SHATTERED and GATHERED

9/30/11 Life can happen in "shattering" ways. Blots on our life's pages.
Interruptions abounding. Often we are caught unaware.

Revelation 1:17 speaks of the Lord as the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last. I like the way the prophet wrote of that concept in Isaiah 52:12. For the LORD will go before you, And the God of Israel will be your rear guard. As our Alpha, he goes before us----our paths and stage are set by Him as we follow Him. As our Omega He is there in eternity. Amy Carmichael's devotional book, Edges of His Ways, opened my eyes to this glorious truth. Rotherham phrased it thus, "For your Van-guard is the Lord." "He who begins, finishes." (Edges, 9/29) God's there first and He's there as our rear guard. He is first and last and every where in between.

So what's the glorious truth? For me, it was not just the guidance we receive from the One who goes ahead, nor the protection we receive from the One who defends and brings up the rear. It was the job description of the rear guard that had me gratefully seeing Him as Gatherer. The rear guard follows after "to gather us up if we flag and are weary." (Edges 9/30) He gathers up----that's my favorite thought. My rearguard gathers up my mistakes, my bumbling intentions, all the detritus that I have left on my life's path and He takes care of them. He is first and He is last, and we are gathered up in-between, as in great arms of eternal lovingkindness. (Edges, 9/29) So, as we travel on into another month we need not fear: Eternal love is our Vanguard, the glory of Eternal Love is our Rearguard. (Edges, 9/30) His everlasting arms will gather us up.

FORTRESS OF FAITH

9/28/11 A fortress of faith sounds even sturdier than a wall of faith. It was today's Commercial Appeal newspaper’s lead in to Rabbi Grossman’s Rosh Hashanah message, but it reinforced my latest THOTS (Trusting Him On This Subject): walls/fortresses of faith are “besieged by hostile forces.” The Rabbi was recalling as an 11 year old finding his mother crumpled in the floor and crying because “her mother, eight sisters and one brother had perished in the Nazi gas chambers.” (CA guest column, 9/28/11) In later years, he read on the walls of such a gas chamber, Psalm 44: 17, "All this came upon us, yet we have not forgotten you." He ended with prayerful words, “May He who makes peace in His high places, make peace for us and all of Israel.”

I concluded that there can always be love, peace and respect for mankind in my wall of faith.

THOT: The mortar that holds my wall together must be grace. His grace extended to me. That grace extended by me to others. L'Shanah Tovah Tikatevu or “Happy New Year” to my dear Jewish friends who will probably serve apples today, in one form or another.

DOORWAYS

9/27/11 "Keep evil at bay TODAY," was a thought bantered around at H2H last week. Sounds easy enough but when it comes to making right choices in a fallen world, not always so easy---especially those kudzu thoughts. They start with just a simple crack in the doorway to your mind. Soon they take over. So what's one to do?

Erect a wall of faith. Brick by brick. Cemented with God's word. Similar to Isaiah 28:13 when Isaiah built his hearer's knowledge of God's truth "precept upon precept, line upon line" in order that they might not have to fall backwards, be broken or snared. Which is sadly what happened when they didn't build on simple truths. Their wall of faith crumbled. Where was the cornerstone of their faith? (Isaiah 28:16) Eventually the cornerstone of their faith was rejected. (Psalm 118:22) Theirs was not a stable edifice. They opened the door to deceit and closed their ears to righteousness.

An open doorway to an unrighteous mind can start with just a toehold of complaint, bitterness, resentment or anger.

Simple two point answer of what one is to do: build a wall of faith through the study of God's word; don't open the doorway to your mind to impure thoughts. Stop them at the threshold. If it opens slam the door loud and clear with the truth of Scripture.

"ALL THINGS CONSIDERED"

9/26/11 "ATC" with the voice of Robert Siegel often catches my ear if I’m in the car late afternoon. Yesterday’s interview with Rachel Held Evans really caught my attention. Mrs. Evans, an evangelical Christian, has spent a year trying to live out biblical instructions for women. My favorite part was when she told of the Jewish orthodox woman whose hubby “sang” Proverbs 31 to her on the Sabbath as a way, not to push her to do all written therin, but to celebrate all that she had done for her family during the week. That interview had me considering relevant biblical instructions for my own life. Hiding God’s word in my heart was my first consideration.

