"blus-TEA-ry"

....... for the wind was against them. (Matthew 14:24, ESV)

Three weeks ago in Brooklyn, with 2 yr old Lucy, we experienced a "Winnie the Pooh" kind of day. Blustery! BIG winds! Cutting winds! Biting winds! Wind chill of 17º!

I wanted to "retreat" to books and an indoor tea party but......son Josh just bundled up Lucy and went forth, noting that in New York one doesn't give in to the weather, but "dresses" appropriately and rides it out. Just another "winds-day."

Winnie the Pooh: Happy "Winds-day", Piglet."

Piglet (being blown away) "Well... it isn't... very happy... f-for me."

Life can send winds that seem to blow against us. Strong winds that threaten to blow us over. Stormy seasons. Often, when that happens we have a "Piglet" approach of negativi-TEA.  But God....can use those storms to drive us to Himself-----with an increased intensity in our prayer life.

This was brought home to me this morning as I opened sweet Katya's email sent from Ukraine:

From one side it is such a hard time of uncertainty and inability to make plans and look into the future. It’s been hard for me to think and also explain to other people why we are bringing a new child into this world that can outburst with a war any minute. But from another side it’s a perfect time to practice out trust to God and to see how real our love and faithfulness to God. It a wonderful time when many Christians are expecting and looking thoroughly to see the Lord in each day! It’s a wonderful time when the Lord is stirring hunger and thirst for Him! It’s a wonderful time with many opportunities to be real in Christ and to show it to those who are close, by serving to them! So our nation and we, as a family, are very blessed as God is at work with us! HE is close and He is Real and Faithful!

Well said, Katya.
Truly a warm cuppa of good at-TEA-tude during one's "Tea With Thee" time can turn a blus-TEA-ry day into a "positive" event.

SABBATH SNAPSHOT: "tea" titles

3/30/14 The proverbial, "You can't judge a book by it's cover," is a way of warning us that outward appearances are NOT necessarily indicative of inward quality. (i.e. true character of a person) Even knowing this truth, I realize how easily I'm drawn to an actual book by not only it's attractive cover but also by its catchy title, specifically certain words in a title. The words "tea" or "dance" are real hooks for me.

Friend Tricia is even drawn to books for me in this same way---thus my acquisition of these two books from her.

The Tea-Olive Bird Watching Society was a little mawkishly predictable but who can resist a book with this blurb about a story replete with coconut cake, grits and bird-watching: "These resourceful women....know the proper social response to any situation----what casserole to bring after a wedding, what pie to bring to a funeral, and what kind of soup works best to poison your best friend's husband.....Trobaugh transforms what appears to be a cozy Southern novel into a darkly humorous tale of women who take care of their own." It 's reminiscent of Arsenic and Old Lace and one is left to draw her own conclusion of the outcome!

Teatime for the Firefly takes place in India in 1943. That alone is a draw for me as "spiritual sisters" from Memphis and Ukraine have traveled to this country to minister to women there. Plus, the story is set against the backdrop of Assam tea plantations.  A cuppa black assam, my fave, is a perfect reading accompaniment for this somewhat poignant story enriched with culture and history of the Hindus, Muslims and British colonists during the WWII era.

Layla, the protagonist, raised and educated by her grandfather recalls her first sight of the tea plantation. "It came upon me like a breathless surprise. the tangled beauty of the Assam countryside parted to reveal waves upon waves of undulating green. so pristine, so serenely beautiful that my senses were shaken. (p. 173)

Later on the veranda, the author sprinkles in a lovely image of the fireflies, the source of the title:

“A handful of fireflies descended from the sky and winked softly around us,” Layla tells us. “I watched a firefly land on a teacup. It pulsed softly, lighting the translucent bone china with sharp flashes of ethereal life.” Manik’s reaction, after letting the firefly crawl on his finger until it winked away, “I love sharing my teatime with fireflies.” (p. 189)

Trobaugh's writing is lyrical and I found the love story element unique in spite of the cultural "norm." Yet, the tone of the writing changes somewhat as it mirrors those changing times in India, especially the transitional time in Indian society for women.
The story takes place 4 years prior to the nation's independence from British rule. Violent riots were already beginning on the tea plantations of Assam and casualties began to occur as the British companies removed their protection. Wives of the planters had choices to make---most of the wives were British....but Layla and her husband were both "educated" Indians, which was unique.

I enjoyed my teatime with this book except for some of the realistic "language." There wan't much considering it was a 427 p. book. However in the last chapter I had to read over words that I don't use, don't like to hear used, and don't want to read them. I was grateful for the epilogue which brought resolution to this story, while leaving the door open for a sequel.

"Directionali-TEA"

The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when He delights in his way; (Psalm 37:23, ESV)

Have you ever struggled with finding direction for your life? Which way to go? Where to turn for help? Even when one knows the "direction to heaven," (John 3:16) she can still need direction for the daily grind. God's Word certainly offers needed direction.

So.....why is it so hard to "let go and let God?" Excessive over-planning can wear one out. So....why continue in that "insanity?"

I've decided to stop asking those questions in my mind and start reading:

Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.

Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.

Isaiah 30:21, And your ears will hear a word behind you, "This is the way, walk in it," whenever you turn to the right or to the left.

The Lord delights in the one who chooses to follow Him, as Psalm 37:23 reminds us. I like the comfort offered by that verse but I also hang my "faith hat" on the verse that follows, especially when I make poor choices or go off on my own path.

When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, Because the LORD is the One who holds his hand. (Psalm 37:24, NASB)

Regardless.....when one's life rests in the hands of the Lord, all directions lead to Him!

Directionali-TEA---to be sipped in that blessed assurance.

"loyal-TEA"

...Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it. (John 2:5, KJV)

Loyalties abound in our world---tho usually more trivial, that foundational these days. Companies release long-time faithful employes and the younger generation seem to switch jobs/careers at the "drop" of a hat. Interestingly enough it seems as if those passionate loyalties belong more to our sports teams, favorite brand of coffee, an environmental cause or a contestant on "The Voice."

Even in Christian circles, many are loyal to their "notions" of Christ, but how many are loyal to Him?" (My Utmost, 3/28) Loyalty to Christ means one has to step out, as Peter did, (Matthew 14:29) when your "intelligence" tells you otherwise. Are you willing to take a step of faith in whatever the Lord has called you to do?

Fill me up Lord, with loyal-TEA to Thee!

"Loyal-TEA," sweetened with an attitude of devotion, is a "pleasant cuppa" to share with the One who is not only a Promise Maker but also a Promise Keeper!

"proximi-TEA" : a Re-Brew

Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly. (Psalm 5:3, NLT)

Still pondering those times of proximity to the Lord, I realized that often I am drawn to Him during times of trial. Hard times. Heavy heart times. 

Suffering or sharing in someone else's suffering pulls me to my knees and lifts my head and heart to Him. It's not my favorite way to seek Him but it is one of the surest and swiftest----pain, especially of others, tugs at my heart and in turn I tug at the Lord's heart. 

Physical pain. Emotional pain. Chronic pain. Seemingly hopeless situations. Without God's grace, both they and I can grow weary, lose heart and sink into despair. 

I prefer to enter into His Presence through praise and singing---sadness and sorrow is just too wearying. But God....showed me thru Crickett's H2H lesson on Psalm 66, that the way into the Lord's Presence is the same...whether I come with a heavy heart or a light heart. It's through WORSHIP. Worship starts with praise and thanksgiving, regardless of how one feels. 

"A heavy heart lifts on the wings of praise. " (J. Roberson McQuilkin) 

Dr. McQuilkin speaks our of his own pain as he shared in his book, A Promise Kept, about leaving the presidency of Columbia International University to care for his wife, who was suffering from a physical and mentally debilitating illness----Alzheimer's. He concludes that "in acceptance there is peace."

I sense the darkness and hopelessness in situations of loved ones. I "feel" their pain, but only as a sideliner. How long before relief comes? Does acceptance come first? How do I help? What do I pray? 

Proximi-TEA---a big cuppa is needed---Tea for Two. Shared verses as reminders of the Lord's nearness. Shared prayers. Shared joy from being in His Presence with the same purpose.

Prayer: Oh, Lord may we start with praise for all the treasures you give-----treasures You can give that are hidden in this darkness, this hard dark place. Grant secret riches from your hand as "we" wait on You. Thank You for the life lessons of patience and trust which can be learned as we draw near to Thee.

Thank You, Father God, that You are close, You call us by name, and You keep us hidden in the shadow of Your hand until this great darkness is lifted. Praises for Your grace that can keep us from growing weary and losing heart as you strengthen us by the power of your might that we all might have patience and endurance during this hard time....'til we might joyfully give thanks. May our hearts be lifted on wings of praise as we pray in Jesus' name.

(Isa. 45:3, 49:2 and Colossians 1: 11)

"proximi-TEA"

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.....(James 4:8, ESV)

Proximity can indicate being close---whether in space or in relationship. These days there are even sensors to measure proximity----sensors able to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact----possibly being used, along with satellites, in the search for the missing Malaysia Flight 370 jet.

When I spend time in God's Word, I can sense the nearness of His Spirit, without physical contact as well.

My "Tea with Thee" times are showing me the importance of nearness to the Lord. Intimacy comes with closeness. Proximi-TEA is key. It tends to open my soul to His Presence.
Sometimes I "arrive" at this point through prayer or a verse from scripture. Today, recalling the words of an old hymn (sung with Mama Davenport standing by my side) and humming that tune of "Near to the Heart of God" drew me right into His holy Presence.

There is a place of comfort sweet,
Near to the heart of God.
A place where we our Savior meet,
Near to the heart of God. (verse 2, UMC, 472)

Proximi-TEA says it all---open Bible on my lap with my cuppa in one hand and my heart in His.

"eterni-TEA"

And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (Romans 8:23-25, ESV) 

My NIV Bible division for Romans 8:18-30 is labeled "Expectant Living." A title that expresses today's living reflecting one's hope for eternity. A reminder to live well because of that eternal promise.

