SURPRISE!

This month we celebrated our son Peter in a big way.  His 40^th birthday is the end of September and his wonderfully creative and organized wife wanted to have a surprise party for him.

And she succeeded brilliantly!

First, she chose a day he would least expect to be celebrated – almost 2 months before his actual birthdate.

Second, she prepared everything, and I mean everything, well in advance of the event date.

Third, she elicited help from trusted people – daughters, friends, and family.

Fourth, she invited others to participate in the celebration.

And finally, she gifted him with what she knew would be good.

To make the surprise special she had to do a lot of work behind the scenes;

work that kept Peter totally in the dark.

She is a blessing to her husband, and to those of us privileged to know her.

I thought of the many times God surprises me!

First – He ordained all my days before they came to be - Psalm 139:16

Then He prepared my activity in advance – Ephesians 2:10

He put others in my life to bless, counsel, train, challenge, correct, inspire, motivate and celebrate with me.  And He gave me opportunities to love and share with them.

Then He gifted me to do what He asked of me.

A lot of what God does is behind the scenes, unknown and unrecognized and sometimes leaving me seemingly in the dark...

until it bursts into my consciousness that my God truly is AT WORK!

He is good! 

His surprises are good!  

I just need to watch for Him.

I wonder ... how has God been surprising you?

"Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me."
Psalm 103:2 (NLT)

 

Need Deliverance?

I've been reading in the book of 1 Samuel lately. I just love the courage of David, the shepherd boy who faced up to the largest of enemies, killing him with a single stone. Seems impulsive and rash to engage an enemy that even the bravest and most experienced of soldiers refused to confront. Yet his confidence rested not on his ability with the slingshot, but on the deliverance of God he'd experienced in the past.

"The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of the Philistine." (verse 37)

Raises the questions -
What has God delivered me from in the past?
What do I need deliverance from today?

Sometimes in the roughest of times, the most turbulent seas, it encourages our hearts to review the deliverance of God in past times of difficulty.

When face to face with the giant, David said, "You come to me with the sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of host, the God of the armies of Israel whom you have taunted... the battle is the Lord's." (verses 45, 47)

What faith! What confidence!
David went boldly into battle
     Armed with the assurance of God's presence,
     Equipped with only a slingshot and 5 little stones
To confront the well armed, heavily protected giant of a problem.
His courage and boldness were based on the belief that God would fight for him.
And his belief was rooted in the truth of seeing God's help in the past.

So - how about you? What has God delivered you from in the past?
What do you need deliverance from today?

May we be like David, who in times of great difficulty "encouraged himself in the Lord his God." 1 Samuel 30:6

"I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."

Psalm 34:4

What is Truth?

What is truth? Ironically, Pilate asked that question with THE Truth standing right in front of him. John 18:38

Today I found myself in a bit of a sad funk… sad that what should be so clear has become murky… sad that we are compelled to see reality through funky distortion glasses… sad that truth has become whatever you want it to be...sad that children are being raised in such unstable times with shifting sand, instead of solid ground, under their feet.

Last night my husband and I watched a movie about a man adrift at sea. His sailboat was damaged and he was forced into his life raft. While he was gathering up supplies and preparing to abandon ship, the boat continued taking on water. The water level rose slowly inch by inch in the bottom of the vessel until, all of a sudden the water rushed in and within minutes the vessel sank out of sight beneath the surface of the sea.

In recent years society started down a slippery slope, moving little by little away from the absolute truth of Scripture, condoning convenience rather than conviction – redefining meanings and rewriting history to match our desires. It’s called being loving and accepting and even tolerant, but in reality it creates confusion and uncertainty. Where there is no solid foundation the structure is weak and unstable and soon collapses.

Call it what you want – a leaky boat, a slippery slope, an unstable structure – all are dangerous and threaten the very fabric of society.

What is truth? 

Jesus said He is the truth. John 14:6

The Holy Spirit is called “the Spirit of truth” who guides us into truth. John 16:13

God’s Word is truth. John 17:17

Jesus called sin “sin” and instructed: “go and sin no more.” 

He, the very personification of love and acceptance, did not compromise or change the standard for the comfort or convenience of anyone.  

He, THE TRUTH, spoke truth.

What is truth?  

The truth is freeing. John 8:32  

When you know the truth you can be set free; 

free to live and love and serve. 

But to know the truth there has to be acknowledgement of the truth. 

Absolutely. 

In His Time

Ecclesiastes 3:11  He has made everything beautiful in its time.

