Rev. 3:20 says, "Listen! I am standing at the door knocking! If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you, and eat with you and you with me."
For Jerry, years ago, and still now, it was one of the greatest messages of promise in word pictures found in the Bible. Jesus says to every human being that He desires to have a relationship with each one personally. He will be like your best friend that you enjoy being with for meals, fellowship and just hanging out. Jesus desires that kind of personal relationship. The big kicker, however is that individually each one of us has to open the door on our own. No one else can or will open the door to Jesus for us. He says this is a matter of our will....will I open the door to Jesus?
There is no equivocation in this picture. Each of us must say, "I am totally in charge here. Either I open the door--or I don't--there is no other choice. What I decide will impact me for all of eternity. I can invite Jesus in or I can pretend I'm not at home when he knocks. My choice...and yours!"
Ten years ago, Jerry finished with this prayer, and I use it today in hope that each of you will use your own voice so the words chosen will be from your heart and mine. I'm clearing my throat right now, so I can speak with true desire.
"Lord Jesus, thank you for seeking me out personally and knocking at my door. Please, Lord, come in. Amen."
Jo INMN
Friday, August 28, 2015
Thursday, August 27, 2015
PRIVILEGE BRINGS DUTY
Hello, again! Back to the blog and the faithful readers! We are IN, by the way, in our new digs and liking it very much. Much to learn, much to enjoy! Today, I want to thank the family and many others who helped us make this move. The body of Christ came together in action for us! Thanks, everyone!
Referring to an Aug. 27, 10 year old work, I am using the Scripture from Rev.1:6, " (Christ) lets us rule as kings and serve God his Father as priests. To him be glory and power forever and ever. Amen."
"What an honor God has given His people! While some may come by the title of king or priest in the literal sense, many have served in our own smaller world with authority and right. We are free men and women in God. We have a choice between right and wrong, education or not, married or single--most things in life are choices and we have the freedom to make them. To serve God as a "priest" or not serve God is one of the biggest choices each of us has to make. Priests don't necessarily have to lead a congregation, but, as I see it, it is one of the greatest privileges there is.
"But you are in the priesthood if you pray with a hurting friend, share a communion with a house-bound person, tutor the non-reader, treat with respect those who are being punished for disobeying the law, feed the homeless-- these are ways to serve as a "priest." Christ asks us--lets us--do these things and so much more. How privileged we are to be His!
"Lord Jesus, how I thank you for the honor you give those who love you by allowing us to serve you. May we be worthy of the privilege. To you be the Glory, forever. Amen."
There were a lot of priests here in our new home recently! People everywhere, first wrapping and packing, then delivering and unpacking! It took a lot of hands, priest's hands, to make this move. How grateful I am!
Again, To God be the Glory!
Jo INMN
Referring to an Aug. 27, 10 year old work, I am using the Scripture from Rev.1:6, " (Christ) lets us rule as kings and serve God his Father as priests. To him be glory and power forever and ever. Amen."
"What an honor God has given His people! While some may come by the title of king or priest in the literal sense, many have served in our own smaller world with authority and right. We are free men and women in God. We have a choice between right and wrong, education or not, married or single--most things in life are choices and we have the freedom to make them. To serve God as a "priest" or not serve God is one of the biggest choices each of us has to make. Priests don't necessarily have to lead a congregation, but, as I see it, it is one of the greatest privileges there is.
"But you are in the priesthood if you pray with a hurting friend, share a communion with a house-bound person, tutor the non-reader, treat with respect those who are being punished for disobeying the law, feed the homeless-- these are ways to serve as a "priest." Christ asks us--lets us--do these things and so much more. How privileged we are to be His!
"Lord Jesus, how I thank you for the honor you give those who love you by allowing us to serve you. May we be worthy of the privilege. To you be the Glory, forever. Amen."
There were a lot of priests here in our new home recently! People everywhere, first wrapping and packing, then delivering and unpacking! It took a lot of hands, priest's hands, to make this move. How grateful I am!
Again, To God be the Glory!
Jo INMN
Monday, August 24, 2015
ALMOST THERE.......
Dear Blog Fans,
Yes, this is Jo. Jo the tired, Jo the glad we're back in the blog business...almost ready to look into that old book of Words that I have so enjoyed using to help us all to find a righteous place in this world, the place God wants us to find near Him...the Bible and the pages of study regarding the Bible.
Look for me tomorrow. Tonight I need to climb into a bed and get some rest. We have received incredible help from each of our children who live in the area and many prayers from those who live far away. We are thankful to each of them and to those of you who have prayed for us.
From our new world and home at Boutwell's Landing, a Presbyterian Homes development of Stillwater, MN.
Yours, and God's,
Jo INMN
Yes, this is Jo. Jo the tired, Jo the glad we're back in the blog business...almost ready to look into that old book of Words that I have so enjoyed using to help us all to find a righteous place in this world, the place God wants us to find near Him...the Bible and the pages of study regarding the Bible.
