Peace as our Protector

Recently, I had this overwhelming anxiety that was robbing me of my peace. You know the kind you cannot define but you feel it in your chest and nothing seems right. I don't know if it was because of grief or because the schedule has been intensely full lately, but I felt the grip that wanted to rob me of peace. 

As I taught on prayer in Luke 11, God kept whispering to me ASK, SEEK, KNOCK. Do not stop! Walk by faith in me. So I found myself on repeat. ASK, SEEK, KNOCK. 

I then heard this short phrase, "Peace is your protector" on a prayer video. This sent me on a search. I spent a couple of days just looking up peace verses. 

Sometimes, I feel like peace is elusive like I know I am supposed to have it but at times I catch myself lacking it. But here is the deal. Peace is a gift. It has already been given to us. Peace is always with us if we are in Christ because He is the Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6). He promised the disciples, "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 14:12). 

Essentially, I am a peace walking person. By this I mean my heart, mind, soul, and spirit carry peace within them because I am His. 

So what am I to do when I realize that I am not walking in peace or giving peace as I walk about my day?

A few verses showed me that I have a part in being peace as a protector. 

I must choose to focus my heart and mind upon Jesus. We are promised that "He will keep in perfect peace those whose eyes are kept on Him" (Is. 26:3). Perfect peace is "Shalom, shalom" in Hebrew. I love the repetition because it feels like a double portion of peace. But it literally means that we remain steadfast and calm despite the storm or circumstances we are going through. Our focus and trust is on Him and Him alone. It is His work and not our own moving in and through it all. 

Peace.

This is when we experience and know the peace of God, which transcends all understanding as it guards our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:7). Do you see the word guard? This is active, continous, on going like a soldier standing watch at the city gate, but in this case it is God being vigilant as our heart and mind guard. 

Peace.

A simple conversation will fly from my lips in these moments when I realize I am not a peace protector. "Hey, God! I know You are there! I am anxious. I don't know why. Help me to see Your perfect peace and know the mystery of its protection."

In practice, I am trying to live out Exodus 14:14, "The LORD will fight for you, and shall hold your peace." 

Say this next line nice and slow.

God, Almighty, will fight for you. 

Now repeat it again.

This literally means that He will devour, eat, prevail, war, do battle, and consume what is against you. Oh my!

Peace.

Now here is the grip or hold that we must take. Be still. Let go. Be quiet. Yes, silent. We do not have to fight it. The LORD will fight for us as we stay silent. 

I don't know about you, but I am a fighter. I have words. So many words. But, here I am reminded the battle is not mine. It is His. It is about letting go and letting God do His thing. I just need to surrender to the mystery and gift of peace as my protector. 

Peace guards our hearts and minds. It is our mental armor and heart guard.

We are promised that God will fight for us or atleast that is a promise He made to Israel as they fled Egypt and if God will do this for one group, He will do it for another. This type of fighting for you is considered all consuming. 

Our role is to just be silent. Be still. Or to say it another way, we are to cut and engrave Him in our heart and mind as our focus. Not all that other stuff we are thinking on. It is about trust that God has got you! 

Let go of that stinking thinking!

Open the gift of peace. It is quite simple: look to the Prince of Peace. Call upon Him to save you or speak into the situation. Then rest as you watch and are amazed at how His peace surprises you with a mystery that cannot be explained, and soon it will be experienced with certainty.

"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you" (2 Cor. 13:1).

Peace is our Protector!  

Shalom, Shalom! 

Human Praying Tree

My human praying tree! God gave me this drawing during a prayer retreat. I rendered the pencil sketch I made. 

Shameless Audacity: Lord, teach us to pray! (Luke 11:1)

"LORD, teach us to pray!" (Luke 11:1).

I remember the first time I read this verse and thought, "Well, if the LORD can teach them to pray. He can teach me, too."

I started boldly and confidently asking God in my young 20's to teach me how to pray. Honestly, I was a broken mess, but I wanted to honor God and do His will.

Today, as I study this passage about the disciples learning how to pray, I am caught by the phrase "shameless audacity in the NIV." 

When I look at the order of what Jesus said about prayer, I notice two things I must never forget.  Prayer starts with worship and a kingdom mindset. We must get this right!  

Worship Him! 

       Our Father, holy is Your Name.

Kingdom Mindset! 

       Your kingdom come, Your will be done.

THEN our bold confidence can be shameless and audacious because it first begins with the right mindset. 

Shameless audacity has been translated in so many ways...

Persistent

Impudence

Importunity

The Bible Stock Exchange suggests that this type of prayer is willing to disturb the peace. It ignores the cultural consideration and puts our friends and neighbors in the awkward situation of having to save face. 

The cool part is that with God, I can go without shame with this boldness because HE LOVES TO GIVE GOOD GIFTS and THE HOLY SPIRIT.

Again, here is the crux. This is not for us to get what we want. Prayer is a relationship that is full of worship and kingdom mindedness. Then it flows from a holy mindset.  We will discover that what we need to talk about will have the good and pleasing will of God. It will be full of forgiveness, repentance, and a righteous pursuit. This becomes the most important sustenance and nourishment for our daily bread.

