Leftovers?

Well, what do we have to eat this week?  Oh, sure – turkey hash, turkey sandwiches, turkey in the gravy …and more.  It was all so good last week, but how soon we get tired of the same stuff.  That’s when mom’s adventurous and skilful knowledge of what to do with leftovers comes in handy.  And she even makes it tasty! 

Too often we treat God’s great adventure that way.  We’ve heard it time and time again, the same stories over and over.  After all, how many different ways can you dress up an angel, some shepherds and a few wise men?  And that sheep and donkey could sure use some re-stuffing.

Maybe we need to become adventuresome and even a little courageous in our depiction of the Jesus story this year.  If He is truly real in our hearts, let’s make Him come alive as we perform the greatest story ever told.  He is still our main course – not just some refrigerated leftovers! 

Luke 2:10-11  “And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

The Feast

Turkey and ham, stuffing and yams, mashed potatoes and hot, buttered rolls;
White rice and gravy, green beens with bacon, and sweet tea that's fresh and so cold.
Don't forget the chicken all fried up and crispy, with deviled eggs whipped up just right;
Save room there somewhere for mom's special creation, a slice of her fresh pecan pie.

The family's all gathered 'round the big eatin' table, the babies strapped tight in their place.
We're ready to dig in, when Papa says, "Hold on, let's not be forgettin' His Grace."
With heads bowed in silence, fresh smells all around us, sweet peace chased away all our fears;
In that precious moment God's love fell down on us, Papa's words rang out loud and clear;

"It's 'cause of Your love Lord, Your mercy and goodness that we all can live in this world.
Bless Mama and Jason, Kevin and Raegan, three grandsons and one little girl;
May we all remain healthy and spiritually wealthy as we feast on Your bounty and love.
May our everyday living be a special Thanksgiving to our Father in Heaven above."

From Original Free Will Baptist Headquarters. . .Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone!

Lord, Have At It!

Gospel singer and songwriter Dr. Jerry Goff has given us many great songs.  The chorus to one of my favorites says:

I am blessed, I am blessed, every day that I live I am blessed.
When I wake up in the morning 'til I lay my head to rest
I am blessed, I am blessed.

What a great attitude to have all day long  -  the attitude of gratitude!  My blessings are not caused by my circumstances...my blessing is in the fact that I'm alive and, with God's help I can enjoy, learn from, improve, or navigate my circumstances.  The Captain of my ship knows His way through the events of my day.  All I have to do is trust His ability and follow His leading.

Dr. Goff also recorded the similar thoughts of another writer in this chorus:

Good morning, Lord!  It's nice to see you once again.
Good morning, Lord!  It's good to know you are my friend.
Every step I take today, you will guide me all the way,
And so I'll say, Good morning, Lord!

So, here's my day, Lord.  Have at it!

Psalm 146:5  "Happy is he...whose hope is in the Lord his God."

How to See God

Matthew 5:8 - "Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God

I recently attended an awesome celebration service for a young minister who had graduated to his Heavenly home.  Verbal pictures of his life, legacy, laughter and love were well painted by those who spoke.  One used the Matthew 5 passage we know as the "Beatitudes" to remind us of God's overwhelming love for his children, and to describe the true pastor's heart inside this Kingdom servant.

Applying this passage to our life, we find that an honest heart, a humble spirit, a hunger for righteousness, and a heavenly zest for life will certainly lead us to "see God", and will cause others to see God in us. 

As we approach the traditional season of Thanksgiving, may we all understand just how blessed we really are.