Look for me tomorrow. Tonight I need to climb into a bed and get some rest. We have received incredible help from each of our children who live in the area and many prayers from those who live far away. We are thankful to each of them and to those of you who have prayed for us.
From our new world and home at Boutwell's Landing, a Presbyterian Homes development of Stillwater, MN.
Yours, and God's,
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
REVEALING GOD'S WORTH!
Yep! We'll be on the move for the next few days. We're staying at a motel for the next couple of days until we can get into the new apartment. Tomorrow the packers come and Friday they will move us. We will probably get in Fri. afternoon. But I beg of you to not look for any blog from me until Monday, the 24th, and that is just a hope from me. We are nervous, excited, happy, sad, all at once. Today they already are going to show our house here three times! We will be outa here!
There is only one thing I can say to you, my faceless friends, who are faithfully reading this or even occasionally reading this, God isn't measuring our worth or successes. He is only interested in revealing His worth to the world. And that is just what I am trying to do. And I hope you are with me!
God, we of this world which trips us and flips us and makes us dizzy sometimes, be with us always and protect us from our own instincts and guide us straight to your wisdom and your arms. Amen.
Jo INMN
There is only one thing I can say to you, my faceless friends, who are faithfully reading this or even occasionally reading this, God isn't measuring our worth or successes. He is only interested in revealing His worth to the world. And that is just what I am trying to do. And I hope you are with me!
God, we of this world which trips us and flips us and makes us dizzy sometimes, be with us always and protect us from our own instincts and guide us straight to your wisdom and your arms. Amen.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
THOSE WHO HAVEN'T SEEN
John 20:28,29 tells us, "Jesus said to Thomas, "Do not doubt, but believe." Thomas answered, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet have come to believe."
"Jesus came into the room where the disciples were gathered in sorrow and fear. (After Jesus crucifixion and burial) He just suddenly appeared and said to Thomas, "Put your hands in the wound in my side and put your fingers in the holes of my hands." Jesus knew that without seeing, Thomas had not believed. Yet, Jesus told them that even more blessed are those who believe that have not seen. Most people in our world today don't believe until they experience Jesus for themselves. They see lives changed completely and then proclaim, "My Lord and my God!"
"Although I've never seen Jesus hands and pierced side, I've seen and experienced many, many lives changed because of the touch of Jesus. the only possible response to these occurrences is, "My Lord and my God!"
"Lord Jesus, I'm overwhelmed at your gift of love and grace to this world and to me, personally. Amen."
This was written by Jerry, my husband, years and years ago. But it is becoming more and more important day by day for our world. So many people are praying for our world, and we must also pray just for our country, as well. Too many of us find fault with one another and forget that the people next door would love to be blessed by someone.
We ask you, Lord, to help us to see our neighbors, and also to know what a neighbor really is and offer it constantly to those around us. Whether black, brown, or whitish, it doesn't matter to you. So help us to make it not matter, either, to us. All people are under your authority whether they know it or not. Help us to share your love everywhere to everyone!
Jo INMN
"Jesus came into the room where the disciples were gathered in sorrow and fear. (After Jesus crucifixion and burial) He just suddenly appeared and said to Thomas, "Put your hands in the wound in my side and put your fingers in the holes of my hands." Jesus knew that without seeing, Thomas had not believed. Yet, Jesus told them that even more blessed are those who believe that have not seen. Most people in our world today don't believe until they experience Jesus for themselves. They see lives changed completely and then proclaim, "My Lord and my God!"
"Although I've never seen Jesus hands and pierced side, I've seen and experienced many, many lives changed because of the touch of Jesus. the only possible response to these occurrences is, "My Lord and my God!"
"Lord Jesus, I'm overwhelmed at your gift of love and grace to this world and to me, personally. Amen."
This was written by Jerry, my husband, years and years ago. But it is becoming more and more important day by day for our world. So many people are praying for our world, and we must also pray just for our country, as well. Too many of us find fault with one another and forget that the people next door would love to be blessed by someone.
We ask you, Lord, to help us to see our neighbors, and also to know what a neighbor really is and offer it constantly to those around us. Whether black, brown, or whitish, it doesn't matter to you. So help us to make it not matter, either, to us. All people are under your authority whether they know it or not. Help us to share your love everywhere to everyone!
Jo INMN
Monday, August 17, 2015
WORDS CAN HURT
Before we get into the entry for today, I want to give you the latest on our move to Boutwell's Landing, as it is all happening very fast. Caldwell Banker has our house listed, on the internet as of yesterday. We will have the packers coming on Thurs. of this week and moving on Fri. Lynn and Gary are coming out today to help us mark everything that is going, what is to be held for further discourse, and what is to be given to charity. The shoulder is healing, too. God is with us. What more can I ask for?
"From Jer. 23;18 and 36, "But which of them has stood in the council of the Lord to see or hear his word? Who has listened and heard His word?..Every man's own word becomes his oracle and so you distort the words of the Living God, the Lord Almighty, our God."
