Yet, each day brings new blessings. The moment I awaken, the first breath I take each morning, the sunrise in the sky above…all of these things are blessings bestowed upon me, even before my day has barely even begun. My family and friends, my home, the food I eat and clothes I wear…the blessings are truly endless. When I see a dove soaring above, watch a butterfly flutter by, or view a rainbow up above, I am reminded of the everyday blessings that God bestows on me. Isn’t that just like God? He gives and He gives. Then, He gives us extra special blessings that are always present, if we just take the time to admire them.
Like Simon Peter, we may feel unworthy of the infinite blessings we are given, but we can rest assured that God blesses us out of His love for us. He wants us to experience a life of peace and joy. He wants us to rejoice, on this Resurrection Day, and always. Philippians 4:4 (NIV) tells us to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” So, on this Easter Sunday, take a moment to thank Jesus for everything He has done for you. Thank Him for the smile on your child’s face when they found their first Easter egg. Thank Him for the joy you felt after celebrating this special day at an Easter Sunrise service. Thank Him for giving you an abundant life to live. Most of all, thank Him for giving His life. Jesus Christ loves you unconditionally. Will you love Him in return?
Easter Blessings,
Jennifer
While this was simply a team-building exercise in my Journalism class, I began to think of the parallel that often exists between this game and our communication with God. How many times have we prayed and asked God for something, but instead of listening closely to what He has to say, we may repeat what we think He said? Or perhaps we just make up an answer that is in accordance with our will, instead of His. Or maybe we do not listen at all, thinking that He has not answered our prayer.
While we may not always understand God’s will for our lives, or we may not comprehend His answer, He truly knows best. Sometimes, God will answer our prayers with a definite, “Yes.” Other times, He may answer our prayers by saying, “No.” And at times, He may simple say, “Not now.” Regardless of what answer we receive, we need to be content with His response. God is aware of our desires, our wants, and our needs. He knows where we are at in life. In Philippians 4:11 (ESV), Paul tells us, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” No matter what is going on around us, we can be happy. If we are in God’s will, we will be content.In John 18:37 (NIV), Jesus tells Pilate, “‘You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.’” Notice that Jesus points out what Pilate says. Then, He goes on to tell Pilate that everyone who is truthful listens to him. In other words, Jesus is saying those who listen to Him are honest people. If we choose to ignore the things that Jesus tells us, then we are being dishonest. We need to listen to His words, in order to fully enjoy our relationship with the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
In the same way, a child needs to maintain a level of honesty with their parents, in order to experience effective communication. Imagine a young boy who is asked by his parents to clean his room. Instead of hearing this request, he “thinks” he is supposed to go to his room and play a “clean” video game. Certainly, the child heard the original request. However, his own desires cause him to purposefully lose some of the meaning, being left with a fragment of the request. All he chooses to remember is that it was something to do with his room. In the end, he does not perform the task that he is asked to do, ultimately making himself untrustworthy in the eyes of his parents.
When was the last time God asked you to do something? Perhaps He asked you to call a dear friend who was critically ill in the hospital, but you didn’t have time. While you may have been busy, God knew that calling your friend tomorrow would be too late. Or maybe God requested that you stay home and resist the urge to go shopping, but instead, you went to the store. God knew that you would have your purse stolen if you went shopping at that particular time of day. And you might have felt the urge to stop and pray for someone at work, but you felt out of place, asking to pray for them in public. God knew that your coworker needed to be reminded of the hope that only Jesus can give. Without this reminder, they could have been planning to take their own life that very evening. You see, God knows more than we do. He knows what we should choose to do, and He knows what we will choose. Additionally, He knows the consequences we will suffer if we do not choose wisely.God will not ask us to do more than we are capable of doing. Still, He knows the comings and goings of every single individual on earth. And He knows who His children should be with, what they should be doing, when they should do it, why they either will or will not do it, and where they should be. He loves you. He cares for you. And He does not want any harm to come to you. God wants what is best for all of His children. Don’t let the wisdom and guidance God has designed especially for you get lost in translation. Listen to His still, small voice today, and stand amazed at what God has planned for your life!
In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer
Have you ever wondered why Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, rode into town on a donkey more than two thousand years ago? There was no champion thoroughbred, no luxurious chariot…just a donkey. The King of Kings entered Jerusalem on the back of a donkey just for you and me. He did it to carry out His Father’s plan that included a difficult journey from the cross to the grave. This journey of love began with a triumphant entry and transformed into a sorrowful crucifixion. Think about how Jesus must have felt, riding a donkey, knowing all the while that He would be crucified by the very people His Father created. One day, they were waving palm branches as He rode into town. A few days later, they would be waving their fists, shouting, “Crucify Him!” And to think, it all started on a donkey.I wonder if Jesus ever questioned, “A donkey???” Did He ever think, “Come on, Father, you’ve got to be kidding?” Surely there must have been the slightest bit of hesitation when the Savior of the world was being asked to ride into town on a borrowed donkey. While Jesus may have never questioned this minor detail, I am sure that my often outspoken, human self would have had something to say about that. I know there are times in my life when I wonder why God gives me a donkey, so to speak, when I have requested a faster and more comfortable mode of transportation. Sometimes, God does not hand us exactly what we want on a silver platter. Instead, He gives us the things we need. Rather than giving us a “fast pass” through life, He wants us to trust Him to provide what we need when we need it. And Jesus Christ trusted His Father completely.Jesus knew that God would only ask Him to do what He could realistically accomplish. Although He may have questioned the events relating to His crucifixion, He remained steadfast in His love for His Father, fulfilling His Father’s plan. Even unto death, Jesus carried out the will of God. Jesus knew that He was the only Perfect Sacrifice. He knew that a world without His crucifixion meant that all would be lost forevermore. He knew that you and I needed a Savior. As the old song says, “He could have called ten thousand angels, but He did it all for you and me.” He knew He could not back out at the last minute…to do so would have changed the world for eternity. And in effect, it would have put an end to the notion of eternity for you and me. If Jesus had not trusted His Father, there would be no way for us to have our sins washed away and there would be no means of getting into Heaven. If He had not given His life for us, the end of our life on this earth would literally be just that - the end.
Thanks to God’s amazing love for us, and the love His Son Jesus has for us, we have hope for eternity. If you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, you will live forever. John 3:16 (ESV) says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus doesn’t want us to live without hope. He doesn’t want us to see death as the ill-awaited doomsday of our life. And He doesn’t want us to fear the future. Instead, He wants us to cherish the time we have on this earth, all the while, joyfully awaiting the moment we walk into Heaven’s gates. He wants us to believe that He is the Son of the Living God. If you believe this to be true, you will not die, but live. I Thessalonians (NIV) says, “He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.” Jesus wants to walk beside you on this earth, and when your earthly life is over, He wants you to live with Him in Heaven. If you have asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life, you have a life filled with hope. You have the hope of eternity.
So, the next time you see a donkey, think about the animal that, over two thousand years ago, carried the King of Kings upon its back. And the next time you wonder why God chose a donkey, take a closer look at the donkey’s back. I know that God, the Creator of this hard-working creature, must have seen the significance in the design upon its back: a cross. Since the beginning of time, God knew that His only Son would ride upon a donkey on His journey to Calvary’s cross. He knew that His only Son would die for every man, woman, boy, and girl. And yes, He knew that some people would love Him, and He knew that others would reject Him. He knew that the name of Jesus would be praised and adored, and other times, this holy name would be criticized and mocked. Yet, He did it all, just for you and me. Jesus Christ loves you unconditionally. Will you love Him in return?In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer