A year ago, I wrote about the Echoes of Praise from Rev. 5:13. I again use the words, "Then I heard all beings in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea offer praise. Together all of them were saying, "Praise, honor, glory and strength to the One who sits on the throne and to the Lamb."
Have you ever crawled under a grand piano and listened to a great musician and heard the sound reverberate against the under-carriage? It is truly a heavenly sound. I could listen there for hours filling myself with music thundering in triumph!
Perhaps hearing all things alive singing praises to God at the same time would be even more unforgettable. Birds, fish, flowers, rocks all pronouncing the Glory of God at the same time, choruses of praise with each voice repeating over and over the wonderful worth of the Father and the Son.!
Christ our Lord, God, Father of us all and Holy Spirit divine--I give you my praise and honor and glory. I give you my strength and my weaknesses, my goodness and my sin; I give you myself. Blessed be your Holy Name. Amen.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
WHEN GOD CALLS
In Rev. 4:1b and 2, we read: "Come up here and I will show you what must take place after this....At once, I was in the spirit."
In John's vision, when God called, John found himself "in the Spirit." When God calls any human into His presence, at once they are "in the Spirit" and see visions that cannot be comprehended from an earthly perspective. We are to "let go and let God." Nothing on our earthly journey can possible prepare us to see and hear God's splendor.
When I see God, He may or may not be ringing the doorbell. When he seeks me out and calls me by name, there is no other option but to stop immediately and listen. I doubt that I will really know if it is truly God, but I pray that I will believe, for I do believe that God will seek us out if he has reason.
Lord, I thank you that in scripture we are given examples in human terms that helps us to see and believe as we await your magnificent Glory. AMEN.
Jo INMN
In John's vision, when God called, John found himself "in the Spirit." When God calls any human into His presence, at once they are "in the Spirit" and see visions that cannot be comprehended from an earthly perspective. We are to "let go and let God." Nothing on our earthly journey can possible prepare us to see and hear God's splendor.
When I see God, He may or may not be ringing the doorbell. When he seeks me out and calls me by name, there is no other option but to stop immediately and listen. I doubt that I will really know if it is truly God, but I pray that I will believe, for I do believe that God will seek us out if he has reason.
Lord, I thank you that in scripture we are given examples in human terms that helps us to see and believe as we await your magnificent Glory. AMEN.
Jo INMN
Monday, August 29, 2016
SIN AND THE UNIVERSAL LAW
This is a hard lesson today. In the Old Testament, Ezek. 7:27b and the New Testament in Rev. 3:19 we learn of the universal law: "I will punish you for your sins and treat you the same way you have treated others....I correct and punish everyone I love. So make up your minds to turn away from your sins." The verse from Ezekiel is the Universal Law: what you do to or for others will be returned to you. The verse from Revelation reminds us that God corrects those He loves. Either verse reminds us to stop sinning.
The Universal Law is very much like the Golden rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The difference is, in the Universal Law, if you do a kindness for someone, someone else will turn and do a kindness for you. But , if you do a hurtful deed, someone else will turn and do a similar hurtful deed to you. God's warning, I believe, that says, "That's how that feels!"
In the Revelation's verse, God is reminding us that there will be punishment for sin especially to those God loves. God's work is never done in us, for although we are perfectly loved, we are imperfect!
God, I shall not resist your correction and will remember that through others may be the way you handle it! Amen.
God is right. He is always right!
Jo INMN
The Universal Law is very much like the Golden rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The difference is, in the Universal Law, if you do a kindness for someone, someone else will turn and do a kindness for you. But , if you do a hurtful deed, someone else will turn and do a similar hurtful deed to you. God's warning, I believe, that says, "That's how that feels!"
In the Revelation's verse, God is reminding us that there will be punishment for sin especially to those God loves. God's work is never done in us, for although we are perfectly loved, we are imperfect!
God, I shall not resist your correction and will remember that through others may be the way you handle it! Amen.
God is right. He is always right!
Jo INMN
Saturday, August 27, 2016
WALK IN GOODNESS AND TRUTH
In 3 John 4, 11, the Word states, "I have no greater joy than this--to hear that my children are walking in the truth...and do not imitate what is evil but imitate what is good."
The writer of the above is an elder and supervisor over several churches and writes to encourage the leadership to lead people to follow truth and goodness. Some of the local leaders are leading the people improperly to follow a lie and not the truth of the gospel of Jesus, his death, resurrection, and ascension, and imputation of the Holy Spirit. False teaching must be cut off to prevent people from being led astray.
As a mother, grand-mother, and great-grandmother, I understand this message on a personal basis. My joy is complete when I see my children and their children and grandchildren following the Way of Jesus. My heart explodes with gratitude when I can read their smiles at having found Him and are celebrating His love for them. Who can ask for anything more?
My heart grieves when I see those who would deny Christ and imitate what is evil, but I will continue to pray that someday....someday they will also walk in goodness and truth!
Jo INMN
The writer of the above is an elder and supervisor over several churches and writes to encourage the leadership to lead people to follow truth and goodness. Some of the local leaders are leading the people improperly to follow a lie and not the truth of the gospel of Jesus, his death, resurrection, and ascension, and imputation of the Holy Spirit. False teaching must be cut off to prevent people from being led astray.
As a mother, grand-mother, and great-grandmother, I understand this message on a personal basis. My joy is complete when I see my children and their children and grandchildren following the Way of Jesus. My heart explodes with gratitude when I can read their smiles at having found Him and are celebrating His love for them. Who can ask for anything more?
My heart grieves when I see those who would deny Christ and imitate what is evil, but I will continue to pray that someday....someday they will also walk in goodness and truth!
Jo INMN
Friday, August 26, 2016
WHAT IS THE TEACHING OF CHRIST?
In John 2a., "Anyone who gets so progressive in his thinking that he walks out on the teaching of Christ walks out on God."
And what is the teaching of Christ? That you love the Lord your God, with all your heart, soul, and mind, and your neighbor as yourself. These things are what Jesus taught. But Love constitutes obedience to God, and generosity to our fellow humans. Love means thinking of others first, setting aside my own comfort and pleasure, sacrificing my intentions or hopes in order to help someone else. Love and loving is so much more than I can humanly do alone. Some love takes a "village." We have a few "villages--" our church, a Life group, our family or just Jerry and me. Some love we can give individually, other kinds of love may take us all together. Christ's hands and feet in the world, that's what some kinds of love may need.
God, help us all to have this vision, as individuals and together. Guide our eyes and minds to see Christ in each other and as your body that we might walk with you and not walk out on you. AMEN.
Jo INMN
And what is the teaching of Christ? That you love the Lord your God, with all your heart, soul, and mind, and your neighbor as yourself. These things are what Jesus taught. But Love constitutes obedience to God, and generosity to our fellow humans. Love means thinking of others first, setting aside my own comfort and pleasure, sacrificing my intentions or hopes in order to help someone else. Love and loving is so much more than I can humanly do alone. Some love takes a "village." We have a few "villages--" our church, a Life group, our family or just Jerry and me. Some love we can give individually, other kinds of love may take us all together. Christ's hands and feet in the world, that's what some kinds of love may need.
God, help us all to have this vision, as individuals and together. Guide our eyes and minds to see Christ in each other and as your body that we might walk with you and not walk out on you. AMEN.
Jo INMN
Thursday, August 25, 2016
CHOOSE LIFE!
I John 5: 11 and 12 tells us, "And this is the testimony, God gave us eternal life and this life is in Hs Son, Jesus. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life."
The writer, thought to be John the disciple, makes clear that the world is under the control of evil powers, but that those who believe in Jesus are born of God, protected from the power of evil and death. He proclaims : Choose life, walk with Jesus, be His disciple and bring others to know his saving grace. Eternal life is for right now, for those alive on the earth, not only for all of eternity.
When we reject the powers of the world in our lives and choose to follow Jesus, we receive eternal life here and now and forever. What greater gift could we receive? I am not good. I don't deserve life. But because Jesus died and rose again, I have life.
He did it for me and He will do it for you.
Lord God, I thank you for the gift of life in you, both for now and eternity. Amen.
I will praise Him, now and forever.
Jo INMN
The writer, thought to be John the disciple, makes clear that the world is under the control of evil powers, but that those who believe in Jesus are born of God, protected from the power of evil and death. He proclaims : Choose life, walk with Jesus, be His disciple and bring others to know his saving grace. Eternal life is for right now, for those alive on the earth, not only for all of eternity.
When we reject the powers of the world in our lives and choose to follow Jesus, we receive eternal life here and now and forever. What greater gift could we receive? I am not good. I don't deserve life. But because Jesus died and rose again, I have life.
He did it for me and He will do it for you.
Lord God, I thank you for the gift of life in you, both for now and eternity. Amen.
I will praise Him, now and forever.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
THE GEOMETRY OF LOVE!
In 1 John 4: 12,13, the Word says, "If we love one another, God dwells deeply within us and God's love becomes complete in us--perfect love! This is how we know we're living steadily and deeply in God, and God in us. God's given us life from God's life, from God's very own Spirit!"
The test has been given; how did I score? How have I loved others? How deep does God dwell in me? The two are joined, as one is impossible without the other, and characteristic of one another. One can't happen without the other. I can't love others unless God dwells deeply in me. God will not dwell deeply in me if I do not love others. The more I love others, the deeper God's life in me. It's tit for tat. The vertical affects the horizontal.
Holy Sprit, Love Divine--Enter in me more deeply today. Let me know you, Lord, so truly that I will deny others nothing, that my heart and soul are spent in the gifts of love. I don't want to miss the mark. There are those who need a friend. Where have I been? Forgive me and give me the desire to be obedient to each call to love that you send me. In your Holy Name. AMEN.
Are you with me, friend?
Jo INMN
The test has been given; how did I score? How have I loved others? How deep does God dwell in me? The two are joined, as one is impossible without the other, and characteristic of one another. One can't happen without the other. I can't love others unless God dwells deeply in me. God will not dwell deeply in me if I do not love others. The more I love others, the deeper God's life in me. It's tit for tat. The vertical affects the horizontal.
Holy Sprit, Love Divine--Enter in me more deeply today. Let me know you, Lord, so truly that I will deny others nothing, that my heart and soul are spent in the gifts of love. I don't want to miss the mark. There are those who need a friend. Where have I been? Forgive me and give me the desire to be obedient to each call to love that you send me. In your Holy Name. AMEN.
Are you with me, friend?
Jo INMN
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
DISCIPLINE AND PUNISHMENT
In Jeremiah 28:15. speaking to the false prophet, Jeremiah says, "Listen, Hananiah, the Lord has not sent you and you have made the people trust in a lie." And within a year, Hananiah was dead and gone."
The people of Israel were in exile. Jeremiah's advice to the exiles to establish homes, build houses give in marriage and multiply while in exile was revolutionary. The people were even to pray for Babylonia and the welfare of the city where God had sent them. God said after 70 years of punishment of exile God would redeem them and bring them back to their promised land. the false prophet had lied to them and said they could return in two years. Jeremiah was angered and set them all straight.