“Lord, stamp eternity on my eyeballs.” (Jonathan Edwards) Edwards quote sums it up. Such a focus transforms our perspective. Sufferings of today are not worthy of comparing to the glory that awaits us---eternal security with Christ. 

Edwards, with a little chutpzpah for a theologian in 1730s,  adds; 

"Resolved, never to do anything which I should be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life.” (Jonathan Edwards)

I like Edwards "eternal" perspective---I'll drink to that---a cuppa "eterni-TEA."

"Diversi-TEA" : A Refreshing Cuppa

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. (Revelation 7:9, NIV)

Overwhelmed with emotion. That's how many of us felt at yesterday's mission conference service. Praising and singing "How Great Thou Art" together, in many different languages, to the One True God.

Vietnamese voices, African voices, and for the first time the me'phaa translation from our Tlapanaco Indian friends from Mexico.

Oh Lord, my God
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the works
Thy hands have made
I see the stars
I hear the rolling thunder
Thy power throughout
The universe displayed. 

Then sings my soul
My Saviour, God, to Thee
How great thou Art
How great thou Art

I am the Way (El Camino), the Truth (La Verdad), and the Life (La Vida) (John 14:6)

"The way will lead you home. The life will make you whole. The truth will set you free, will set you free." (Ron Man, 1993)

Uni-TEA of belief poured forth with tuneful diversi-TEA!

SABBATH SNAPSHOT: "productivi-TEA" not just "activi-TEA"

Mary Ewing pointed out the disparity between the vernacular of the Medicare grandmoms and the language of the young (both moms and singles) she heard at the recent Downline Women's Summit.
"I have been "crazy busy" all week. how about you? Me too---"crazy busy," the young mom answered. These girls have to get up "crazy early" to even have a semblance of a quiet time.
"Crazy Busy!" "Crazy Early!"
Mary thought , "I don't talk like that." 

Me either, Mary. "Busy, certainly. Overwhelmed, at times, but "crazy busy" isn't a phrase in my vocabulary. But God....knows it and even had a young pastor, Kevin DeYoung, write a book with that title, in the lingo of the Generation Y folks.

Crazy Busy, A (MERCIFULLY) short book about a (REALLY) Big Problem. It really is a great book for the "stressed out" of any age.

Beware the Barrenness of a busy life. Remember activity and productivity are not the same thing.(Rick Warren)

"Crazy busy" is defined as frenzied activity---trying to do all one can do in order to impress, please or control others. That type of busyness is diametrically opposed to the "busyness" of Christ, who went about discipling and building relationships.

DeYoung breaks the book down into a simple outline---3,7, and 1; 3 dangers to avoid (chapter 2), 7 diagnosis to consider (Chapters 3-9) and 1 thing you must do (chapter 10)

Questions this book will have readers asking themselves:

When people ask you how you are doing, is the word"busy" almost always included in your answer?

Do I want to keep up this same "busy" pace the rest of my life?

Am I over-programming my children these days?

Am I trying to do what God doesn't expect me to do?

Do I expect to never suffer?
Could I go an entire day without checking my Facebook?
Could I even go an afternoon without looking at my phone, especially when I hear that "text" alert?
Am I more engaged with my thumbs than with my heart?

The "Deep Calls to Deep" chapter had me "thinking" the most because "tech talk is tricky." (p. 78)

As DeYoung says, some things are better because we are wired but somethings are not better. It's the insatiable appetite for constantly being plugged in that has one hungry to be fed the way the Net feeds us----immediately. That seems to be the danger. Most folks now depend on the internet for information and activity. (p. 80-81)

We seem to "keep downloading information, but rarely get down into the depths of our hearts. (p. 82) That's "crazy busy."

"Diversi-TEA: : Re-Brew #2

And then he told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. (Mark 16:15, NLT) 

"Go ye into all the world."....that verse kept coming to mind as I watched the depressing "world news" on NBC tonight. We are diverse and yet in many ways, we're just the same. We all need hope.

Diverse----maybe NOT so much. Many cultures seem to be searching God's word for hope and understanding. We're even drawn to the same verses regardless of the translation.
Most popular Bible verses in the top 10 most populous countries are shown to be very similar. (Bible Gateway'a missiographic link)

Check out what people from all nations are "searching for."
Love, hope, guidance, strength.

These 10 countries were tops in the missiographic global Bible searches.

These results gave me lots to think about as I pondered this World view snapshot. Diverse cultures? Yes? Same needs? Yes.

Psalm 23 was listed in every country but Indonesia. The Bible books of Psalms, Genesis, & John were also repeated.

Diversi-TEA. Sip it with a friend and share God's unconditional love with them.

"connectivi-TEA"

And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to all who are to come. (Psalm 71:18, NASB)

iPads, iPhones, iPods, e-mail on my iMAC----so many devices to allow me to stay connected with my grands. (grandchildren) But....do they allow me the ability to connect spiritually? Maybe in the not so distant future, when I no longer have voice or possibly can't even find my brain, then hopefully this blog will continue to be a reminder of God's truth that was such a part of their grandmother's life. That's the legacy I want to leave them. A life well-lived. A life lived for God.

