tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34601837855097822802024-03-27T16:54:30.346-07:00God's Word and MineIf a worldwide catastrophe wiped out the entire population
save one, would the Bible be any less relevant?
I decided to discover for myself how God's word applies
directly, personally to me.Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.comBlogger664125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-89091948220048044302024-03-18T06:55:00.000-07:002024-03-19T06:41:26.696-07:00Big Shoes to Fill<p> <b>"How then can we be saved? All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags." Isaiah 64: 5, 6</b></p><p><b> </b>Kids like to play dress-up. I have a photo of myself in my dad's coat, hat and shoes when I was just a child, too inadequate to fill them. My father had some big shoes to fill, and though I wanted to be like him, I didn't have what it took. </p><p><span> George Jones sang a song entitled, "Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes?" He sang about the greats of country music, those irreplaceable legends who had made their mark in the world before they left it. Part of the chorus has this to say: "Who's gonna give their heart and soul to get to me and you? Lord, I wonder who's gonna fill their shoes?"</span><br /></p><p><span><span> Many centuries ago, when God made his covenant with Abram, he listed promises which He had committed to fulfill. All Abram had to do was to "walk before me faithfully and be blameless." (see Genesis 17: 1, 2) How could he, a sinner, (or any of his descendants, like us), fill those shoes? Of course, God already knew we were in need of rescuing.</span></span></p><p><span><span><span> What we needed was Someone who could do just that. Someone blameless. That's when God sent his perfect Son to fill the shoes.</span> He intervened on our behalf.</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear...The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice. He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so <i>his own arm</i> achieved salvation for him, and<i> his own righteousness</i> sustained him. <i>He put on</i> righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; <i>he put on</i> the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak...The Redeemer will come to Zion, to those in Jacob who repent of their sins." (Isaiah 59: 2, 15-17, 20, emphasis mine)</span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> As a child of God, I am no longer inadequate. When I put on the righteous garments of Jesus, I am covered by his grace. The requirements have been fulfilled in Him, and the shoes fit Him perfectly. </span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> Now I am dressed like my Father.</span><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span><b>"He has sent me to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels." Isaiah 61: 1-3, 10</b></span></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-23621057592453906842024-03-10T17:25:00.000-07:002024-03-10T17:25:02.275-07:00It's About Time<p> <b>"And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over, the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." Romans 13: 11, 12</b></p><p><b> </b>As I went through the house changing clocks to daylight savings time, I thought about the wisdom of the Creator of time. God, who has no beginning or end, arranged it so that our lives are governed by the passage of time. </p><p><span> </span>Think about how much of our lives revolve around the clock and calendar. From the time the alarm goes off, it's a race against time as we strive to get to work on time. Then it's watching the clock until lunch time before punching out and heading home for dinnertime. It's all about time.</p><p><span> </span>Time flies! (can I get a witness?) At age 62, I do not feel old but the mirror tells a different story. One of my dear friends from childhood was lamenting the unbelievable fact that her granddaughter was turning seventeen this year. Seventeen! Seems just yesterday <i>we</i> were seventeen. </p><p><span> </span>There are only so many hours in a day, so it's imperative not to squander time since it's the stuff life is made of. Benjamin Franklin said, "Never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today." Procrastination is a colossal waste of time, and the worst thing you can ever do is to drag your feet about eternal life. </p><p><span> </span>The Bible says, "I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2) This means time is of the essence. We are not guaranteed tomorrow. Even the next moment is an unknown. You are running out of time! If you have not accepted the free gift of eternal life in Christ, don't waste time in doing so. Once you do, Jesus takes you by the hand and assures you, "Surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:20) </p><p><span> I can think of no better way to spend my time.</span><br /></p><p><span><b>"But I trust in you, Lord; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands." Psalm 31: 14, 15</b></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-57652403483567921662024-03-03T04:24:00.000-08:002024-03-10T17:26:55.938-07:00The Proprietor<p> <b>"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3: 23, 24</b></p><p><b> </b>Recently, I tootled south to the neighboring county to visit my dear friend and sister-in-Christ, Suzi. We lingered over lunch at the Rise and Dine before shopping at a few clothing boutiques. </p><p><span> Like hens in a coop, we clucked with the clerk over fashion and merchandise as I tried on a few things. Then we drove over to a second shop, one we'd not seen before. Like seasoned pros, Suzi and I examined their offerings, warming to the savvy selections and the affordable prices. After I noticed a few candles with some Christian buzz words on them, I rounded the rack of cozy sweaters to spy a round table laden with devotionals of many topics, surrounding a stack of free Bibles in the center.</span></p><p><span> Calling Suzi over to see, our eyes glittered like two girls in a candy store. With glee, my friend said, "I think I've just found a new favorite store!" </span></p><p><span> Suddenly, it was like the Son shone into that storefront, casting a crisper meaning over our excursion. As we made our purchases, we spoke with the proprietor, a young woman wearing a winter-white stocking cap. We commented on her goody table and asked for her testimony.</span></p><p><span> Her deep brown eyes conveyed the compassionate love of Christ as she told us her story. Gesturing 'round the shop with her hands, she spoke this truth: "Fashion is fun and all, but it fades away. The true and lasting purchase was made at the cross." In conclusion, she said, "Some patrons come in, see the table, and leave in a huff." Sadly, they have turned on their heels away from redemption and peace, but maybe enough of a seed had been planted just by seeing the offerings of this one, young proprietor.</span></p><p><span> As Suzi and I drove away, I pondered the importance of using whatever we have for God's glory. For Moses, it was a staff. For David, a stone. For this gal, a store. For me, it's the written word. </span></p><p><b>"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable that silver and yields better return than gold." Proverbs 3: 9, 10, 13, 14 </b> <br></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-20960624381860193292024-02-22T12:38:00.000-08:002024-03-24T14:28:22.024-07:00Gabbing with God<p> <b>"'Because he loves me,' says the Lord, 'I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.'" Psalm 91: 14-16</b></p><p><b> </b>Today, God taught me about communication.<br></p><p><span> Halfway through the morning, I realized I was not receiving any texts or calls on my cell phone. During a break, I paused from my task at work to call my husband, but the message on my phone indicated I was not connected to any network. As my coworkers and I talked among ourselves, we discovered there was a connectivity problem that affected half the United States.</span> It was an odd feeling, not being able to dash off a quick message.</p><p><span> The scuttlebutt had been that an enemy had hacked our cell towers or satellites. In these times of great deceptions, I really didn't know what to believe. On my way home, though, I stopped by my daughter's house to inform her. Living alone, her cell phone is her only source of communication. </span><br></p><p><span><span> Continuing on my way, that familiar feeling of anxiety threatened to encroach upon me, so I talked aloud to God. Passing a church sign, I smiled to read, "Trust your unknown future to a known God." It was as if He were audibly chiming in on our conversation.</span><br></span></p><p><span><span><span> But wait; it gets better! Upon checking my mailbox once home, I spied an unfamiliar handwriting on an envelope mailed from somewhere in Cleveland. What's this? </span><br></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> Unfolding the single sheet of notebook paper, my heart swelled within me when I read these words from an unknown person:</span><br></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span>"I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for standing for Jesus. It's a great delight as I'm driving by to take my son to school and see the sign in your yard that reminds us of the truth that Jesus is our only hope. I haven't seen many of those, if any. I pray the Lord's blessing be upon you and your family as you serve the Lord's purposes. Blessings in Christ, Chris."</span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> The irony was not lost on me that, though my cell phone was affected, it had no bearing on my direct line with the Great I Am. When I remain connected to the Vine, He speaks to me through any means available, whether it be a sign along the road or an item of snail mail. No enemy, however loud he may roar, will ever be able to sever my communication with God.</span><br></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span><b>"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15: 5</b></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><br></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-51905047324616802382024-02-18T11:16:00.000-08:002024-02-18T11:16:11.119-08:00Deeper Than the Holler<p> <b>"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power...to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3: 17-19</b></p><p><b> </b>While listening to music the other day at work, Randy Travis' signature drawl was singing, "Deeper Than the Holler." Though the lyrics are meant to illustrate a man's limitless love for his lady, personally it portrayed Jesus' love for me:<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">My love is deeper than the holler, stronger than the river,</p><p style="text-align: center;">Higher than the pine trees growin' tall up on the hill.</p><p style="text-align: center;">My love is purer than the snowflakes that fall in late December,</p><p style="text-align: center;">And honest as a robin on a springtime windowsill,</p><p style="text-align: center;">And longer than the song of a whippoorwill.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> It's easy to see the parallel between the chorus and the verses above, drawn from Paul's letter to the Ephesians. As I meditated on this, I drew a horizontal arrow in my journal, pointing to the left, labeling it "wide." Next, a vertical line along the left side with a downward arrow marking "deep." On the opposite end, another vertical arrow, pointing up to demonstrate how high is this love of Christ. The diagram was finished by a lower horizontal arrow, pointing to the left, to indicate "long." </span><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span> How much does Jesus love us? Just go outside and walk the lines of the diagram. Begin walking to the east. Keep going until east meets west. Or, if you're tired of walking in that direction, follow that arrow to the north up, up, up where the air is clear, through the stratosphere! Is there a ceiling? If your feet could carry you, head to the south until your circular route brings you all the way 'round till you're back where you began. </span><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span><span> Do you get the picture? The love of Christ is all-encompassing. Long ago, before the foundation of the world, He set out to love us. Widely, He stretched out his arms and sacrificed himself while we were still sinners. Deeply, He descended to the depths to declare the debt had been paid; death had been swallowed up in victory! He then ascended to the heavenly realms, where He sits at the right hand of the Father, until He returns to judge both the living and the dead. </span><br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span><span><span> Upon receipt of such a Valentine, what is the only acceptable response? To love the Lord my God with all my heart, all my soul, all my mind and all my strength to the ends of the earth and back!</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span><span><span> <b>"For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. But from everlasting to everlasting, the Lord's love is with those who fear Him." Psalm 103: 11, 12, 17</b><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span><span><span><b><span> "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8: 38, 39</span><br /></b></span></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span> </span><br /></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-1611291493233343792024-02-10T05:07:00.000-08:002024-02-10T05:08:53.385-08:00The Joyful Choice<p><span> </span>What a week! How many of you know that when God teaches, He often reiterates the lesson three times, in quick succession? And usually, He addresses the listener by their full name on the last delivery, just as your mother would have done when she wanted your attention.</p><p><span> </span>There in the doctor's waiting room sat a man adjacent from me, reading a book. Without introduction, he simply lowered his book, turned to me and asked, "Why do riot police get up early?"</p><p><span> "Uh, I don't know. Why?" came my reply.</span><br /></p><p><span><span> With a twinkle came the answer: "So they can beat the crowds." </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> This came from a man who just learned he must have all his teeth extracted before radiation can be administered for his cancer. </span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> The following day, a text arrived from a dear family member. "My biopsy has revealed a diagnosis: I have breast cancer." Having called her as soon as I could, she stated plainly in bold faith, "Do I want to have surgery? No, but tis no matter." She continued, "For me, it's a win-win situation. I want to go forth in victory, come what may."</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> Then came a visit to our tax-man, who is also a friend from long ago. During our comfortable banter, he shared with me the harrowing hassle he had endured at the hands of the IRS. Due to an oversight, he was thusly penalized, costing this widower thousands of dollars. "It was a nightmare," he concluded, "But I am thankful to God, who is so good to me, for giving me each day. Life is a gift!"</span><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span> For the Christian, finding joy is not a pasted-on Pollyanna-happiness, but rather a wellspring of deep-down decision to <i>choose</i> it through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joy joins hands with Hope, and that hope comes only from knowing Christ. <b>"For the joy set before him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." </b>(Hebrews 12: 2, 3)</span></span></p><p> The joy is yet to come; it is set before us, as it was for Jesus. Did He <i>want</i> to be crucified? No, but He endured it for us, knowing it was the only way to mend fences between God and Man. Psalm 30:5 implores,<b> "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."</b></p><p><span> I had been wrestling with robotic "assistants" over the phone, wearily wrangling with a problem that seemed to loom larger than life, and the tears came. I'd had enough. But as I considered these three lessons from above, I tenderly felt the hand of Jesus on my shoulder as He bade me to <b>"Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest." </b>(Matthew 11:28) He'd called me, using my full name.<br /></span></p><p><span><span> I love this concluding verse because it is a recipe for joy. To taste it, I must trust in Him.