False prophets are always among us and make things sound so good that we would rather trust in their lies rather than in God. God is truly good but His discipline is hard, yet it must be done for each of us. When God takes us aside to discipline us, we must accept His discipline as that of a loving parent who wants the very best for us. Even although it may seem very hard for a time, if we endure it and keep our eyes only on Jesus, not our own situation, God will prevail and make us each better, stronger persons to carry the cross of Jesus, that others might know Him, also.
Lord Jesus, Punishment for wrong doing is never easy to accept, but help us, each one, to take it in peace and acceptance, keeping our eyes on you alone during the time of correction. Amen.
"Ours is not to wonder why. Ours is but to do, or die." An old message with good thought.
Jo INMN
The people of Israel were in exile. Jeremiah's advice to the exiles to establish homes, build houses give in marriage and multiply while in exile was revolutionary. The people were even to pray for Babylonia and the welfare of the city where God had sent them. God said after 70 years of punishment of exile God would redeem them and bring them back to their promised land. the false prophet had lied to them and said they could return in two years. Jeremiah was angered and set them all straight.
False prophets are always among us and make things sound so good that we would rather trust in their lies rather than in God. God is truly good but His discipline is hard, yet it must be done for each of us. When God takes us aside to discipline us, we must accept His discipline as that of a loving parent who wants the very best for us. Even although it may seem very hard for a time, if we endure it and keep our eyes only on Jesus, not our own situation, God will prevail and make us each better, stronger persons to carry the cross of Jesus, that others might know Him, also.
Lord Jesus, Punishment for wrong doing is never easy to accept, but help us, each one, to take it in peace and acceptance, keeping our eyes on you alone during the time of correction. Amen.
"Ours is not to wonder why. Ours is but to do, or die." An old message with good thought.
Jo INMN
Monday, August 22, 2016
DESIRE JUSTICE, NOT EYE CANDY
In Jer. 21:11,12 and 1 John 2:16 the Word tells us, "Pay attention, you that belong to the royal family (the King's Kids). Each new day make sure that justice is done." And, "Our foolish pride comes from this world, and so do our selfish desires and our desires to have everything we see. None of this comes from the Father."
The above verses describe what to look for....and what not to look at! The Old Testament reading suggests for us to look for injustice that must be remedied, and practice the justice that is needed. If I see a homeless man on the corner, begging, or see a mother with several small children trying to enter a revolving door, justice can be done. If an article I read in the paper says to my conscience, "This is wrong!", there is justice that can be done. All these things in my daily life tell me--I must attend to this.
The eye candy of the world, however, stretches out before me, saying, "You need me!" Each ad in the paper is like candy to the eye. "I must have...." it tells me. It is hard to avoid and harder still to turn away.
Can you relate?
God, help us to hunger for righteousness and justice,, so those who are always stuck at the foot of the table of life might be fed first. And may my eyes not have the desire to taste or own what I see, for one will make me fat, and the other make me become a fat cat. And I just want to be yours. Amen.
Jo INMN
The above verses describe what to look for....and what not to look at! The Old Testament reading suggests for us to look for injustice that must be remedied, and practice the justice that is needed. If I see a homeless man on the corner, begging, or see a mother with several small children trying to enter a revolving door, justice can be done. If an article I read in the paper says to my conscience, "This is wrong!", there is justice that can be done. All these things in my daily life tell me--I must attend to this.
The eye candy of the world, however, stretches out before me, saying, "You need me!" Each ad in the paper is like candy to the eye. "I must have...." it tells me. It is hard to avoid and harder still to turn away.
Can you relate?
God, help us to hunger for righteousness and justice,, so those who are always stuck at the foot of the table of life might be fed first. And may my eyes not have the desire to taste or own what I see, for one will make me fat, and the other make me become a fat cat. And I just want to be yours. Amen.
Jo INMN
Saturday, August 20, 2016
IF WE CONFESS
In 1 John 1:9,10 the words say, "If we confess our sins, God who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make God a liar, and his Word is not in us."
In the tradition of the Apostle John, the writer of the letter of 1 John, wants it understood that the gospel message is that Jesus was divine and yet human. He was and is in God as One, and was and is a human being born of a woman, was crucified, died, and rose again to conquer death and offer the forgiveness of sins to those who confess they are sinners. If in our pride and self-assurance we say we are good and have no sin to confess, we make a liar out of Jesus, and there was no reason for Him to come to earth. We sin, if for no other reason because we cannot help but think of ourselves first.
Jesus knows us; we can't fool Him, although we can fool ourselves and others with our self-satisfaction and our lack of confession. We must come to Jesus, broken as beggars, paupers, sinners, or He can do nothing for us. If I try to come to Jesus on my own goodness, I'm only kidding myself!!
Lord, I confess what you already know! I am a sinner not deserving of your grace. Help me to see my sin and confess it to you. Amen.
We are not alone in this. Our sins may not be those needing punishment by law, but in the world of God's love, we are imperfect....and guilty of imperfect love. Only God can love perfectly.
Jo INMN
In the tradition of the Apostle John, the writer of the letter of 1 John, wants it understood that the gospel message is that Jesus was divine and yet human. He was and is in God as One, and was and is a human being born of a woman, was crucified, died, and rose again to conquer death and offer the forgiveness of sins to those who confess they are sinners. If in our pride and self-assurance we say we are good and have no sin to confess, we make a liar out of Jesus, and there was no reason for Him to come to earth. We sin, if for no other reason because we cannot help but think of ourselves first.
Jesus knows us; we can't fool Him, although we can fool ourselves and others with our self-satisfaction and our lack of confession. We must come to Jesus, broken as beggars, paupers, sinners, or He can do nothing for us. If I try to come to Jesus on my own goodness, I'm only kidding myself!!
Lord, I confess what you already know! I am a sinner not deserving of your grace. Help me to see my sin and confess it to you. Amen.
We are not alone in this. Our sins may not be those needing punishment by law, but in the world of God's love, we are imperfect....and guilty of imperfect love. Only God can love perfectly.
Jo INMN
Friday, August 19, 2016
NO BIG-MOUTHED LITTLE BEAVERS!
Jer. 46:17 says, "When they get home they will nickname Pharaoh "Big-Talk-Bad-Luck."
Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, was on his way to attack Egypt. The great Egyptian Pharaoh was about to be defeated, and badly. Egypt, the great nation was no longer so great and God told Jeremiah that the mighty Egypt would fall.
Nebuchadnezzar was a power-house, but Egypt still lived in its glory-days. Imagine the dismay of Egypt who thought they could take over the world, but it was not to be. Braggarts often fall, their hot air unable to sustain them. My husband's phrase for braggarts is, "Big-Mouthed Little-Beavers," not too different from our scripture's nickname for Pharaoh, "Big-Talk Bad-Luck."
God, we know none of us is totally free from Pride. Pride that goes to bragging is not what is becoming to your people. Forgive us when we live too close to triumph. May we each always remember, victory belongs to You. Amen.
Jo INMN
Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, was on his way to attack Egypt. The great Egyptian Pharaoh was about to be defeated, and badly. Egypt, the great nation was no longer so great and God told Jeremiah that the mighty Egypt would fall.
Nebuchadnezzar was a power-house, but Egypt still lived in its glory-days. Imagine the dismay of Egypt who thought they could take over the world, but it was not to be. Braggarts often fall, their hot air unable to sustain them. My husband's phrase for braggarts is, "Big-Mouthed Little-Beavers," not too different from our scripture's nickname for Pharaoh, "Big-Talk Bad-Luck."
God, we know none of us is totally free from Pride. Pride that goes to bragging is not what is becoming to your people. Forgive us when we live too close to triumph. May we each always remember, victory belongs to You. Amen.
Jo INMN
Thursday, August 18, 2016
THOSE WHO HAVEN'T SEEN
In John 20:28 and 29 we read, "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."
It was after the Crucifixion and Jesus' burial when Jesus, arisen, came into the room where the disciples were gathered in sorrow and fear. 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 doubted. 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. My response? "My Lord and my God!"
Lord Jesus, I'm overwhelmed at your gift of love and grace to this world and to me, personally. Thank you. Amen.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
WORDS CAN HURT YOU!
Jer. 23:18 and 36 says, "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 and they could get their own way. The prophets had much to lose, as well, by asking for God's will and recommendation; the public's approval, well-being, status--all would be lost. And they thought, "Just look at the fool, Jeremiah!"
God, may we always stand before you in awe, loving you, and listening, listening, listening, just as Jeremiah did. Keep us from the sin of caring what others think. May we never use our own thoughts without clarification of your will. Help us to discern your Word from those who may be false in our reading, our hearing, and our writing. Amen.
May it ever be!
Jo INMN
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 and they could get their own way. The prophets had much to lose, as well, by asking for God's will and recommendation; the public's approval, well-being, status--all would be lost. And they thought, "Just look at the fool, Jeremiah!"
God, may we always stand before you in awe, loving you, and listening, listening, listening, just as Jeremiah did. Keep us from the sin of caring what others think. May we never use our own thoughts without clarification of your will. Help us to discern your Word from those who may be false in our reading, our hearing, and our writing. Amen.
May it ever be!
Jo INMN
Tuesday, August 16, 2016
FOR THIS I WAS BORN
In John 18:37b, we read, "Jesus said to Pilate, "For this was I born, and for this I came into the world to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.""
Jesus makes clear to Pilate that He came into the world to speak the truth and to reveal God's plan for humanity. He also came knowing He was to be killed, to die, and to rise to conquer the grip of the world which is death, that all who believe would be set free, knowing the truth.
As Jesus said, "For this was I born," that each human being was created by God for God's purpose. Jesus created me to be His and to share the love of Christ in a sometimes dark and forlorn world. Therefore, I need never fear or worry, for when my time on earth is over, I'll be in eternity with Him.
And while I am here on this earth, His Presence is always available to me, keeping me from those moments I am tempted to invest in fear. Fear seems to hover all around us for one reason or another. But, there is no reason for us to accompany its presence. It is useless to join its ranks for without fear we can accomplish so much and with fear, nothing.
Christ had no fear. Neither must you and I.
For this we accepted Him. For this we were born. Praise our Most High God!
Jo INMN
Jesus makes clear to Pilate that He came into the world to speak the truth and to reveal God's plan for humanity. He also came knowing He was to be killed, to die, and to rise to conquer the grip of the world which is death, that all who believe would be set free, knowing the truth.
As Jesus said, "For this was I born," that each human being was created by God for God's purpose. Jesus created me to be His and to share the love of Christ in a sometimes dark and forlorn world. Therefore, I need never fear or worry, for when my time on earth is over, I'll be in eternity with Him.
And while I am here on this earth, His Presence is always available to me, keeping me from those moments I am tempted to invest in fear. Fear seems to hover all around us for one reason or another. But, there is no reason for us to accompany its presence. It is useless to join its ranks for without fear we can accomplish so much and with fear, nothing.
Christ had no fear. Neither must you and I.
For this we accepted Him. For this we were born. Praise our Most High God!
Jo INMN
Monday, August 15, 2016
AN ABNORMAL LOVE
In John 17:25 and 26 it reads Jesus words: "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."
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 of us 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. But, we who know Jesus, we abnormal ones, can't be as comfortable in the world any more. No, we are His all the way, and our thoughts should be less about the world as it pertains to us, but about God as He may desire for the world. This includes our love for all people and our desire 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, and especially today, for those who wish us harm. I pray, in the name of Jesus, that my 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 the ordinary--to all 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 of us 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. But, we who know Jesus, we abnormal ones, can't be as comfortable in the world any more. No, we are His all the way, and our thoughts should be less about the world as it pertains to us, but about God as He may desire for the world. This includes our love for all people and our desire 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, and especially today, for those who wish us harm. I pray, in the name of Jesus, that my 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 the ordinary--to all those around me. Amen.
Jo INMN
Saturday, August 13, 2016
BECAUSE YOU BELIEVE
John 16:26-28 tells us, "On that day, you will ask in my name. I do not say that I will ask the Father on your behalf; for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me nd 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, not in any word pictures or figures of speech what is the truth. 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 and teach all things.
And so He will do for each of us. We can ask the Father in Jesus' name on our own without any human intermediary and God will hear us and answer us. When we ask in Jesus' name, we are praying in the very nature of the divine God. Because we have believed and loved, we have direct access to God.
Lord Jesus, what a wondrous gift I have received to call you my Lord, my Savior and my Friend! Thanks be to you, O God! Amen.
Jo INMN
Jesus is explaining to His disciples in plain language, not in any word pictures or figures of speech what is the truth. 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 and teach all things.
And so He will do for each of us. We can ask the Father in Jesus' name on our own without any human intermediary and God will hear us and answer us. When we ask in Jesus' name, we are praying in the very nature of the divine God. Because we have believed and loved, we have direct access to God.
Lord Jesus, what a wondrous gift I have received to call you my Lord, my Savior and my Friend! Thanks be to you, O God! Amen.
Jo INMN
Friday, August 12, 2016
STRIP AWAY, MY LORD!
From 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 of the good fruit. This is meant to imply the things we choose to do and think is under the "care" of the Holy Spirit and He is watchful over our thinking and acts It also implies that He will "trim" what we do that is hurtful to the work of the Lord.
Three, if I am proud--too proud to listen, such as, if my own spirit rejects what the Holy Spirit within me wants me to hear, 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.
These are the things the Scripture tells us. Whew!
Lord, help me and each one reading this who wills it, 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 "self." Amen.
This is a huge task it seems to me, but one that will be pleasing to God. I hope you are with 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 of the good fruit. This is meant to imply the things we choose to do and think is under the "care" of the Holy Spirit and He is watchful over our thinking and acts It also implies that He will "trim" what we do that is hurtful to the work of the Lord.
Three, if I am proud--too proud to listen, such as, if my own spirit rejects what the Holy Spirit within me wants me to hear, 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.
These are the things the Scripture tells us. Whew!
Lord, help me and each one reading this who wills it, 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 "self." Amen.
This is a huge task it seems to me, but one that will be pleasing to God. I hope you are with me!
Jo INMN
Thursday, August 11, 2016
THE WAY
John 14:4-6, "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.""
Remember that Thomas had 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 a mind of questioning and doubt much like Thomas. Jesus said in plain words that if they know and believe in Jesus as the Son of God, then they know the way to God because Jesus is the only way.
When we face doubters about Jesus, this verse from John is all the answer we 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 says in words to us that should eliminate any doubt, "I am the way for you to dwell in eternity with God."
Lord Jesus, Help us to share this truth with others who don't believe that you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Amen.
Jo INMN
Remember that Thomas had 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 a mind of questioning and doubt much like Thomas. Jesus said in plain words that if they know and believe in Jesus as the Son of God, then they know the way to God because Jesus is the only way.
When we face doubters about Jesus, this verse from John is all the answer we 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 says in words to us that should eliminate any doubt, "I am the way for you to dwell in eternity with God."
Lord Jesus, Help us to share this truth with others who don't believe that you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Amen.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 10, 2016
ALL I HAVE TO DO IS DIE !
In John 13:38a, Jesus asks, "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. Jesus knew that 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? Are you? Is this a question that Jesus asks of us? Would we really die for Jesus? It's hard for me to put myself in the place of Peter. Or put myself in the place of having to, literally, die for Jesus. But, there is a figurative death, a death of one's-self, and I believe this is the death Jesus is speaking of. But this death, too, is a difficult one.
I have asked for this death many times, but somehow, my "self" always becomes resurrected and not by the Holy Spirit! I am the one responsible.
It is hard. It is a hard thing to die to self. From the time I was an infant, I have had to fight 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. And follow; follow Him.
Jesus, I want to live in You and be One with You. Will you help me to die for you, Jesus? Amen.
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. Jesus knew that 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? Are you? Is this a question that Jesus asks of us? Would we really die for Jesus? It's hard for me to put myself in the place of Peter. Or put myself in the place of having to, literally, die for Jesus. But, there is a figurative death, a death of one's-self, and I believe this is the death Jesus is speaking of. But this death, too, is a difficult one.
I have asked for this death many times, but somehow, my "self" always becomes resurrected and not by the Holy Spirit! I am the one responsible.
It is hard. It is a hard thing to die to self. From the time I was an infant, I have had to fight 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. And follow; follow Him.
Jesus, I want to live in You and be One with You. Will you help me to die for you, Jesus? Amen.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
DENIAL OFJESUS
In John 12:42 and 43 it tells us, "Many people, even some in authority, believed in Jesus. But because of the Pharisees, they did not confess it for fear they would be put out of the synagogue. They loved human glory more than the glory that comes from God."
These passages tell us of what was occurring back then to the Jewish people. Yet this same denial of Jesus is present in human life today. Many times believers and followers of Jesus will not proclaim their belief openly for fear of being ridiculed and put out of worldly friendships. When we deny Jesus this way Jesus weeps, and we cut ourselves off from possibly helping someone to know Jesus in their life.
Each of us must boldly proclaim, even in situations that feel threatening, that we believe Jesus is our Lord and Savior. To do less may deprive another person the opening of his or her heart to receive Him. We would be exchanging God's glory for human acceptance. It would be denying our Lord.
This will take great humility and courage in some cases, and it would behoove each of us to pray for that courage and humility, and also for strength of purpose, for in under certain circumstances we may be put in serious danger. Difficult situations call for emphatic prayer!
Lord Jesus, May I never hesitate to proclaim you Savior in situations that might result in human rejection. Please give me the strengths to do well for your purpose. Amen.
Hoping you are in agreement!
Jo INMN
These passages tell us of what was occurring back then to the Jewish people. Yet this same denial of Jesus is present in human life today. Many times believers and followers of Jesus will not proclaim their belief openly for fear of being ridiculed and put out of worldly friendships. When we deny Jesus this way Jesus weeps, and we cut ourselves off from possibly helping someone to know Jesus in their life.
Each of us must boldly proclaim, even in situations that feel threatening, that we believe Jesus is our Lord and Savior. To do less may deprive another person the opening of his or her heart to receive Him. We would be exchanging God's glory for human acceptance. It would be denying our Lord.
This will take great humility and courage in some cases, and it would behoove each of us to pray for that courage and humility, and also for strength of purpose, for in under certain circumstances we may be put in serious danger. Difficult situations call for emphatic prayer!
Lord Jesus, May I never hesitate to proclaim you Savior in situations that might result in human rejection. Please give me the strengths to do well for your purpose. Amen.
Hoping you are in agreement!
Jo INMN
Monday, August 8, 2016
BECAUSE WE BELIEVE
In John 10:38 John quotes the words from Jesus, "Perhaps things will come together for you, and you will see that not only are we doing the same thing, we are the same, Father and Son. He is in me ; I am in Him."
These words of Jesus tell it like it is. The Father and the Son are the same; each is in the other. This leaves no doubt of the God-ness of Jesus. John testifies this is true by quoting Jesus, "He is in me; I am in Him." They are One, yet separate.
How can a human mind wrap around this concept? There can be no complete understanding, for it is outside of human experience. But we believe because the words changed our own lives through studying them. And we can believe because as God has His way with us, we come to know that God is within each of us, as well.
The words are precious words and the entirety of the words are in a Book, and the Book has been honored and respected and believed for centuries. There is much in this book that is beyond human understanding, and some debatable, but the Book has proved to be good.
Therefore, God, we honor the Book; we honor the Words; and we honor the story it tells. We honor you, the God of all gods and the Son who is God, because we believe and we have seen and felt your worth. Amen.
Jo INMN
These words of Jesus tell it like it is. The Father and the Son are the same; each is in the other. This leaves no doubt of the God-ness of Jesus. John testifies this is true by quoting Jesus, "He is in me; I am in Him." They are One, yet separate.
How can a human mind wrap around this concept? There can be no complete understanding, for it is outside of human experience. But we believe because the words changed our own lives through studying them. And we can believe because as God has His way with us, we come to know that God is within each of us, as well.
The words are precious words and the entirety of the words are in a Book, and the Book has been honored and respected and believed for centuries. There is much in this book that is beyond human understanding, and some debatable, but the Book has proved to be good.
Therefore, God, we honor the Book; we honor the Words; and we honor the story it tells. We honor you, the God of all gods and the Son who is God, because we believe and we have seen and felt your worth. Amen.
Jo INMN
Saturday, August 6, 2016
TRUE JUDGMENT
In John 8:15,17 in the words of Jesus, 'You decided according to what you can see and touch. My judgment would be true, because I wouldn't make it out of the narrowness of my experience but in the largeness of the One who sent me, the Father."
Jesus has told us in other scripture not to judge. Here, in John 8, He tells us why. "Let Christ be God's judge for He listens to the Father. Our experience and vision can not see the whole truth as God sees and knows it."
My judgments are a far cry from truth. They're made not only from my experience and my visual nature, but from the often-erring perceptions I have had since a young child. It is wrong for me to make judgments about others--all people are loved by God--from my extremely narrow view. There is no need, in fact for me to make any judgments as we are all imperfect. And, watch out for the times we think we are being judged, me especially! My reactions have been totally unnecessary and often unfair.
So what can we do? You and I can turn to God. Think of Jesus who always turned to the largeness of the Father's mercy and acted only on that. Jesus called it "true judgment." Mercy and truth are totally compatible. Our hearts are not big enough to find that "true judgment," so we must turn to God and let it go.
God, Let me be a woman of mercy and truth. May I cease from judging others, remembering only that in your large-ness, you are truly fair. Amen.
Have any of you been in a similar situation?
Jo INMN
Jesus has told us in other scripture not to judge. Here, in John 8, He tells us why. "Let Christ be God's judge for He listens to the Father. Our experience and vision can not see the whole truth as God sees and knows it."
