My husband gave me a gift card for my birthday and I purchased the last of the trees for our orchard as well as some blueberries and herbs.
Which means the orchard is finished and the blueberry garden is halfway there.
We have four bottles lambs and they have to be fed regularly.
I start out their first week feeding them every two to three hours.
We’ve gotten a milking dairy goat, and two bottle goats, all Toggenburgs.
So, I am back and forth to the barn several times a day and up before the Sun to milk.
Our local FFA had a plant sale last weekend and we got our tomatoes.
Those are planted and our pea plants are growing and…
There will be strawberries!
I can hardly wait to show our grandchildren the first ripe berries of the year.
I’ve learned not to point out them unless the berries are close to ripe or our grandson will eat them.
He cares not if they’re green, white, pink, or ruby red.
But in the midst of all my activities, I’m enjoying the sight of white strawberry flowers.
I”m thankful for this season.
Although, full to the brim with duties, it’s also a season of anticipation.
The seeds sown, the baby animals born, the buds and blooms on trees and bushes are all moments of beginning which brings thoughts to what will come.
It is a perfect season to reflect upon the newness one finds in Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV — Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
The drastic change which comes over the life of one who surrenders all to Jesus Christ rivals the beauty of the showiest flower.
For unlike the bud that opens, casts it’s fragrance aloft, is pollinated and then dies to make way for the fruit, those whose hearts are made new through the atoning blood of Jesus, grow in beauty daily, as they follow Christ, and are no longer in fear of death.
Titus 3:7 KJV — That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Let us, every one, find opportunity for reflection upon the glorious riches bestowed upon those who have put their trust in Jesus.
With every Spring flower may our hearts be reminded of the promises of God and that glorious future.
For to God be the glory, great things He has done and is doing!
1 Timothy 6:12 KJV — Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word! Thank You for the truth of Your salvation and the hope I have in heaven. Lord Jesus, thank You for the beauty all around me pointedly reminding me that there is a future and a hope. Jesus, thank You! I could never earn such a future nor be able to attain anything on my own. It is because of You and through Your Holy Spirit that I am able. How great You are and greatly to be praised! Lord Jesus may Your name be glorified! May Your truth be proclaimed! I love You, Jesus. Amen.
It had been raining all day and in one moment the Sunbeams broke through the clouds and bathed the wet landscape in gold light.
Then it was past.
The grey mist of stead rain dropped like a curtain.
The momentary pause of the passing storm, reminded me that the beauty of the Sunshine is constant, whether I see it or not, which is a testimony to God.
One day the Sun may stop shining, but God will never stop being God.
Which is even more reassuring, for God is loving, gentle, kind, just, righteous, and holy.
His never changing character brings stability and comfort.
Hebrews 13:8 NKJV — Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
He is always faithful.
Even when the clouds of circumstance barr my ability to see Him.
It’s the same truth three men experienced.
Living as slaves in a foreign land, their owner demanded they worship an idol.
These three men knew the living God and refused.
Their disobedience enrages the man who owns them and he threatens them, that to continue to disobey his command would mean certain death.
But he respects these slaves, they’ve served him well, so he gives them another chance to worship the idol.
Their words are inspiring.
Daniel 3:16-18 NKJV — Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”
These three men knew God was not only aware of what they were experiencing, but that He had the ability to save them.
Yet, they also understood His Sovereignty.
They didn’t assume God would save them just because they knew He could, instead they trust God completely.
They had quiet assurance that either way, God would do what was best.
Daniel 3:19-25 NKJV [19] Then Nebuchadnezzar was full of fury, and the expression on his face changed toward Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. He spoke and commanded that they heat the furnace seven times more than it was usually heated. [20] And he commanded certain mighty men of valor who were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, and cast them into the burning fiery furnace. [21] Then these men were bound in their coats, their trousers, their turbans, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. [22] Therefore, because the king’s command was urgent, and the furnace exceedingly hot, the flame of the fire killed those men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. [23] And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. [24] Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished; and he rose in haste and spoke, saying to his counselors, “Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?” They answered and said to the king, “True, O king.” [25] “Look!” he answered, “I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.”
Of course it was.
Their Lord had saved them, and He has done the same for me.
What beauty there is in His faithfulness!
What blessed assurance those who put their trust in Him have!
Jeremiah 31:3 NKJV — The LORD has appeared of old to me, saying: “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word! Thank You for the beauty which I behold in it. Thank You for Your promises, Your love, Your salvation! It is only through You that people can find treasures which last beyond the grave. Lord Jesus, please encourage those who are Yours to remember Your faithfulness and not be discouraged or downcast from the clouds and rain we all encounter in one form or another. Lord, please help those who are called by Your name to walk in faithfulness and integrity. Lord, for those who have yet to know You, please break through whatever is barring them from the light of truth that they might see and turn from their wicked ways. Lord, I love You and I thank You for Your Word which is the daily proof of Your unending love. I love You. Amen.
“My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.” James 2:1 KJV
The phrase, “with respect of persons” can be translated “with partiality” or “showing favoritism”.
Jesus Christ died once for all.
“By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Heb. 10:10 KJV
James continues:
“For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?” James 2:2-4
Therefore, no one should look at their fellow man and withhold the truth of the Gospel.
Some might say, “But not all will be saved.”
This is true, but there is no person who can know the heart of another and thus, it is wrong to withhold the Gospel from any.
For man looks on the outward appearance, but God sees the heart.
“But the LORD said unto Samuel, ‘Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.'” 1 Sam. 16:7 KJV
One might respond further, “But you don’t know what they have done!”
True, but that question can boomerang, for does any know what each one of us has done?
Yes.
God does.
This is why He sent His Son, Jesus.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” John 3:16-17
Jesus was sent to pay the sins of all, and those who put their trust in Him and not themselves will be saved.
Therefore, those who have already accepted His free priceless gift should be careful in their behavior and attitude towards others.
No follower of Christ should be swayed by another’s status, appearance, ability, or any other thing which might attract or repell one to another.
Jesus wasn’t.
“And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, ‘Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.'” Matt. 22:16
Neither should we.
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” Matt. 28:19 KJV
Christ Jesus’ words to the disciples rings as true today as ever, for it is as needed today as that day.
People need the truth of the Gospel, the example of those who have faith in Jesus and share it as freely for others as it was shared with them.
All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee. For the kingdom is the LORD’S: and he is the governor among the nations. Psalm 22:27-28KJV
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for teaching so clearly that we should never show favoritism when it comes to the Gospel. No one is more valuable than any other. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. It is through You that we find not only salvation, but reconciliation. Our relationship with You is restored. You not only redeem those who put their trust in You, but You work though the Word in our hearts and lives. You bring healing to the soul and understanding to the heart. You teach and exhort and grow those who put their trust in You. Lord, thank You! Thank You for working in and through our lives that we might be a testimony to Your work and Your glory. Great are You, Lord and greatly to be praised! Amen.
Yesterday’s sermon at church was inspiring and I asked permission to share it with you.
“Often you hear me refer to Charles Spurgeon, Matthew Henry, Billy Graham. While my natural desire in preaching is to write down some notes and comment as I feel led, that is not what I am going to do this Sunday. I would instead I like to use the style of Spurgeon, Henry, and Graham and read to you the sermon that was laid on my heart. This is a step out of my comfort zone, as reading out loud is not my strong suit, nor is staying on a single thought. Therefore, this is all the more reason to write out the sermon, to put in succinct order the thoughts on a subject that is vital to our faith.