"Jeremiah was called a fool by the people. The prophets of whom he is speaking did not stand in front of God or appeal to God for God's word. They used their own words and thoughts from their own will, not God's. Yet the people listened, because it was easier; they could get their own way. The prophets had much to lose, as well, by not asking for God's will and recommendation: acceptance, approval, well-being, status--all would be lost. And they said, "Just look at the fool Jeremiah!"
"God, may I always stand before you in awe, loving you, and listening, listening, listening. Keep me from the sin of caring what people think. May I never use my own thoughts without clarification of your will. Help me to discern your Word from those who may be false in my reading, my hearing, and my writing. Amen"
There you have it, my thoughts for today. I hope your day goes smoothly, as my hope for my own day. If all goes well, you will hear from me tomorrow!
Loving you,
Jo INMN
"From Jer. 23;18 and 36, "But which of them has stood in the council of the Lord to see or hear his word? Who has listened and heard His word?..Every man's own word becomes his oracle and so you distort the words of the Living God, the Lord Almighty, our God."
"Jeremiah was called a fool by the people. The prophets of whom he is speaking did not stand in front of God or appeal to God for God's word. They used their own words and thoughts from their own will, not God's. Yet the people listened, because it was easier; they could get their own way. The prophets had much to lose, as well, by not asking for God's will and recommendation: acceptance, approval, well-being, status--all would be lost. And they said, "Just look at the fool Jeremiah!"
"God, may I always stand before you in awe, loving you, and listening, listening, listening. Keep me from the sin of caring what people think. May I never use my own thoughts without clarification of your will. Help me to discern your Word from those who may be false in my reading, my hearing, and my writing. Amen"
There you have it, my thoughts for today. I hope your day goes smoothly, as my hope for my own day. If all goes well, you will hear from me tomorrow!
Loving you,
Jo INMN
Saturday, August 15, 2015
AN ABNORMAL LOVE
Today you will receive my ten year old entry, and it is just as true today as it was then. From John 17:25 and 26, "Good Father, the people of this world don't know you. But I know you, and my followers know that you sent me. I told them what you are like and I will tell them even more. Then the love that you have for me will become part of them, and I will be one with them." (These are Jesus' words from the book of John, The Message Bible.)
"John 17 is a wonderful gift Jesus gave to us: a prayer for us by Jesus to the Father. When Jesus speaks of the people of this world, he is not speaking of those who know Him. He's speaking of the normal people out there who have had no real encounter with God and therefore go about their normal way without guidance from above. But we who know Jesus, we abnormal ones, can't be as comfortable in the world anymore. No, we are His all the way, and our thoughts are less about the world as it pertains to us, but about God and what He may desire for the world. This includes our love for all people and our desires that all people come to love God more than the world.
"Thank you, Father, for I know that as Jesus asked, you will give. May this legacy be for all those I love. I pray, in the name of Jesus, that my grandchildren and great-grandchildren will accept you and your Son--Your very self on this earth-so they may be counted as One with you. Thank you for this Oneness which is the beginning of eternal life. May I show your love for me--beyond normality--to those around me. Amen."
Jo INMN
"John 17 is a wonderful gift Jesus gave to us: a prayer for us by Jesus to the Father. When Jesus speaks of the people of this world, he is not speaking of those who know Him. He's speaking of the normal people out there who have had no real encounter with God and therefore go about their normal way without guidance from above. But we who know Jesus, we abnormal ones, can't be as comfortable in the world anymore. No, we are His all the way, and our thoughts are less about the world as it pertains to us, but about God and what He may desire for the world. This includes our love for all people and our desires that all people come to love God more than the world.
"Thank you, Father, for I know that as Jesus asked, you will give. May this legacy be for all those I love. I pray, in the name of Jesus, that my grandchildren and great-grandchildren will accept you and your Son--Your very self on this earth-so they may be counted as One with you. Thank you for this Oneness which is the beginning of eternal life. May I show your love for me--beyond normality--to those around me. Amen."
Jo INMN
Friday, August 14, 2015
BECAUSE I BELIEVE
Jerry wrote this long ago from John 16:26-28. "On that day, you will ask in my name. (Jesus speaking.)I do not say that I will ask the Father on your behalf, for the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I come from God. I came from the Father and have come into the world; again I am leaving the world and I am going to the Father."
"Jesus is explaining to His disciples in plain language what is the truth, not in any word pictures or figures of speech. He came from God, sent by God for reconciliation and salvation. Now, He'll soon leave His earthly body and be once again with God but in His leaving He's not leaving them alone. He will send the Holy Spirit to always be with them to explain all things.
"I (Jerry) can ask the Father in Jesus' name on my own without any human intermediary and God will hear me and answer me. When we ask in Jesus name, we are also praying in the very nature of the Divine God. Because I have believed and loved I have direct access to God. ..... Lord Jesus, what a wondrous gift I've received to call you my Lord, my Savior and my Friend! Amen."