</span><br /></span></p><p><span><b>"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13</b></span></p><p><span><span> </span><br /></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-34251087004790704922024-02-03T09:46:00.000-08:002024-02-03T09:46:52.554-08:00God's Welcome Mat<p> <b>"As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him." Luke 10:38</b></p><p><b> </b>If I remember correctly, my niece had a mat at her front door which declared, "Go Away!" Knowing her as I do, this was all in great jest. She's a funny kid, that one.<br /></p><p><span> I don't think there were welcome mats during the days of Christ, but if there were, dear Martha would have had one. It was no small task to invite a Stranger and His twelve friends in for a visit! As she scrambled about to kill the fattened calf and knead hasty loaves, her sister, Mary, was the one whose hunger was being satisfied as she listened to Jesus, the Bread of Life.</span><br /></p><p><span><span> There came a day in my own life when Jesus entered my home at my invitation. He is the Head of this house; the unseen Guest at every meal. He walks with me daily, and I with Him. </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> I wonder if the portal of heaven has a welcome mat? When I die and my guardian angel guides me there, I know my Father will be there with a hearty greeting! After I wipe the earthly dust from my shoes, I will run into His divine embrace, weeping tears of joy. Home at last! After I hug the long gone saints whom I have sorely missed, then Jesus will show me around.</span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> "Here is the living room," He may say as we tread the golden floor, "and here is the kitchen." Before showing me to a room of my own, my mouth will drop open at the sight of the royal banquet hall, where the long tables will be set in preparation for the marriage supper of the Lamb. </span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> I will feel right at home with my Savior, whose company I so enjoyed while in my earthly tent. Because I opened my home to Him, He opens His to me. Welcome home!</span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><b>"Jesus replied, 'Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them." John 14:23</b></span></span></p><p><b>"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me where I am." John 14: 2, 3</b> </p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-14569251554712928642024-01-28T11:19:00.000-08:002024-01-28T11:19:03.462-08:00How Do I Love Thee?<p> <span> Great comfort is mine when I digest the verses in which God declares His love for me. I have written some, such as these, on paper hearts which I then taped to my bathroom mirror:</span></p><p><span><i>"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us." 1 John 3:16</i></span></p><p><span><i>"This is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." 1 John 4:10</i></span></p><p><span><i>"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" 1 John 3:1</i></span></p><p><span><i> </i>The true cause to pause for reflection comes with the question Jesus had posed to Simon Peter during his reinstatement: "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" (John 21:15) The joy of having breakfast on the seashore with the resurrected Christ was still fresh on Peter's heart when the Savior got to the heart of the matter three times by asking, "Do you love me?"<br /></span></p><p><span><span> I imagined Jesus inserting my own name in this very telling query: "Rachel, daughter of Russell, do you truly love me more than these?" </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> How much do I love you, Jesus? When I was drowning in a sea of selfishness and grasped your extended hand, did I tell you then that I loved you? When you blessed me beyond reason with two daughters and one grand, did my heart overflow in gratitude to you? When, in sickness of the heart I wept bitter tears and you held me close to your breast, did I, like the one leper in ten, return to hug you? Would I recklessly pour my most expensive possession at your feet, or would I join the rich, young ruler, walking away with a closed fist?</span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> Do I truly love you more than anything or anyone else? With the grace of the Holy Ghost, may I, like Simon Peter, avow: "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." (John 21:17)</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> Then may I hear the voice of Jesus say, "Then feed my sheep. Follow Me!"</span><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span><b>"Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them." John 14:21</b></span></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-80994472581718834352024-01-19T11:55:00.000-08:002024-01-19T11:55:54.359-08:00Untouchable<p> <b>"We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him." 1 John 5:18</b></p><p><b> </b>About a decade ago, while my husband and I lay asleep one night, I was awakened by something. Upon opening my eyes, I was stricken with such terror, the likes of which I had never known. There, at the foot of our bed, loomed a large, dark form. It bore no discernable features other than a ghoulish outline, but the evil it emitted was palpable and unmistakable. <br></p><p><span> It spoke not, nor did it move toward me, yet I instinctively grasped my husband's arm as I buried my head in his side. Though he awoke, he could not see anything, nor could I convey the reason for my fear since I was unable to speak. When my gaze returned to the foot of the bed a second time, the presence was still there. After a third time, it was gone. Trembling, I poured out to David what I had experienced. </span><br></p><p><span><span> I had cried out to Jesus to purify the room and surround our home with a battalion of angels before I would reenter it. The reasons behind this encounter eluded me. Had I unintentionally invited a demon into my home? </span><br></span></p><p><span><span><span> The answer came to me just the other night while reading a devotional entitled, "Who I am in Christ," by Neil T. Anderson. It's a marvelous book filled with thirty-six readings and prayers, based on the truth of Scripture which expound upon all the glorious riches we have in Christ Jesus. Protection from evil in one of them.</span><br></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> Imagine my reaction when, in chapter twenty-four, I read: "Have you ever awakened at night feeling terrorized? You may have felt a pressure on your chest or an evil presence in the room." The author explained that, as a child of God, evil cannot touch me. If I live in submission to God, just proclaiming the name of Jesus will make the devil flee; I am safe in the arms of God. He is my sanctuary. </span><br></span></span></span></p><p><span><span> Looking back on this experience, though it had filled me with such terror, I am grateful to have been shown just how deep the demonic darkness can be, thereby drawing me closer than ever to my Savior's side. Satan, the father of lies, cannot stand in the face of Truth. Thanks be to Jesus, who has been given <i>all</i> authority and supremacy over <i>all </i>things, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities. (see Colossians 1: 15-20) In Him, I am untouchable.<br></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><b>"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." James 4:7</b></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><b>"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand." John 10:27</b></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-51451727356443939882024-01-19T11:20:00.000-08:002024-01-19T11:20:46.644-08:00The Rock<p> <b>"He is the Rock, his words are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He." Deuteronomy 32:4</b></p><p><b> </b>MercyMe. Lauren Daigle. Casting Crowns. These are all Christian music artists I love, but every once in a while, I am drawn to the old, familiar hymns. Their lyrics are powerful poems, based upon the truths of Scripture.<br /></p><p><span> Listen to these, taken from "The Solid Rock," written by Edward Mote in 1834:</span></p><p><span><i>"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness;</i></span></p><p><span><i>I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' Name. </i></span></p><p><span><i>On Christ, the Solid Rock, I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.