Of course, the topic of today’s sermon is the Cross and the Resurrection. The very center of our Christian faith. How can one claim to be a Christian without the Cross and the Resurrection, of forgiveness without the hope of being forgiven? For just as 1 Peter 1:21 states:
21…who through Him believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him the glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
The Resurrection gives us faith and hope in God. Yet without the Cross we have no payment for our sins. As Deuteronomy 21:23 says of a man deserving of death:
23 his body shall not remain overnight on the tree, but you shall surely bury him that day, so that you do not defile the land which the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance; for he who is hanged is accursed of God.
Paul goes on to explain in Gal. 3:13 that Christ (Jesus) became a curse for us.
13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree’)
Christ was not deserving of death, but we, as sinners, are. Christ paid for our sins by the Cross, taking on our curse that we may have eternal life.
Ponder with me the Cross that Christ bore for you and me. What is the Cross? This wooden structure, placed just out of town, a symbol of Roman authority. The execution means of which only the vilest of men would die on. I wonder, was the Cross really was symbol of Roman authority or if the Cross should be taken as a symbol of justice? In the sense where someone, who has committed such an act deserving of death, would pay for their actions. It could be debated, that the man who premeditatedly murdered a fellow person may deserve a death sentence or life imprisonment. We would call this punishment: justice. While the punishment would not bring back the victim, there would be some sort of closure or payment for the crime. A sense of justice would prevail and those victims of the crime would say that the prosecuted “received what was due to them.”
Now with this mindset we look to the Cross. A place where the crimes committed against God were paid for and justice was made. For as the word says of the believer in Romans 3.
24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, 26 to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
Christ was the only one who did not have sin so he was the only one who could be the perfect sacrifice as stated in Hebrews 9.
14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
Christ’s perfect sacrifice is the only way to have a pure conscience, for the old covenant would only cover sins, but not pay for them. The sinner still was a sinner, but with a covering of a type of payment, that being the blood of goats and lambs. Make no mistake, there is a difference between the covering of a temporary sacrifice and a full payment of an eternal debt.
If my child fell on hard times and was not able to pay their house payment, I might be able to cover a payment or two, but this would be a far stretch of paying the debt off in full. The bank would come knocking, expecting a full payment when the covering ran out. The Old Testament law was such a covering. The sin offering was a payment to cover the debt, but not paid-in-full, the required amount to be paid. As the author of Hebrews states about the sin sacrifice, it was to be made once a year for the unintentional sins of the congregation. This was just a covering for the year. Not the payment in full. For this reason the Cross of Christ must be at the center of the our Christian faith. There had to be a payment of blood,
14 For the life of every creatureis its blood: its blood is its life.
And let us not forget that 23 … the wages of sin is death
Therefore, because the wages of sin is life blood, only the shedding of innocent blood would replace that of the corrupted sinner. And so, we see Christ the “just sin sacrifice” and the “justifier of our faith.”
As we ponder the Cross and the Redemption made for you and me, let us ask the question “Why the Cross?” Could not Christ have died by stoning or other means? The answer is: no. The offering for sin was to be bound and the blood to be poured out unto an altar. Just as we see in the picture God gave us with the offering of Isaac.
9 When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood.
Just as Isaac was bound at the alter so was our Savior bound to the Cross, a form of an altar according to Hebrews 13. The sin offering bound to the alter, just as our sins bind us unto death. There could be no other means of death for Christ, because the blood had to be poured out on an altar. Christ did this while laying bleeding as he was secured to the Cross and even moreover as the blood and water flowed from the spear entering his side. Thus, fulfilling the prophecy written in Isa 53:5 :
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.
Furthermore, Jesus had to die on a Cross, because it was foretold this would be the manner of death which he would die.
Psalms 22:16 ‘For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet—‘
And also Zech 12:10
10 ‘And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.‘
To the Christian, the Cross is a symbol of mercy and the love of Jesus Christ. A symbol of where the debt was paid that we could not pay. As Hebrews says:
14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.
The Old Testament sin covering replaced by the New Testament payment. For on the altar of the Cross Jesus, the perfect sacrifice, poured his mercy and love out for the wretched sinner. Giving access to you and me into the Most Holy Place.
We have talked about the altar of the Cross, but lets now look to the hope in the empty tomb. As previously stated, the Cross brings the means for payment of sin and the Resurrection brings faith and hope to those justified by the Cross. As Paul writes:
13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep
Christ’s resurrection brings us hope that we will be with him. For in the Resurrection Jesus proves his deity. Just as Hosea prophesied.
2 After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we may live before him.
The Resurrection of Jesus paves the way that we may have the hope of eternal life with him. For if there was no Resurrection, there would be no evidence of his deity. Thus, Jesus’ teaching would be likened to other “prophets”, who passed away. Jesus is not a prophet, but the Christ. His resurrection proves his deity, just as Jesus says about his own ability to raise himself up, is the confirmation that he is Christ. John 10:17
17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again.18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”
If Jesus has the authority to raise himself up from the dead how much more does he have to raise us up, his creation? Christ’s ability to raise himself up should bring the Christian hope for the eternal life promised by our Lord which comes through the altar of the Cross.
Christ’s resurrection brings the hope of being a new creation. The acceptance of the payment given at the cross gives birth to a new creation that is brought to full fruition upon earthly death, in which we will be raised as a finished creation of Christ. As Paul writes in Colossians:
3 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is your[a] life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
The Cross of Christ and his resurrection should bring the Christian to a place where we seek those things which are above. Because our sin was paid for we have assurance of that payment by the Resurrection. For as the writer of Hebrews says:
19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
This curtain being talked about is the curtain that separates the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies. It is the veil that was ripped when Jesus died. This is why the Cross and Resurrection is so pivotal to our Christian faith. For by the Cross we gained access to the presence of God through our Lord, The Perfect Sacrifice. We have the hope of eternal life in seeing our Lord raised from the dead. We have the hope of being made new, of not only finding our hearts of stone being replaced with hearts of flesh, but the sinful man dead and the soul alive with Christ.
Therefore, oh man of God, rise up! Walk in the newness of the Resurrection of Christ. Put off the old man and be made new. Let the garment of salvation envelope you as it is bought at the most costly price but given more freely than any gift has ever or will ever be given. Isa 61:10 : I will greatly rejoice in the Lord; my soul shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.“
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word which gives us such clear insight into Your death on the Cross and Your burial and the Resurrection! Lord, if it be that any who may have yet to know You feel these words are the key to opening a relationship with You, please encourage them to seek to be cleansed by Your payment for their sins and to find hope and faith in Your resurrection. Lord Jesus, please reach those who have yet to know You with this truth and let the world be made aware of the truth of Your salvation through the blood You shed upon the Cross and the joy of assurance that there is eternity to look forward to, for those who would believe on Your name and accept the gift of salvation. Thank You, Jesus! Amen.
I’ve always wanted to make quilts for our children, but after attempting to do so learned; I’m not a quilter.
However, I’ve been very blessed to watch our oldest daughter learn the craft from a professional.
Recently, I had the extreme pleasure of watching them together.
Although both were very busy, they shared their enthusiasm over a blue ribbon.
Both of them put so much work into our daughter’s quilt.
(She pieced it, the professional quilted it, then Sis did the binding.)
It’s truly a beautiful testimony to their efforts.
Each quilt, in the show, bears a few words as to the story of the piece, and my heart was blessed to read the lines our daughter chose.
She made sure to include the lovely lady who has taught her so much.
To see the gift of a useful and beautiful craft passed on to our daughter causes me to rejoice.
For this is a gift from God.
James 1:17 KJV [17] Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
In the Old Testament, God gives detailed instructions to Moses on every part of the tabernacle.
God not only gave instruction on what was to be made, He gave wisdom to the heart of those who would do the work.
Exodus 31:1-6 KJV [1] And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, [2] See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: [3] and I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, [4] to devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, [5] and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship. [6] And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee;
The Israelites had been slaves for several hundred years,so it’s difficult to imagine that many of them had the education in these areas of craftsmanship.
But God is not hindered by one’s education, and He names two men who had been given the Spirit of God and wisdom for all the tasks at hand.
Matthew Henry had an interesting point as to Bezaleel.
“Bezaleel was to be the architect, or master workman, v. 2. He was of the tribe of Judah, a tribe that God delighted to honour; the grandson of Hur, probably that Hur who had helped to hold up Moses’s hands (ch. 17), and was at this time in commission with Aaron for the government of the people in the absence of Moses (ch. 24:14); out of that family which was of note in Israel was the workman chosen, and it added no little honour to the family that a branch of it was employed, though but as a mechanic, or handicraft tradesman, for the service of the tabernacle.” Matthew Henry
The idea that this man’s grandfather could have been the same one who stood holding up the arm of Moses during the battle brings new meaning.
Hur was used by God to support Moses, who in turn, was supporting, through prayer, the nation as the Israelites, lead by Joshua, fought against their enemies.
How fitting that his grandson should be used to help build the tabernacle where the entire nation would worship.
God supplied all that was needed in both settings and He’s still working in the lives of people through others, today.
He is still putting His wisdom in the hearts of people to grant them incredible abilities for the blessing of many.
God is the Master Craftsman, it is His creativity which mankind has been gifted with.
Psalm 115:15 KJV — Ye are blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You so much for Your Word! Thank You for Your good gifts and the multitude of people You bless through those gifts. Lord, what great wonders of creativity are around us daily, all gifts from You, whether we recognize it or not. Lord, thank You for Your creativity and the creation which testifies of You every day. Lord, thank You for people who are gifted in special crafts. Thank You for those who teach others and pass the craft on to the future generations. Lord, thank You for those who bless others without looking forward reward or payment, but are generous because they have been blessed by Your generosity. Lord Jesus, please continue to help each of those who bear Your name to see the opportunities You give and to serve those around them. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.
My son-in-law had just spoken, “Say ‘Goodbye’ to Grammy! She has to go home and feed the lambs.”
Then, he laughed and if you don’t know my son-in-law, Sis’s hubby, you can’t understand the uniqueness of his laugh.
It’s very special and I’m blessed with hearing it regularly from him.
It caused me to turn around, for I’d just handed out baby grandson back to our daughter.
Our other grandson was the reason for the laugh and his response to his father’s instruction melted me completely.
Which was the reason for the pause.
He was putting all his effort into puckering his lips for a “big goodbye kiss” on the cheek.
He’s only three, and words just describe the adorable face of his puckering as he did.
But it was the unexpected affection, which prompted this, which his behavior.
Of course I went right over and got my kiss-on-the-cheek which he bestowed, most enthusiastically, and then looked at his parents with an expression filled with joy.
Oh precious child!
If I could love with that same exuberance my Lord and all who are around me!
Of course, I kissed him on his cheek and squeezed him a good deal.
Next, it was Faye’s turn to be hugged and kissed, but she wasn’t excited about either.
She said, “Grammy, I want you to come inside and eat soup.”
Which was her way of telling me that she wasn’t ready for me to leave yet, we should eat dinner together.
After explaining that I had eaten and the lambs in the tote were very hungry she acquiesced and told me “Good bye”.
They all returned to the house and I drove away, warmed and blessed by the love of my family.
Immediately, my heart overflowed with songs of praise and thanksgiving.
God knows so much more than I do.
His understanding far superior to even the most knowledgeable, intelligent human.
Yet, it is His love lavished upon me that brings me to tears.
For the love i daily enjoy from family and friends is from God.
The love I would be lost without is freely given.
That same love is what inspired me to love, for it’s amazing.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall have eternal life.” John 3:16
Nothing compares to the love of God.
I’m so grateful for His salvation and the innumerable blessings I am bathed in daily because of that.
1 John 4:19 NKJV — We love Him because He first loved us.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You so much for Your Word! For it is through the Bible we come to know You and are shown ourselves as well. Lord Jesus, thank You so much for my husband, our children, their spouses, and our grandchildren. Thank You for our extended family, for the family we enjoy through the body of Christ. Thank You for neighbors and even strangers, for there is such beautiful opportunity in each day just to pray for those around me. Lord, thank You for the huge blessing of our grandson yesterday. I pray I can learn from him and love like that. Thank You for Your sacrifice! I cannot imagine my life without You and Your redemption. Blessed be Your name in all the Earth! Amen.
I began moving chickens into the tractors to elevate problems.
Some of the hens were being pecked to the point of baldness and I was losing eggs to at least one egg-eater.
After nearly a year things have settled down and we have plans for at least two more tractors.
They house chickens year around and we’d like more hens.
There are still a few drawbacks, one being the song birds.
Despite the low profile of the tractors our ground isn’t level and at times song birds get underneath the side to eat the chicken food and can’t get back out.
This occurred today with the tractor pictured.
Only one hen lives in this tractor currently as her friend is on detention in another tractor for egg eating.
I could tell the hen was upset when I went out to check the water, but I didn’t see why right away.
There was a song bird trapped in the tractor and the hen didn’t like it at all.
I tried a couple things to encourage the bird out, at the same time keeping the hen in.
(We stopped free ranging after having a hawk kill and eat one hen and the neighbors lost two.)
Nothing worked.
I think the hen was as frustrated as I, because she finally retired into the nesting box and I was able to propped the door open.
I walked around the tractor to the side where the little song bird lay with it’s beak open panting, the wire mesh between it’s top beak and bottom beak.
It was a pitiful sight.
Too exhausted to even try to fly out, it lay panting, looking up at me in sheer terror.
Thankfully, the hen remained in the box while it recovered and finally flew out.
I closed the door and told the hen she could come down.
Which she did after peeking out to be sure the song bird was gone.
It wasn’t until many hours later I realized I’d made a mistake.
In my effort to get the hen to the nesting box I’d evidently not latched the door to that part as I should have, because it stood open and the hen was having a dust bath in my flower bed.
I tried tempting her to return, first with popcorn and then with freeze dried worms.
Nope.
She was free and going to remain so.
I decided ignoring her might grant her the time to go back in and eat all the treats I’d left her, so I went to clean the chicken coop.
Not wanting to go too far Incase the hawk turned up.
(It wasn’t that long ago when we saw it perched on a garden post staring at the chickens in a different tractor.)
Her buddy is in a tractor nearby where I put the wheel barrow to clean.
She must have decided to visit her because when I came around with the shovel to open the coop, she flew up from beside the tractor her friend is in and took off leaving not a little noise behind her.
I shook my head.
If the song bird hadn’t gone where he shouldn’t have been, the hen wouldn’t have gotten let out of where she needs to be.
But I can’t explain to the hen what incredible danger she is in every minute she’s outside the chicken tractor.
She thinks she’s free and going to enjoy herself.
Isn’t this all familiar?
Don’t people do the same things?
God gives us His Word, instruction for how to live, warnings of danger, and food for our souls, yet people want to be free, to live as they choose, not realizing that this freedom is actually slavery, pain, and eventually death.
It’s a common failing in mankind, but praise God, no one needs to be a slave to sin and their own flesh.
1 John 1:5-10 KJV [5] This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. [6] If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: [7] but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. [8] If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. [10] If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
Jesus Christ has provided all required for eternal life.
All anyone need do is accept His gift of salvation.
Once saved from sin and death, our flesh may still war against the Spirit, but there’s no longer the blind foolish arrogance which snubs the nose at God’s direction, for those who have accepted His sacrifice understand how precious a gift salvation truly is.
It is far too valuable to allow one’s flesh to rule one’s thoughts and actions, rather the costly price of Jesus’ blood brings one into that desire which leads them into both joy and gratitude not only for the gift, but also for His Word which guides, protects, instructs, and draws one ever closer to their blessed Redeemer.
I’m so thankful for the understanding God has blessed me with and grateful for His precious Word.
Living within God’s instructions is blessing and joy and peace.
Which our hen discovered as well when the Sun began to go down.
With the darkness deepening she realized the security of her tractor was where she wanted to reside after all.
Psalm 91:1 KJV — He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word! Thank You for Your blessing and protection through Your Word. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your sacrifice. Thank You for all You have done and are doing. Thank You for helping me understand Your Word and the blessings of walking in Your ways. Lord, I know I have stumbled, I have been shortsighted, I have misunderstood, but I thank You and praise You for Your faithfulness and patience. Please continue to teach me from Your Word. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.
Matthew 26:26-30 KJV [26] And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. [27] And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; [28] for this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. [29] But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom. [30] And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.
As a Gentile, there’s things about the Passover which escape my notice.
Until Sunday School this weekend, I had not asked, “What hymn did Jesus sing.”
Our Sunday School class which meets an hour before service has been going through the Gospel of Matthew and someone asked that question.
The Jewish tradition is the singing of the Hallel, which is the Psalms 113-118 during Passover.
The meal ends with 115-118.
Thus, Pastor turned to read Psalm 118.
He read and all listened.
Psalm 118:27-29 KJV [27] God is the LORD, which hath shewed us light: Bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. [28] Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt thee. [29] O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: For his mercy endureth for ever.
Pastor Eric looked up from his Bible and surveyed the room.
“Can you imagine it? Jesusthe sacrifice, sang ‘Bind the sacrifice with cords, even until the horns of the altar,’ as He was going to be sacrificed upon the cross.”
Nothing.
No sound, no comment, the room was silent as each heart pondered the momentous idea of Jesus singing these words on His way to the Cross.
The truth of what Christ endured for the redemption of those who would believe on Him is awesome.
To know that He chose to walk that path with rejoicing is incredible.
Hebrews 12:2 KJV — Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Jesus Christ sang before He went to the Garden of Gethsemane, before He was betrayed by a kiss, before He was falsely accused, before He was condemned for being Himself, before He was brutally beaten, before He suffered torture…
He sang.
Psalm 118:28-29 KJV [28] Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt thee. [29] O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: For his mercy endureth for ever.
Because of God’s mercy, Jesus died for sinners, and because of His goodness, He rose again.
“Because there was no sin in Him (Jesus) death had no hold.” Pastor Eric
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You so much for Your Word! Thank You for showing me something I’ve never really understood and definitely didn’t appreciate. Lord, thank You for showing us how awesome You are. You not only paid the price for sin, but You inspired the Psalms and knew these would be the words You would sing before Your sacrifice. No matter how often those words were sung before nor after that moment, they could never be as meaningful as when You sang them that night. Lord Jesus, thank You for the details. Thank You for caring so much. May Your name be glorified daily! Amen.
Romans 2:1-11 NIV [1] You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. [2] Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. [3] So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? [4] Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? [5] But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. [6] God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” [7] To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. [8] But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. [9] There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; [10] but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. [11] For God does not show favoritism.
How easy it is for one group of people to set themselves above another.
It has been occurring throughout history and is still prevalent today.
These words were specifically for those who thought they were right with God due to their lineage and their religion.
Romans 3:20 NIV
[20] Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.
It’s apparent that none are right with God.
There is only one way to be right with God.
Romans 3:22-26 NIV [22] This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. [25] God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— [26] he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.
Therefore, let no one place themselves as better or more valuable than another.
Rather, let us humble our hearts before Jesus Christ and be thankful for His righteousness which He freely gives.
“and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:24
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for showing us through the scriptures that none has ever achieved their own salvation, for it is through Your sacrifice alone. Lord, please continue to help each of us who are called by Your name to humble ourselves before You and remain humble before one another, not exalting others or oneself above any. Lord, please keep us aware of the tendency to wander into these errors which pollute relationships and twist the truth. Lord, You died for all and we must not forget that. Lord, please help us to walk with integrity valuing others without wavering in truth nor being blind to sin. For true love paid the price to do away with sin, not to allow it. Lord, thank You for paying such a high price to save me. May my life reflect Your glorious name, Jesus. Amen.
It’s the horse panel we use for a gate and we’ve had it since we hung the first gate and realized the ground slopes badly.
The gap underneath the gate was much too large, so we swapped out the gate for the panel, due to it’s flexibility, it could be hung much lower.
All of our livestock have been kept inside the fence, because of this panel, but today it was invisible.
Besides being in good pasture all day long, our ram is fed grain twice a day.
He also gets a small amount of alfalfa after his grain in the evening.
But it’s never enough, he’s always in a huge hurry to get to the field in the morning and to the barn in the evening.
This morning he was especially anxious about getting there faster, but I was moving my normal speed, not feeling up to hurrying.
Because he out weighs me by at least a hundred pounds, I am very careful not to let him get pushy or try to force me to do something I don’t want to do.
This morning he was trying to drag me and so I spoke to him and lifted his head so he couldn’t see well.
Normally, this gets him to slow down and quit being so pushy.
Today, he started swinging his head around, trying to get it out of my hand.
It’s a short distance to the field so we were nearly at the panel when I decided to stop and try to calm him.
I spoke to him, still gently but firmly, holding his head up higher.
I’m not sure how it happened, but he suddenly got his head out of my hand and lunged forward.
I was still holding his collar when he blindly jumped, full force, into the panel with me.
Before I could get my feet back under me, his front feet went through the panel and he went down hard, nose first.
I fell too.
We both got up and I helped him get free of the panel and into the field.
The craziest part of it all, was the panel was open, if he’d not been fighting me we would have walked into the field no problem.
As I closed and secured the panel I told him I wasn’t impressed.
Still having other chores to complete, I didn’t reflect on the incident at the time.
(Besides thanking the Lord neither of us were hurt.)
It came back to mind when I was feeding 47 and 49 their nine o’clock bottles.
Both lambs stand at the gate while I open it and lately 49 has been dashing past me the moment it’s open and running all around the barn in a panic while I call him and feed 47.
It seems only fair that 47 should get to eat as soon as possible since he’s not running by me but instead running to me.
And there’s the lesson.
The animals have needs and those needs are regularly filled.
But blind greed has a way of causing not only a hindrance to those needs being filled, it’s caused unnecessary frustration.
Which I’m thankful for.
It is in these unnecessary frustrations that I see myself clearer.
The animals are animals and will never be self disciplined or self controlled, because their understanding is limited, they were not designed to be rational.
But God has granted mankind with not only rational thought, but discernment and self control.
Yet, greed causes blindness in humans as much as in animals.
For greed has another name: covetousness.
Exodus 20:17 KJV — Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.
Romans 13:9 KJV — For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
James 4:1-3 KJV [1] From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? [2] Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. [3] Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
How much sorrow, disappointment, and frustration have I caused my Lord Jesus, because I was blindly following greed instead of seeking my Shepherd?
Frankly, I’m glad I don’t have an answer to this question, but I’m thankful for the warning and the reminder to be on guard against covetousness.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word! Thank You for these lessons. Thank You for showing me the truth in my dealings with the sheep. Thank You for Your continued patience and mercy with me. Thank You for teaching me daily. Lord, please keep covetousness far from me. Let me be quick to discern when I’m lacking gratitude, for desire is held in check through contentment and a thankful heart. Lord, I praise You for giving me so much. My needs have always been supplied by You and I know You always will. Let my life be in line with Your Word:
1 Timothy 6:8 KJV — And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
Philippians 4:11 KJV — Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
Thank You, Lord! Only through Your salvation can one find all they need, for whether hungry or full, there is assurance in Your salvation. I love You, Jesus. Amen.
patientlyhopeful 