Yes, LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY! Show us how to approach You with shameless audacity that is actively seeking You to receive and know Your good and perfect will. In Jesus' name, amen

Psalm 23: Simple sketches for story recall

As my friend read Psalm 23 in different translations for us to meditate on and draw near to God, I sketched quick sketches for the Psalm. 

Sketching or doodling is a memory tool for me. If I sit and draw I am more likely to recall what I am hearing. I think it is because it causes me to pause and be still. My mind focuses and I can hear. I can literally in my minds ear hear my friend reading Psalm 23 and see in my mind's eye where she was sitting and the light from the window.

What gives you this super power for recall? Is it music? Poetry? Dancing? Singing? Listening? Writing? Or something else like washing dishes or repairing a car? 

See if you can recall the Psalm as you look at my images.

How would you recreate Psalm 23 so you can remeber in your time of need?

This littke image makes me smile because I drew goodness and mercy (love) following me all the days of my life. 

A Royal Decree from the Soveriegn Lord to draw near to Him through prayer

I just created this prayer invite from the LORD using Chatgpt.

It is a personal invite for you and me to join Him in prayer. Please share it.

Seeking Shalom

Oh my goodness! I am so pleased. I loved this picture the moment I saw it. I saw a human Christmas tree that was praying. 

I was recently at a prayer retreat and God would not let me stop thinking about it. He has really convicted me this week that I have let too many things jump into my prayer time and become a distraction. Ugh. But this is good. It is always God when He convicts us so we can grow.

I haven't had time to paint recently. I miss the worship of the pause as I paint. I am so glad God gave me this today. 

I am so very happy with it! My heart is super joyful. I hope it inspires you to pray as well. My heart is that it will inspire you to pray peace for the nations. 

Seek shalom y'all!

A Royal Decree from the Soveriegn Lord to draw near to Him through prayer

I just created this prayer invite from the LORD using Chatgpt.

It is a personal invite for you and me to join Him in prayer. Please share it.

Evergreen

Good people

Righteous people

The godly

Flourish

Grow

Majestic 

Stable

Like palm trees

Cedars

Date palms

In

The LORD'S garden

Courtyard 

Presence

Under His personal care

Bearing fruit

Fresh

Green

Lithe 

Vital

Flourishing

Proclaiming He is...

Upright

My Rock

My mountain

My shelter

As living memorials

In trust

Love

Contempt

Amen

The gift of simple and peaceful living

This morning as I read about Tola and Jair in Judges 10, I asked them, "Why did you only get two or three sentences about you?" I wondered, "Was their lives so simple that they did not warrant further notes?"

Oh my! I just caught something so beautiful. During a time when people did what was right in their own eyes and evil in God's eyes, there were two judges that did such a good job in leading in peace that they didnt warrant to be noted other than a footnote between evil judges. 

There is something to be said about living your life simply in love and service without being noticed. Truly, these are the men and women that make life beautiful and make the opportunity for glorious things to happen.

I found it a bit odd that for Jair it was noted that he had 30 sons, who rode 30 donkeys, and they over saw 30 territories. Do you know how wealthy he was? I once read that to own a donkey back then was a sign of wealth like owning very expensive car today. His reign must have included providing well for the people in these territories because there was no drama. 

Imagine!

These two men provided 50 years of peace and they only get 5 lines as reminders to their gift of peace.

The Bible doesn't say it, but some rabbincal scholars imply that their reign is what enabled Boaz to enjoy such wealth and prosperity. This is debated so it cant be said as a certainty, but if this is the case, I had to giggle because the argument for Jair being why Boaz was prosperous sets the stage for him to be the wealthy landowner that marries Ruth. And we all know Jesus is born through their lineage. So simplicity and faithful living can bring about heavenly opportunities.

It made me think of my Greg. He is quiet, sincere, and doesn't really draw attention to himself. He remains faithful and works hard to make sure his family is faithful. He gives where he can and gives freedom to his family to go and serve. He only asks that we honor Jesus which means we are to be people of peace. Our lives are blessed because of his quiet and faithful service. 

Don't ya just love the gift of those that just do what they know what is right to do and don't invite drama into their story! 

Thank you, Tola, Jair, and Greg Rye!

Romans 16 Women

Thank you, Paul, for the women in Romans 16. I recently heard someone say, Romans 16 is the New Testament list of Proverbs 31 women. Hmmm. I had to go investigate. Why was this said?

God did not disappoint me!

As Paul listed out greetings to his fellow workers in Christ, he listed out a total of 29 people: 19 men and 10 women. Wozer!

I then took the time to list out labels given to each one. Here are the labels given. I have put an "F" for female to show that a woman was included in that label. 

Deacon (servant) F

Coworker (hard worker) F

Friend

Fidelity

Prison mates F

Apostles F

Household (hospitality) F

Jew

Chosen

Mother F

Paul wrote the book of Romans because he wanted to unify the body of Christ in the Roman Church. He sought to clarify the gospel while resolving any issues misrepresenting Christ. He longed for them to know how to live in community. 

I love how his closing notes models the balance of serving in community. It takes both men and women; Jews and Gentiles.  

As Paul reminded us in Romans 12, whatever you do, do it heartedly for the LORD by thinking of others above yourself. 

Amen!

Shalom y'all!

Open Doors

It took me about 12 hours to paint. Naomi asked me if I could paint my watercolor called "Open Doors" into a big picture. Audio Scriptures theme for the year has been open doors. We pray everytime we are together for open doors and on our own as a team. 

I finally finished the acrylic painting and needed a box to ship it to Naomi. When I went to the post offices I was sent to another store to buy the right kind of box. It was going to take three trips. Ugh. 

When I walked into the box store, there were three young men lounging on the boxes while one man was working behind the counter. I wondered if it was their break. As I waited, I was surprised at the "F" bombs lacing their conversations. At first my reaction was to want to turn around and suggest alternative words. My second thought was, "Yeah not wise!" Then I was a little unnerved that employees were behaving in such a manner in front of a customer. And how they just let the other guy do all the work. After waiting for "J" to finish a transaction with a very frustrated face. I realized he was helping them. 

Phew! They were customers. I felt better for "J" and then also sad because "ugh" there really wasn't any respect happening.

As they walked out, he asked me, "How can I help you?"  

"I need a box to ship my painting."

He walked me over to a row of piled boxes and we picked the closest in size and then we walked back to the counter. Then "J" said, "Can I see it? Did you paint it?"

"I did. I painted it for my boss/friend. I am a missionary with Audio Scripture Ministries and this painting represents Open Doors."

I then told him the key verse I envisioned as I painted it.

"I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name." Revelation 3:8

"Oooh! What is a missionary?"

"Hmmm. Well, I train and tell people about the Bible so they can know that God values them and has a plan for them. I show them how to engage the Scriptures so they know how to have eternal life and then how to tell others about Jesus."

"My girlfriend is religious, but I am not." 

"Would you like for me to share with you a little of what God would like you to know?"

"Yes." He nodded his head.

I then gave a short impromptu telling of the Big God Story emphasizing value and relationship so we can know Him and be with Him through His Son Jesus. 

His face was so humble and sincere. I was able to see how the story was penetrating. Precious! Especially, in contrast to the young men who just left the store.

When I finished he said, "I believe that!" 

Then the phone rang. He had to get back to work.

I never asked him for a response, but he gave it. So, the very first time, I shared my painting called "Open Doors" with its story, it led to an open door into a human heart. 

Feeling very humbled and blessed. I love how God opens doors! He even uses a reroute to a different store so someone can know Him.

*Image shared is of the watercolor that prompted the painting. I am not revealing the painting yet.

I BELIEVE IN DISCIPLESHIP

I believe discipleship is faithulness. It doesn't wait for tomorrow or until prayers are answered. It is faithful in the moment right where you are like Zachariah and Elizabeth serving in the temple with unanswered prayers. 

I believe discipleship is scary, messy, and full of unknown factors. It takes risks and is dangerous. It is moving forward when things don't make sense and others judge you like Mary and Joseph saying yes to a journey full of suffering and pain in hope of a better future. 

I believe discipleship is sitting in the Father's house discussing the Scriptures, asking questions, and challenging the status quo like Jesus as a young boy growing in wisdom and stature with favor before God and man.

I believe discipleship is obedient in the moment like John baptizing Jesus fulfilling righteousness now even as he felt unworthy.

I believe discipleship begins the minute you see Jesus. You get up and go where He goes like John's two disciples the moment they heard, "Look, there is the Lamb of God" and Jesus, "Come follow me and see."

I believe discipleship has movement. It doesn't sit and stay. It gets up and follows Jesus as He goes about the day. It is failing and getting up. It is learning as you go just like the disciples traversing with Him so long ago.

I believe discipleship is life on life. It is a journey not a class, Bible study or course. Look at the disciples, Jesus took them along and trained them through life on life in the little moments learning how to handle the highs and the lows.

I believe discipleship sends even when you don't know what you are doing. It recognizes that the best lessons are caught more than they are taught. It is full of many failures that builds character that strengthens us for our tomorrows.

I believe discipleship carries authority and casts out demons only to release the person to go bear witness immediately to their town. Allowing the changed life to be the billboard that transforms an entire decopolis.

I believe discipleship asks some to stay and releases some to go. Jesus didn't require the man released from demons to stay and learn through life on life because he had already experienced enough life to know the radical miracle of peace which surpasses understanding actively at work in him. His transformation would communicate more now. 

I believe discipleship understands that with one you listen, another you tell, another you show, another you remind, and to another you read. 

I believe discipleship will read the mood of the people and seek to meet that need. Jesus modeled reading the crowd. He spoke to them in the ways they would understand. He saw the one and met the one right where they were at while teaching the crowd so the ones who had ears to hear would understand.

I believe discipleship is fighting for justice when accusers abound like when Jesus crouched and drew on the ground.

I believe discipleship doesn't shame. It is willing to bow and draw in the dirt while those present consider their own sin and gives them opportunity to walk away.

I believe discipleship breaks rules and tradition. It talks theology with women and even shares a cup of water with a Samaritan. 

I believe discipleship does not look at gender, tradition, culture or race as reasons not to discuss theology as you pass by the way. It meets each person right where they are at. 

I believe discipleship allows women to run and tell others immediately about what they have seen and heard becoming eye-witnesses so all in town can come see and believe for themselves. 

I believe discipleship releases. It never hoards. It gives and gives trusting the Holy Spirit will have His way and guide in all truth as the believers walk along the way. Consider Jesus sending the disciples out among wolves.

I believe discipleship is exhilarating because it can see a new life transformed like the demonic in his right mind, the healed mother from fever, a brother risen from a tomb. 

I also believe discipleship is terrifying because it can see new life transformed like the demonic in his right mind, the healed mother from fever, a brother risen from a tomb. 

I believe discipleship is never neat and tidy. It waits. It longs. It hopes. It dreams. 

I believe discipleship celebrates with songs and thanksgiving when one grasps a simple truth and walks forward in understanding. 

I believe discipleship is intentional and unintentional. It is full of preparation and study of the Scriptures in times of peace so a truth may be activated when least expected. 

I believe discipleship is gathering where other believers gather to be strengthened and encouraged to spur one another on.

I believe discipleship happens where ever I go or I am because HE IS moving in and through me even when I am unaware.

I believe discipleship does not have a time table, schedule or meeting place. IT IS because HE IS I AM. 

I believe discipleship is presence. Presence is powerful and can speak volumes even when words cease.

I believe in discipleship. Do you? 

By: Tara Rye

What is worship?

Sometimes, I get bored with my Bible reading. And sometimes I have thoughts like "I have studied that story so much. What is left to learn?" I know some people might think it wrong for me to admit these thoughts. But, I don't think it is wrong at all. God knows them anyhow. 

This morning, I had no responsibilities and no meetings so I decided to just sit in my next story for the What is Christian Discipleship series? 

I have found reading the Bible story from someone else's perspective can radically change my mindset. Suddenly, what is old becomes fresh and knew.

This morning, I thought about this story from several perspectives. A friend in a far off land hearing it for the first time. A stranger grieving over all the evil happening in our culture and wanting answers. A woman feeling belittled by men because she is simply a woman. A foreigner longing for inclusion.

Oh my. Somehow this old familiar story grips my heart now.

So in case this is you. John 4:1-26 is the story of the Samaritan Woman. 

God really hit me with what worship is and what it is not.

Worship IS NOT:

Focused on gender.

Focused on race.

Focused on our story.

Focused on culture or cultural debates.

Focused on a location or building.

Worship IS ABOUT:

God's living water.

Ever flowing.

Eternal life.

Thirst quenching.

Knowing who you Worship.

In Spirit.

In Truth.

The Messiah.

Going.

Testifying.

Hearing.

The Savior of the World.

Suddenly, my morning Worship in the Word was radically different than I anticipated.

Father, help me/us to worship You in Spirit and in Truth. Help us to stop focusing on the things that distract us and create barriers. Help us to focus on the heart and the inward condition of our own hearts so that it is You, Jesus, who we point others to. In Jesus Name, amen.

It is so important to be in the Word, to be with Jesus, so we can be transformed! 

Shalom y'all!

Death Doula: Grounding in Peace

There are certain things that ground us. It can be the sound of someone's voice. It can be the familiarity of our surroundings. It can be a song or a pet. It can be holding the hand of a loved one. It can be a favorite verse or story of the Bible that reminds of God's ever present help. It can be a prayer that gives you hope in the moment. The things that ground us give us peace.

I bought this blanket in Kenya for Papa. It is a Masai Warrior blanket. I had no idea how much this blanket would mean to Papa. I bought it because he is always cold. But the fact that it is a traditional warrior blanket encouraged his heart. He asks for it all the time. At times, it is almost a demand. "Give me my warrior blanket." Now it is "my blanket." It brings comfort, warmth, and a vision of strength. It grounds Papa. I had no clue when I bought it what it would mean. 

Papa comes home from the hospital today. I have known this day was coming. We moved Papa, Mema, and Aunt Janie here to help them in this season of life three years ago. It has been so much fun. It has been so hard. It is beautiful. We have learned so much.

We have been silly and danced to oldies music. You might find us "Celebrate Good Times" with a conga line while we are"Staying Alive". Or find us pushing through to the theme song of ROCKY. You might laugh at our morning stretches as we wake up to "I'm so Blessed" and Papa seems to think they are saying, "Taco Bell." Sometimes, we are "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay," when we need a more mellow day. We are always singing about the "Goodness of "God" and praying with the song "The LORD Bless You." 

In all of this, it occured to me this week when we were told Papa was going on hospice that I am a Doula. 

When we had to choose a hospice care team to join us in our home, it became quite clear. As I did my research, I noticed that one company truly gets it. They are holistic in their approach. They do all that the other groups do in the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual help, but they add music, art, and massage therapy as some of their touch points. They get it. They want someone to have joy in this transition.

This is when it hit me. We have been acting like a Death Doula. The hospice team is a Death Doula. Just as a Doula helps a mom give birth, what we have been doing as a family is helping our family birth into eternal life.  

We pray, we touch, we sing, we laugh, we cry, we encourage, we remind, we wait, we help...

We make sure the heart, mind, soul, and spirit are ready to move forward. It is really quite a beautiful gift. 

So we begin a knew phase in our birthing journey. For those that have done this before, thank you for your role model. For those that will follow, embrace the gift of being a Doula. You can be the one who brings true grounding by helping your loved one walk into eternal life.

A person can only receive what heaven gives him (John 3:27)

There are so many rich lessons we can learn from John the Baptist in John 3:22-36. But what stopped me this time was the reminder that "man can only do what they received from heaven."

This phrase slays jealousy.

This phrase celebrates whatever God is doing.

It doesn't have to be big. It can be small. It isn't about numbers. It is about obedience.

I don't have to stop someone from serving. I need to celebrate what God is doing.

Each man and yes, woman, "can only do what heaven has given them." Nothing more and nothing less.

This phrase slays comparison and if I dare say competition between denominations, churches, cultures, and people groups. 

This phrase, "man can only receive what heaven gives them" is a reminder to focus on Jesus. Yes, "more of Him and less of me." I must celebrate His work and what He is accomplishing in others and in me. The focus is on Him and His work. Not ours. 

Wozer! This is so good. As I prayed for what story to do next in the, "What is Christian Discipleship?" series, this was not what I thought would be the next story, but oh my! I am so glad the Bridegroom slowed me down to listen to His voice. I believe this story will be digging deeper roots in me!

How to create a story in motion

I was asked today if I would share how I create story in motions. I share in this video why creating a story in motion is beneficial and how I do it. I would love to hear from you if there is something you do different or find beneficial! 🙂

He stooped to draw in the dirt

I have been asked to teach on John 8:1-11 and this morning as I studied it once again, I was caught by the beauty of God once again through His Son. 

This controversial passage has been debated on whether it should be in the final canon of Scripture. One thing is certain. The character of Jesus depicted in this story is consistent with the whole counsel of God. It teaches and convicts.

It is when the religious leaders bring the adulterous woman to Jesus to be stoned. These accusers were eye-witnesses who caught her in the "act" of sexual sin. 

After asking my typical questions, I was caught by the word "stooped." Upon hearing their accusation and question, Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dirt as if He didn't hear them. 

A holy pause.

A humble position.

Something powerful happens in intense moments when we just add a holy pause and humble position. 

It allows the emotional or intense one to hear the echo of their own words.

It allows the one receiving contempt or accusations to see the posture of the one who can condemn them. 

He was bent low just like her.

When the accusers continued to press in asking questions. Jesus stood up. He met them eye to eye. Face to face. He wanted His words to be on their level. "He who is without sin may cast the first stone." Jesus faced the evil in them head on. It deserved face to face confrontation because they were not considering their own sin in this offense.

Then he "stooped" again now covering their shame as well as hers as He drew in the dirt. Allowing them to save face.

One by one from the oldest to the youngest they left. Jesus didn't watch. He just drew in the dirt feeling the effects of a crowd's noise slowly becoming silence.

Then Jesus raised himself up and asked, "Woman, is there no one to accuse you?"

She said, "No one."

Do not miss this. Jesus was the one who could accuse her. He is who they brought her to. 

But she felt safe with Him. 

Why? 

It was His posture.

He stooped low. He didn't stand over her. He knelt down to where she sat and in his stooping he covered her shame.

He knew her sin. He told her, "to go sin no more." Yet, He didn't stand over her condemning. He knelt in the dirt with her.

Do you understand that this short story is a simple telling of what God did for mankind.  

The Creator of heaven and earth stooped down to come to earth to be on our level. 

And as the accuser comes to accuse us, our Creator, stands up and faces off our accuser. 

Our Creator then stoops again with us until we understand that no one can accuse us because He has covered our shame.

Now go and sin no more. 

It is so important to be in the Word, to be with Jesus, to be transformed.

Shalom y'all!

Mighty Throng of Women

"The LORD announces the word, and the women who proclaimed it are a mighty throng." (Ps. 68:11).

I have been reading through the Bible since 1992 and God still surprises me with His Word.

Today, I am caught by the fact that this passage says women!  Wait!  Women are the proclaimers of the Word given by God. Hmmm.

I had to go do some research. Does it really say women in the original language?

First, we need to know that the author is King David. This is a Psalm talking about God leading the nation of Israel in victory.

Second, we must note that God is the One giving the word.  The word here for word is good news or the word we get evangelism from.

Third, a battle has happened. The enemy has scattered and God has protected the vulnerable ones.

Fourth, it is the women who proclaimed this good news.

So, why are women the proclaimers? 

Well, consider when the men went off to war, the women stayed home waiting for their return. Upon their arrival the women would set up the celebration and declare the good news. This might have included songs, dance, food, and praising God for what He had accomplished. They would go out celebrating and declaring to everyone about what God had done to bring back their men and that the enemy scattered.

The women would be the frontline in declaring the good news of victory.

With that said I still wanted to know if the Hebrew text said women. It did. In Hebrew this word was feminine plural and a feminine suffix. It was meant to be women. Some translations will use the word "those" but it was meant to be women.

"The LORD announces a word and the women who proclaimed it are a mighty throng."

Immediately, my mind goes to Matthew 28:1-10 and Luke 24:1-10. God chose women as His first messengers in spreading the goodness of Jesus.

I am a part of the mighty throng of women who proclaim the Good News of the victory we have in Jesus.

This verse so ministered to me today. I hope it encourages you or causes you to go encourage the women who are faithful around you.

It is so important to be in the Word, to be with Jesus, so we can be transformed.

Shalom, y'all! 

In the Name of Jesus

God never ceases to amaze. Honestly, I wonder at God allowing me to do what I do. As I prepared, I thought, why did I add this story in Acts 3:1-10 to my To Go and To Grow workbook? There isn't as much depth as I would like and then to top it off it was the week I was to teach them the process of an I AM POEM.

Once again, God taught me a lesson. LOL. Since, I was teaching them a poem strategy I didn't want to spend time with them creating the ONE WORD OUTLINE so I sat down to do it. As I created the divisions and wrote my simple outline, I noticed that the very middle phrase was in the Name of Jesus. Now, I froze and got goosebumps. It doesn't happen often but on occasion when I create my ONE WORD OUTLINE God will allow me to catch a hint in English what the chaism in Hebrew might be. The Hebrew writers would write a story so that the very middle will reveal the key point of the story. 

For this story, it is so important for us to know and catch that Peter is not the giver of the healing. Peter is not the focus. It is Jesus. This was so important for the early church testimony to the Jews. What was happening was all done in the Name of Jesus! Jesus is ALL POWERFUL. 

Of course, I know this but to catch it in a story that I was grousing at myself for choosing humbled me and delighted me in Jesus. He is sooo cool. I love it when He just shuts me up and shows me His glory.

They loved it! As we did the poem, God so caught them off guard. One lady said to me, "Teacher, I didn't know I could approach Scripture with my emotions. I thought I could only look at it for knowledge. This is so much deeper." We discussed that both knowledge and emotion are important in studying God's Word. We cannot emphasize one or the other. 

Another said, "I will use this with my family." I love this so much. She brought up how it helped reveal the faith.

This brought about the discussion of whose faith was the focus? The lame man, Peter, or the crowd? We discussed that after denying Christ Peter needed to have his own faith strengthened as he became a leader for the new church. Imagine what it did to Peter after reaching out and grabbing the man's right hand to see him dance and praise God!

Y'all, it is so important to be in the Word, be with Jesus, so we can be transformed.

Shalom, y'all!

It' not fair!

How to handle complaints,

a common grief we share.

There is always someone in the crowd who will cry,

"It's not fair. "

Listen up! 

Choose wisely!

Keep your priorities straight,

let the teachers teach,

keep your hearts turned to prayer,

seek the ones called to serve,

ensure all are Holy Spirit filled!

Then watch as the Spirit moves,

The church will grow as obedience grows.

Is it because of the laying of hands and prayer? 

Or is it the Spirit moving among them? 

The answer is yes!

The common thread will be

both draw you closer

to the one who in heaven BE! 

I wrote this poem this morning after reflecting on Acts 6:1-7. 

My Bible study feels dull after spending significant time deeply studying a section because I discover so much. So, I am using the strategies of what I teach as I spend time in the Word. I am seeking the Creator to create in me and it is so much fun taking a principle and trying to create with it. It requires deeper reflection and meditation on the truths held with in.

When symbol and simple sketches help tell the story

When symbol helps us tell the story...

When the first day didn't allow us to introduce using simple sketches, I really struggled internally if I should even introduce it because of the delays. But when I train my leaders, I always say, "Trust the process and trust the story." Since, this is a core value in my training. I trusted the process even when I struggled internally. I am so glad I did.

One leader that didnt say anything the first day spoke up after learning how to tell a story with simple symbols or stick figures. 

"Now, I feel I can tell the story. Since, I do not read or write this helps me to know how to share the story." 

He shared ALOT! This simple activity awakened in him a skill of honor. He felt better equipped because he was given a tool that matched his learning style. Since, he can't read or write no one had introduced to him how he could use the power of visual to help him remember things.

Here is a truth we should never forget. Just because a person hasn't been taught how to read or write does not mean that they cannot be a visual learner. We do a disservice to him if we do not provide the best strategy to help him discover and grow. We ministered to his learning style and he was ignited! This was one highlight I will never forget. His smile was radiant! 

The other, "Oh my goodness!" highlight happened when another man who could not read or write said, "When I was young and had the chance to learn how to read and write. I didn't care. I didn't listen. I messed around. But, now that I see how much the Bible says and has in it, I want to learn to read and write so I can know what the Bible says." The process of learning the 6 Acts and then drilling into the book of Acts revealed to him how vast is the story of God.

Both of these glorious quotes followed the activity of learning to tell the story through visual symbols and simple sketches. I could not have orchestrated what happened. Only God could do that, but there is something to be said about providing each group an opportunity to experience the many ways of encountering God's Word. 

God's Word is meant to be spoken, written, illustrated, and experienced! Amen! Amen!

Shalom, y'all!

Morning Cluck

One of my favorite things in Africa and in Israel is hearing the roosters crow at all hours of the day and night. Lol. Somehow, it just lends to greater atmosphere as I experience a new culture. Maybe it is because it reminds me of the country life in which I grew up in. 

This past week my friend, Gomer, cracked a joke when another friend,  Joshua, posted a picture of a chicken. 

"Morning Cluck."

I laughed so hard I knew I needed to paint a rooster and name it, "Morning cluck."

Thanks for the inspiration guys. I had great delight painting tonight.

My failed image

Sometimes as I am creating I panic because I really messed up. This seems to be a moment when I feel like it looks hideous and I just wasted good paper. But, I have learn that if I keep pressing in or through the ugh I might discover something beautiful. 

This piece supposed to be blue flowers. They were so bad I actually thought of ripping it up. Lol. I haven't done that yet mostly because I am trying to track my progress as I learn. So I decided to through away the idea of a simple flower I was trying so hard to crreate and I started creating uses sponges. 

It now feels very impressionistic. And I like it. It grew on me. 

Initially, I jokingly said to myself when I was creating, "Hmmmm, so my failed images become impressionsm." 

Did you know that "impressionism" the term was considered derogatory when it was first used about Monet. He didn't paint with a traditional stroke so he was criticized, but in time his style became a genre.

What kind of disciplemaker are you?

What kind of disciplemaker are you? 

Today as I pondered a lesson I learned many years ago I decided to try to paint the concept.

It takes 15 to 16 years before an elephant can have a baby. The gestation period is 22 months. They may have 12 babies in their lifetime.

Elephants are slow to start, slow to produce, and only have a few. They are fiercely loyal and stick to their pack. 

A rabbit starts having babies around 5 to 6 months. Their pregnancy only lasts 31 days. They can have 6 to 12 bunnies at a time. They might have 3 to 4 litters a year. Theoretically, a couple could have with their offspring 4 million babies in 4 years.

Rabbits are fast and productive. They fill a warren with a family unit. Their family structure is very communal and they stick together but each have their own place in the warren. Some rabbits might come and go but for the most part they stick together. They are rapid reproducers.

I am curious. In your culture, which one would be valued more as a reproducer?

Did Korah's kin have to suffer because of his rebellion?

Sometimes, I read something and it makes me ask questions. This morning I read "and the line of Korah did not die out" (Numbers 26:11). But I noticed no number in the census was given for them. Without the census number, they could not receive the land inheritance. Without land, how could they work?  It made me wonder, did Korah's kin have to suffer and become slaves because of his pride?

What I found humbled me so much. Even Korah's rebellion which caused instant discipline that shocks you because 250 men were swallowed up in a hole that day (go read it in Numbers 16:1-40), there is a redemptive story.

Did you know that Korah's descendants served in the tabernacle as musicians, gatekeepers, and custodians (1 Chronicles 6:31-37; 9:19; 9:31-32; ; 25:1-7; 26:9)?

Did you know that 11 Psalms are attributed to the descendants of Korah?  Songs of longing for God, the power and protection of God, the presence of God emphasizing joy and the desire to be with God (Ps. 42, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 84, 85, 87, 88).

Now, I know our God is a God of redemption. I know His presence, provision, protection, and joy. Yet, I caught myself assuming the descendants of Korah were doomed because of their fathers rebellion. I know better. I love that God stopped this erroneous thought process.

How often do we say, "So and so is unredeemable?"  How often do we imply a person, politician, people group, or nation could never be redeemed? I know I hear and feel the brunt of these often in my world. And yet again, God caught the lie in my head this morning.

Listen! God is in the business of redeeming people! No person, people, or politician is beyond redemption. We must be praying for souls!  It is not our job to judge, condemn, slay, catch in sin, etc. Our role is to draw people closer to God so they know know the love of the Father through His Son! 

I can't stop thinking of the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11. I am in aww that despite their sins or errors God chooses to have us remember their moment of faith. 

This morning I am celebrating the descendants of Korah that chose to help us draw closer to God. Just this week, I had a leader in Greater South Asia tell me how much it meant to the tribal people when they heard for the first time Psalm 42 in their heart language. 

Korah's descendants are still impacting kingdom culture today.

Shalom y'all.

Prayer for Cross-cultural ASL Sign

Yesterday, as I was working I really struggled to find a good sign for the Word cross-cultural. No matter how I phrased it, I couldn't find the word on ASL videos that I needed. I could find cross, culture, or cross country, but not cross-cultural.

I cried out in my heart. It was not a voiced prayer. "God, I just need to find someone that can help me in person to know how yo do this sign." 

Last night at the art show an old church acquaintance, Geri, came up to chat. 

As she was talking she shared that she is an interpreter. I hadn't known this or forgot.

I asked, "What do you interpret?"

She said, "For the deaf."

I couldnt believe it. God gave me Geri on the very day I needed it. I shared with her that I was trying to find the sign for cross-cultural but I couldnt and I needed help. She asked questions and I explained what I was doing. After processing several motions she helped me settle on a motion that would work. 

I now have my story motion for cross-cultures! I am so excited. 

I don't know why it always surprises me how God provides the answers to my heart prayers, but it does. I felt like dancing and skipping after chatting with Geri. 

God heard my prayer and He answered. He knows my needs and the why's. He answers so sweetly to show me He is so kind. 

Feeling very blessed!

Rivers of living will flow

Living water will flow!

This is my first attempt at painting water rings and droplets. 

Water is critical for life. Here are a few quick stats I found.

55% to 75% of the body is made of water.

Water is a shock absorber for the brain, spinal column, and unborn baby in the womb. 

Water flushes waste out of us.

Water enables growth to occur at the cellular level. 

It is estimated that 71% of the earth's surface is covered with water.

It is estimated that 96% of the earth's water supply is in the oceans.

Water is the fundamental component of every living creature. 

Water gives life.

Water sustains life.

Without water we die with in days.

Spiritually we need life giving water, too. It only makes sense that the One who created heaven and earth would be the One who will give living water.

Jesus once said, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Does anyone believe in me? Then, just as Scripture says, rivers of living water will flow from inside them.” (John 7:37-38)

We can have "rivers of living water flow from us" when we believe in the One who is the River of Life. 

Life giving water that quenches our thirst. 

I was trying to convey in this image how the life giving water has a ripple affect even if it is in just one little drop. 

I have to giggle because I just realized as I look at the image the water of life is smiling back at me. 

Father, Thank You for the gift of water and it's life sustaining power. Thank You for Your Son who gives living water that quenches our thirst. Help us to believe in Your life giving water and to give it freely. Let the ripple affect of Your sustenance bring life to all who receive it. In Jesus' name, amen.

What to do in relationships based on Matthew 7

I was listening to a podcast this week on Ask, Seek, and Knock by Dr. Tim Mackey with the Bible Project. He said that we should read Matthew 7 focusing on relationships when we ponder what we should ask for. 

Then as God would have it, I read this chapter this morning in my routine. 

So, I decided to read it with the focus of how to be in good relationships. This is the list of good helps that God showed me.

In relationships...

1. Do not judge.

2. Focus on fixing yourself not others.

3. Stay away from those that devour others or trample on people. 

4. Persistently seek God for wisdom.

5. You will know people by their good or bad character. Watch for it.

6. Do the will of God.

7. Listen to the Word of God and put it into practice. 

This is when we will be known as a person of authority.

Okay, so when we just don't know or we feel confused. We should persistently pray.

O Father, Help me not to judge. Please forgive me for judging. LORD, show me what I need to do, change, or let go. Please guard me from those that devour and trample on others and help me with this person that makes me feel devoured and trampled on. Please, guard me from being the person who tramples on or devours others. I beg you for wisdom in this situation.  Show me their character and the best way to respond.  Father, I do want to do Your will but I don't know how. Please guide me. Show me how to love, forgive, serve, walk, and guide others in all truth. In Jesus' name, amen.

A Thousand Touches with Watercolor

Have you ever done something for a thousand touches? 

It sounds so impossible. The first time I heard someone use this phrase was on the soccer field by my friend Tanya Franck Benning as she coached the women's soccer team at Grace University. I Googled the concept and I found out it is a challenge often given to athletes to do practice makes perfect or do this and you will awaken the involuntary responses needed so you no longer need to think about what you are doing. This is when you will play instinctively.

Tomorrow is my one year anniversary of starting to learn how to watercolor paint with Alice Swartz. She brought all her supplies so we could play. I mean paint.

I am definitely over a thousand touches. I try as best I can to watercolor if we sit down to watch TV. This way I am creating and learning while listening. 

When I look at what I created in the beginning and gave away, I laugh because people are so kind. Your encouragement all along has been so kind.

I discovered that the process of painting several nights a week became a time of rest and worship. But the actual process of learning wasn't easy. I kept creating even when what I saw in my mind's eye did not match what I created. 

I watched how others painted before going to sleep or looked at others paintings. At first it was easier to look at someone else's work, but more and more I found I am jealous for creating my own design. I want to create from my heart and vision not someone elses.

One day Grant Rye said to me, "In the art world, master artists will hire apprentices to paint copies of their original to sell. They are master copiers." I have no idea if he was trying to teach me a lesson, but as much as possible from that point on I started choosing images where I would take shapes, colors, and composites of photos so I could try to create on my own. 

It has been an incredible journey. God used this to bless me, encourage me, and challenge my mind. It has been hard trying to learn how to master shapes, color theory, and depth. I still don't get how to do these most of the time, but I keep pressing in.

The most important thing I realized. When I create something, it is my interpretation of what I see and I am able to do in that moment. This is good! Why? Because I am trying! I am creating! I am growing! And yes, a thousand touches works. I am improving. 

I also discovered that for art your supplies really matter. It was a powerful game changer when I had good paper, good paints, and the right brush. Oh my! 

I want 10,000 touches! Why? Because our God is a creative God and I want to see how HE might create through me. 

How about you? What have you given a thousand touches to?