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 strengths 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!