There is not much that I can add to Jerry's message, but to say that it is mine as well. I doubt it needs explaining but it is nice to remember that Jesus is God in human form, whom God called His Son, and also we have God's Spirit who can live within us, as well. Whether we pray to the Spirit of God within us, to the Lord Jesus who came to this earth and died for our sins on a cross, or to the Father who created us all, it is the same Beloved God, the Three in One.
Oh, Mighty Three-in-One, have mercy upon this world and reveal to this country Yourself once again, that all here might know your power and mercy. Help us all to be your voice and bring your Spirit to all with whom we come into contact. This world needs your Spirit within.
Jo INMN
"Jesus is explaining to His disciples in plain language what is the truth, not in any word pictures or figures of speech. He came from God, sent by God for reconciliation and salvation. Now, He'll soon leave His earthly body and be once again with God but in His leaving He's not leaving them alone. He will send the Holy Spirit to always be with them to explain all things.
"I (Jerry) can ask the Father in Jesus' name on my own without any human intermediary and God will hear me and answer me. When we ask in Jesus name, we are also praying in the very nature of the Divine God. Because I have believed and loved I have direct access to God. ..... Lord Jesus, what a wondrous gift I've received to call you my Lord, my Savior and my Friend! Amen."
There is not much that I can add to Jerry's message, but to say that it is mine as well. I doubt it needs explaining but it is nice to remember that Jesus is God in human form, whom God called His Son, and also we have God's Spirit who can live within us, as well. Whether we pray to the Spirit of God within us, to the Lord Jesus who came to this earth and died for our sins on a cross, or to the Father who created us all, it is the same Beloved God, the Three in One.
Oh, Mighty Three-in-One, have mercy upon this world and reveal to this country Yourself once again, that all here might know your power and mercy. Help us all to be your voice and bring your Spirit to all with whom we come into contact. This world needs your Spirit within.
Jo INMN
Thursday, August 13, 2015
STRIP AWAY, MY LORD!
Ten years ago, I wrote this from the readings of John 15:2, 4b and Jer. 13:17, "He trims clean every branch that produces fruit, so that it will produce even more fruit...You cannot produce fruit unless you stay joined to me...If you are too proud to listen I will weep alone."
"One, we cannot produce "fruit" if we are not closely joined to Jesus Christ.
"Two, the Holy Spirit strips away what is not "good" for the production of fruit and trims the branches that did produce fruit so that the branch will bear more fruit.
"Three, if I am proud--too proud to listen to my inner spirit to hear what the Holy Spirit wants stripped away, I will cause harm and dishonor to God and His people who will then have cause to weep and be ashamed because of me; I will be separated from God and His people.
"Lord, help me to listen to your Holy Spirit and to rejoice at the stripping away of those things that dishonor you and your people. Yet, let me love and forgive myself. I pray that all might be freed of that which is the selfish "self." Amen."
I still say the same prayer today and encourage others to say it as well. Won't you join me?
Jo INMN
"One, we cannot produce "fruit" if we are not closely joined to Jesus Christ.
"Two, the Holy Spirit strips away what is not "good" for the production of fruit and trims the branches that did produce fruit so that the branch will bear more fruit.
"Three, if I am proud--too proud to listen to my inner spirit to hear what the Holy Spirit wants stripped away, I will cause harm and dishonor to God and His people who will then have cause to weep and be ashamed because of me; I will be separated from God and His people.
"Lord, help me to listen to your Holy Spirit and to rejoice at the stripping away of those things that dishonor you and your people. Yet, let me love and forgive myself. I pray that all might be freed of that which is the selfish "self." Amen."
I still say the same prayer today and encourage others to say it as well. Won't you join me?
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
HOW CAN WE KNOW THE WAY?
Ten years ago, Jerry chose this entry for our booklet. Coming from John 14:4-6, it reads: "Jesus said, 'And you know the way to the place where I am going'. Thomas said to Him, 'Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?' Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"
"Recall that Thomas said he wouldn't believe Jesus had risen from the dead unless he could see the nail holes in his hands and feet. Thomas questioned then, and again in the verses above. Most humans have minds full of questioning and doubts much like Thomas. Jesus said in plain words that if they know and believe in Jesus, then they know the way to God, because Jesus alone is the way.
"When I (Jerry) face doubters about Jesus, these verses from John is all the answer I need. Either Jesus is truth or he is a mad-man; there is no other option. He wasn't another prophet, spiritual leader, or priest. Jesus said in words to me that eliminated my doubt, "Jerry, I am the way for you to dwell in eternity with God."
"Lord Jesus, Help me share with others who don't believe that you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Amen."
And this has become my prayer as well!
Jo INMN
"Recall that Thomas said he wouldn't believe Jesus had risen from the dead unless he could see the nail holes in his hands and feet. Thomas questioned then, and again in the verses above. Most humans have minds full of questioning and doubts much like Thomas. Jesus said in plain words that if they know and believe in Jesus, then they know the way to God, because Jesus alone is the way.
"When I (Jerry) face doubters about Jesus, these verses from John is all the answer I need. Either Jesus is truth or he is a mad-man; there is no other option. He wasn't another prophet, spiritual leader, or priest. Jesus said in words to me that eliminated my doubt, "Jerry, I am the way for you to dwell in eternity with God."
"Lord Jesus, Help me share with others who don't believe that you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Amen."
And this has become my prayer as well!
Jo INMN
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
ALL I HAVE TO DO IS DIE
Wow! What a thought! But Jesus says in John 13:38a, "Would you really die for me?"
"This question was asked of Peter, and immediately following, Jesus said Peter would deny him three times before the cock crowed the next morning. Peter was so sure he had the gumption to die for Jesus, but he could not even admit he knew Him. Jesus knew Peter wouldn't actually die for Him. He knew. He knew Peter would deny Him, unable to be truthful that he was Jesus' friend, the on-trial Jesus who would not fight for His own life.
"Am I like Peter? Is this a question that Jesus asks of me? Would I really die for Jesus? It's hard to put myself in the place of Peter. Or put myself in the place of having to, literally, die for Jesus. There is a figurative death, a death of self, and I suppose, this is the death Jesus is speaking of. This death too is a difficult one, for me. I have asked for it many times, but somehow, my "self" always becomes resurrected and not by the Holy Spirit!
"It's a hard thing to die to self. From the time I was an infant, I have fought for my own rights. Now, Jesus asks me to die for Him, for the right to be One with Him. And I must give up my rights in order to be One with Him. But that is the place I want to be. All I have to do is to die to the rights of myself.
"Jesus, I want to live in You and be One with You. Will you help me to die for you, Jesus? Amen."
This was written 10 years ago, and I doubt that I am entirely "dead" to self, but in some areas of my life, I think I may be on the way to "death." At least, I am encouraged to continue the battle of "self."
May you, too, want to be dead to self and alive to Jesus!
Jo INMN
"This question was asked of Peter, and immediately following, Jesus said Peter would deny him three times before the cock crowed the next morning. Peter was so sure he had the gumption to die for Jesus, but he could not even admit he knew Him. Jesus knew Peter wouldn't actually die for Him. He knew. He knew Peter would deny Him, unable to be truthful that he was Jesus' friend, the on-trial Jesus who would not fight for His own life.
"Am I like Peter? Is this a question that Jesus asks of me? Would I really die for Jesus? It's hard to put myself in the place of Peter. Or put myself in the place of having to, literally, die for Jesus. There is a figurative death, a death of self, and I suppose, this is the death Jesus is speaking of. This death too is a difficult one, for me. I have asked for it many times, but somehow, my "self" always becomes resurrected and not by the Holy Spirit!
"It's a hard thing to die to self. From the time I was an infant, I have fought for my own rights. Now, Jesus asks me to die for Him, for the right to be One with Him. And I must give up my rights in order to be One with Him. But that is the place I want to be. All I have to do is to die to the rights of myself.
"Jesus, I want to live in You and be One with You. Will you help me to die for you, Jesus? Amen."
This was written 10 years ago, and I doubt that I am entirely "dead" to self, but in some areas of my life, I think I may be on the way to "death." At least, I am encouraged to continue the battle of "self."
May you, too, want to be dead to self and alive to Jesus!
Jo INMN
Monday, August 10, 2015
DON'T TELL ME WHAT I DON'T WANT TO HEAR!
Back in 2005, we chose these thoughts for our journal, written by Jerry from Jer. 5:13 and John 12:19 and 37. "The prophets are nothing but wind, for the word of the Lord is not in them. Thus shall it be done to them....The Pharisees then said to one another, "You see what's happening; you can do nothing. Look, the whole world has gone after Jesus...Although Jesus had performed many signs in their presence, they did not believe in him."
"The Israelites of the Old Testament didn't want the prophets to tell them what they were doing was wrong, nor did they want to hear what God wants for His people. Many of the Jews and their leaders also felt this way about Jesus. He told them things which showed them they were wrong in their actions.
"When someone comes to me and tells me something that I'm doing is wrong I need to listen and pray for guidance because God just might be using that person as His messenger. For certain, however, I must never discount what is said to me, because of my own pride.
"Lord Jesus, Let me listen to those who come to me to help me be more like you. Take away my pride and self-assurance. Amen."
These words are true for every person alive who wants to come to Christ. And they are words for us to repeat often when we have come to Him, for in our humanness we often forget how easy it is to forget our humility when we are being castigated for something. Because we are each imperfect, we must be willing to hear another's viewpoint. Plus, we must encourage each other by acceptance whenever we can.
We are all in this together, to help one another and to accept one another, you with your imperfections and I with mine.
God Bless You,
Jo INMN
"The Israelites of the Old Testament didn't want the prophets to tell them what they were doing was wrong, nor did they want to hear what God wants for His people. Many of the Jews and their leaders also felt this way about Jesus. He told them things which showed them they were wrong in their actions.
"When someone comes to me and tells me something that I'm doing is wrong I need to listen and pray for guidance because God just might be using that person as His messenger. For certain, however, I must never discount what is said to me, because of my own pride.
"Lord Jesus, Let me listen to those who come to me to help me be more like you. Take away my pride and self-assurance. Amen."
These words are true for every person alive who wants to come to Christ. And they are words for us to repeat often when we have come to Him, for in our humanness we often forget how easy it is to forget our humility when we are being castigated for something. Because we are each imperfect, we must be willing to hear another's viewpoint. Plus, we must encourage each other by acceptance whenever we can.
We are all in this together, to help one another and to accept one another, you with your imperfections and I with mine.
God Bless You,
Jo INMN
Saturday, August 8, 2015
UNBELIEF
John 7:5, 15, and 48 reads: "For not even Jesus' brothers believed in him...The Jewish leaders said, "How does this man have such learning when he has never been taught?" ..."Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in him?'' Who did believe in Him?
"Although Jesus' mother told the attendants at the wedding in Cana of Galilee who were seeking more wine, "Do whatever he tells you to do," there is no record of any of his family or closest relatives or friends who were believers in Christ while he lived. Perhaps his mother got used to his humanness or was influenced by Jesus' human brothers, for she did not follow Jesus closely. Nor did any of the authorities believe in Him as he'd had no official training. Only those who were simple, common, everyday people were called by Jesus to be His disciples and eventually fully believed He was the Messiah. Even his own disciples turned and ran from him when the "going got tough."
"My belief in Christ's God-liness will never come through my intellectual knowledge, but through my heart, and my following Him, through my faith. Lord, I believe; remove my unbelief. Amen."
This journal entry written long ago is still Jerry's faith today. And it is also mine.
In regard to updating any new info on our status here in MN, is this: I am now under the care of a physical therapist named Bonnie for the next few weeks as I try to regain strength in my shoulder, arm and hand. Shoulder surgery takes the strength out of all three it seems. But all is going well. I have no more news about the move, but next Tues. we meet with a realtor provided by Presb. Homes. I think it is Coldwell Banker, a fine group. Then we will be packed up and moved on, supposedly to go to bed in our new place around the 20th. I didn't look all this up for absolute clarity, but it's about right.
Rather tired tonight. SGuess we'll warm up some pizza, and all the love we can muster to the world about us. Thanks, God!
Jo INMN
"Although Jesus' mother told the attendants at the wedding in Cana of Galilee who were seeking more wine, "Do whatever he tells you to do," there is no record of any of his family or closest relatives or friends who were believers in Christ while he lived. Perhaps his mother got used to his humanness or was influenced by Jesus' human brothers, for she did not follow Jesus closely. Nor did any of the authorities believe in Him as he'd had no official training. Only those who were simple, common, everyday people were called by Jesus to be His disciples and eventually fully believed He was the Messiah. Even his own disciples turned and ran from him when the "going got tough."
"My belief in Christ's God-liness will never come through my intellectual knowledge, but through my heart, and my following Him, through my faith. Lord, I believe; remove my unbelief. Amen."
This journal entry written long ago is still Jerry's faith today. And it is also mine.
In regard to updating any new info on our status here in MN, is this: I am now under the care of a physical therapist named Bonnie for the next few weeks as I try to regain strength in my shoulder, arm and hand. Shoulder surgery takes the strength out of all three it seems. But all is going well. I have no more news about the move, but next Tues. we meet with a realtor provided by Presb. Homes. I think it is Coldwell Banker, a fine group. Then we will be packed up and moved on, supposedly to go to bed in our new place around the 20th. I didn't look all this up for absolute clarity, but it's about right.
Rather tired tonight. SGuess we'll warm up some pizza, and all the love we can muster to the world about us. Thanks, God!
Jo INMN
Friday, August 7, 2015
'MOVING' RIGHT ALONG!
One more day, and lots of news. Today I had my first session with the Physical Therapist, Bonnie. A lovely woman, married, easy to talk to and easy to please. She was very helpful and kind. Tomorrow Peg will help us put up the gizmo that attaches to a door and which I can pull upon. This will help me with my strengthening. Tonight I feel rested and with very little pain in the shoulder and arm.
We got the word today that we will need help from Presbyterian Home movers (not the actual name, but the folks that PH arranges for seniors needing to move in, etc. including the realtors that will sell our house, Coldwell Banker, I think it's called.) Meeting them, packing up, moving us and whatever that entails will be done by them and we'll be in our house by 8/21, sleeping in our own beds! It is almost too good to be true!
We learned today that Gary may not have to have surgery; only time will tell. Will keep you posted.
We are so grateful for Lynn's help and guidance, especially now that she is also concerned for her husband. She really does organize things well.
Today we took everything out from under the bed that we stuck there when we moved in here and began to sort what to keep, what not to keep. and what to toss. Good thing to get done! We celebrated with a pizza tonight, grateful that we had the "juice" to get that done.
God is in the middle of all of this, even the choosing of what to keep and what not to keep. He's the greatest one and the Only One that keeps us from losing control of what must get done so quickly. How grateful we are for so many who are gifting us with their talents!
Call upon His name and he will be there!
Jo in MN
We got the word today that we will need help from Presbyterian Home movers (not the actual name, but the folks that PH arranges for seniors needing to move in, etc. including the realtors that will sell our house, Coldwell Banker, I think it's called.) Meeting them, packing up, moving us and whatever that entails will be done by them and we'll be in our house by 8/21, sleeping in our own beds! It is almost too good to be true!
We learned today that Gary may not have to have surgery; only time will tell. Will keep you posted.
We are so grateful for Lynn's help and guidance, especially now that she is also concerned for her husband. She really does organize things well.
Today we took everything out from under the bed that we stuck there when we moved in here and began to sort what to keep, what not to keep. and what to toss. Good thing to get done! We celebrated with a pizza tonight, grateful that we had the "juice" to get that done.
God is in the middle of all of this, even the choosing of what to keep and what not to keep. He's the greatest one and the Only One that keeps us from losing control of what must get done so quickly. How grateful we are for so many who are gifting us with their talents!
Call upon His name and he will be there!
Jo in MN
Thursday, August 6, 2015
A DAY LATER
Nothing really new about Boutwell Landings. A bit more particulars about the Presbyterian Homes that we are liking, as far as a real estate person to help us and people to pack and move us. We haven't heard much definitely, so will have to wait to inform.
Tomorrow I go in for Physical Therapy for the first time. I hope it will not be too hard. I have been without my arm sling all day, doing ordinary things, so hope any other use will be "like duck soup"--easy. Only minor aching and very little Tylenol, so far. There have been no problems from the little fall I had and I'm happy about that.
We heard today, Gary, our daughter Lynn's husband,has to have surgery on his knee, due to a minor accident at the church camp at water's edge. So, no family moving us. We are glad about that part of it, as each family has more than enough to do these days, anyway.
Will keep you posted. I hope daily.
God has blessed us in this extraordinary way. We are thrilled to be moving to such a beautiful and interesting place, and we are pleased to believe that this is God's will for us. And as for the small encumberances affecting us here and there, God is in charge of those, too and will see us through them.
Typing is getting easier.Perhaps life, too!
Jo INMN
Tomorrow I go in for Physical Therapy for the first time. I hope it will not be too hard. I have been without my arm sling all day, doing ordinary things, so hope any other use will be "like duck soup"--easy. Only minor aching and very little Tylenol, so far. There have been no problems from the little fall I had and I'm happy about that.
We heard today, Gary, our daughter Lynn's husband,has to have surgery on his knee, due to a minor accident at the church camp at water's edge. So, no family moving us. We are glad about that part of it, as each family has more than enough to do these days, anyway.
Will keep you posted. I hope daily.
God has blessed us in this extraordinary way. We are thrilled to be moving to such a beautiful and interesting place, and we are pleased to believe that this is God's will for us. And as for the small encumberances affecting us here and there, God is in charge of those, too and will see us through them.
Typing is getting easier.Perhaps life, too!
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
JUST A QUICK HELLO
It was quite a day today! We have been advised through the careful attention of our daughter, Lynn, that there is available to us at Boutwell's Landing, a two-bedroom apartment-condo, with underground parking, as of mid-August! And we said "yes"! Also, in the apartment is a room called a sun-room, which we hope can be used for guests on occasion, only needing a double bed!
Of course we are thrilled, but know there is a lot to do next. First, sell our town-house space, and hope it will not take too long. They have been turning over quickly here, and we hope we can do the same. We are glad to be able to be part of the Presbyterian Homes Organization at Boutwell. I think our kids are glad, too.
Hoping you will hear more from me tomorrow. The new shoulder feels much like an old shoulder tonight, and I can't wait to retire.
God is so gracious to us. His blessings go on and on.
Hoping your news is good, too. If not, He will show the way to goodness.
Jo INMN
Of course we are thrilled, but know there is a lot to do next. First, sell our town-house space, and hope it will not take too long. They have been turning over quickly here, and we hope we can do the same. We are glad to be able to be part of the Presbyterian Homes Organization at Boutwell. I think our kids are glad, too.
Hoping you will hear more from me tomorrow. The new shoulder feels much like an old shoulder tonight, and I can't wait to retire.
God is so gracious to us. His blessings go on and on.
Hoping your news is good, too. If not, He will show the way to goodness.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
THE CHURCH...MY GAS STATION
John 6:30 and 6:65 tells us the crowd waffled at approving of Jesus: "Why don't you give us a clue about who you are, just a hint of what's going on? When we see what's up, we'll commit ourselves. Show us what you can do". (and) "This is why I told you earlier that no one is capable of coming to me on his own. You get me only as a gift from the Father." (The Message)
"The people wanted proof that Jesus was God's Son before their commitment! Sound familiar? Yet, no commitment is possible without the Father's giving that person to Jesus. In other words, God turns that person over to Christ to be Christ's friend. It is God's joy to lead those chosen for Jesus to Jesus. It has nothing to do with Jesus' proving His God-ness. All those who turn to Christ, no matter how excellent the witness was, are brought by the strength and purpose of the Father. We humans are only the gas for the engine; it is God who owns and drives the car!