For today’s Meditating Monday this radio broadcast had me choose “considering” verses that one might deem relevant for his/her own meditation. There are lots. I’m choosing 4 verses that caught my attention. Choose the one that “speaks” to you and then consider it and all things about the verse over the next few days.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:2-5)

Don’t consider yourself wise. Fear the LORD and turn away from evil. (Proverbs 3:7)

Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, (II Corinthians 3:5)

.....and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, (Hebrews 10:24)

Sunday Storms

9/25/11 Warnings postponing my post ---will return when warning is lifted.

Just changed blog because I have storms on my mind.

Storms in life too often interrupt my peace. I prefer joy.

Yet I have learned that striving for that joy and peace is wearisome. Acceptance is key. Accepting that life will never be perfect this side of heaven, no matter how hard I try to make it so. Choosing to see joy in the imperfections and interruptions that life sends my way.

Accepting that I am His in the lull before the storm, in the midst of the storm and in its aftermath.

He Himself is our peace, (Ephesians 2:14)

Looking and leaning toward the Light

9/24/11 Light and water are two of the natural resources necessary for plant growth. These are basics taught in kindergarten.
Like these trees at Ben's Park in Harbor Town are leaning toward the light for growth, most plants do the same thing---looking to the sun for needed light. This often shapes them in a recognizable way.

How similar that is to our own spiritual growth, as we look to the "Son" for growth. Hopefully this shapes our growth in such a way that others can see our Christian "bent."


Water is also a necessity. That's why trees that are planted by rivers have roots that go deep, rooting them to flourish and establishing them to weather storms. How blessed we are to know the One who is the "living water" and who can establish us in His love when we plant ourselves close to His word.

Today I prayed Ephesians 3:17b-18 for my Saturday folks...." And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ."

To which I say A-men---which means , "so be it."

ORGANIZED CLUTTER IS STILL CLUTTER………….

8/21/11 Organized clutter IS clutter…………I know that…… Maryanne Macdonald taught me that in one of her continuing ed organizational classes back in the 90s. But it’s still hard---especially when I found these cute “Dotsy” bins to keep up with my Dotsy Details blog stuff. (Just in case I might ever need it.) I still intended to cull a little---I have always been a lady of good intentions. This time I meant business.,,,,,,,until I got to the sentimental stuff. Then I really struggled. I’ve tried to give it to my children but mostly they say, “You keep it or just throw it away.” How can I throw away…. the best of show rosette that Josh won in the junior horticulture division at the Mid-South Fair....Or Molly’s Italian leather size 0 baby shoes, a “namesake” gift from my college roomie, Molly P….or Buddy’s poem’s published in Ridgeway’s literary magazine, “The Carousel” ?????

I think I’ve justified myself by thinking if I have “like things” together, ( another Maryanne tip) especially if they are color-coded and labeled and stored in alphabetical order, retrieval will be easier. But will I remember this formula? Will anyone ever even want me to retrieve them?

Let all things be done decently and in order. (I Corinthians 14:40) KJV

This verse could have affirmed my rationale except that in context, it really deals with orderly worship. But it did open my eyes to question this pseudo-rationale of mine. Am I worshipping my “stuff?” Is it fitting to hold on to so much stuff saying it’s of sentimental value, when those who hold this memory really aren’t interested? Having just cleaned out 2 houses, following deaths of loved ones, I’ve seen that what one person treasures another can throw in the trash. Eventually most of it will be thrown away. Why prolong the process or leave it for others to do after my death?

Quite a conundrum----but one fact remains, organized clutter is still clutter, even if I can find it easier.

Pausing for a Posting

9/19/11 This "posting" in a dear friend's kitchen gave me pause. Pause to think about my own life. Is my heart so hid in the Lord that to truly understand me, one most know Him. Is that true in your life?

May my soul glow with the e†ernal divine occupant of my being so that others might see Him.

Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. (Colossians 3:2-3)

Leaning.........on Love

9/17/11 I such a weird little bird when it comes to note taking----very visual. Several of my journals allow for this so I avail myself of those "provided lines" underneath or beside the text. But.....that's usually not enough. I find myself dating, jotting, scribbling or drawing on the text itself.

Thursday's (9/15) Jesus Calling entry brought me back to "leaning." I saw the One who is Love, as "the One" on whom I can lean---not self.

The word lean wasn't even in the text but the essence of it was----if I'm still working harder and harder to be worthy, to be accepted by His love, I'm leaning on self, not on the One who loves me regardless. Thus the leaning L ( ⁄ for love) is there to remind me to lean on the One who loves me---without condemnation. Without "my" work and strivings. Just with my willingness to lean.

SHUTTERED! SHUDDERED! SHATTERED!

9/15/11 It was shuttered. I shuddered at the thought.

You know it’s coming…..but it’s still a shock. A neighborhood institution that is no more. It’s almost like a death.

Border’s Bye-Bye

Kurt in “Sound of Music” sang it well. “So long

farewell, auf Wiedersehen, goodbye. I leave and heave a sigh and say goodbye -- Goodbye!”

Borders has shuttered its doors for the last time. Sadness looms for the regulars. It’s been a part of our lives since ‘95, I think. Friday night dates. Saturday morning coffee (tea) klatches. Three different school library accounts. Educator’s week specials. The red Border’s Rewards card for perks.

Connections. That was the real perk. Joanne who knew my reading preferences and led me to so many books I might have missed. Gail, at check-out, who always asked about Molly and “little’ Owen. Kim’s daughter in the café, whom I never got to say good-by to because when I went for my last cup of hot tea for old times sake, both the cuppa ingredients and Kim were no where to be found. “Red,” whose name I don’t know, with his big smile and long stride, was a regular on Friday and Saturday nights. I think he walked from a near-by home. An adult with childlike ways.

Connections to be sadly missed.

Bumping into friends. Friends who knit. Storytellers. Aspiring writers. Fellow teachers from former schools. Former students. How truly sad I am.

No more smells of new books or fresh brews. No more bluegrass pickin’ sounds on Friday nights. No more children in the aisles and sitting on the platform in their area. No more seniors bumping elbows around the “bargain books” table. All this will fade away as another bookstore collapses & bites the dust. How sad!

Not only did I shudder when “they” shuttered those glass doors for the last time, I realized that my “Borders” retirement dreams had been shattered. Dreams of spending mornings there browsing the new releases, scanning the travel section and maps and enjoying a cuppa while reading magazines too esoteric for a subscription, but a pleasure just the same,

Good-by old friend---you will certainly be missed by this household.

Reading Rekindled

9/14/11....but not as an eBook on a Kindle or Nook, or iPad but with a real book. I gave the book One Thousand Gifts to a dear friend----not one of "the" gifts that I mentioned yesterday that I will be distributing for this next year---though I do feel that the gift was God ordained. He had me buy the book in Dallas to give away, even though I had never read it. That's a big "no-no" for me. To date I have read parts, but my friend has read it and it has ministered to her in a big way. She told me about the website/blog of the author---a "Holy Experience. Said author is a talented writer, young, married to a farmer and homeschools six kids, not exactly my peer, but her blog has a way of sharing God's grace regardless of age. What I like is that she focuses on seeing life as a "gift" and encourages everyone to live fully where ever God has placed them.
It has rekindled my interest in reading this book in its entirety because seeing gifts from God and passing them on is my new pursuit of sorts.

September 13, a "Medicare" birthday

9/13/11 You know you are old when.....your birthday cards look like these or have messages that say, "a (medicare) birthday is a good time to remember that potbellies can be kind of cute."Another one welcomed me to the "wonder years--- "....wonder where my glasses are, wonder where I parked my car, wonder why I bought bok choy, wonder why everything hurts, wonder if I locked the door,"----you get the idea.

Misery and aging both seem to love company--some one else who understands. So.....it's fun to laugh together and celebrate God's grace in giving us another birthday.

Daddy always said that he thanked the good Lord for every day he gave him. He truly saw each day as a gift. In part, aging brings about that realization of the gift that life truly is, especially as one reflects on loss of friends, who will never celebrate another birthday.