A cuppa connectivit-TEA sweetened with a God-filled legacy to keep my "grands" and me connected on the spiritual level in the years to come, regardless of the condition of my mind or body.

***Interestingly enough---this thought was on my mind 4 years ago today as I blogged about the "grands" visiting. Very similar activities---we even have a "tummy bug" once again. Plus, now there's another boy in the family. 

"tea-lightful" : a Re-Brew

Your words were found and I ate them, And Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart;
For I have been called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts. (Jeremiah 15:16, NASB)

Many things in life bring delight to us. Time with loved ones. A vacation in the mountains or at the beach. A field of yellow daffodils on the first day of spring.

In our family, food often brings delight. Even many vacation stops are planned around unusual restaurants.
Delightful food. Yummy food---which often varies with our age. A waffle bowl of ice cream for the grands. A cuppa for me. Peanut butter and jelly for the grands. Benedictine for me.

One of the bench marks of Christian maturity, is a hunger for God's word. A thirst that only His words can satisfy. Scripture meditation delights my soul.....as does being called by His name--Christian.

What are you eating lately? (ea-TEA-ng, as Corey said)
For me, noshing on God's Word is "tea-lightful."

"vitali-TEA" : a Re-Brew

....I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life.....(Deuteronomy 30:19-20, NIV)

With so many "tea" and life choices available these days, I need to choose vitali-TEA. It is vital for both my children (with grands) and me to choose life with Him.

So many choices in our world today.

True vitality comes from listening to and holding fast to the One who is Life, the Lord our God. (John 14:6)

"impulsivi-TEA"

For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:13, NIV)

Impulses can rule, and sometimes ruin, my day. I can dart ahead----of God. I can act without asking His direction. I can choose to NOT act because of my own laziness or excuses, even when I sense God's quiet prodding. I rationalize that I can respond LATER.

Oh, the pull of impulses. Some should be resisted. Others should not. Some impulses are more of an acting on a sudden whim, without giving one's actions much "careful" thought. Those can have a negative effect on one's day. But God.....showed me that when I'm living in the Spirit, His impulses have already been thought through and planned ahead and I need to follow His guidance.

A Spirit driven life is one of controlled impulsivity toward God's ways----obedience is required. Even if one has mis-understood an "impulse," as God given, God can honor it.

Impulses to pray. The pull of my prayer chair.
I had better fill my cup of controlled impulsivi-TEA and move toward Him.

"Mo-TEA-vating" : a Re-Brew, of sorts

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV)

"Meditating Mondays" were a part of this blog for years. A verse was given. Observations and interpretations were shared. Application was usually left up to readers. Last week's blog entry about the mo-TEA-vators in one's life, emphasized the value of the application aspect of Scripture meditation.

Motivating Mondays. "Mo-TEA-vating." Sounds good if it means putting hands and feet to the life lessons God is teaching through meditating on His word. Encouraging and exhorting others with God's truths, as one interacts with those whom God puts in his/her path, is application, at it's most practical. Why is motivating others with encouragement and exhortation so important? God's word answers that.

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. (Hebrews 3:13)

Mo-TEA-vating cuppa---filled to the brim with encouragement and exhortation and served to others. Lots of others.

God's love being poured out into our hearts (Romans 5:5) should be all the mo-TEA-vation that one needs........to pour His love out to others.

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: novel-TEA

Sometimes a little "light" bedtime reading is what I put on my plate. Easy to digest---not too much suspense. As I age, the tension of suspense can be a little much, especially if sleep is next on my list. Gone are the days of James Patterson's too scary Alex Cross series and Patricia Cornwell's, too gory Kay Scarpetta, Chief Medical Examiner. Likewise Sarah Paretsky's, V. I. Warshawski series.
Just give me a good cozy mystery. Think Agatha Christie. Scene of the crime (usually a murder) happens early on in the book and then the deduction takes over. Granted, many such books are not "well-written" and a series can become trite and too predictable after awhile. A lot of "hit and miss" to find a little light reading---a bit above mindless fluff. Recommendations from others help. But....all readers have personal preferences.
Whereas I chose the "Cat Who......" series by Lillian Jackson Braun, my friend's choice of Sneaky Pie, talking cat books, was NOT for me. I read cozy culinary mysteries as well---Laura Child's, Tea Shop Mysteries and Katherine Hall Page's caterer and pastor's wife Faith Fairchild's The Body in......series. Anyone who knows me would understand my draw to those two series. However, the 2 tries I had at Joanne Fluke's Hannah Swenson's series didn't pass muster for me. Many differ in that view. So.....that's what reviews are---just personal preferences, nothing more. Each reader must decide for herself.

Friend Beth and I share the same affinity for two British based series, a Maisie Dobbs series, an investigator in World War I London and a surprising find, Alan Bradley's Flavia de Luce series. Bradley's first book won the "Agatha Award," which is the Cozy of Cozy mystery books award. That award has led me to many "good reads."
Having recently finished The Dead in Their Vaulted Arches, I realized I had missed a holiday one. Immediately I called Beth, who buys books, whereas I am an avid public library patron. She, as always, willingly loaned me the "missed" copy, but said that since I had already read the most recent one----well that would be a "spoiler" of great proportions. Some series can be read out of order....BUT, I always like to read in order, even when not necessary.

