The Anchor

Some days hope seems like an elusive dream that you can't quite grasp. The overwhelming darkness engulfs you and every breath takes effort you aren't sure you have.

Hebrews 6:19 tells us that we have a firm and secure anchor in Jesus. We cling to that when the way is uncertain and we can't understand why we're on this path at all.

Faith strengthens us, giving us a firm anchor in turbulent times. Cling to the promises of Jesus. He who calms the storm will hold you close, no matter what you face. He won't let you go. When everything around you is uncertain, hold on tightly to that.

The Cross

I'm not sure when I first started wearing a cross everyday. I've done it for so very many years that it's almost a habit. It's just part of who I am.

I suppose some would say it's a statement. I wear a cross so that others will know that I belong to Jesus Christ. I want others to realize what He did for me and for them, if they'll accept His gift.

The truth isn't so selfless. I wear a cross to remind me that He is with me always. I know. I really don't need the reminder. I know He's there, whether I feel His Presence or not. But on tough days I reach frequently to finger the small, silver cross I usually wear. It quells the panic, stems the unease, reminds me that there is nothing that will happen that He can't and won't handle for me.

The Cross is a constant reminder that I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me enough to die for me. There is a peace and comfort in that no matter what the day might bring.

And the First Will Be Last

He always wants to be first. It doesn't matter what it is. He wants to be fed first, to go out the door first, to come in the door first, to get a treat first. He is the youngest and, by far, the smallest. His attitude more than makes up for both.

Though he has reached the age of 18 months, he remains a puppy. Well, at least when it comes to destruction. Baby gates abound. One day he got impatient as I reached to move a baby gate. In his attempt to be ready to dart through the opening, he managed to knock another baby gate down. It landed on top of him. He panicked and, rather than wait for help, frantically tried to get from under it. That caused him to run into the very scary vacuum cleaner, toppling it to the floor and sending parts of it everywhere. 

His brother and sister scrambled up the stairs. I could only watch the destruction unfold. He finally freed himself and almost knocked me down as he rushed to safety. 

After I got him calmed down and after I stopped laughing, I told him Jesus' parable about the workers in the vineyard.  I reminded him that Jesus said, "The last will be first, and the first will be last."  When you insist on pushing forward to be first realize that, sooner or later, you're going to be last.

Love Passionately

I wonder what would happen if Christians loved as passionately as they hate? I wonder what would happen if Christians extended mercy and grace as quickly as they extend judgement?

We're quick to think we know all the answers. We're quick to tell others what they're doing wrong. We're quick to wag our pointed fingers down at others.

Jesus told us to love people. He didn't say to wait until they're "good enough" or doing our will. He just said to love them. Why do we find that so very hard to do?

Love Binds Us Together

It's so easy to get so caught up in all our differences that we miss what's truly important. Love one another. That's what Jesus said to do.

We don't want it to be that simple, do we? It's just so much easier to get caught up in stuff and issues and things of this world. It will all fade away one day. Instead, focus on what is lasting and eternal.

Next week is a big election in our area. People get so upset about politics. Why? Is it really worth the anguish, the harsh words, the separation that comes when people disagree? Pray and vote as you are led. And trust God with the results.

Life can get complicated rather quickly. It doesn't have to be that way. Love everyone and trust God with everything else.

John 3:16

This large cross provides a reminder of what truly matters. Jesus died on a cross so that those who believe will live.

Life sometimes gets really complicated. Plans change. Life batters us around. We get so very busy with work and fun and responsibilities and blessings. It's easy to get overwhelmed by it all.

When that happens, just look to the cross. Refocus on what's important. Jesus. Everything else is a breeze when our eyes remain on Him.

The Cross

It still hangs on the wall in my bedroom. The "painting" is of Jesus, a reminder that He watches over me at all times. I don't ever remember that framed print not being on the wall. It's not necessary, of course. Jesus isn't in a picture. He's a living Savior who is always with me.

This sweet, hand-painted cross is perfect to grace the wall of a little girl's room. It's a reminder that Jesus is present, that He came to save us all, and that He loves children and welcomes them into His arms.