</i></span></p><p><i>When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found!</i></p><p><i>Clothed in His righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne!</i></p><p><i>On Christ, the Solid Rock, I stand, all other ground is sinking sand."</i></p><p><span><span> Upon what other foundation could I build my life that would guarantee my trip to spend eternity in heaven? Let's see.</span></span></p><p><span><span><span> </span>If I built upon family, they, too, must leave this world, so I can't count on tagging along with one of them. Besides, how can I be sure of their destination? Hmm.</span></span></p><p><span><span><span> </span>What if I relied upon the government for my needs? Do they offer some type of after-life payment plan? No, their track record is not that great on this side of the sod.</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> Well, if only I stockpiled enough money, then I could buy my way past the pearly gates. No, the Egyptians tried that, but those riches were all discovered in the pyramids. Besides, those funds are all left behind to beneficiaries. That won't work. </span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> How about attending church religiously, serving at a soup kitchen and tithing ten percent to a worthwhile cause? Certainly, my good deeds will get me in. Though that is a popular belief, God says otherwise: "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2: 8, 9)</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> I know! A couple of college degrees is what's needed. Then I will outsmart God. The Lord says, "Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God, the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to <u>save those who believe.</u>" (1 Corinthians 1: 20, 21)<br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> The only way I can be assured of my salvation is to put all my hope on the Rock, which is Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:4) He created me, He sustains me, He redeemed me by his precious blood. He has promised to come back for me and take me to be with Him where He is. (John 14:3) All other ground is indeed sinking sand.</span><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span><b>"He will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord Himself, is the Rock eternal." Isaiah 26: 3, 4</b></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> </span><br /></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-67242046256689914722024-01-01T06:05:00.000-08:002024-01-01T06:05:38.389-08:00What's New?<p> <b>"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth...So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." Genesis 1:1, 27</b></p><p><b> </b>Gaily wrapped gifts have been opened by now. Ribbons rolled and saved until next year; reusable boxes have been stacked in the basement, hollow and waiting. All things that were exchanged from hand to hand, house to house or shipped o'er land and sea were not <i>new </i>items. They were made from pre-existing materials that have been around since the creation of the world.<br /></p><p><span> While reading from my "Today in the Word" devotional this morning, the author's thought spurred my soul: "We are valuable not because of what we produce or not because of what we can give to God. The most we can do is simply rearrange and reorganize what God already created."</span><br /></p><p><span><span> Though, this Christmas, I received and gave some lovely gifts, the true gift is what Jesus has created in us. The Scripture tells me, "Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day." (2 Corinthians 4:17) The true gift is ME! It's Christmas every day when we live in Christ.</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span> Dear Lord, today as I rearrange and reorganize the living room, may my heart bend in true worship to You, my Creator. May I reflect on the <i>new me</i> that you are working on every day. It is really miraculous to think that You are making all things new, beginning with the hearts of believers like me. Let your light shine in me, like the star that guided the wise men, drawing others to the Light of the World. I love you, Jesus.<br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><b>"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come; the old has gone, the new is here!" 2 Corinthians 5:17</b></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-67166923546253381102023-12-27T08:43:00.000-08:002023-12-27T08:43:13.708-08:00Christmas Harvest<p> <b>"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." 2 Corinthians 9:6</b></p><p><b> </b>Bathed in the warmth of worship, as the stained glass windows reflected the Christmas eve candles, voices softly sang "Silent Night." As our prayerful hymn drew to a close, the pastor bade us to raise our candles high, recalling how each flame had drawn its beginning from the Christ Candle. After we extinguished them, wisps of smoke gently pushed us out into the darkness to be the lights of the world our Savior called us to be.<br /></p><p><span> On our drive home, my husband and I wended through neighborhoods to see the lights and decorations. The spiritual high I was on came down like a popped balloon as I listlessly looked at the holiday panorama; a dinosaur munching on an elf, a pajama-clad sloth, a flamingo wrapped in a scarf. The final straw for me was seeing a gingerbread man entering an outhouse. I was hard-pressed to spot a nativity or any other reminder of the Reason for the season.</span><br /></p><p><span><span> The hollow emptiness of it all threatened to steal my joy until God spoke to me through His word the next day, using the above verse. Could it be that the secular decorations, sprouting across lawns like weeds, were a direct result of seedless planting? Perhaps there was no bountiful harvest because the farmers had not cast any seeds!</span></span></p><p><span><span><span> "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ." (Romans 10:17) It's possible that those who dwell in these decorated homes heard the gospel but rejected it, but maybe there are some who have not been told that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, who was sent into the world to save the world. </span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> </span>Wouldn't it be glorious if everyone's yards displayed the good news of the incarnation, a testament to the boundless joy of the homeowner? </span> If that's something we'd like to see, we've got our work cut out for us before next Christmas. So, strap on your seed bag and start casting them in the power of the Holy Spirit.</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><b>"I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest." John 4:35</b></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-65957443125393119732023-12-24T13:18:00.000-08:002023-12-24T13:42:01.187-08:00Follow the Signs<p> <b>"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14</b></p><p><b> </b>Have you ever paused to imagine a city without signs? Without route numbers or street signs to guide the way, how would the mail carrier sort out that mess? No stop signs to halt traffic would cause many a collision. Some may initially embrace the freedom of no speed limit signs, until chaos ensued. We need these signs to successfully find our way.<br /></p><p><span> Along the road of history, God provided signs guiding us to the Messiah. </span></p><p><span><span> </span>The prophet Micah foretold where Jesus would be born, in Bethlehem Ephrathah (Micah 5:2), and through Daniel, we learn the timing in which this would take place (Daniel 9:25). The verse above is an unmistakable sign as told by the prophet Isaiah: The virgin birth. (How many of those have happened?) <span> </span></span></p><p><span><span> </span>Hundreds of years later, the heavenly host of angels provided a sign to the shepherds of Bethlehem: "Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." (Luke 2:11, 12)</span><br /></p><p><span><span> Have you ever wondered why Jesus had no crib for a bed? Our omnipotent God could have coerced any inn keeper to carve out a vacancy, yet the Lord chose the manger so the shepherds would have a definite sign. How many other infants in that crowded city would they find asleep on the hay? </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> For anyone who feels lost, God has given us specific directions to show us the way. Yield to his flesh-and-blood grace, wrapped in swaddling cloths. Stop and give abundant praise to God, who so loved the world that he gave us his Son. Whosoever believes on Him shall not perish but have eternal life! Avoid the road hazards. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father expect through me." (John 14:6) I can just imagine a large arrow pointing the way.</span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span>All we have to do is follow the signs.</span></span></span></p><p><span><span><b>"Now while He (Jesus) was in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, many people saw the signs He was performing and believed in His name." John 2:23</b> </span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-82110509634822301262023-12-16T05:31:00.000-08:002023-12-16T05:37:03.190-08:00Jesus Loves the Little Children<p> <b>"Then people brought little children to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'" Matthew 19: 13, 14</b></p><p><b> </b>After dinner last night, I was reading the "Letters to Santa" in the newspaper. The letters were submitted by second and third graders from local schools, printed exactly as the children had written them. Here are a few I loved:<br /></p><p>Dear Santa, My name is Dale. I am in 2 grade. I have been Good this year because I have been woshing the dishes. I wish for my dad to come home.</p><p>Dear Santa, I am Rosie from Ohio. I want a BarBie dream house. And I want to know were my glasses are.</p><p>Dear Santa, My name is Kol and I am 8 years old. My Christmas wish is to make all the poor, rich. I would like enough food for everyone. Please and thank you.</p><p>Deer Santa, I what Chrismas to be the best time of the year and i thick it is gana be amazing.</p><p><span> Out of the mouths of these babes came a mixed bag of wants and desires. Was I surprised to see many of them ask for an IPhone? Of course, there were various toys requested, and one kid was bold enough to ask for $10,000! </span><br /></p><p><span><span> I may cause some gasps from the crowd today when I say, I don't really like this business of Santa. I remember when I was a child (probably about seven or eight years old), one of my sisters told me that Santa was make-believe. I was very angry about that, having felt deceived by everyone. Why would my parents, who taught me about the Baby Jesus in Bethlehem, also feel the need to give me gifts from Santa? Was Jesus not enough? </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> Ponder the verses above. Would you rather your children sit on the red lap of a fabled man, or would you rather they come to the divine embrace of Jesus, who prays for them? Close your eyes and picture the beaming faces of children waiting in line to see Jesus at the mall. Jesus, who gives eternal life, unconditional love, grace, mercy, peace and joy - things that last. </span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> Let the magic of the incarnation amaze you today! The King of kings, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, laid aside his glory and poured Himself into the vessel of a dependent, vulnerable baby. Oh, come let us adore Him, full of grace and truth, who gave His life for us, whom death could not hold, who rose from the grave and went to prepare a place for us, so that we may come be with Him where He is, forever.</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span> Christmas <i>is </i>the best time of the year and I think it is going to be amazing!<br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><b>"For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6</b></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-50111164618019585942023-12-09T05:15:00.000-08:002023-12-09T05:15:06.452-08:00The Silent Testimony of Cookie<p> <b>"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:11</b></p><p><b> </b>Silence can be golden. </p><p><span> </span>The hope of God is often communicated without saying a word. Sunny daffodils nod their heads amid snowy breezes. Naked limbs, once clothed in glorious skirts of orange leaves, patiently wait for dress as the winter wanes on. The mothers-to-be glow in rhapsody, biding their time as skin knits with bone deep within their womb. All of creation seems to wait with one ear cocked toward the portal, waiting for the fullness of time - the redemption of our bodies. "But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." (Romans 8:25)</p><p><span> One of the best and bravest of love stories I have ever heard, I now share with you. A dear Christian sister of mine is mother and caregiver to her firstborn, a daughter named Ephilia, tenderly known as Cookie. This has been her calling since Cookie's birth forty years ago revealed special needs. Upon her arrival, the journey began for this little family across the sea from me, in India. Three healthy sons followed, filling their family tree, but the silence of Cookie remained as her parents sought the best for her. </span></p><p><span> My friend revealed to me the prayer she had been praying as Cookie's fortieth birthday approached. Knowing from the scriptures that the number forty often signified an end to a time of testing, her prayer was for Cookie to be healed of her defects, and be able to teach Sunday School at their church. She had strong faith in the character and covenant of God's love, and it was in this power that she prayed.</span></p><p><span> When Cookie's birthday came, however, her physical limitations remained. Though she is not teaching a class, her testimony speaks loudly and across the miles as her mom sent this on social media: "Today, I want to thank God for the gift of Cookie to our family and especially to me...Cookie is truly the binding force of our family, keeping us all united with each other with a strong family bond. She brought me closer to God...Her unconditional love made me love all those around me selflessly. Cookie taught me to accept life as it comes and still have a smile on my face."</span></p><p><span><span> Cookie is a teacher who has much to say to those who will listen. One day, the waiting will be over;</span></span> all that's been lost will be made whole as our guardian angel leads us through that portal. Until then, with one ear tuned toward the door and one eye on the heavens, share your testimony with others in whatever way you are able. The waiting is almost over.</p><p><b>"They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the end of the world." Psalm 19: 3, 4</b> </p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-81996500811975813212023-12-02T11:31:00.000-08:002023-12-02T11:31:19.268-08:00Mirror, Mirror on the Wall<p> <b>"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word and does not do what it says is like someone who looks at himself in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues in it - not forgetting what they have heard but doing it - they will be blessed in what they do." James 1: 22-25</b></p><p><b> </b>Every morning, my routine remains about the same: a quick face wash, apply moisturizer and light makeup and brush the teeth. On the weekends, more intense grooming make be required for which I have a magnified mirror on a flexible arm. One day, upon examination, I was aghast to find something which clearly did not belong. How many people had zeroed in on this <i>long </i>chin hair before I had seen it? Quickly, I employed measures to rid myself of what was unbecoming of me.<br /></p><p><span> When I read my Bible before work, due to time constraints, it is like a quick glance in the mirror. But when the weekend affords opportunities for deeper reflection, I often find things that do not belong in my life with Christ. </span><br /></p><p><span><span> Just this week at work, there were two students in need. The first one was upset over the illness of his mother. Seeing him in tears, I treasured the opportunity to talk with him one-on-one, offering to pray for his mom. </span></span></p><p><span><span><span> </span>The second boy's needs did not pull on my heartstrings. His ways were clearly contrary and disrespectful, perhaps due to problems at home, I cannot be sure. But my reaction to him, which I verbalized, was less than Christian and, when my co-worker gently pointed that out to me, I was immediately convicted. </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> Like Peter by the burn barrel, when the denied Christ gazed directly at him, I wanted to weep bitter tears over the way I let my Jesus down. I pray that He who searches my heart will zero in on anything unbecoming of me and my walk with Him, and employ measures to rid me of it. May I reflect Jesus.