With my MAC (cancer) diagnosis in "09, I, and my friends, made special efforts to get together and share "time" and other gifts of caring. Today 3 of those very friends are no longer living and I realize how important those gifts of encouragement were. It's time for me to give back to folks of God's choosing. So....I've asked the Lord to guide me through the next year in giving gifts each day to those He brings to mind or puts in my path. (The fearful part of me wanted to give self an out and put week, not day) It might be food, notes or prayers, a visit or donation or the wrapped variety---but I want it to come from Him.

I hesitated to write this because it's sort of like standing up at church when the leader asks those who are "willing" to pray, support or go to literally take their stand by getting up out of the pew. It's putting yourself under scrutiny----holding self accountable, as those who see your "stand" will be judging your actions. Though in my case, I think anonymity will also play a part because a "glory hog" is not needed. It has to be His work. To God be the glory.

Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. (I Thessalonians 5:24)

"Lean on Me"

9/12/11 Son Buddy would often sit at our piano and play (by ear) songs that we requested. Elnora always asked for "Lean on Me." Then she'd lean over and whisper, "I want him to play that at my funeral one day." It's not a spiritual song but often as Buddy's audience of one, she felt like it was just for her.

"Lean on me, when you're not strong, and I'll be your friend, I'll help you carry on."

We all need someone to lean on at certain times in our lives.
Today's (9/12) Streams in the Desert's entry speaks of a leaning side. Those sides of weakness when we especially need to trust the Lord "to extend His mighty arm" and steady us on our leaning (weak) side.
My leaning side is often in my understanding of how to discern His will/path for me in the "dailies" without "self" getting in the way. So....I need to be reminded to "lean" on HIm and not on self.

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (Proverbs 3:5)

Verse 6 follows with the affirmation that if I do this, He will direct my paths. He does the hard part, I just have to "lean."

Guest Bloggers

9/11/11 This entry keeps coming to mind everytime some one comments on my DotsyDetails blog or e-mails me a profound †hought based on †ruth. Points to ponder or questions to ask myself. A new perception of an old familiar verse or hymn. Insight into suffering. An interpretation of a Jesus Calling entry. A thank you. A great acrostic or just a funny “religious” cartoon to make me smile. All are encouraging. Thus today’s verse with some perceptions and encouragement from 15 “guest bloggers”---6 of whom, I’ve never even met.

… that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love …” (Ephesians 2:2)

Carolyn (MS) I have never had a problem trusting Him for my life, but for other things?? My actions say I don’t. “Practicing the Presence of God,” (from your blog) I need to be speaking to Him more throughout the day. (copy of e-mail still wedged in my Jesus Calling 9/9 entry w/ ? for self, “Do my actions reflect trust?)

Carolyn (AL) I used to say that “wait” is a four-letter word. Although wait still has only four letters in it, I’m learning to see that waiting is only tolerable through the power, strength, and grace of the Lord. A powerful lesson to learn and one for which I am so truly grateful.

Rachel (NY) The same God that you trusted with every breath before the news (cancer) is the same God who reigns over you and protects you now.

Debbie (MS) Glory to God whom we can trust because He alone can give “the grace-filled capacity to face the unthinkable and be fruitful in the unimaginable.” (When I Lay My Isaac Down, p. 377)

Edie (TN) The words on your blog convey such a sense of peace, trust, and joy that I am overwhelmed. Thank you for sharing them and know that they serve as encouragement as well as direction…..

Norm (TN) The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.

Karla (TN) A friend in choir gave me a Jesus Calling. Now I can read along with you. Later found out she even knows you---a true “God thing.”

Maggie (CT & FL) I ordered Jesus Calling so I can be with you daily through His words. (& this book)

Sarah Young (Australia—author of Jesus Calling) Dotsy, I read your pithy-with-punch blog with great interest. Well done!

JoAnne (TN) Please do not stop writing. Your writings remind me of devotionals as they spur me on in my real life relationship with Jesus. It’s theology wrapped in skin and handed off to us.

Mary Flo (TX) What a joy to read your blog, and yet it left me wanting more!!! Loved the mailman story (w/grandson) & of your walk with him. I was thrilled to know that your favorite hymn is Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing…MINE, TOO!!!

Agnes (France) Interesting how the Father seems to be saying the same things to His children, even though separated geographically by great distances. Years ago I heard Dave and Karen Maines on a Moody B.I. radio program, telling about their family's "Where did I see God in my life today" journal. The idea caught my attention and I began my personal journal, putting in writing each evening some incident or way in which I had seen God in my life that day. After awhle I stopped, but later while re-reading some of the entries realized the tremendous value of recording God's faithfulness. So it's become part of my daily life. A great way to REMEMBER God's presence, whether in big or little ways - but can anything that our great God does be called "little"?!.

Ron (NC) The spiritual angle you bring to your life events is very refreshing and inspirational.

Jenni (MS) I have no idea who you are, and I’m sure we have never met….. but today I stumbled on your blog. Isn’t it awesome to see the hand of the Lord in our “coincidences.”……Please know that another stranger has prayed Romans 8:26) for you today. (4/9/10)

Michèle (Germany) Dotsy---your faith will be your fiercest ally during the challenges ahead, though you have no idea yet of what that “mountain” will truly entail. Here’s her blog excerpt “…… battles against this disease are much more taxing than mine was, which leaves me with little other than prayers to offer…except that I am a survivor. I’ve been there, (cancer mountain) climbed that, and now have the “view” to prove it. That alone, even without words put to it, carries a victorious message.”

As Michèle’s blog continued I realized how universal it was for any of us facing trials and sufferings in life.

“Whether they’re emotional, physical, or spiritual, the mountains we’ve conquered are not ours to own, but ours to share. We might not always want to revisit the pain we’ve suffered or the crippling we’ve endured, but if we don’t offer them to others as a testimony of God’s sustenance and love, our fellow travelers may not have to courage to find their way to the top.

“I am reminded of the responsibility we have, as survivors, to stand at the top and call down to those still struggling to the summit. Whether they’re emotional, physical, or spiritual, the mountains we’ve conquered are not ours to own, but ours to share. My encouragement to you? Speak of the treacherous paths and looming precipices you’ve known, tell the story of your climb, the tale of your survival. And when you’ve reached a place that is beautiful and stable and “breathable,” call down to those who follow and tell them of the strength that comes from surrendered weakness, of the peace that comes from vulnerable faith. Tell them that you stumbled. Tell them that you wanted to give up. Tell them that you were bruised by doubt and battered by despair…but that you made it. You. Made. It. And the view from the summit of survival? It’s priceless.”

Unity embraces Uniqueness

9/10/11 Walking in the door to the Ukraine team's "report gathering," I was offered a cuppa by the team leader. What a surprise treat. Sometimes it's hard to be a tea drinker in a coffee world. Yet, this team leader remembered my preferences and though I was probably the only tea drinker there, I felt accepted, embraced even. Special, actually.

As the gals gave their report, I began to sense their own acceptance of the uniqueness of each other and of the ladies whom they went to serve on their recent mission trip. Unity ensued.

All those present today could see that unity. Unity among team members that extended beyond themselves to embrace all members of the Ukrainian team as well as camp attendees.

Their excitement was infectious as they gave example after example of the diversity that was the crux of the †rip. All languages, nationalities, and ages, mixed with believers and non-believers were valued. Differences in spiritual gifts of the team were recognized/accepted and shared with Ukraine women and children. Similarities of their womanhood were celebrated among leaders and participants as their diverse backgrounds and unique talents were applauded. What a trip! What a blessing for all involved---even those of us on their prayer team!

Kudos to Cathy, Graziella, Pam and Shirley for being the hands and feet of our Lord, traveling a world away, embracing uniqueness as a part of unity, while serving others the "cuppa" of their choice. How special the Ukrainian women must have felt!

KUDZU Thoughts

9/9/11 Kudzu….the weed that eats the South in the summertime. (can’t remember where I read that.) So true of that invasive plant. Sort of like wisteria, give it an inch (you know the rest)---but at least wisteria has pretty blooms.

How do you combat kudzu? Can you even keep it in check? Is there anything good about kudzu?

My thought life can be like kudzu if I don’t hold it in check. “Take every thought captive.” ( I Corinthians 10:5) An unchecked thought life can be destructive. Sometimes on the roadways, kudzu can take on the form of animal shapes, a Kud-Zoo, of sorts…..but underneath, living trees can be smothered and barns and cabins are so thoroughly covered as to be on no use. That’s also what can happen to my uncontrolled thoughts, especially if I have been “wounded” by the actions of another.

Can anything good come out of kudzu? Today’s CA advertised a “brown bag lunch and learn” at the Memphis Botanic Gardens, “Cooking with Kudzu.” (Had link) A positive life approach resemblant of “if life gives you lemons, make lemonade.”

So how do I make a positive thought out of my resentment toward my “hurter” when it pops into mind. First thing is to begin to pray---forgiveness is key. Filling a mind with thankfulness and rejoicing always helps too. (I Thessalonians 5: 16-18) BTW, rejoicing when the offender has put on a few extra pounds does NOT count. That’s just a kudzu thought disguised---your heart will reveal the real motive.

See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. (I Thessalonians 5: 15)

All people----even the one who is the source of your kudzu thoughts.

*Blog in honor of dear friend, Abe, who when playing Scattergories™ with "K"s puts kudzu as the answer for every category b/c as he puts it, “Kudzu covers everything.” I think he has a point!

JIFFY COOK

9/7/11 A gourmet cook I am not. I'm more the "easy" recipe type, especially if I can experiment without much fear of messing up. It's really just toast (of the burnt variety) that gives me such a bad name.
Lately I've had to cook to make room in my pantry. Remember my hubby is a bulk shopper, so we can end up with a couple of cases of dry goods rather than just a few boxes. Thus yesterday's "Jiffy" cooking spree. Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; (Ecclesiastes 9:10) The banana bread made with the biscuit mix provided 3 small loaves to share with friends, though its texture was a little too cake-like for me. The corn muffins made enough to share with a friend & her hubby---though my favorite use for that muffin mix is as an addition to the corn pudding recipe that the kids love. I even made muffins for neighbors but their flight was delayed so......they're gone now.
All of this to say that even if one isn't a great cook or doesn't have a pantry of gourmet goodies, one can still share from her larder. Sharing pleases Him. Impressing man would mean I would have to wait until I had gourmet recipes (and the ability to follow them) with exotic ingredients on hand. (And that's probably not going to happen at this house, where creative concoctions are more of the norm, as is using whatever is on hand,---especially if there's lots of it.) And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; (Colossians 3:23)

Friends take warning, if you have a September or October birthday you might see "Jiffy Mix" in your future. But.....it will be packaged with love and sent with a birthday prayer.

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. (I Corinthians 10:31)

SFT

9/6/11 Those initials had an impact on Luke, the golfer in the film, “Seven Days in Utopia,” as in his golf game he sought to see it, feel it and trust it. Can he learn to “never follow traditions for traditions sake?” Can he follow the voice of truth (& not his dad’s)? Will he choose to no longer play for acceptance because excellence will be his coach?

Though Roger Ebert’s (thumbs up, thumbs down critic) review said he would “rather eat a golf ball than see that movie again,” I applaud this somewhat Hallmark-like movie, not only because it’s decent but because it gives hope for those who might not know their life’s purpose. There’s more to life than winning putts, first place trophies or fat paychecks. Walk in purpose.

SFT "See His Love, Feel His Presence, Trust His Word". A powerful message for life.

During yesterday’s televised Deutsche Bank Championship, Webb Simpson (unheard of to me) sank the putt in the playoffs to win the tourney and become #1 in the FedEx Cup point standings. Following that winning birdie putt he lifted his index finger and pointed heavenward. During His acceptance he first acknowledged the Lord. Wow, now I’ll know his name. I’m glad I heard the speech because I saw no print record of it today in newspapers or on-line.

I think SFT is more than a part of Simpson’s golf game; it’s an integral part of his life’s journey.

(W.Simpson Picture from ESPN/Boston)

Summer’s End

9/5/11 After the blistering days of July and August, today’s 70ish temps are not only welcome but hopefully glimmers of fall temps to come. As Labor Day is the unofficial last day of summer, I’ve decided to celebrate with the childhood memory of blackberry cobbler and hand-cranked ice cream. Mother would use the last of the summer wild blackberries picked by us from thickets, along roadsides ----literally a “sticky” endeavor. If you’ve never picked, you haven’t experienced the joy of the stick from those thorny barbs which grow alongside those sweet berries. It makes the flavor of the cobbler all the sweeter. As S. Sifton states, “The taste is summer condensed and intensified.” (NYTimes, D7, 8/31/11)

