Friday, March 20th, 2020

Matthew 11:28

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

How do you sabbath?

Rev. Sam shares her story of sabbath on page 25 of the pamphlet, “The Sanctuary for Lent 2020.” She shares a story of how her world and how her sabbath changed after having a child. Everything changed. The Bible tells us to keep the sabbath holy.

Do you have a routine or an activity that helps you celebrate “sabbath?” Rev. Sam explains that cooking and doing meal prep while listening to music is critical to her being. She is able to hear all the noises, from slicing food to the lyrics of songs to feel her spirit and soul. She’s able to recognize her pains and her joys. In doing these things she is able to feed her body, mind and soul, gain nourishment and a renewed spirit.

How do I sabbath?

• I write and share on this blog site. It is relaxing and stimulating all wrapped up together.

• I worship with my friends and family on Sunday’s and share in communion.

• I spend quality time my Esther’s Circle Women’s group at church.

• I engage in interesting conversations with my coworkers with about religion and politics.

• I stay connected with friends through texting.

• I take pictures of nature: trees, flowers, ponds, lakes, birds…lots of things.

• I go for a drive on roads less traveled sometimes with the radio on and sometimes in silence.

• I spend time with my family.

• I pray.

As you can tell, I try to stay connected but it is also good to spend time alone with God. Sit in the silence and listen for God’s voice. He speaks in a small still voice. When we sabbath, we admit we need God’s help.

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Friday, March 20th, 2020

The Photo-a-Day Challenge word for today is: SEE

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: SEE

• to perceive by the eye

• to perceive or detect as if by sight

• to form a mental picture of

• to come to know

1 Corinthians 13:12

“For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.”

Have you ever found yourself squinting to see something more clearly? I wear glasses and often I ind myself squinting or taking my glasses off to change my point of view, hoping for an improvement. 1 Corinthians 13:12, is one of my favorite verses in the Bible. From early in my childhood I heard stories of Jesus and of Heaven, this stories helped me imagine what places and people looked like. It wasn’t until I was older and discovered if you read a book your imagination gets to create all the visuals of places and people based upon what the writer tells you. Then, someone decides to make that book into a movie and the producer gets it all wrong, lol! Our imaginations create things that are personal and hold great meaning to us, that’s the beauty of reading, at least for me. The Bible offers glimpses of Heaven and just in my span of life so far my image of Heaven has changed because my knowledge of the Bible and my personal relationship with Jesus has grown stronger. My vision has improved but still remains a bit out of focus.

As I began writing this I was drawn to the word faith and the importance it is in the lives of believers. As I was thinking about the word, “SEE,” I began to see the connection it has with faith, faith helps us SEE. We each SEE Jesus in our own way, our experiences have molded an image of who Jesus is to us and that’s why it’s called a personal relationship. It’s different but the same, Jesus is Jesus our visual image in our minds may look different, but He is indeed JESUS to us all! Do you remember a few years ago the dress color debate circling the internet, some said black while others said it was black & blue and white & gold? Turns out it was actually blue & black. *https://www.nhpr.org/post/what-color-dress-debate-broke-internet#stream/0

No matter your visual images of Jesus and Heaven, this I know…One day we will SEE face to face.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” ~ Matthew 5:8

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.nhpr.org/post/what-color-dress-debate-broke-internet#stream/0

Thursday, March 19th, 2020

The photo word for today is: ABLE

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: ABLE

• having sufficient power, skill, or resources to do something

• having the freedom or opportunity to do something

• having a quality or nature that makes something possible

“I pray because I can’t help myself. I pray because I’m helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time, waking and sleeping. It doesn’t change God.”

~C. S. Lewis

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Around the globe we are dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. In the midst of chaos and uncertainty the one thing we are always ABLE to do is PRAY! Praying is communicating with God. The more we pray and seek God’s Will, we are ABLE to strengthen our relationship with Him. If you don’t know how to pray you can recite the Lord’s Prayer found in the Bible. *Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4

We are ABLE to call out to God from anyplace, from anywhere and at anytime. You don’t have to know any special words just speak what’s on your heart. God is waiting for you and me. When we don’t know what to do, we can pray. My thoughts and prayers go out to those suffering with COVID-19, stay strong in your faith, God is with you. I am also praying for our leaders around the world and for clear heads and mutual respect for our neighbors, we are all in this together. This is not a time for hoarding and inflated pricing for supply and demand. This is an opportunity to do what’s right and good for all humanity. May the Lord Bless You and Keep You. ~Amen.

Here’s a poem I wrote and it was published in 2006, I hope it finds you well.

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/able

Thursday, March 19th, 2020

Luke 13:10-13

“Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, “Woman, you are set free from your ailment.” When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God.”