"Thank you, God, for this message, and for your gifts to Jesus--those people who love and choose to follow Him. Those people include me, blessed by your Holy Name in all the earth. May we--the gas for the engine--not be hard to get, but plentiful and affordable. We want to help bring others to you, Lord. In Christ's name. Amen." (End of journal)
And that prayer is still a good one for us to pray, for there is a great deal to be done in the world. I am 81 years old, and my life will soon be over on this earth. Many changes are sure to happen yet, for me and for the world, including you, dear friend. I have experienced the world without Christ and I have experienced the world with Christ, and I can say without reservation, the world is wonderful with Christ, his Spirit, and the Father's love.
Need I say more?
Jo INMN
"The people wanted proof that Jesus was God's Son before their commitment! Sound familiar? Yet, no commitment is possible without the Father's giving that person to Jesus. In other words, God turns that person over to Christ to be Christ's friend. It is God's joy to lead those chosen for Jesus to Jesus. It has nothing to do with Jesus' proving His God-ness. All those who turn to Christ, no matter how excellent the witness was, are brought by the strength and purpose of the Father. We humans are only the gas for the engine; it is God who owns and drives the car!
"Thank you, God, for this message, and for your gifts to Jesus--those people who love and choose to follow Him. Those people include me, blessed by your Holy Name in all the earth. May we--the gas for the engine--not be hard to get, but plentiful and affordable. We want to help bring others to you, Lord. In Christ's name. Amen." (End of journal)
And that prayer is still a good one for us to pray, for there is a great deal to be done in the world. I am 81 years old, and my life will soon be over on this earth. Many changes are sure to happen yet, for me and for the world, including you, dear friend. I have experienced the world without Christ and I have experienced the world with Christ, and I can say without reservation, the world is wonderful with Christ, his Spirit, and the Father's love.
Need I say more?
Jo INMN
Monday, August 3, 2015
SPIRIT TO SPIRIT
John 4:22-24 reads, "What you're called will not matter and where you go to worship will not matter. It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. God is sheer being--Spirit. Those who worship God must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves--in adoration." (THE MESSAGE)
Jo wrote, "Methodist? Catholic? Lutheran? It doesn't matter! In a school? At a campground? On a hillside, in a building? It doesn't matter. It's who we are and the way we live that counts. It's a must that our worship is a gift of our spirits combined with our seeking God's truth with celebration, adoration and honor to God.
"Now, who are we, you and me? We are ordinary, common humans who are imperfect, certain of our God, determined to follow Him and who listen for His direction, watching for needs which may rise around us. How do we live? We live simply, without lust or greed. We live sometimes tempted, but not giving in to temptation. We live gratefully, joyfully, modestly, humbly and yet fruitfully, as we go about our days, and we are grateful for God's grace at the end of each day.
"Heavenly Father, may we make every day count by being called Yours, by being completely Yours, and by living and worshipping Spirit to spirit--always. Amen." (End of original journal entry)
Interestingly, I read this after this long time and I long for its perfection in my life, for even after years of loving God, His Word, and hoping to do the work of His Son however He asks, I know that I can never attain complete Spirit to spirit worship. But, with God, even partial connection to Him is more than anything in this world can ever offer. But my connection to God brings God into every other connection I may make while in this world. And I believe this is God engaged in His work.
I am doing well after my shoulder surgery. Having seen the surgeon today, everything seems to be a good OK! I am extremely thankful, and hopeful!
May God be your God in every way, every day.
Jo INMN
Jo wrote, "Methodist? Catholic? Lutheran? It doesn't matter! In a school? At a campground? On a hillside, in a building? It doesn't matter. It's who we are and the way we live that counts. It's a must that our worship is a gift of our spirits combined with our seeking God's truth with celebration, adoration and honor to God.
"Now, who are we, you and me? We are ordinary, common humans who are imperfect, certain of our God, determined to follow Him and who listen for His direction, watching for needs which may rise around us. How do we live? We live simply, without lust or greed. We live sometimes tempted, but not giving in to temptation. We live gratefully, joyfully, modestly, humbly and yet fruitfully, as we go about our days, and we are grateful for God's grace at the end of each day.
"Heavenly Father, may we make every day count by being called Yours, by being completely Yours, and by living and worshipping Spirit to spirit--always. Amen." (End of original journal entry)
Interestingly, I read this after this long time and I long for its perfection in my life, for even after years of loving God, His Word, and hoping to do the work of His Son however He asks, I know that I can never attain complete Spirit to spirit worship. But, with God, even partial connection to Him is more than anything in this world can ever offer. But my connection to God brings God into every other connection I may make while in this world. And I believe this is God engaged in His work.
I am doing well after my shoulder surgery. Having seen the surgeon today, everything seems to be a good OK! I am extremely thankful, and hopeful!
May God be your God in every way, every day.
Jo INMN
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