The Flavia de Luce series is unique and award winning; Agatha for Best First Novel, 6 other mystery awards as well as starred reviews from Library Journal, Booklist and Kirkus. Unique because the incorrigible, precocious, yet plausible, sleuth is an 11 yr old chemistry "buff," living in a cozy English village in the 50s. You might be gobsmacked by some of the British jargon but to me, that adds to the charm. Boston Globe calls her a combination of Eloise and Sherlock Holmes. The protagonist is a preteen but the reading audience is adult.
This adult enjoys the novel-TEA of  this "light" fare.

"Tea for Two"

Do to others as you would like them to do to you. (Luke 6:31, NLT)

Lucy and Alice have been "friends" since birth. Now at age two they are beginning to "explore" the ends and outs of friendship, namely sharing. What an adventure to watch these two exert independence while learning to practice the "Golden Rule" from the Bible. Sharing is a difficult concept. For a toddler it usually means, she has it and I want it---"she won't share."

These two have already gotten a handle on it---beyond their age, I think. They even watch out for one another and sometimes their conversations are similar to listening in on a conversation between "little old ladies."

"Lucy could you hold my hand, while I rock and then it will be your turn."

Okay Alice, now it's my turn. You hold my hand now."

Even while serving each other tea, they were polite (for awhile) and poured each others cuppa---even putting their napkin in their lap.

Ah-h-h the joy of sharing tea with a friend at such a young age. "Tea for Two" who are not quite 2 ½.

"reciproci-TEA" : a Re-Brew

but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another,...(1 John 1:7)

"At every turn in life, we are reminded of the importance of friendship," Donna T. included in the Taylors' monthly newsletter.

Donna said it well. "Friendship holds out 2 hands---one is the giving hand and the other is the receiving hand--both of which are important. One stands in the gap and offers help to another, while the other is filled with love and support from another."

Reciprocal Friendship---shared, felt, or shown by both sides. For me the best example of a faith relationship begins and ends with reciproci-TEA. It's a 2-sided friendship.

Friends are part of the glue that holds life and faith together. Not sure who said that, but I get the idea. For me, friends in the faith have the added dimension of fellowship. Reciproci-TEA at its finest. It's a lot like sharing a cuppa---intimacy over a cup of tea.

Friendship with fellowship is the real superglue of the Christian faith.

I'll sip that cuppa reciproci-TEA anytime.

"securi-TEA": a Re-brew

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

Having a cuppa T2 provided by our New York guest house "host" gave me a warm, secure start to what was to become a fun day with our Lucy. "All's right with the world".....at least our little corner of it.

But, both a phone call from our daughter and an early morning email from sister-in-law, Susan, questioned our security. It seems that yesterday while we were treating Lucy to strawberry pancakes at Tom's Restaurant in Brooklyn, there were 2 "explosions" in Harlem. Folks 1100 miles away heard of the shock waves before we did.

How fleeting security is. How fleeting life is. (Psalm 39:4)

Security in our culture often refers to at least a "semblance" of protection for us and our assets. I say, "semblance," because reality can be so different from the outward appearance.---it's still only perceived security. Our only real security doesn't come with wires, alarms or even fat bank accounts. Our security rests only in Him.

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. (Psalm 16:8)

That's the "focus" needed to walk the pathway of real securi-TEA!

"mo-TEA-vators"

As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.                                           (1 Thessalonians 4:1, NIV)

Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more, (1 Thessalonians 4:1, NIV)

Who or what motivates people these days? Who or what motivates me is the better question?
A recent Sunday sermon by Jason Seville, coupled with the reading of gods at war by Kyle Idleman, kept that question whirring in my head. Maybe a rephrasing of the question would give more insight into one's character or theology. Who or what mo-TEA-vates me to living right?
Christians, like all people, need encouragement and exhortation for "right living." A tandem. A duo that seems to go together. Seville calls them "A pat on the back and a shot in the arm." Encouragement. Attaboy! Attagirl! Dr. Scott Morris, Director of Church Health Center said his father taught him, "Everybody wants a pat on the back---I want it, you want it, a dog wants it." (Commercial Appeal, 3/3, M1)
In the letter from Paul to the church in Thessalonica, we see his encouragement. He encourages them as he relates what he is seeing in their lives. A life style that pleases God. A love for all of God's family. But Paul doesn't stop there. We read Paul's exhortations of these good and godly acts which are already a part of there lives, as he urges them to do more and more. Finally, Paul commends them to "encourage one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:18) A shot in the arm.

"Grands" mo-TEA-vate grandparents to "live right."

We also need to dispense encouragement and exhortation to others.

"Mo-TEA-vation" is a cuppa we need to share.
"Mo-TEA." More and more!

Battlefield "tea-ology" : a Re-Brew

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law
(Joshua 1:7, NIV)

Marching orders were  given to Joshua. (3x in v. 6-9)

Be courageous.

Be careful.

But God.....doesn't leave Joshua and his people there alone. He reiterates time and time again----"I will be with you; I will never leave your nor forsake you. (Joshua 1:5, 9)

Recent sermon by son, Buddy, on the leader, Joshua, pointed out that God's most repeated command in scripture is, "Do not fear, or don't be afraid or to be courageous, the inverse of fear." Obviously the Lord realized how much fear would factor in to the lives of all humanity. Knowing how vulnerable mankind, even His own people, would be to fear,  His "don't fear-type" commands number 366, more than any other command in the Bible. That's one for each day of the year, even if there's a Leap Year. Thus, promises of His Presence and the reassurances that He would never forsake His own, seem to go hand in hand with those commands. Promises that do more than assuage their fear, are available for all who trust the Lord.

"To fear is to be human---but God says, trust me." (B. Liles, 3/2/14)

Courageous faith with careful obedience. That requires a constant cuppa trust.

"Priori-TEA Time" : a Re-Brew

O taste and see that the Lord is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! (Psalm 34:8, NASB)

Though a "re-brew" of sorts, this morning's brew was a picture of the intimacy of my "priori-TEA time" with the Lord. 

One cup tea pot. 

A one cuppa brew. 

Personal. Private. Necessary. 

His word fills me up with more of Him. He pours Himself into the cuppa of my life. 

I can sip and savor throughout the rest of my day. 

Because first thing this morning, I chose to "taste and see that God is good."

SABBATH SNAPSHOT: battlefield "tea"-ology

3/9/14 Brother Buddy gave me Kyle Idleman's book , gods at war, and the title confused me.....until I saw the sub title, which was in all CAPS----"DEFEATING THE IDOLS THAT BATTLE FOR YOUR HEART."

CONVICTION! I had never looked at idolatry in that way! BUT GOD.....does.

Idolatry is the #1 issue in the Bible.....coming into every book. More than 50 of the laws in the first 5 books are aimed at this issue.... and in all of Judaism, it's one of only four sins with the death penalty attached. (Idleman, p. 11)

Many somewhat innocuous sounding idols are listed (food, achievement, family)----and don't seem like a problem in "my" life----until I read the Idol ID section at the end of each of the chapters and realized that I, too, kneel at said temples of worship. Choices reveal the "gods/idols" who sit on the throne of one's heart.

But, like God's word, after "hitting us right between the eyes," Idleman gives hope. Hope imbedded in scripture. Hope that is available when we "choose Jesus."

I battle so many things in my mind which are really heart issues. When I see idolatry as a "heart issue" I know I'm in a BIG battle. I need to RUN right back to the heart of God.

Guide, rear guard, tower of strength, deliverer---all positions needed in war----all provided by the one true God.

SATURDAY RE-BREW: "Liber-TEA"

Set me free from my prison that I might praise your name. (Psalm 142:7, NIV)

THe psalmist David moves from complain to confidence in this maskil. (a psalm of instruction, yet prayerful in nature) Though didactic psalms are not usually my favorites, verse 7 speaks volumes to my heart and offers comfort.

God can set me free from my "prison,"...... I have occupied several prison cells in my mind over the years. I have been a prisoner to the approval of others, a prisoner of worry and a prisoner of self-pity. Even depression, which I sense this psalm alludes to in verse 3. "When my spirit grows faint within me....." Have you ever been there? Been so imprisoned by those dark thoughts that your entire body seems weakened? David was there---in a dark cave and "brought very low." (Psalm 142:6)

That's why this psalm brings comfort---the thought of God setting me free from those anxious and self-critical thoughts. What relief.

But....the verse doesn't stop with, "God can set me free from my "prison." It goes on to give the motive. Relief is a motive that might first come to mind. But is relief a pure motive? Is there a motive that speaks to the greater good?

In all of one's life's choices, motive is key. Motive reveals our heart. ".....that I might praise His name." The conclusion of the verse states the pure motive of praise and glory to the Lord.

That's the pure cuppa "liber-TEA"---
a cuppa that  might provide warmth of comfort and relief...

BUT, it pours out in praise.

"Flexibili-TEA" " a Re-Brew

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16, KJV)

Sometimes "light shining" requires a little flexibility and a lot of trust. Yesterday's letter from Shane Stanford to his congregation at CUMC bore witness to that truth. After many weeks (44 ?) of treatment at Mayo, Shane said the results were disappointing. But....he concluded his letter with the Matthew 5:13-16 exhortation.

Pastor Stanford knows what it's like to live an upside down, inside out version of life. He's dealt with an HIV-positive lifestyle since age 16. He, as all of us, had a choice to make both then and now. 

Even at that young age and through his seminary years, Shane knew he had a choice: he could feel sorry for himself, or he could live as faith-fully and boldly as possible. Choosing how to live out that grace would be the key to making his life matter. (Positive Life)

Was this most recent diagnosis what he had hoped for? Certainly not. But God....through Shane will continue to achieve His best plan for both the Sanford's and their large church family. For Shane, the new plan will be very similar to the old plan. "I plan to continue leaning on the only real source of strength I have ever known—Jesus." is how Sanford puts it.

"More importantly," he states, "I believe that God has only begun to use this journey for His Glory!"

Note the sheep which is still right-side up.

Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be "bent out of shape," even when their world seems to have been turned upside-down. Not a beatitude...but at "tea-attitude" of flexibili-TEA.

"reciproci-TEA"

So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith. (Galatians 6:10, NASB)

There was no agenda or requirement. No pre-arrangement. Just simple give and take among believers.

I stopped by to check on a friend and she offered me a cup of tea. Then another friend dropped by to bring her lunch. Then, said friend gave us both "imported" cookies, which she had received, via mail, from Marika, her daughter-in-law. We were all blessed.

Ah-h-h a warm cuppa on a cold day served with friendship to folks in the faith.

Just giving and receiving. Conversation and cookies shared by believers.
"Rciproci-TEA" at its finest!

A Priori-TEA? Absolu-TEA-ly!

My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto Thee, and will look up. (Psalm 5:3, KJV)

Do I believe that priori-TEA times are important for one's relationship with the LORD?

YES,.....BUT.....today my early morning "quiet" schedule was just a "stab" at a true "Tea With Thee" time. Lots of "valid"---at least, valid to me, reasons. 

But God...in His grace granted a reprieve of sorts when a great time slot (between 1:30 and 2:30) opened up for a longer time of prayer and meditation. AND....isn't that what a quiet time is all about?

How special that my tea pot time was "spot on" for my afternoon cuppa raspberry decaf.

Time with the Lord. A priority? Absolutely! But.....keeping the intent of my commitment is more important than my "normal" checklist" & that mentality helped assuage my guilt.

Plus, the Lord filled me with Psalm 5 tea words:

• ..for med-Tea-tation (v. 1) from this "all those in communi-TEA" lament of David's. (v. 11 & 12)
• Priori-TEA of early prayer times in David's life. (v. 3)
• God hates iniqui-TEA. (v. 5)
• Recognition of the mul-TEA-tude of God's mercies. (v. 7)
• David's humili-TEA  in worship as he must have been prostrate before the holy temple. (v.7) Dr. Constables's comments on this verse gave me the idea of an at-TEA-tude of vulnerabili-TEA in worship. (Sonic Light, p. 25)
• Consequences of guil-TEA behavior of the wicked. (v. 9-10)
• Visibili-TEA of trust and joy in the lives of the righteous (v. 11-12) who walk in the straight way. (v. 8) 

"Tea with Thee." Priority accomplished? Absolutely! 

"sen-TEA-ment"

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself....(Acts 20:24, KJV)

Sipping my morning brew from a cuppa with much sentimental value had warm nostalgia tugging at me as I began my Tea With Thee time. Certainly, there is a place for sentimentality in our lives. My "stuff" reflects my sentimental nature. I have LOTS of sentimental "tea" items.

But God....through today's My Utmost for His Highest entry, "Could This Be True of Me?" (3/4) got my attention. "It is easier to serve God without a vision (or call) because then you are not bothered by what God requires." Oswald Chambers likened such behavior as "actions guided by common sense, veneered over with Christian sen-TEA-ment."  Not focusing on "what God requires." Service for the Lord is NOT a place for sentiment. Sentiment can give a distorted spiritual picture. More me than Thee. Just a veneer to make my service look pretty.

Chambers' entry spoke to my heart because I am so influenced by my emotions and feelings----that it can become a detriment. Plus, I'm pragmatic to the core and both emotions and practicality can be a deterrent to "abandonment to God." (Chambers)

May I pray, as Chambers concluded. "Lord may I not consider if I am of use but may I only consider that I am Yours. May I serve You and do only what you require---act with justice, love kindness and walk humbly with you, O God." (Micah 6:8)

"Priori-TEA" Time

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33, KJV )

Priority Time. A new brew for an old familiar term, Quiet Time. Karin Conlee "coined" this term, or at least presented it to me and a "packed" room, at the Downline Women's Summit. 

Fellowship with Father God. A time to be with Him. Spend time with Him. Seek that first AND then all else is added. God can even redeem the time. There is NO substitute for this time.
Jesus set that example when he slowed His own pace of ministry----teaching, healing and discipling, to pull apart and spend time with His Father. (Matthew 14:23)
Even as one matures, this time is just as important, if not more so.

There is a need for intimacy with Him---to know Him better, that we might love Him more & be enabled to love & serve others well. That teaching has resonated in my mind over the last 6-8 months. From books, various pulpits, blogs, and messages from friends, I know God wants me to pay attention to this GREAT commandment. (Mark 12:30-31)

Intimate time in fellowship with Him is key to embracing this truth as a part of my daily walk. A time just for  me. Me and Thee. Not an accomplishment time.

So.....it can no longer be just a quiet time----it must be a "priori-TEA time" AND it might even get a little NOISY with praise and singing.

There's already been a good bit of caffeinated cuppas consumed during my "Tea With Thee" time, synonymous with a "prioi-TEA" time, so it can "rock, " on occasion.