The verses for today tells us a story of Jesus teaching in a synagogue on the sabbath. He sees a crippled woman and heals her. But immediately the leader of the synagogue were angry and started to quote the law, saying there are six days that work should be done and not on the sabbath. Suggesting the woman return another day. Jesus replies and calls them “hypocrites” pointing out that each one unties his ox or donkey from the manger to get water on the sabbath. The leaders were “splitting hairs” with regard to the law. Rest on the sabbath is to engage in things that draw us nearer to God. Work is subjective in this regard, getting out of bed can be work for some of us, driving to church on Sunday or the day you worship; silly and piety are those who want to point fingers and make acquisitions. Jesus healing on the sabbath, shows us compassion, mercy, grace and love. These are the qualities that we are to extend to one another. We can follow Jesus’ example, when we see others in need, we should do what you can to help. Even offer to help before it is requested, just like Jesus did healing the crippled woman.

During this time of Lent as we continue to navigate REST, is your spirit in need of healing? Often, our needs are sometimes unseen by the naked eye, but God knows our hearts and our thoughts. If we call out to Jesus, He will hear us and offer a soothing ointment to our most vulnerable pains; body, mind and spirit.

• Is there something you need to be set free from?

• Can you call out and claim your pains and aches?

No matter what aliments you are experiencing, physical or spiritual, Jesus is eager to restore you and give you REST.

Matthew 11:28

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

Exodus 33:14

“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Practice:

Pray as you rub a little bit of oil on your wrist or hand: “God, I come to you seeking healing. I want to be restored to wholeness. Help me find REST in your compassionate love. Help me find a reason to praise you. Amen.”

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.brittanyhopemusic.com/media

http://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/gnpi-066-stooped-woman/

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Wednesday, March 18th, 2020

Luke 18:15-17

“People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.”

I simply must include one of my favorite photos I found online a few years ago. Every time I see it, I can’t help but see me in the photo with Jesus. It also reminds me of a real photo of me in my moms arms as a child. Mothers are gifts from God.

Rev. Sam writes (page 23) about children today and how they change the lives of all those around them. I can’t speak from a parents perspective with children but as an aunt of a niece and nephew and a great-aunt of two boys, soon to be three boys I can say with certainty children are a blessing. I also had the opportunity to share in the early lives of two twin boys of a dear friend of mine. I have enjoyed seeing all these children grow, learn and change. They grow up so quickly, almost too quickly, one day they love to hug you and the next, they are too cool for such things. (Lol). I look back on my own childhood and remember all the sacrifices my parents made for me. Having the support and physical presence of my parents is beyond words, my heart is full. With the fast paced world we live in it can be easy to have things pass us by. Please take time for your children, they may not see the benefits now but it will matter later in life. Enjoy the wonder and curiosity of our youth, encourage them and provide avenues to chase their dreams. They grow up so very fast! In our scripture verses for today, Jesus welcomes children with open arms. The disciples thought they were disrupting the work they were doing, Jesus quickly says to the disciples, “for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” ~Luke 18:16-17

Children remind us of what pure love is all about, they remind us of God’s love for us. The importance of Sabbath REST, is to slow down, redirect our thoughts even recalibrate ourselves from the chaos going on in the world area us. We are in trying times right now, we need God more than ever to navigate the daily changes that are being implemented for our safety and health. We can still support and encourage one another in the midst of these trials. Trust in God, love children, love your neighbors, pray for your community, your family, your friends, your nation, your government and it’s leaders. Find rest in God the Father! My prayers and thoughts are with you my friends! Go in Peace~

Practice:

If you have children, ask them to choose and activity to do together, be intentional and present with them. If you do not have children, choose a childlike activity to enjoy. Play and have fun! Be joyous!

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Wednesday, March 18th, 2020

Our photo word for today is SENT!

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: SENT

• past tense and past participle of SEND

• to dispatch by a means of communication

• to cause to happen

• to direct, order, or request to go

We are all God’s children and it is our responsibility to spread the good news. We are messengers sent out into the world to share the love of God. I am thankful to those individuals called to missionary work in remote parts of the world, there is a need. The need is also within our own neighborhoods to share the love of God. I understand that with the some may work in environments were topics of religion and politics are discouraged, it is our actions that speak the loudest to others. Being kind and considerate to others speaks volumes of your character and your walk with Christ.

Romans 10:12-15

“For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light

https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/sent/

Tuesday, March 17th, 2020

Exodus 20:8-10

“Remember the sabbath day, and keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. But the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work—you, your son or your daughter, your male or female slave, your livestock, or the alien resident in your towns.”

Rev. Sam shares a story with her readers that she once heard the fourth commandment described as a bridge between the first three commandments and the remaining six. *Page 22 of “The Sanctuary for Lent 2020.”

