"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.