I think of how God brings blessings at just the right time – His time.

Like flowers that bloom in their season –

  First the early Crocus and the Daffodils,

 then the Tulips.

Just as I am bemoaning the finish of their season,

 the Lilac bushes burst into bloom,

 along with the Iris

and the Peonies.

 Now the Lilies are opening.

While throughout the season, 

Roses lend fragrance to the garden,

and African Violet blossoms brighten the windowsill. 

How wonderful that as we wait,

         each flower blooms – in its time.   

         Not all at once, 

         but throughout the season 

         and at various times.

So we are graced with God’s creative touches in their season.

Teach me, Lord, to wait.

Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.

Isaiah 64:4

Gardening with joy

By 7AM this morning I saw my first snake of the day.

Yes, you read that right.

My first snake OF. THE.  DAY.

For some reason we have been “blessed” with an abundance of snakes in the garden this year.

To be honest, seeing snakes does not give me warm fuzzies. 

In fact, seeing a snake usually prompts me to cease what I am doing, and propels me into the house where I firmly close the door behind me.

Maybe it’s the years we spent living in Africa, where snakes do not have a good reputation and are avoided at all costs - at least by those of us not versed in the science of good reptile vs bad.

Maybe it’s idioms like referring to someone as “a snake in the grass” or saying “if it was a snake it would have bitten you.” 

Or maybe it’s the references to that crafty serpent in the garden of Genesis, or the venomous snakes mentioned by the Psalmist and the Prophets.

But whatever the reason, I react negatively to snake sightings.

My husband says these garden variety snakes eat mice and bugs and that we should appreciate their residence in our garden.  Hmmmm. I’ve had mice in the house in the past and have NOT liked it.  But I haven’t seen evidence of any around lately.

Is it true that sometimes the things that we fear the most actually can help us?

Is it possible that if we could rid our lives of everything that tries us we could be overrun with troubles of a different variety?

In the Bible James tells us to ‘consider it pure JOY when we face trials.’

I’m a L O N G  way from looking at snakes with JOY.

But maybe it’s time to put on my boots and get back out into the garden.

Responding to Tough Situations

Generations of women have faced the unknown with mixed emotions ranging from excited joyous anticipation … 

To trembling fear and dread.

Some suffered disappointment,

Shattered expectations,

Grief,

Difficult relationships,

Bitterness,

Doubts,

Loss of control.

Some struggled letting go: 

of Dreams,

Aspirations,

Relationships.

Some have felt unfulfilled while searching for the meaning of life.

Others have lived in happier circumstances, or less troubled times.

But NEVER… EVER has the road been smooth sailing ALL THE TIME.

And in every situation,

Whatever the circumstance,

Each woman had to make a choice: 

Who or What will she trust?

Some trusted in their heritage, culture, education, skills or expertise. 

Some trusted in their leaders, traditions, or religious beliefs.

But each one trusted in something or someone…

            Maybe even in Herself ! !

In my Bible I have been studying some women’s reactions and responses to life. I look forward to sharing my findings and making new discoveries.

Each Wednesday evening in June and July, beginning June 3^rd, at 6:30, I will be in the Gathering Place at Gateway of Hope Ministries. We will examine the lives of one or more Bible women to see how their responses revealed their hearts.

Our discussion will challenge us to consider our responses to life while answering the questions: 

What is in MY heart?

Who or What do I trust?

Enrollment is going on now. If you want to join us, I’ll save a seat for you!

Sign up at www.gwhope.org.  

Are you up for the challenge?

A Tribute to Special Mothers

This Spring I was pleasantly surprised to see my lilac bushes blooming better than ever before. The sight and scent of lilacs always takes me back to my childhood and thoughts of my mother. Mom loved lilacs and as her birthday fell on Mothers’ Day weekend, I liked to beg lilacs from the neighbor’s bushes and take them to her.  Three years ago on April 26^th God called her home where I believe the lilacs in her garden surely bloom year round.   

On this Mother’s Day I want to pay tribute to some special mothers.

• First, to my own Mom, Sophie Haken, a shining light in my life until she passed away just two weeks short of her 91^st birthday. She still inspires me. Thanks, Mom, for the life you gave me.  I miss you.
• Then to my mother-in-law, Maxine Cowles, without whom I would not have my wonderful godly husband of 40 years.  I am eternally grateful for her, and I’m still in love with her son, Peter.
• Next I am grateful to Cathy Brown, Nancy Layne, and Aurelia Pall, my children’s mothers-in-law. Each raised a child who married into our family. Our family would not be complete without our two sweet daughters-in-law and wonderful son-in-law.
•  And finally, a special tribute to the mothers of our seven grandchildren.  Liz, Kristen and Hailey, you are perfectly designed to love and raise the children God gave you. Our grandchildren could not have better mothers. I am so thankful for you, and for the loving way you care for each of your precious children. You each take your role seriously, yet still bring laughter and joy into your homes.

God’s creative plan was to put us in families.  I’m so glad He did.

Maybe you have some special women in your life. If so, perhaps Mothers’ Day is the perfect time to let them know what they mean to you.  

For those in special need of comfort this Mothers’ Day, God says, “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.” (Isaiah 66:13) and “I will not forget you.” (Isaiah 49:15b). Whatever your circumstances, you are not forgotten and you are dearly loved. Celebrate!

Happy Mothers' Day,

Ruth

PS. Beginning June 3^rd I have the privilege of leading an 8 week Bible study at Gateway of Hope Ministries. The 8 week class, Bible Women Responding to Tough Situations, will be at 6:30PM Wednesdays in June and July. If you would like to participate go to www.gwhope.org for information and directions. 

Who Knew?

Who knew the deepest pain a heart could bear and still hold on?

Who knew the shame of being judged a fraud?

Who knew that love could turn so quickly into hate?

Who knew it better than the very Son of God?

Who knew rejection from those dear ones he so loved?

Who knew the grief of being misunderstood?

Who knew false accusations would be called the truth?

Who knew contempt would follow doing good?

Who knew acts of love would bring disdain from those he served?

Who knew a heart could break and still beat on?

Who knew each deed would lead him closer to his death?

Who felt each hateful word pierce like a thorn?

Who cried out, “If it be your will let this cup pass from me”?

Whose tears of anguish poured out from his soul?
Who with determination faced his hardest test?
And resolutely turned his face toward the goal?

Who opened up his arms and cried, “Thy will be done,
Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do”?

Who bore it all – rejection, lies, pain, grief, disdain?

A broken heart, the thorns, the cross – for me, for you?

Can I not also walk this painful road of sorrow,

Knowing he has gone ahead to light the way?
Truth ultimately triumphs over lies and death.

The Son DID rise to face another day.

Hallelujah!

                                                                    (Ruth E Cowles - 7.15.13)

Hear Him

Mary Magdalene  Scripture:  John 20:1-18

The story of Mary Magdalene at the tomb has always amazed me. So engulfed in grief over her Lord's death, she blocks out the reality of life. It takes a word from Jesus to move her from the past (the crucifixion) into the present (the resurrection) so that she can go forward into the future.

She stands outside the tomb crying. Bending down she sees two angels in white sitting in the crypt where the body of Jesus had been. The angels ask why she weeps.   

“Jesus’ body is gone and I don’t know where they have taken him.”

Hear the despair in her words.

Gripped by sorrow she focuses inward, seemingly unfazed by the angel visitation.

She turns and sees Jesus - but she doesn’t know him. Why doesn’t she know this beloved one?  Could it be because his appearance defied her expectation?

When Jesus asks why she is weeping even his voice did not break through. 

Seeing with her eyes, she did not truly see.

Hearing, she did not truly hear. 

Assuming him to be the Gardner, she pleads,

“If you have taken him away tell me where you put him.”

Intent on finding him dead, she did not know him alive!

Cutting through her shell of despair and agony, Jesus speaks her name.

His voice breaks through.

Her eyes see Him!

Her ears hear Him!

Joy, joy, joy!

Comfort received.

Her heart is at peace.

The news is shared.

Perhaps sometimes we miss the miraculous because of our expectations.

We don’t expect to find him near, so we fail to hear him when he speaks.  

Focused on our disappointment, we fail to see the power of the living Lord at work on our behalf and in our world.  Wrapped in the garments of pain and uncertainty, we refuse the comfort that Jesus offers. We need a word from the Lord to move us from our past into the present so that we can walk victoriously into the future.

He’s given us his Word. Today I choose to hear him.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. 

Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27.

Time

"Only one life, 'twill soon be past,  
Only what’s done for Christ will last."

                          

These few lines are from a poem written by C.T. Studd, missionary to China, India and Africa. I found them on a plaque in my mother's house after she passed away at almost 91 years of age.   

The recent sudden passing away of my sister-in-law at age 44 made me look at this quote again. 

The reality is, none of us know how long we have. 

Mom had almost 91 years, Deena almost 45. Life is uncertain but death is guaranteed. 

And since it is sure to come, one must give serious consideration as to how time is spent leading up to it and where we will be after it!   

Now that I have retired I am the keeper of my schedule. It is a wonderful freedom but somewhat of a two-edged sword. For now there is no one to tell me when to be where or what to accomplish with my days. No clock to punch. No time sheets to track. No permissions to ask. There is the possibility of frittering away the time with nothing useful or of value to show for it. But I am accountable to my Maker, who has ordained an exact number of days and hours for me! God help me to use them in ways that honor Him and further His kingdom!

C.T. Studd is also quoted as saying:

"Let us not glide through this world 
and then slip quietly into heaven, 
without having blown the trumpet loud 
and long for our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. 
Let us see to it that the devil 
will hold a thanksgiving service in hell, 
when he gets the news 
of our departure from the field of battle."

If you are anywhere in my vicinity I hope you can hear my trumpet blowing.

What do you have?

In my quiet time I’m reading the Gospels, paying close attention to the words of Jesus (the red letters.) I came across the story in Matthew 15:29-38, where Jesus spent 3 days healing and ministering to the crowd. This incident took place sometime after He fed a crowd of over 5000 with 5 loaves and 2 fish, and after He’d walked on water, stilled the storm, and healed a demon possessed girl. 

Jesus had compassion on the crowd and did not want to send them away hungry. The disciples asked where they would get enough food for such a task and Jesus answered with this question: 

“How many loaves do you have?”

Then He took what they had and provided an abundance of food for everyone, 

with leftovers to spare.

He does not ask us to give what we do not have. 

He asks for what we do have, then multiplies it to make it more than enough.

A small amount of faith – in His hands is enough!

Few worldly goods – in His hands is abundance!

Limited strength – in His hands is sufficient!

He wants me to be willing for Him to use what I already have to bless others. 

It reminded me of the question God asked Moses in Exodus 4:2 when he was going to send him back to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. 

Moses had doubts but God asked him,

“What is that in your hand?” 

 God took an ordinary man (Moses) and used what he already had (a simple staff) to do the miraculous.

He turned the staff into a snake as proof to others that he had appeared to Moses.

He used the staff to bring judgment to the Egyptians,

Deliverance to the Israelites at the Red Sea,

Refreshment to the thirsty in the desert.

When we willingly submit it to him, our mighty God does miraculous things with what He has already given us.

He can use anything – bread, a staff, mud (remember the blind man, John 9:6), even a donkey (Numbers 22) to accomplish His purposes.

So, I was prompted to ask:

What do I have that HE has not given me?

What do I have that I have not given HIM?

What is in my hand?

What is in yours?

My Hope

Recently I heard a sermon by Pastor Steve Scott.  He talked about “Returning to the Purposes of God, Resisting the Press of the World, and Resting in the Promise of Christ.” 

He made this impactful statement, “Culture is designed to move us from faith to doubt, love to insecurity, community to individualism, contributing to consumerism, and rest to exhaustion.”

How true this is! Without Jesus and without resting in His promises there is no hope. 

We have reason to doubt, to be insecure and fearful, to strive toward individualism. 

Just look around at the attitudes and actions of people trying to make a statement, 

trying to be noticed, trying to be different, 

yet really just blending into the sameness of the culture.

What a consumeristic world. We accumulate and consume everything around us. 

Real values are replaced by temporary satisfaction. Reality is exchanged for virtuality. 

Some years ago I read “Pilgrims Progress Today” by Lael Arrington. She describes virtual reality as “an unsatisfying substitute for the epic adventure of real life.”  I’m thinking about reading it again.  

If you want to read and discuss it with me, comment, email, or Facebook me and I’ll contact you. 

It’s not an easy read. It is thought provoking and troubling.

In striving to individualize, to acquire, to achieve, to add one more credential, 

to climb one rung higher – we are exhausted and without peace.  

It is a world at war with each other and at war with itself.

BUT – our hope – as the hymn-writer Edward Mote wrote, “Our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness … On Christ the solid Rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand.”

Because of Jesus I can say with assurance, “It is well with my soul…. Though Satan should buffet, tho’ trials should come, let this blest assurance control. That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed His own blood for my soul.” (H.G. Spafford)

Jesus brings me back 

to Faith,

to Love,

to Rest,

to Peace,

to Joy.

Thank You Jesus.

Spend time reading some of the promises of God. 

You’ll be refreshed.

And you will find rest.