September 2, 2011                                              Lamentations 5 vs. 21

Restore us, O Lord, and bring us back to you again! Give us back the joys we once had. NLT

Return

The amusement park swelled with folks of all ages, each adorned with beaming smiles. The air was filled with giggles, shrieks and spontaneous gaiety. A day such as this sparkled in its sheer fun, and enjoyment. So often these types of memorable events are recalled in fond delight. Trying to relive or recreate these exciting moments in our lives is usually difficult or impossible to do. There is one magnificent situation we can live, relive, feel and be comforted by. That is God’s love for us at all times, it has always been there and will continue to be. Regardless if we are broken, shaken, lost or hurt, Jesus Christ is our savior. Joy with the Lord is joy in life.  

©rw 09.02.11

August 16, 2011                                          2 Kings 13 vs. 16

Elisha told him, “Put your hand on the bow,” and Elisha laid his own hands on the king’s hands. NLT

Joint

August 18, 2010                                             1 Kings 8 vs.28

Nevertheless, listen to my prayer and my plea, O Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is making to you today. NLT

Appeal

Little Sarah fussed in her crib setting forth with the most frightening wails. For seventeen weeks old the child certainly possessed extraordinary volume. As mom had learned from Dr. Melner last week Sarah is a strong healthy infant which also includes her powerful lungs, and vocal chords. At this tender age Sarah’s needs are simple, they are the same basics that we all require, nutritious food, water, along with love. God lovingly programmed this into man when he created us. It is that inherent part of being human that drives us to sustain our earthly body that we are blessed with. We quickly learned when we began life as babies, crying out was the only manner our needs were met.  The Lord invites us to continue to make our needs known to Him. He welcomes the petitions that are sung out to Him and our thankful praising of His name. With love He answers the cries when we stay close to Him while He holds us close in His arms. Care from the Father is forever.

©rw 08.18.10

July 13, 2010                                             Judges 9 vs.7

When Notham heard about this, he climbed to the top Mount Gerizim and shouted, “Listen to me, citizens of Shechem! Listen to me if you want God to listen to you! NLT

Alert

Mrs. Baumgartner seldom raised her voice but today her rambunctious third graders forced the shrill upper register from her strained vocal chords. After repeated requests made to settle the raging class, order was restored. A time of silence was called for. She instructed her class to be still, fold their hands, and close their eyes. With complete compliance the mood shifted within that entire room to one of peace and tranquility. It is amazing the power of listening, for that classroom she was now able to get back to her role as a teacher, and the children to the task of learning.  So often we too have lives that are loud or disruptive, creating a senseless clatter. Throughout all the ruckus of our lives the Lord does try to speak to us. This can be when we are at our extremes, from at rest to absolute turmoil. It is our responsibility to silence ourselves, and participate in the conversation with God. By listening to Him we learn that he truly does listen to us. Vigilant attentiveness is the prayer that’s heard.

©rw 07.13.10

July 9, 2010                                                      Jude vs.2

May God give you more and more mercy, peace, and love. NLT

Fill

With both hands pushing with all their might the suitcase refused to be shut. Last resort was sitting on its lid forcing it down so the clasp would engage. Being a tiny slight wisp of a woman she attempts this exercise over, and over determined she will get that worn Samsonite luggage to seal. Alas there was the click it was finally closed. Her three days of apparel was now secured inside the ancient travelling caddy. The packing became a chore due to the additional items she had purchased to bring back home. Several tee shirts for her young nephews, a golf cap for her father, the lovely embroidered apron for mom, who must look good while working in her kitchen.  The brothers she barely tolerates are destined to find fascination with the magnifying glasses. Special care was made with wrapping the hand carved delicate oaken cross which is intended for Auntie Rose. With hopes it will find a spot alongside her prayer chair. The trip was indeed a special treat, one that has brought refreshing joy. A pure joy are the gifts jammed into the case, these were purchased to give as her love for others. As God’s travelers we are fortunate to carry with us all the gifts He has lovingly blessed us with. Thank you Lord.

©rw 07.09.10