My judgments are a far cry from truth. They're made not only from my experience and my visual nature, but from the often-erring perceptions I have had since a young child. It is wrong for me to make judgments about others--all people are loved by God--from my extremely narrow view. There is no need, in fact for me to make any judgments as we are all imperfect. And, watch out for the times we think we are being judged, me especially! My reactions have been totally unnecessary and often unfair.
So what can we do? You and I can turn to God. Think of Jesus who always turned to the largeness of the Father's mercy and acted only on that. Jesus called it "true judgment." Mercy and truth are totally compatible. Our hearts are not big enough to find that "true judgment," so we must turn to God and let it go.
God, Let me be a woman of mercy and truth. May I cease from judging others, remembering only that in your large-ness, you are truly fair. Amen.
Have any of you been in a similar situation?
Jo INMN
Friday, August 5, 2016
UNBELIEF
In John 7:5,, 15 and 48 we find the following words, "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?"
Although Jesus' mother told the attendants at the wedding in Cana of Galilee, "Do whatever He tells you to do," there is no record of any of his brothers or friends who were believers while he lived. Certainly, His mother and His father knew of His incredible birth and life, and angels had spoken to them regarding early dangers concerning their son, Jesus. The authorities did not believe in Him as He 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. Yet, even His own disciples turned and ran from him when the "going got tough."
Our belief will never come through our intellectual knowledge, but through our hearts. And by following through by our faith.
Lord, I believe; remove my unbelief. Amen.
Jo INMN
Although Jesus' mother told the attendants at the wedding in Cana of Galilee, "Do whatever He tells you to do," there is no record of any of his brothers or friends who were believers while he lived. Certainly, His mother and His father knew of His incredible birth and life, and angels had spoken to them regarding early dangers concerning their son, Jesus. The authorities did not believe in Him as He 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. Yet, even His own disciples turned and ran from him when the "going got tough."
Our belief will never come through our intellectual knowledge, but through our hearts. And by following through by our faith.
Lord, I believe; remove my unbelief. Amen.
Jo INMN
Thursday, August 4, 2016
A GIFT FROMTHE FATHER
In John 6:30 and 65 it tells us, the crowd speaking first and Jesus answering, "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 people demanded proof that Jesus was God's Son before 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 the message of hope for your gifts to your Son, Jesus--the people who love and choose to follow Him. And thank you for Your people, Lord, who are blessed by Your Holy Name in all the earth. May we--like the gas for your car--not be hard to get, but plentiful and affordable. We want to help bring others to you. In Christ's Holy name. Amen.
May it be so.
Jo INMN
The people demanded proof that Jesus was God's Son before 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 the message of hope for your gifts to your Son, Jesus--the people who love and choose to follow Him. And thank you for Your people, Lord, who are blessed by Your Holy Name in all the earth. May we--like the gas for your car--not be hard to get, but plentiful and affordable. We want to help bring others to you. In Christ's Holy name. Amen.
May it be so.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
BE DISCIPLINED AND STEADFAST
I Peter 5:8 tells us, "Discipline yourselves; keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him; be steadfast in your faith."
Peter warns Christians that the devil tries to use suffering to destroy the faith of believers. We are to be alert to this pattern of behavior in ourselves and others and not yield, but suffer as Christ did to be an example for others in suffering. God has said, "I will never leave you or abandon you."
When I experience suffering in adversity, my focus must always be on Jesus. Satan uses sufferings to bring me to say, "Why doesn't God answer my pleas for relief?" And this leads me to wondering if there might not be a God who cares for me after all. And these thoughts hurt me...and God...and cause me to question the One who has been my very Saviour!
And so for so these reasons and others personal perhaps only to you, we must be disciplined to have any thoughts such as these be eradicated from our minds at the first glimpse of them! And the only way to do that, I believe, is to pray and to immediately pray !!
Lord Jesus, Keep each of us strong in our faith when facing pain suffering or adversity. Amen
Have a wonderful day in the power of Jesus!
Jo INMN
Peter warns Christians that the devil tries to use suffering to destroy the faith of believers. We are to be alert to this pattern of behavior in ourselves and others and not yield, but suffer as Christ did to be an example for others in suffering. God has said, "I will never leave you or abandon you."
When I experience suffering in adversity, my focus must always be on Jesus. Satan uses sufferings to bring me to say, "Why doesn't God answer my pleas for relief?" And this leads me to wondering if there might not be a God who cares for me after all. And these thoughts hurt me...and God...and cause me to question the One who has been my very Saviour!
And so for so these reasons and others personal perhaps only to you, we must be disciplined to have any thoughts such as these be eradicated from our minds at the first glimpse of them! And the only way to do that, I believe, is to pray and to immediately pray !!
Lord Jesus, Keep each of us strong in our faith when facing pain suffering or adversity. Amen
Have a wonderful day in the power of Jesus!
Jo INMN
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
SPIRIT TO SPIRIT
From John 4:22-24: "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."
Methodist? Catholic? Lutheran? It doesn't matter! In a school? In a church building? On the water? At a campground? Hillside? It doesn't matter. What about Mormon? What about Buddhism? What about Judism? What about those religions which are called by another name? It doesn't matter. The God I know loves us all and wants us to love each other. It has been testified that God takes into account our intentions! And He intends us to love one another!
It's who we are and the way we live that counts. It counts when our worship is a gift of our spirits combined with our seeking God's truth with celebration, adoration and honor..to God, and remembering and following His Ten Commandments.
Now, who are we? We are ordinary, common humans who are imperfect, are certain of our God, are determined to follow, who listen for God's direction and watch for needs that may arise around us. How do we live? We live simply, without lust or greed; tempted, but not giving in; gratefully; and joyfully. Modestly, humbly, and fruitfully we go about our days, being grateful for God's grace each evening.
These things we believe no matter what our name. Although we recognize those "religions" who do not follow our God's loving message, we do not mess around with them, knowing the goodness of God's commandments are meant to be followed and not denied. There may be just a few, but are dangerous to the world and are hurtful to the souls of those following the God meant for All. Out of ignorance and hate those gods who teach hate have a following, and are bringing that hatred to the souls of their believers and harm to those who are innocent.
We know that our Heavenly Father has power over all others who try to take His place in the world and we make every day count by being called His. And we pray daily, "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.
Sincerely, Jo INMN
Methodist? Catholic? Lutheran? It doesn't matter! In a school? In a church building? On the water? At a campground? Hillside? It doesn't matter. What about Mormon? What about Buddhism? What about Judism? What about those religions which are called by another name? It doesn't matter. The God I know loves us all and wants us to love each other. It has been testified that God takes into account our intentions! And He intends us to love one another!
It's who we are and the way we live that counts. It counts when our worship is a gift of our spirits combined with our seeking God's truth with celebration, adoration and honor..to God, and remembering and following His Ten Commandments.
Now, who are we? We are ordinary, common humans who are imperfect, are certain of our God, are determined to follow, who listen for God's direction and watch for needs that may arise around us. How do we live? We live simply, without lust or greed; tempted, but not giving in; gratefully; and joyfully. Modestly, humbly, and fruitfully we go about our days, being grateful for God's grace each evening.
These things we believe no matter what our name. Although we recognize those "religions" who do not follow our God's loving message, we do not mess around with them, knowing the goodness of God's commandments are meant to be followed and not denied. There may be just a few, but are dangerous to the world and are hurtful to the souls of those following the God meant for All. Out of ignorance and hate those gods who teach hate have a following, and are bringing that hatred to the souls of their believers and harm to those who are innocent.
We know that our Heavenly Father has power over all others who try to take His place in the world and we make every day count by being called His. And we pray daily, "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.
Sincerely, Jo INMN
Monday, August 1, 2016
NEEDS PLUS WORKS = GOD
Isaiah 64:3,4, "Since before time began no one has ever imagined, nor ear heard, nor eye seen a God like You who works for those who wait for Him."
No. No one has ever seen God. We hear of God; we hear a lot about God. We see His works, but we have not seen God. Some saw Jesus, but didn't know He was God; He looked and sounded like a man. It was His works which told us of His God-ness.
So, we don't know what God looks like and most of us don't know what God sounds like, although a few would claim to have heard God speak to them. No, we only see or hear God at work.
Now, here are some old stories I can tell about God at work. Like, a daughter who arranged for yellow ribbons to be tied on the trees in her neighborhood, the same neighborhood of a young man leaving for Iraq many years ago. The young man's mother cried over this act of God's love. Like another daughter who gave her car to a friend because the friend didn't have a car and the friend's need was greater than her own. Like a son who traveled back and forth over-seas in three days to attend the memorial of a friend's mother. Like a granddaughter who gave up her summer to teach other kids through song and dance the importance of a relationship with God.
And today, like a daughter who gives up a day to help her aging parents pay their bills. And a son who goes with them to church when they no longer drive so they don't miss a moment of their beloved church service. And like a loving daughter, in spite of a busy, hard job and families of her own to be cared for, finds time to spend with her elder parents. And another daughter who has a job and her own family to care for, who finds time to call and pray for her parents.
God measures these acts and sees the patience and love it takes to carry them out. This is how we see God at work. We see God through the love of others in this world. Oh, yes! Eyes do see and ears can hear God at work--through the people, my friend, through you and me.
And in this day and age, God is truly needed in this world. Acts of God are my acts and yours. And prayer is tops on the list. Especially, prayer, for this world needs it! And it always will!
Jo INMN
No. No one has ever seen God. We hear of God; we hear a lot about God. We see His works, but we have not seen God. Some saw Jesus, but didn't know He was God; He looked and sounded like a man. It was His works which told us of His God-ness.
So, we don't know what God looks like and most of us don't know what God sounds like, although a few would claim to have heard God speak to them. No, we only see or hear God at work.
Now, here are some old stories I can tell about God at work. Like, a daughter who arranged for yellow ribbons to be tied on the trees in her neighborhood, the same neighborhood of a young man leaving for Iraq many years ago. The young man's mother cried over this act of God's love. Like another daughter who gave her car to a friend because the friend didn't have a car and the friend's need was greater than her own. Like a son who traveled back and forth over-seas in three days to attend the memorial of a friend's mother. Like a granddaughter who gave up her summer to teach other kids through song and dance the importance of a relationship with God.
And today, like a daughter who gives up a day to help her aging parents pay their bills. And a son who goes with them to church when they no longer drive so they don't miss a moment of their beloved church service. And like a loving daughter, in spite of a busy, hard job and families of her own to be cared for, finds time to spend with her elder parents. And another daughter who has a job and her own family to care for, who finds time to call and pray for her parents.
God measures these acts and sees the patience and love it takes to carry them out. This is how we see God at work. We see God through the love of others in this world. Oh, yes! Eyes do see and ears can hear God at work--through the people, my friend, through you and me.
And in this day and age, God is truly needed in this world. Acts of God are my acts and yours. And prayer is tops on the list. Especially, prayer, for this world needs it! And it always will!
Jo INMN
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