The first four commandments describes how we love God:

• No idols

• No worshiping other gods

• No misuse of God’s name

The remaining six describes how we love our neighbors:

• Honor your parents

• No murder

• No adultery

• No stealing

• No false witness

• No coveting

Rev. Sam suggests that how well we love God and our neighbors depends on how well we practice sabbath.

I’ve used this phrase before and hopefully you will recall it, “Practice does not make one perfect; Only perfect practice makes one perfect.” I really like how Rev. Sam put it, “Practice leads to progress, not perfection.”

“Practice leads to progress, not perfection.”

I simply love that phrase! This week we will be talking about REST, keeping the Sabbath! We are robbing ourselves of precious time with God by not keeping the Sabbath. When we fail to get enough rest, it effects all aspects of our lives. Our family and friends, our coworkers and even strangers. When thinking of the commandments the words: murder, adultery and stealing sound harsh, even distant to us. When we are grumpy and express our discontent, could that be a form of stealing joy or happiness from others(?). When we see others with nice expensive things and we turn a little bit green 🧩✳️ with envy or jealousy, isn’t that coveting. I’ll admit sometimes these situations are challenging but if we are loving our neighbors the way God has instructed us, we should share in their joys! Celebrating one another is a great way to build and strengthen relationships. When we rest, allowing our physical bodies to relax, and our emotional and spiritual counterparts to do the same; we are happier and healthier. Rest by reading your bible, watch an inspirational movie, read a book and take a trip with the author. Spend time doodling, coloring, taking pictures of nature, listening to music…the options are endless.

Psalm 55:6-7

“And I say, “O that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest; truly, I would flee far away; I would lodge in the wilderness.” Selah

Mark 2:27-28

“Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath; so the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”

Practice:

Choose one thing you will do for the next three days to connect with God, otters and yourself (read for 10 minutes, go to the park with your family, take a walk, meditate or color).

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Tuesday, March 17th, 2020

Today the ACC Lent Photo-a-Day Challenge is LIGHT!

Merriam-Webster: LIGHT

• something that makes vision possible

• the sensation aroused by stimulation of the visual receptors

• a particular aspect or appearance presented to view

I love taking pictures of the sun; sunrises, sunsets and anytime the sunshines. The picture collage above is some of my favorite photos I’ve taken over the years. I hope they bring you as much joy as they do me.

2 Samuel 23:3-4

“The God of Israel has spoken, the Rock of Israel has said to me: One who rules over people justly, ruling in the fear of God, is like the light of morning, like the sun rising on a cloudless morning, gleaming from the rain on the grassy land.”

Psalm 113:3

“From the rising of the sun to its setting the name of the Lord is to be praised.”

Numbers 6:24-26

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light

Monday, March 16th, 2020

REST

“But now more than ever the word about Jesus spread abroad; many crowds would gather to hear him and to be cured of their diseases. But he would withdraw to deserted places and pray.” ~Luke 5:15-16

It’s Monday! For many people today marks the beginning of a new work week, while others it’s just another day. For instance, today is my Friday, the end of my work week. In some of our cultures today, there seems to be a demand or an urgency to work longer hours or work harder to gain another step on the ladder to the top. Hard work, commitment and striving for betterment are all good and worthy things. But I caution all of us to remember to make time for God, time to talk with God, time to read His word, and time to study and learn. We should also spend time with our brothers and sisters in Christ, supporting one another and worshiping God. Keeping the Sabbath holy is a phrase I learned early in life. It used to mean Sunday for me, while others celebrate the Sabbath on Saturday. I have learned through the years that the Sabbath can be any day of the week set aside especially for God. I have lots of friends who are required to work on Sunday and attending Sunday worship cannot be accommodated, this by no means makes them any less Christian. The most important thing is making time for God. With the world being a 24/7/365 operation in most places many churches have started having services at different times and on different days making it easier for individuals to attend. Try to find other activities sponsored by your church or other churches so you can get involved on your days off of work.

In the scripture verse today Luke tells us that Jesus would go off by himself to a deserted place to pray. Jesus created space and time to be with His Father. Not only would Jesus do this when He was with His disciples but also when large crowds were around asking to be healed. Jesus, in the midst of the business of healing and preaching, slipped away to be with God. Jesus was setting an example for us.

People often run themselves to the point of empty exhaustion by working long hours and in some cases working more than one job. Please remember to take time to refuel and be filled by the sustaining power of Jesus Christ. Never let your cup become empty and dry, seek to be filled and fulfilled.

Practice:

Take a cup and fill it with water. As you pour it out, tell God where you feel empty in life. (Leave a little in the bottom to represent the desire to never be completely empty.) Then, full the cup back up again, asking God for what you need.

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Monday, March 26th, 2020

REVEALED

Romans 1:20

“Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made. So they are without excuse.”

Psalm 23:1-3

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.”

My you find God revealed through nature today! Please take good care of one another! ❤️🧡💛💛💚💙🤎🤍💜🖤💗❣️

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm