Devotions

So many things make me think about our sweet Kim Newlen, especially this month as we remember her home-going from this world to be with Jesus in heaven. God gave Kim an extra measure of love and vitality, and she left a mark that will always live in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Even at this very moment, I can see her bright smiling face, reflecting the joy she experienced because of knowing each person who crossed her path. Kim had a uniqueness of spirit that was unmatched. She was a girly-girl through and through! One minute she would give instructions on how to apply your favorite makeup; the next minute, she spoke profoundly about biblical precepts. Kim could giggle with friends over something silly and cry with strangers living through difficult circumstances. She never judged, instead Kim always saw what she believed are God-given qualities, available to all of His children.

“What’s down in the well comes up in the bucket!” A girl from Gaffney, South Carolina saying that made me laugh more than once. Another Scripture that comes to mind when I think about sweet Kim is from the book of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 8: “Finally, brothers, [and sisters] whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

As we all know, life is not always easy; Kim knew this from her days here on this earth, but she lived every single day as a gift. She loved people; she loved Jesus with every breath. If she were here right now, she would want you to know that the relationship she had with Jesus Christ is also available to you. So, in her memory and by God’s beautiful design I invite you to seek your personal relationship with Him.

While the angels are singing, I’m certain I just heard Kim say, “Oh my roodies!”

Previously published on Sweet Monday

They are everywhere in my yard! Sprouting up from seeds that have fallen from the grey oak trees are many baby trees trying to take root. They are incredibly prolific! My son-in-law uprooted some of the seedlings to try and transplant them in another area. Time will tell if his efforts pay off.

Jesus tells a story about a farmer who goes out to sow seeds to produce a crop. According to his explanation, the farmer “scattering the seed” is not very intentional about where the seeds land as they end up falling into various conditions: “some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. Some fell on rock, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown” (Luke 8:5-8, NIV). As verse 11 clarifies for us, “the seed (in the story) is the word of God.”

Since last June, I have been taking college classes through a Christian institution and loving every minute. What strikes me most is the godly and Biblical approach to learning that is offered by the college. Every subject, including math, which is very hard for me on a good day, is covered in prayer by the professors and leaders, knowing this makes my personal experience exciting. I feel empowered by God to learn for his glory and by his direction to the end that only he knows. Other students receive the same foundation. Knowing that God’s Word, his “seed,” is being scattered on welcoming fertile soil ignites my enthusiasm and hope for future generations.

You do not have to go back to college, as I have, to reap the benefits derived from the reading of God’s Word. All you have to do is pick up your Bible, open it up, and read the beautiful message that is waiting just for you. Let the seeds germinate like the grey oak seedlings in my yard that are sturdy and plentiful, then, share it with those around you. Together, we can help “scatter the seeds” of hope and love offered by our generous God.

Previously published on Sweet Monday

The month of January ushers in a time of mixed emotions for most people. Thanksgiving and Christmas have passed. We have sung the famous song about forgetting old acquaintances. By all appearances, the ground outside looks desolate and barren. Daylight is at a minimum, while darkness threatens to engulf more than just our nighttime. We hear a lot about how January is a time for new beginnings, but the word “new” sounds a little hollow. If this scenario describes you, I have some encouraging information that I hope will lighten your mood.

Everything you and I know and understand in the realm of the world’s dimension like time, weather, and even people is cyclical; they regenerate, always as a promise at the hands of our Creator God. The earth rotates while circling the sun, creating interesting weather patterns that cause the various seasons we enjoy. But this is not a science lesson; it is a reminder of the faithfulness of the One Who sets all things into motion and keeps them in motion. God’s love for his creation is all around us. He created humans with a longing to know him by showing us the beauty of his nature. God gave his Word as a “compass” that always points north toward the truth in Jesus Christ. As Christians, how fitting with the celebration of the birth of Jesus behind us in January, we now look forward with anticipation of Easter and the fulfillment of God’s promise.

Friend, if the long days of winter begin to get you down, remember that God is the Author of hope. Open your Bible and let the Son-shine through the reading of his Word. Jesus breaks through the darkness and says, “I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:5, NIV).

Have a happy and blessed 2020!

Previously published on Sweet Monday

As we prepare to celebrate the Christmas season, the atmosphere seems to carry a hint of hopefulness for humanity. Like the feeling of closeness when snow is falling, the peacefulness one senses is almost tangible. Shopping, we focus our thoughts on others in anticipation of purchasing the perfect gift. We sing along to all of the well-known seasonal songs and carols, smiling at the slightly off-key harmony. The lights in the shop windows and houses glow almost as if sending a welcoming message of warmth and hospitality. Everywhere we look, we see angels, shepherds, Magi, and of course, Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus, who are all part of the Christmas story.

The Bible tells us very little about the life of Jesus between the time of his birth and earthly ministry, which began in his thirties. We know of one instance during his early life when, at the age of twelve, Jesus was inadvertently left behind after the Passover celebration. In search of him, three days later, his parents found Jesus in the temple listening to and asking questions of the teachers (Luke 2:41-52, NIV). Perhaps it is the absence of information about Jesus in this time period that threatens to desensitize us to the fact that he was entirely human as well as divine. Think about it for just a moment. Jesus was a two-year-old, five-year-old, nine-year-old, and so on, and yet, he remained committed to his mission as the Savior of the world.

When you think of the Baby Jesus this Christmas, remember the cross and why Jesus died; he died so that you and I might live eternally with Him and with the Father. The love of Jesus cannot be measured on this side of heaven; his gift has your name and my name written in red by his blood. Thank you, Jesus!

Previously published on Sweet Monday

“A state of tranquility or quiet. Freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions.” This is how Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the meaning of “peace.” Please reread the definition and ask yourself if the purpose fits your current state of mind. Friend, most of us, this time of year, mainly, exists in a state of chaos; shopping, decorating, and events galore, all in addition to the rest of life that does not stop out of respect for the Christmas season. Can peace indeed be present in such crazy times?

Okay, one more time; go back and reread the definition of the meaning for peace. I hope you see that peace is not contingent upon our circumstances. Chaos follows most of us around like our shadow, the most reliable “companion” on earth! While our life circumstances often find us, our “thoughts and emotions” are not outside of our control.

God intentionally left his home in heaven and entered our realm of chaos and turmoil so that we could know and experience his peace. And, he came, not as a mighty warrior but as a vulnerable baby in total need of care. Jesus put himself in the hands of his created beings, knowing full well what his earthly future held: death. Nevertheless, he brought with him the gift of peace that is ours if we choose to have it.

Obviously, at this time of year, I miss my husband, Richard, who made my world complete through his love. Without him, that world is shattered; one empty chair at my table, one less gift under my tree, and emotional chaos that never goes away. But I believe with all of my heart, that as the angels delivered the message of “peace on earth” into a world of disorder over two thousand years ago, their news is just as relevant for us today. I pray that you will experience God’s peace in your world, no matter the circumstances.

Previously published on Sweet Monday

Can you believe it? It is that time of year, again, and the Christmas shopping list seems to get longer each year! For some reason, the whole holiday season has crept up on me, and although Thanksgiving was later this year, I wonder where the fall disappeared?

Maybe you can relate to my dilemma? If so, we all have some really good news, according to God’s Word. The Scripture in Psalm 51 has been a favorite of mine for many years. While you and I may fret over our Christmas list, God tells us plainly that what he desires cannot be bought in a store or online. He does not want, nor does he desire anyone to “do” exercises of self-sacrificing to appease him. Our gracious and loving Lord needs absolutely nothing from you or me, except, “a broken and contrite heart.”

So, what exactly does this mean? In simplicity, it means that we tell God what he already knows about us; we are broken, and imperfect people, standing in the presence of a holy Savior. Jesus has already “purchased” the ultimate, eternal gift, that you and I cannot afford without him. Jesus Christ bought our salvation, purely and simply.

When we look at the nativities this Christmas season, and read the cards that come in the mail about the baby Jesus, I pray that you and I will take a moment to close our eyes and tell God that we have nothing to offer him except our heart and our love. I believe that each time he hears the fullness of our repentance and recognition of our deprivation of soul, the angels rejoice because God is delighted in our “gift.” Happy Advent Season, sweet friend!

Previously published on Sweet Monday

How do we, as Christians, say “thank you” to our loving and generous God?

We hear a lot in our great American society about fairness, entitlement, and getting what we deserve. No, this is not a political devotion; it is, however, a “devotion” to our Creator God who is never fair, never speaks of entitlement, and never gives us what we deserve! For this, every single person on earth and in America can be thankful this November as we celebrate giving thanks.

Many years ago, our family started a tradition at our Thanksgiving feast. We go around the table and invite each guest to say something for which they are grateful. The first year, by the time we made it all the way around the table, everyone was in tears, overwhelmed by the sweet comments being spoken. This is a wonderful and moving exercise. This upcoming Thanksgiving Day celebration, I would like to suggest as Christians, if we have an opportunity to speak something for which we are grateful, maybe express our thankfulness to God for Jesus, and “Every good and perfect gift [that] is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17, NIV)

The older I get (this is a runaway train!) the more in awe I am of what God has done and continues to do for me, personally. This week, in particular, I also look at our country and what the men and women who serve in the various roles do to keep America safe each and every day. To most of us, these precious peacekeepers remain nameless, although many have willingly risked and ultimately given their lives on our behalf. Today is Veteran’s Day. So, would you seek out an armed forces person, or a law enforcement person, and say “thank you” for your service? Whether as a thankful Christian and/or a thankful American, saying the words, “thank you” is fitting, anytime; do you agree?

As we enter the month of November, thoughts of turkey, sweet potato casserole and pumpkin pie consume us as our plans for Thanksgiving Day supper come together. My four grandchildren tell me this is their favorite holiday of the year. Imagine that; presents and the festivities of Christmastime are only second on their list! When I have inquired about why this day of eating until we pop means so much to them, they say, it is because family and friends are all together, with an emphasis on simply sharing time and space for a few hours. We generally have no agenda, other than hoping the turkey bird comes out of the oven on time, but we eat yummy snacks, talk and laugh around the outdoor fireplace (weather permitting!) and make lots of memories.

When we read through the Bible, many of the passages express the importance of food and fellowship. Jesus often gathered in people’s homes, and food is always part of their time together. I’m not really sure why eating is a natural occurring activity when people get together but it seems to work for us.

Over the next week, talk with your family about why they like Thanksgiving Day, and ask them to share some special memories of past celebrations. When I return to this Sweet Monday post next week, we’ll look into a couple of ideas for keeping track of our special holiday moments. Until then, remember that with Jesus Christ, every day is “thanksgiving!”

Previously published on Sweet Monday