A priori-TEA cuppa serve with a little sweet bread and a lot of truth from the Bread of Life.

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS : Liber-TEA

3/2/14 Sue Monk Kidd's rich writing in The Invention of Wings (2014) shows the atrocities of slavery & its effects, which are well depicted in the voices of Sarah and her slave girl Hetty aka "Handful." Sarah, a wealthy Charleston girl, received Hetty for her 11th birthday, though she strongly protested.
The easily readable format is 1st person entries, which alternate between the two female protagonists.

The wispy feather on the frontispiece seems to foretell Handful's desire for liber-TEA. Maybe that's why her collection of feathers to stuff the story quilt were so important----giving strength and resolve to one day "fly away."

Hetty "Handful" Grimké was 10 years old when her mother told her  the "malarkey" of the time in Africa that "their" people could fly. Hetty knew that they were slaves and they had no such magic. Though often she dreamed of "flying away."

Her dreams reminded me of the old gospel song, 

"Just a few more weary days 

and then, I'll fly away.

I'll fly away, O Glory, I'll fly away.

When I die, Hallelujah, bye and bye,

I'll fly away."

Hetty was taught verses of scripture by Aunt-Sister and other slaves BUT she remained a handful, bucking "obedience" in many ways. Yet, she remembered she was a "person under God." (p. 324)

After losing her mother, Hetty said, "I couldn't do a thing but walk the yard trying to siphon my sorrow. The sorry truth is you can walk your feet to blisters, walk til Kingdom-come and you never will outpace your grief."

Sarah, on the other hand, at age 4 witnesses a scourging of one of the slaves and becomes mute for a week. "My words seemed sucked into the cleft between my collarbones. I rescued them by degrees by praying, bullying and wooing. (p. 11)
She tried to grant Hetty her freedom but her parents thwarted and ridiculed those plans. In teenage years she regretted her pathetic protests but mostly she feared ostracism of family. "I feared it most of all!" (p. 17)
Where Hetty had a dominant personality, Sarah lived in shadows often "romanticizing the life she didn't choose (p. 295), and the recalling of failed events "hollowed out little pieces of my chest." "....the phantom of what might've been, the terrible allure of it could still snatch me." (p. 339)

Still, throughout the book, one sees Sarah's attempts to grant liberty to Hetty. Teaching Hetty to read was another of Sarah's "against the law" acts----but a bond created by that act had lasting effects. It was a foretelling of Sarah's life course as she, along with her sister, Nina, became a prominent  abolitionist.

Sarah and Hetty, two women trapped within lives and times of pre-Civil War days, both in roles they seemed helpless to change----yet both ultimately grow into extraordinary and inspirational women. Monk documents this in her afterword.

Admittedly the topic of slavery is one which makes me feel supremely uncomfortable. Often, I avoid books like this, they make me feel both angry and sad, yet moved---as did The Book Thief. Other readers might want to avoid it for those same reasons. BUT....I'm glad I read it. It is well written and much of it is documented to be historically correct, though it is a work of fiction. 

This book is more than just a glimpse into slavery. It's full of word pictures, at their best, or in many ways, at their worst, because of their horrific depiction of those inhumane truths. Liberty at a time when there was none for so many people of color.

Slavery does not liberate. Slavery dehumanizes. Today it's called human trafficking.A grave violation. Human liberty remains crucial. Slavery and exploitation are the antithesis of liberty, regardless of the era.  We need NOT to forget. That's why this is a worthy read.

"chari-TEA" : a Re-Brew

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. (Galatians 5:13, NIV)

Today's speaker at Downline Women's Summit, Lysa TerKeurst, caught my attention when she said, "when I've done something for someone else, I like to be noticed and thanked." "Whereas," she continued,  '"a wise-hearted woman has a servant's heart."  Such a woman "tucks her quiet acts" of un-noticed areas of service, where only God sees. Not done for the eyes of others.
I imagined such gifts of love, in the area of financial service, being given anonymously. Without tangible reward---name on a plaque or thank you gift included when donation is given. Conviction!

Charitable type of love is in an overflow of one's love for the Lord which allows one to serve others well. It is not a love that needs credit.

Charity in the Hebrew is tzedakah---completely voluntary or a religious obligation---typically seen as a moral obligation, a charitable giving to be performed regardless of financial standing, even by poor people. A works-orientation of sorts.

These actions can certainly be seen as "acts" of charity BUT greater still are those same works which are done as an outpouring of love from God, Himself.

If one becomes more interested in keeping the commandments to establish one's own merit than in loving others, then the message is lost. Even if one serves others out of obligation to observe the law, then it is done for "self "rather than for the "others" one is appearing to serve. In such a way, that service fulfills one's own desires. According to the Greek translation, charity is love. (1 Corinthians 13:13) BUT is fleshly service, "charity" without love? Charity without love, is that an oxymoron?

True charity is God's work. We are but His hands and feet to show Christ's love to the world. Charity is expressed by serving one another. When the object of our faith is Christ, who loved us, we are motivated and empowered to express His kind of love to others. His Love Works.