</span><br /></span></span></p><p><b>"Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless." James 1:26</b></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-27377753392097469502023-11-26T05:42:00.000-08:002023-11-26T05:42:29.416-08:00My Invisible Friend<p> <b>"One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24</b></p><p><b> </b>What characteristics define a friend?</p><p> First of all, a friend should <b>love unconditionally</b>. <i>"Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions - it is by grace you have been saved." </i>(Ephesians 2: 4, 5) <br /></p><p> A friend should be <b>available</b>. <i>"I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me." </i>(Psalm 120:1)<br /></p><p> A friend should be a <b>good listener</b>. <i>"In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly." </i>(Psalm 5:1)<br /></p><p> A true friend should <b>never leave me</b>. <i>"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." </i>(Deuteronomy 31:6)<br /></p><p> A friend should <b>know me </b>like the back of his hand. <i>"You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways." </i>(Psalm 139: 1-3)<br /></p><p> Sometimes, a really good friend can even <b>finish your sentence</b> for you. <i>"Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely." </i>(Psalm 139:4)<br /></p><p> A friend should <b>have my back</b>. <i>"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." </i>(Isaiah 41:10)<br /></p><p> A friend would <b>take me in</b>, even if my family should reject me. <i>"Though my mother and father forsake me, the Lord will receive me." </i>(Psalm 27:10)<br /></p><p> If bullies surround me, a good friend should <b>come to my aid</b>. <i>"The Lord will march out like a champion, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies." </i>(Isaiah 42:13)<br /></p><p> When I am wrong, I need a friend who has the guts to <b>correct me</b>. <i>"Blessed is the one whom God corrects, so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty." </i>(Job 5:17)<br /></p><p> We are doing very well on this list of traits, but what kind of friend would actually <b>lay down his life to save me?</b> <i>"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." </i>(John 15:13) <i>"The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." </i>(Galatians 2:20)<br /></p><p><span> May I now introduce you to Someone who really does possess all of these qualities and more? I hope it doesn't matter to you that He is invisible. No, not make-believe, just invisible (for now, anyway.) His name is Jesus. He is the best friend you or I will ever have. </span><br /></p><p><span><span> Am I a good friend to Him? </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><b>"Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer;</b></span></span></p><p><span><span><b>In his arms he'll take and shield thee, Thou wilt find a solace there." </b></span></span></p><p><span><span>- "What a Friend We Have in Jesus"</span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span> </span><br /></p><p><span><span> </span><br /></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-44739088300211458552023-11-22T11:52:00.000-08:002023-11-22T11:52:42.525-08:00Thank Who?<p> <b>"Be glad, people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord your God, for He has given you the autumn rains because He is faithful. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before...You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the Name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you." Joel 2: 23, 26</b></p><p><b> </b>During my small group Bible study, one of my sisters in Christ made a valid point: People these days don't seem to need the Lord for anything.<br /></p><p><span> The problem is we have it too well, and we seemingly live just fine independently of God. Needs are met by whipping out the credit card. Freebies and grants are sought and easily obtained from the government. The spigot produces water, we dash to the store for food. Doctors run scans and jot out prescriptions for our healing. The smart phone works our wonders for us; we turn to social media for advice and wisdom. Everything came from nothing, so we've no need of a Creator. All we ever needed is found from within ourselves. Who needs God?</span><br /></p><p><span><span> "Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things." (Philippians 3:19)</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> Those who live in such a way, whom do they thank on Thanksgiving? </span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> When I sit down tomorrow before an array of vittles, may I be satiated by the Bread of Heaven. When I turn on the faucet to fill our glasses, may I, with joy, draw Living Water from the wells of salvation. When happy greetings arrive from loving kin, may I praise their Creator who made them and brought us together as family. When the remains of the meal are washed from plates in sudsy water, may I rejoice in the washing and rebirth purchased for me by the precious blood of Christ. When I turn down the covers at night, may I rest in the peace that passes all understanding, knowing my Heavenly Father watches over me. </span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> I've oodles to be thankful for and none of it came from me; I am just the grateful recipient. May giving thanks to God bring happiness to you tomorrow and every day.</span><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span><b>"Shout for joy to the Lord; all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100: 1-5</b></span></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-62944489648175380462023-11-10T02:40:00.000-08:002023-11-10T02:40:37.682-08:00Soul Armor<p> <b>"When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? Psalm 56: 3, 4</b></p><p><b> </b>A Christian media news outlet has been keeping me updated on the war in Israel. As the reporting progresses and, depending on location, the reporter may be shown wearing body armor as the evidence of war bombards behind him. I marvel at his ability to deliver the news without showing signs of fear. How can this be?<br /></p><p><span> When a person comes to Christ, he or she receives soul armor. When amid the clashes of good and evil, when spiritual enemies seek to slash our souls, we stand unmoved, untouched and unscathed. How can this be? </span><br /></p><p><span><span> There was a story in the Voice of the Martyrs newsletter which told of a woman who was deeply involved in the occult, immersed in a secret society. Though she was able to inflict harm on others through witchcraft and voodoo, she was unable to have any influence on the Christian. How can this be?</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> He, who has the power to raise the dead, whom demons obey and in whom rests all authority and power and dominion - He is the One who holds my hand and has promised to never let it go. Jesus not only holds my hand but He dwells within me, having sealed me with His Spirit until the day of redemption! That's how this can be. No wonder He tells me over and over again to "Fear Not."</span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> This gives me so much comfort; may it do so for you as well. If you have never confessed your sins and bared your soul to Jesus, do so now; today is the day of salvation. He loves you so and He will protect you from all evil.</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span> <b>"I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand." John 10:28</b><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><b>"I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8: 38, 39</b></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-61323293900383959442023-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:002023-11-04T06:00:47.417-07:00What If?<p> <b>"Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek Him." 2 Chronicles 20: 3, 4</b></p><p><b> </b>Almost daily, I have been watching the news of the war in Israel. Though I do not pretend to know all the ins and outs of the Middle East, I do know this is a spiritual battle. The demonic warfare against the Israelites that were perpetrated in the holy scriptures is the same spirit of the antichrist we see in action today.<br /></p><p><span> This has led me to my Bible. Time and time again - from David vs. Goliath to the release of Peter from prison - we see the Lord's deliverance in His timing and in His way. The human beings in these accounts were eyewitnesses of a battle between the King of Kings and Satan, the father of lies.</span><br /></p><p><span><span> While reading the twentieth chapter of 2 Chronicles, when the enemies of God's kingdom of Judah came against King Jehoshaphat, it was with great interest I read of what happened next. When the king was told that a "vast army" was coming, did he run for cover? Did he take assessments of his armaments and troops? No, he inquired of the Lord first, then proclaimed a fast for all the people. He stood in full view of everyone and prayed, acknowledging "power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you." (vs. 6)</span></span></p><p><span><span><span> So, I got to thinking... What if Prime Minister Netanyahu, while positioned before the flags of Israel, looked into the many cameras focused on him and publicly, confidently prayed? What if he, filled with the Spirit of the Lord and in full submission to His sovereignty and authority, would hear the word of the Lord saying, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours but God's...Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you." (verses 15, 17)</span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> Can you imagine if Netanyahu, still following in the footsteps of King Jehoshaphat, "appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise Him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army" (vs. 21)? Would you say this was foolhardy? Would it be an invitation for Israel's enemies to mock and revile as did Goliath to David?</span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span> If this seems like archaic fairy tales, think again. Biblical prophecy tells us exactly what will happen in the future: <b>"And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of His coming." </b>(2 Thessalonians 2:8)</span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> What if we stood firmly on the strength and promises of God? Imagine the victories that would be ours!</span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><b>"But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3</b></span></span></p><p><span><b>"Israel, put your hope in the Lord both now and forevermore." Psalm 131:3</b> <br /></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-6847194930850673142023-10-29T06:06:00.000-07:002023-10-29T06:06:12.090-07:00The Table is Set<p> <b>"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." Psalm 23:5</b></p><p><b>"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." John 14: 1-4</b></p><p><b> </b>When I was a kid, one of my jobs was to set the table. We had a sturdy, round oak table, which my dad had refinished. At the time, I did not realize what an act of love it was to prepare the table for dinner, making a place for each person.<br /></p><p><span> At Thanksgiving, we went all out. Tables and chairs were gathered to accommodate invited guests. Table linens were pressed with care, creased in all the right places. The chest of "real" silverware was brought out along with the turkey candlestick holders, gravy boat and china platter. I'd set the table as per mom's instructions, making sure of the proper placement of utensils. The finishing touch was the place card bearing each person's name along with a selected scripture to read before the feast.</span></p><p><span><span> Close your eyes with me and imagine heaven's banquet hall, if you can. Perhaps there will be a miles-long table draped in white linen and ribboned with garlands of fragrant flowers. A happy throng of guests, arrayed in white, will stream in, looking for their place card, written in lovely calligraphy; an angel will draw out our chair for us. Who will be seated next to us but perhaps our long-lost loved one? Utensils of purest gold and stemware of crystal will reflect the light of our Savior as He takes His seat at the head of the table. Merry eyes will turn toward Him as He taps His fork on the glass to make an announcement - a proclamation of joyous welcome! We will drink in the glories of His Presence and be forever satiated by pure love and contentment.</span></span><br /></p><p><span><span><span> Who has been invited to such an auspicious occasion? How can we be certain to find our place at the table? </span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span> The invitations have been sent around the world, addressed with love in the blood of the Lamb. The garments of salvation, the righteous robes of Christ, are our wedding clothes.</span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> </span>In Matthew 22: 1-14, Jesus tells the Parable of the Wedding Banquet in which the King has prepared a feast and sent out the invitations but, incredulously, some <i>refused</i> to come. They paid no attention and just went off about their business. That would be like our guests not coming on Thanksgiving!</span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> To be ensured of your place, you must respond to the King's invitation. Will you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, trusting in His death and resurrection? Or will you refuse? </span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><b>"...everything is ready. Come to the wedding banquet." Matthew 22:4</b></span></span></p><p><span><b>"Then the angel said to me, 'Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!' And he added, 'These are the true words of God.'" Revelation 19:9</b> <br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> </span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span> </span><br /></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-28112864986908479862023-10-26T15:50:00.000-07:002023-10-26T15:50:01.338-07:00Birdbrain<p> <b>"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" Matthew 6:26</b></p><p><b> </b>As the leaves gleam their golden hues and daylight wanes, along come the advertising campaigns which surround the Christmas - oops, sorry! "Holiday" - season. <br /></p><p><span> The one I received today from a gardening center had not one item referencing our beautiful Savior's incarnation in Bethlehem, but it did have a page or two devoted to a favorite bird of mine, the black capped chickadee. So, I paused to peruse.</span><br /></p><p><span><span> There, within the description of this spritely bird's winter feeding habits, I found the glory of God. I learned these birds hide food in the fall, which they intend to eat much later come winter. To do this, the chickadee uses its keen spatial memory to record the precise location of thousands of snacks. The hippocampus (the memory center of the bird's brain) actually expands by 30% to accommodate this geo-caching foray. Then, in spring, the bird's brain returns to its normal capacity, erasing the now unnecessary memory of his hidden seeds. </span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> The irony of uncovering this miraculous tidbit of creation in the center of a secular circular, which ostensibly denied any nod to God's gift to the world, wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger, was not lost on me. For the wisdom of God, as revealed by a bird's brain, is foolishness to the world at large. </span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> If a chickadee could pause long enough to be interviewed, do you suppose he would, with fluffed feathers on a proud breast, declare that he had provided for himself by his own strength? Or would he, birdbrain though he has, give glory where glory is due - to God alone?</span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><span> </span>For all the boasting man does about all he supposedly knows, for him to say that birds evolved from reptiles which initially evolved in the sea millions of years ago, showcases just what a birdbrain he is. Come to think of it, the bird is wiser than he.</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><b>"Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?...But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."1 Corinthians 1: 20, 27</b></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-71590516424662185342023-10-10T16:35:00.000-07:002023-10-10T16:35:21.279-07:00A Modern-Day Zacchaeus<p> <b>"But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, 'Look, Lord! Here and now I give half my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.'' Luke 19:8</b></p><p><b> </b>Perhaps you recall the story of Zacchaeus, a very wealthy chief tax collector of short stature who wanted to see who Jesus was so, when the Lord was passing through his town, Zacchaeus climbed into a sycamore tree to improve his view. When Jesus passed beneath him, He called the tree climber by name and invited Himself over to his house, which caused murmuring throughout the crowd at the thought of Jesus going to the home of a "sinner." But, after the tax collector gladly welcomed Jesus, he repented and sought to make things right. According to Jesus, this brought salvation to his house (Luke 19:10).<br /></p><p><span> Recently, I had the honor of chatting with a modern-day Zacchaeus, Michael Zuren. Mr. Zuren is the treasurer of Lake County. When he had taken the job, he noticed an account on the books with a great deal of money therein, so he inquired about it. He was told the money came from overpayments of property taxes spanning a period of twenty-three years. When a property is sold, sometimes two parties both pay the taxes inadvertently so, when this happened, the funds were deposited into this account.</span></p><p><span><span> The way I see it, Mr. Zuren at that point had two options: He could have accepted that as the way it had been done for years, so why change it now? That would have been the easier choice. But, since he is a Christian, he chose to make things right. Mr. Zuren has made it a priority to research property tax overpayments and is committed to returning these funds to their rightful owners.</span></span></p><p><span><span><span> Godly integrity is a tall order, but when the choice for restitution is made, there will be no shortage of blessings that follow. During these days of great corruption, I am grateful for Michael Zuren, a man who has gladly welcomed Jesus into his life and has put his faith into action. </span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><b>"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account." Hebrews 4:13</b></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span> </span> </span> </span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-92222143462147946362023-10-07T05:41:00.001-07:002023-10-07T05:41:17.292-07:00God's House<p> <b>"Don't you know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you are bought with a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies." 1 Corinthians 6: 19. 20</b></p><p><b> </b>I have a small collection of churches. My husband's grandfather made the largest one, complete with a baptismal font and bell tower, but I have to agree with my granddaughter when it comes to my favorite one: It's a mechanical music box in which the doors open and a minister comes forth in a welcoming manner. <br /></p><p><span> Over the years, it has given me great joy to worship in many different types of churches. Some are magnificently adorned with stained glass windows and a long aisle, which blushing brides prefer. Some are humble, like the six-pew chapel found at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, which impressed me as a child. When I visited Parkside Church to hear Alistair Begg preach, I was surprised by the plainness of the sanctuary; no altar, no colorful glass - not even a cross. The explanation was quite simple: The focus is meant to be solely on the Bible, so all distractions have been pared down to the basics. </span><br /></p><p><span><span> If you were going to design a church, what would you include? </span><br /></span></p><p><span> The Bible says, if you have received Christ as your Savior, that <i>you </i>are the temple. When the Spirit of God walks around in your heart, what does He see? I wonder how He prefers His dwelling to be? <br /></span></p><p><span><span> When I ponder these questions, I know right off that I do not want any dirt or clutter in my church. Nor do I want to entertain any false ideas that will grieve Him. Perhaps He would teach me, if I finally sat down in the pew with a listening heart instead of anally arranging flowers or fawning over the music selection. When I open my mouth, will what I say honor Him? Will my hands offer service? Will I commune in fellowship with Him, as did Adam when God walked with him in the cool of the day before the Fall?</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> It's a beautiful thing, isn't it? To think that God, the Creator of the Universe, desires a relationship with us and that His house is as close as our own hearts! Immanuel: God with us. Let the miracle of this sink in as you prepare your sanctuary today.</span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><b>"For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said, 'I will live with them and walk among them. I will be their God and they will be my people." 2 Corinthians 6:16</b></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460183785509782280.post-46893199930893377122023-10-01T13:44:00.004-07:002023-10-01T13:47:40.771-07:00Along Came Jesus<p> <b>"When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come out!' The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped in strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, 'Take off the grave clothes and let him go.'" John 11:43, 44</b></p><p><b> </b>Yesterday, my daughter and I went to the Mummies of the World exhibit in downtown Cleveland. There were Egyptian mummies, Incan mummy bundles and even a few small preserved animals. Some bodies were intentionally mummified whereas others ostensibly died unnoticed and were preserved by just the right environmental conditions. One educational exhibit demonstrated the process of decomposition in which the viewer was shown the grim stages of decay that followed death.</p><p><span> As we ambled along, peering at the rather gruesome displays, my mind went back to the story of Lazarus, as found in John's gospel, chapter eleven. Having been dead for four days, wrapped in strips of linen mingled with the customary spices, Lazarus was dead - no doubt about it. Mourners wailed. Relatives sobbed. The life of Lazarus was over.</span><br /></p><p><span><span> Or was it?</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><span> Along came Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life, whose loud command brought forth his friend from the grave. Praise be to God, the cords of death, which have strangled creation from the Fall of mankind, have been cut. The prison bars have been pried open by the only One who has the authority to do so. </span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span> Do you know, if the souls who had inhabited those mummies in the exhibit died in Christ, they will rise again? Can you imagine if Jesus had returned while I was touring that gallery, I would have seen those petrified people breathe anew and rise from those glass cases? "Unbelievable!" you say? Read God's word:</span><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><b>"For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore, encourage one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18)</b></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><b> </b>Perhaps those mourners, who had surrounded the grave of Lazarus that day in Bethany, had trouble believing what they saw, but whether they believed it or not does not alter the truth of the matter: Jesus has broken the power of the grave. <br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span><span><span><span><b>"I will deliver this people from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death. Where, O death, are your plagues? Where, O grave, is your destruction?" Hosea 13:14</b></span></span></span></span></p>Rachel Parsonshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17003492104220047234noreply@blogger.com0