Of course, we added homemade ice cream atop our steamy bowls of cobbler. It, too, was all the better for the cream was a family “labor.” From the going to Ellis ice plant, just a few streets east of the train depot, in the Alstheler and Payne Livestock truck (that wasn’t really a truck) to pick up our block of ice, brought out to the platform by a guy wielding those big tongs, to the chipping, with the wooden handle ice pick, of the ice for the ice-cream freezer (and a little for Mother’s iced tea, which the was best, especially with all those chips and slivers of ice) to the sitting on the steps of the latticed back porch awaiting our turn to crank, (Somehow the adults made is seem a privilege to “crank.”) it was an all day affair. But what a sweet, mouth-watering memory of a childhood Labor Day as the Adams family said good-by to summer at 2211.

To everything there is a season, 
and a time to every purpose under the heaven:… a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2)

Sunday Sermonette

9/4/11 What great joy to have your daughter share her notes from today's Fellowship Memphis' sermon series, "Saving the Save: the Gospel to the Religious." (Kingdom Sculptors)
Her Matthew 13 marginalia emphasized the kingdom of heaven. She explained the "the Tares" and then shared "gospel footprints." She has been pondering Bryan Loritt's two questions. Are you leaving gospel footprints where you walk? If you left your neighborhood, would there be a gospel void? Good thought provoking questions for today's Christians.

Since dinner was in the making, we had to end our discussion much too soon but she told me the Lewis quote that she hopes to keep at the forefront of her thoughts this week.

I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. (C.S. Lewis)

A sermonette with much for this Christian to ponder.

Porch Perspectives

9/2/11 Porches. What are they good for? Absolutely everything!!

Growing up, it seemed that all the houses on my block had porches. 2211 had two. The front porch was perfect for whiling away the hours in the 1950 era summertime as you kept cool and kept up with the goings on of the neighbors.

We also had an L–shaped back porch that was latticed. It was a shelter from the elements. On rainy days Mother hung her “delicates” on the old wooden drying rack ad I played with my Terry Lee doll. It also had some rickety open shelves, one of which, housed our “exposed” house key which IF we ever locked our house (which I have no memory of every doing) we and our neighbors and everyone else could readily access. The steps of said porch were where I sat with Daddy as he taught me the intricacies of opening and eating sardines---those tins with the key on the side that took some ingenuity to get to roll open the can in order to partake of those oily little stinky fish inside. I don’t know how much I liked the sardines but I d remember liking the time with Daddy. He loved them.

It seems that I equate porches with relationships. Growing up they were gathering places for family and friends. Folks would often stop just to sit a spell if we were sitting on the front porch after dinner. Some of my favorite old pix are with my own family sitting in the metal porch furniture at Mother and Daddy’s for a quick Kodak moment. Probably because they take me back to simpler, slower, quieter times----times of relationships.

It seems to me that we could all use some porch sittin’ in our lives. Since our porch is nothing more than a small "one-step up" entry and the heat has me retreating to the coolness of the AC, I’ve decided to put two chairs out front under my birch tree. It seems like the neighborly thing to do.

I’ll let you know how it goes.

DANCERS

9/1/11 Can you clearly read the inscription on this "Hallmark" card? "In this world, there are DANCERS and there are critics." The inside reads, "Happy Birthday to one of the DANCERS."
Do you ever wonder how others would classify you? I do. When I received this card years ago from my friend Ellen, I was humbled. Humbled because I knew what a critical spirit resided within me and so did my family, especially my children. I think I rationalized that I needed to be realistic with them and too often I think it robbed them of the simple joy of being a child with big dreams and hopes----which I probably dashed with said realism.

So what does constitute a dancer? In my life "dancers" are defined by spirit, more than moves on a dance floor. I have many in my life and I aspire to be like them. I hope to introduce a few of them to my blogging world as I delineate just what makes them stand out in my life. The fact that I have seen two of them recently has all of this on my mind.

How 'bout you, reader? Are you a dancer? Or, do you justify criticism as you "rain on someone else's parade?" Psalm 149:3 speaks of "praising His name with dancing." I can only imagine the praise and delight that is lifted heavenward every time our steps/action are seen as a those of a "dancer" in someone's life.