What Do Your Eyes See?

Note:I have been on an extended break, waiting until I once again had something worthwhile to say. I visited Paris in the Spring, and thoroughly enjoyed it (to my surprise). During the summer, I worked tirelessly and accepted a new position with excitement and anticipation. This fall, I lost my home to forecloseure and although I didn't want it to happen, I have peace regarding this outcome. The memories will remain forever etched in my mind (unless I succumb to Alzheimer's, ha ha). Over the years, I've lost loved ones, I've lost friends, losing a thing is not as bad. As the season ebbs from fall to winter, I feel a sense of anticipation and excitement. I think it's easy to fall victim to feeling forsaken and alone, but God faithfully reminds me that He extends grace in such an unbelievable measure to His children. All I can say is that God is really quite awesome. I hope you are blessed by this poem I've written in praise to God.

A boy looks upward towards a clear blue sky. He sees a few white fluffy clouds but,     something convinces him that God is there. His words are the words of a child, but...     they are bolstered by conviction. He doesn’t know how, but he believes he can. There is no hesitation in his voice. “I will never leave my children” What causes a boy to make such a bold promise? How can he see so far ahead on the journey of his life? Would he forget those words over the years? At the time he didn’t know the promise of God…     “I will never leave you nor forsake you." He didn’t know God…He couldn’t even see God’s promise,     yet, he knew God would hear him. It was something innate that gave him that assurance.     But God saw him…     God heard him…     God smiled on him.     God extended grace to him. Any male can father a child,     but God honors a man...     when his children call him, “Daddy”. It’s the only name they know him by. They’ve grown up before his eyes...     with families of their own…     yet they still call him, “Daddy”. Over the years, he has seen many things,     but what he sees now,     even with the poorest of vision…     is God’s grace. He sees how God’s lavishes His love upon all life. His eyes have seen joy and pain… Good times and sad times…     victory and defeat…     inspiration and discouragement…     he has seen many things over the years…     yet what he sees woven through all of it is grace. He sees God’s grace. What do you see when you look at your life? You’re not that innocent little child anymore…     What caused you to look to the heavens that first time?     Though He is invisible,     do you recognize His presence?     What do your eyes see today?     Do you see grace? Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Washed Clean

Wash Me, image courtesy of Barbecue Master

I was raised by Southern women...     my mother and grandmother. These were “Old School” women;     who had no need for process improvement.     They had a method. Now even though...     there were modern conveniences     like a clothes dryer,     my grandmother preferred to use a clothes line...     to dry our clothes. As a boy...     I hated taking a basket of clothes outside,     and hanging each piece on a line. I can still remember the scent of bleach in the sheets,     and detergent in the clothes my brothers and I wore. Back then, there was no scented detergent. So if you smelled anything,     it could only the hint of powdered detergent. That's how I knew the clothes were “clean”. But even though these clothes were clean,     they would soon need to be washed again. I believe God is “Old School” too,     since He has no need for process improvement. The bible says: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8, NIV) Even God Himself has said: “I the Lord do not change.” (Malachi 3:8, NIV) Since God doesn't change,     it's only natural that we become     “agents of change”. When did I change? Who changed in me? How have I changed? Having been washed in the blood of the Lamb,     I changed from darkness to light. Even though I’ve been washed,     I still need cleansing;     just like those childhood clothes...     I hung out to dry. I don't need to be washed again (in the blood of the Lamb),     but I do need to be cleansed. “You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.” (John 15:3, NIV) “…Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word…” (Ephesians 5:25-26, NIV) The Word of God acts as a kind of detergent,     cleansing me through and through;     my thoughts, my words, my behavior, my life...     washed clean! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

You Bless Me Like Rain

Rain on Me, (image courtesy of cindrellaforever.blogspot.com)

You bless me like rain,     drenching my life with Your love. Drops of blessings all different and unique,     watering every facet of my life. No need for shelter from your blessings. No, I flee my hiding place and I run to You. My spiritual roots are saturated with Your love. David said, "My cup overflows" (Psalm 23:5, NIV),     and he's right! When storms come, You send a rainbow! When lightning strikes, You are my rod! When strong winds blow, You are my shelter! So rain on me Lord, as You see fit to do. When Jesus washed the disciples feet,     it was Peter who declared, "not just my feet..." (John 13:9) You bless me with life eternal, but that wasn't enough. You bless me with joy everlasting, but that wasn't enough. You bless me with peace beyond all understanding,     but that wasn't enough. So rain on me Lord, with a love supreme. You bless me like rain,     showering Your love upon me! I don't understand why You do this,     but I realize You love me so much. It's no wonder that John wrote: "See what great love the Father     has lavished on us...!" (1 John 3:1, NIV) I look at this love from every possible perspective,     and yet I am humbled by such examples of     concern, care, and consideration for me. You watch over my life with the utmost concern! You nurture me with unbridled care! You light my path with loving consideration. So rain on me Lord, as You see fit to do. When Jesus washed the disciples feet,     it was Peter who declared, "not my feet only" You bless me with life eternal, but that wasn't enough. You bless me with joy everlasting, but that wasn't enough. You bless me with peace beyond all understanding,     but that wasn't enough. So rain on me Lord,     with a love supreme. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Who Do You See?

I will lift up my eyes to the hills--from whence comes my help?

Standing under a darkened sky,     Alone with my thoughts. My constant question is,     What will you do? I process this question…     running it through every algorithm in my brain. The results are still the same..     Does not compute! All I see...     is the question. One of the classic lines in the movie, The Matrix is:     “It's the question that drives us…”1         but... Is it the question or my own inability to see? Have I becomes so consumed with the question,     that I cannot see what lies before my eyes? And then I hear a voice so clear…     it resonates within me,     in my spirit...     in my mind...     in my body. Causing me to lift my eyes upward,     to Him… The voice echoes in my mind…     “I will lift up my eyes to the hills--     From whence comes my help?     My help cometh from the Lord,     which made heaven and earth.”2 All too often, I only see the question…     instead of seeing The Lord. But now, in this moment,     under the canopy of the night’s dark sky. You remind me once again…     You are my help. When will I understand…     You are The Answer to the question. Why do I forget to lift my eyes to You? I smile, the smile of a child, filled with joy.     the joy of knowing You. I don’t know how You will help me,     but I'm looking to You Lord. I don’t know when You will help me,     but I'm looking to You Lord. I don’t know what You will do to help me,     but I'm looking to You Lord. I know my help comes from You. I will look to You…     trusting you to do what I cannot. I will wait on You…     to perform what concerns me. I will smile at You     for the assurance of Your love. It’s You I see Lord…     not the question.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Footnotes:

1. The Matrix, 1999, Warner Bros. Pictures; Directors: Andy Wachowski, Lana Wachowski; Writers: Andy Wachowski, Lana Wachowski. Watch video clip when Neo Meets Trinity
2. Psalm 121:1-2, NKJ

Life!

Life in Christ, (image courtesy of Mudpreacher.org)

What is life? Is it fulfilling to you? Is it joy unspeakable? Is it something you do? Does it define your purpose? Does it set you free? Do you have enough? Are you all you can be? How do you see life? Is it really God’s gift? Is it God’s measured love? That is able to lift? Lift me from sin… Lift me from shame… Lift me from heartache… Lift me from pain. Life may not lift me…     from all of my shame. I may have some heartaches… I may endure pain. But life is worth it all. It’s the gift that God gives. He makes me brand new…     so I'm able to live. Life is gratitude. Life is worth living. Life is the peace of God. Life is the joy in giving. Life gives thanks…     to God up above. Life is the joy…     for His immeasurable love! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

I'm Waiting

I'm Waiting on The Lord

I’m waiting… For a word from you. Just a hint will do, because...     I'm waiting. There is no hurry, no worries, no rush, because...     I'm waiting. When you're ready, you will let me know, because..     You know I'm waiting. You said, “Wait...”, and so I do. You said, “I would run and not get weary...”     I'm not weary Lord. If I ask, will You not answer me?     I know You will! So You see, that's why...     I'm waiting. Who are they that wait? Those who need not ask the question..     “How long Lord, How long?” They who wait are patient. I may not see the road ahead...     but I know You've made a way,     when there was no way! That is why...     I'm waiting. It may be an unpaved road, but it's my road...     bulldozed by Your word. It may be a steep climb, but I have the faith...     to ascend this height! It may be the road less traveled by others...     but I know it leads to You. I may get stuck in the mud some time, but     I will trust You to guide me through. That is why...     I'm waiting. While some may flee at the first sign of terror,     I'll stand firm and wait. When the doctor says, “There is no cure”,     I'm waiting for Your prognosis. When the lawyer says, “You have no case”,     I'll wait for Your vindication. When the job says, “You've been laid off!”,     Send me to that ripe harvest field. When the bank says, “We're seizing your home!”,     I have a place prepared by You. You see Lord, I've learned that it's best...     to wait on You. Some have asked me:     “Why do you wait for someone you cannot see?”     I say,     “Eyes have not seen the goodness of the Lord”. Others may ask:     “Why wait for words that are not spoken?”     I say,     “Ears cannot hear the words, ‘Peace be still’” Still others ask:     “Why wait when the table is bare?”     I say,     “Who will taste and see that the Lord is good?” Others may mock, but I will glory in the Lord! That is why...     I'm waiting. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

It Was Christ!

It Was Christ!

Who was it,     that heard you crying that night? Who was it,     that brought you into the light? Who was it,     who gave you clarity of sight? My friend…     it was Christ! Who was it,     who carried your rugged cross? Who didn’t forsake you,     when all seemed lost? Who was it,     who willingly paid the cost? My friend…     it was Christ! It was Christ,     who hung and died for you! It was Christ,     who rose on the third day too! It was Christ,     who began new life in you. That I’m able to say,     “God’s love is true!” Who sees,     the plight of the single mother? Who feels,     the pain of a fallen brother? Who hears,     your cries like no other? My friend…     it was Christ! It was Christ,     who hung and died for you! It was Christ,     who rose on the third day too! It was Christ,     who began new life in you. That I’m able to say,     “God’s love is true!” Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

I'm a Witness!

I'm a Witness!

Born in a manger…     to Mary, a virgin. Holy Child…     of God The Father. Angels rejoice,     wise men heard them. Bethlehem…     is where they found Him. Some have called it, a fiction story. The Son of God in all His Glory But let me tell you this…     He is Lord and,     I’m a witness!!! Jesus stood up in the temple, Quoting scriptures to the elders. Who is this they asked each other? Speaking like the Son of God! Healing sick,     raising the dead. Performing miracles,     as the...prophets said. This ain’t just...     a made-up story. Of some guy...looking for glory. Cause I can tell you this…     He is Christ…     and I’m a witness!!! He walked Golgotha’s lonely road,     carrying the cross...     of our heavy load. He hung up on that lonely tree,     bearing the sins of you and me. He died, but then He rose again,     defeating death and with it sin. You may think...     it’s a lovely story,     of Jesus Christ and Heavenly glory. I’m here to tell you this…     He is Lord…     and I’m a witness!!! Jesus rose...     from the grave. He rose from where...     His body laid. He did it just...     like He said. One day He’ll judge...     the living and dead. All who stand before Him will see,     Christ will reign through eternity. Then you’ll know…     this ain’t no story. When Jesus appears in all His glory. I’ve got to tell you this…     that I’m a living witness!!! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Do You Know Him?

Do you know Him? (Image courtesy of http://mudpreacher.org)

I know He is…     The Great I AM Jesus Christ…     The Righteous Lamb. Do you know Him?     Yes I do! He’ll do for me…     what He’s done for you! There was a time…     I didn’t know Him. A sin-filled life…     no spiritual growing. I crashed and burned…     on life’s highway. When all seemed lost…     I heard God say: Confess and accept…     My only son. Receive new life…     from The Risen One. Do you know Him?     Yes, I do. He saved my life…     He’ll save your’s too! He filled my life with…     His Holy Spirit. I walk in grace…     empowered to live it. No weapon formed…     against me will prosper. Consumed by Christ…     I’m more than a conqueror! Do you know Him?     Yes I do! Then lift your hands…     And praise Him too! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

God Is

God Is...(image courtesy of http://eternalloveministry.net)

God is my provider. He gives to me...     life, joy and health. In me is Christ...     my Lord, the greater wealth. Almighty Creator...     of Heaven and Earth. The crucified Savior...     is what I'm worth. Jehovah Jireh...     the giver of life. Turned my darkness...     into His light. God is my Redeemer. My shelter...     in stormy times. I am His...     Jesus is mine. Rose of Sharon…     Bright Morning Star. Jesus is Lord...     that’s who You are. Lamb of God,     He’s coming again. Prince of Peace...     my Everlasting Friend. God is my Comforter. The Almighty King…     who sits on the throne. In the midst of my battles…     I’m never alone. The Lord is my Shepherd…     who quenches my thirst. I love you Lord…     but you loved me first. When I am weary…     and weak with fear. Your loving arms hold me…     You wipe away my tears. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Look at Me Lord

Look at me Lord as I pray
(Image courtesy of http://gr8trimpact.com)

Look at me Lord; I’m down on my knees. I’ve been here before…     Lord, hear my plea. Times are hard, but I’ll never give up Touch me Lord… please fill my cup. Teach me the words…     of the Apostle’s Creed Remind me again, it’s You that I need The light in me…     must shine so bright. Illumine me Lord…     You are The Light. I once was blind, but now I see. Are not mere words…     to those set free. Free to walk, in the newness of life. You transformed me...     from darkness to light. I’ve risen with Christ…     who rose from the dead. The church is the body…     He is the head. So look at me Lord, pour out your grace. Purge me with hyssop...     prostrate on my face. Lying before…     Your Heavenly Throne. My soul thirsts for You, cause heaven's my home. I want to go home, but I need to stay. There’s work to be done...     I’m the Potter’s clay. So look at me Lord…     it's here where I stand. I love you Lord Jesus…     my life’s in Your hands. Yes, look at me Lord…     You’ve blessed my life. I’m ready to labor…     the harvest is ripe. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

It's Me...You See

It's Me...You See (image courtesy of kingjamesbibleonline.org)

Black, White, Brown, Yellow, and Red We’ve all heard words…     that others have said. Words that cut, so painful and deep. Are words that maim the humble and meek. Like heat-seeking missiles launched from our lips We love to target our venom-filled quips Blinded by eyes that cannot see The ones you target, it’s me, you see. I’m the mother without any medical care I’m tattered and broken with nothing to wear I’m the child who has no food to eat I’m the tormented life who cannot sleep I’m the elderly person who lives all alone I’m the faceless person without a home. I’m so many of those who cry out in need If you can see them, it’s me that you’ll see. It’s quiet here now, in my darkest hour I’m lost and discouraged...     I have no power I’m tired of struggling,     as I try to survive. Is there really a point to being alive? I fail to see the grace in me. To see the One, who can set me free. Christ died for me…     He paid the high cost He hung on the cross…     for the sins of the lost When faced with trials…     that overwhelm me I need to remember     Christ set me free Free to see, beyond my pain Free to see, all that I’ve gained Free to love others...     as I want to be loved. Filled with God’s love, that comes from above The next time you see, a person in need. It’s you God chose, to do a good deed. That person is not, a stranger you see But someone like you…     exactly like me. If you listen closely…     you’ll hear God’s voice. Calling to you…     so make the wise choice. It’s me, you see...     I hear God say Love beyond your self... Give love today! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

More Grace

God's reach has no limits

I’m driving down I-695, talking with God; asking for His grace and blessing. In my feeble mind, I want an answer…waiting…waiting…waiting. The Holy Spirit joins the conversation and points out where, when, and how God extended grace to me. Have I been sleeping? How could I not see Jehovah Jireh providing on my behalf? “But He gives us more and more grace…” I remember watching how an airplane refuels in flight. The fuel plane extends a hose which connects to the plane’s fuel tank. God is greater than a fuel plane, His grace has no limits to His extent; He extends to us more and more grace. What is grace? Whatever grace is, God give us more and more of it. Joy, pleasure, delight, peace, good will, loving kindness, concern, care, provision, hope, and life. Grace is all this which God gives and more! God commits Himself to us! He gives Himself to us! Grace cannot be summed up in one word, or a lifetime of words. Have you ever sought the Lord as Paul did when he had a thorn in the flesh? Well, I have! And the word of the Lord resonated in my spirit just as it did in Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you...” Sometimes the distance between me and God appears so vast, and yet, His grace extends beyond that distance! “...Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think...” God isn’t just able to do, He gives us more and more grace! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Ask

Ask God, image by whispersfortheheart.files.wordpress.com

Ask… I always seem to be asking, seeking, or needing an answer. I love answers to my petitions. I read in the bible God’s word which offers me encouragement Jesus says, “Ask…”     So I ask. On my knees, I ask. Sitting in my room, I ask. Standing in agreement, I ask. Nothing will hinder me from asking. I am adopted by God, a member of His family. Sometimes, I ask my Heavenly Father… There are times when I will ask my Savior, Jesus Christ. There are times when I will ask the Holy Spirit. Yes, No, or Not now...     He answers, always, He answers. Morning, noon, or night…     I ask. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Fresh

Special Message: I need your help. My daughter entered her online crystal jewelry business (Gift of NI) in Walmart's Get on the Shelf contest. I want to ask you to cast a vote for her and mention it on your blog. If this is something you're not comfortable with, no worries. I don't often say this, but I do appreciate your visit and each comment. I thank God for each of you.

Fresh vine-ripened grapes

Clusters of grapes Ripe, fresh pomegranates Juicy, flavorful figs…     All fresh! Your blessings, O Lord…     New and fresh always! See the daffodils, yellow and beautiful. The lilies are fragrant and colorful. A vase filled with vibrant red roses…     All fresh! New every morning…     You constantly make our lives fresh! Your beautiful baby girl The son you’ve always wanted The unbridled smile of your child…     All fresh! When God ushers in a new thing…     It’s always fresh! You stuck with me through the good and bad times. You were there for better and for worse. You are my constant friend.     All fresh! You are closer than any brother Lord…     You make my life new and fresh! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

New Beginnings

It is the time of New Beginnings

Another winter passes and with it,     the vestiges of all things drab. Spring is in the air and with it...     the initiation of a new beginning. The sights and sounds of Spring are everywhere! Even smiles appear spontaneously on once forlorn faces. It is the time of new beginnings. No where is this more evident     than in the lives of those who...     with uplifted hands call on the name of Jesus. The bible refers to Him as,     "the name that is above every name". There is a beauty and symmetry in God's divine plan. Far too often, I've looked at the end,     the results, and the final outcome. I rush through life without really being aware...     of a divine work in me. There is something special with all things new:     that new car smell.     that newly decorated room.     that fulfillment of receiving your education diploma.     that excitement of a new job.     that appreciation for a new bride or groom.     that gratitude for the addition of a newborn into one's family.     that hope of fulfilling one's purpose in a new journey. It is the time of new beginnings. Yes, there is something wonderful and...     special about new beginnings. New beginnings transcend across my emotions...     soul...     body...     spirit. I feel it, think it, and believe it. God gave new this quality. It is the quality to touch...     the very depths of who I am. I hope you're experiencing newness. I hope God is breathing new life...     in facets of my life which were dormant. Dormant from the harshness of disappointment...     frustration...     loss, and...     discouragement. Hope that is seen is not hope...     I have no need to hope for what I have. I hope for what is coming. New beginnings are coming, and I hope I am     not only ready     but appreciative     of the process God chose to use in me. A custom-made process..     tailored by God specifically for me. A custom-made suit is nice...     but eventually will become tattered. God's plan for me does not tatter or wear out;     it remains fresh, new every morning. It is the time of new beginnings.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Way Lost!

Lost In a Maze, image courtesy of peacefulprosperity.com

Although I didn't write this as prose, I wanted to remain in this month's theme of The Condition of Being Lost. Some of you may view this as a prayer, and that's cool. Some may consider it a thoughtful personal reflection. Some may consider it just what I needed to read! Whatever your thoughts are, I'm glad you're reading it. Perhaps you'll pray and share it with someone you know. I hope it's viewed as a humble encouragement, not a condemnation of anyone.

Lost in a maze of confused thoughts and ideas,     with no answers to summon from my experience. I remember an old man talking to me about Christ;     but at the time, it made no sense to me. I was too smart for religion! I was too cool to be “spiritual”. Now that all my options have failed, I hear those same words echoing in my mind. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden,     and I will give you rest.     Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me,     for I am gentle and lowly in heart,     and you will find rest for your souls.     For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”1 Could it be this simple? What did that old man quote from the bible? “’For My thoughts are not your thoughts,     Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord.”2 Will God hear me after all this time? Why would He listen to someone who never listened to Him? Jesus, I don't know if You're listening; I hope You are. I never believed You were important to someone like me. Someone with his own set of ready-made answers. I was wrong. Everything I valued in life has come up far short of my expectations. My relationships, health, behavior, thoughts, desires, and goals...     all are gone now. All that remains, are the tattered remnants of a chaotic life. I don't know what to do. I've run out of answers. I am in need of guidance and help. I see now that I must change, but I'm incapable of changing myself. If it were as simple as losing weight, I would change my diet. If it were a matter of clothes, I would change my wardrobe. If it were just a matter of locale, I would relocate to another place. But it goes much deeper than that... I need changing from the inside. That old man quoted another scripture, “I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy,     to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,     holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”3 I don't even fully understand what that means, but I'm willing to do that now. I want to learn at the foot of the cross. It's not acclaim I seek, I want forgiveness, peace and reconciliation. I want this endless loop to conclude. I would like to walk in a direction that actually leads to a true destination. I remember that old man quoting a scripture, “In My Father’s house are many mansions…I go to prepare a place for you.”4 Have You really prepared a place for one who never considered You? Today, I place my life upon the altar of Your cross Jesus. Whatever You do for me, is far more than I deserve; but I gladly accept what You offer. You offer me forgiveness, life, love, joy, contentment, and peace. These priceless gifts cannot be bought, and yet You give them to those who humbly ask. I want to thank You Jesus for hearing me. Somehow, my life already seems different. I'm not looking for a way out; I'm looking to You. That old man said, “…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…”5 My life is in Your hands, do with me what is right in Your eyes. I trust You. I don't want to betray this trust, so I ask that You help me trust in You. Saying, "Thank You" may seem low key to the hollywood version that "puts on a show",     but I am so thankful, that You hear me, that You answer me, and that You saved me. Help me see life through Your eyes. I want to let this mind be in me that is also in You. I want to have ears that hear; not ears that itch. I want my words to be acceptable and pleasing to You. I want to touch and agree with the heart and attitude of faith. I want to be filled with the outpouring of Your Holy Spirit. I want to take hold, grasp, and embrace You as firmly...     as Your gospel of salvation has taken hold of me.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Footnotes:

1. Matthew 11:28-30, NKJV
2. Isaiah 55:8, NKJV
3. Romans 12:1, NIV
4. John 14:2, NKJV
5. Hebrews 12:2, NKJV

References:

1. The Ryrie Study Bible (New American Standard Version), Edited by Charles C. Ryrie, Moody Publishers, Chicago, Illinois, ISBN 0-8024-8920-6
2. King James Version, The Crusade Analytical Study Edition, Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., PO Box 90011, Nashville, Tennessee 37209
3. New King James Version, by Nelson Bibles, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Inc., PO Box 141000, Nashville, Tennessee, ISBN-13: 978-0840713704
4. The NIV Study Bible, Edited by Kenneth Barker, Donald Burdick, John Stek, Walter Wessel and Ronald Youngblood, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49530, USA

I'm So Lost!

The Lost Sheep

Lost: There are one hundred sheep. So call me…     one of many. All the sounds I make,     But do you hear any? I would stray here, then stray over there,     all you do is watch. Do you even care? Finally, one day,     I just wandered away! To answer the question Why? Well, I just couldn’t say. I couldn’t say why…     that would mean telling the truth. You say, give it a try. I say, What’s the use? So now I’m lost! Lost as could be. I’m so lost and alone,     no one can see me. How is it I ended,     up in this place? A sheep on his own…     afraid and disgraced.

The Lost Sheep Found

Found: I number my sheep. I watch them each day. Their trust is in me, I lead the right way. If one gets lost,     he won’t remain gone. I’ll look til I find him,     and bring him back home. I’ll leave the ninety,     and nine of my sheep I’ll look everywhere…     I won’t even sleep I’ll look far and wide. I’ll look high and low. I’ll find my lost sheep Yes, that’s what I know. And when I find him,     I’ll tell all my friends. Come see who is found,     and home once again. Celebrate with me,     this sheep who was lost. His value to me,     is worth any cost. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Lord Jesus,

I was that lost sheep. Alone, afraid, and yet unwilling to call out to you for help. Pride and arrogance have ruined many lives; it ruined mine too. Today, I can look back and see how You intervened in my life; rescuing me from a path of self-destruction. Thank You Jesus for saving me, helping me to see my purpose is in You. Sharing the joy of salvation so that others have the opportunity to acknowledge their sin and be saved from a path of destruction. May each of us who call You Lord, truly reflect Your life. Jesus, you are our light and glory. I offer intercessory prayer for those sick and afflicted; they need Your healing touch Lord. I pray for those who have a family crisis; bring peace, reconciliation, and renewal in their midst. I pray for those who seek employment, and those who struggle in their business. There are families who are on the verge of losing their home, and there are those without food or shelter. There are so many needs Jesus, but You are The Good Shepherd. Even now, You sit on the right hand of The Father, making intercession for us. Thank you Jesus, for all You've done, what You're doing, and what you're preparing on our behalf. Amen.

Where Are You?

The Lost Coin by James Tissot-Overall (Brooklyn Museum)

When it comes to money,     I don’t have much of value. All I have are ten silver coins,     but they all belong to me. Although each has the same value...     they are unique, you see? And now I’ve lost one of them. Looking… My eyes search the room...     for the coin which I have lost. Now hidden from my view, I ask...     What's happened? Where are you? I ask the question why, but really...     How can my lost coin reply? Tracing… Back my recent steps...     to where my coin could be. But still no memory, I can recall...     of how my coin lost me. Could it be under the table? Or in a corner of the room? Illumination… I fill the house with light...     enough for me to see. I’ll search each corner of my home,     to where my coin could be. Where are you little coin of mine? Please, come back now to me! Sweeping… Floor boards covered in a layer of dust...     the broom swings back again. I hear the whishing sound of bristles...     when will my efforts end? I’ll sweep this floor until its clean...     so I can find my friend. Puzzled… As I look around,     searching high and low. I’ll look until I find my coin...     I won’t give up, I know. Where are you little coin of mine? Let your silver show. At last! I found you, hidden there     right before my eyes. Call my friends and let them know,     my happiness and pride. Let’s celebrate my found lost coin...     the joy I feel inside. Poem by MTJ

Father God,

The thought of angels in heaven rejoicing when a person repents fills me with joy. I recall that day I repented and gave my life to Jesus Christ, so I join with the angels who rejoice over one who was lost. So often, You ask of us, "Where are you", but do we really hear Your voice? Do we truly understand the depth of Your love and concern for each one of us?

Today, I pray for that lost coin, the sinner on the cusp of a life-changing decision. Give them clarity of mind to choose spiritual life. May that person find support from the body of Christ, local Christians who understand that each of us is saved by grace and not by works. Salvation is a free gift we receive from You, not something we earn. Let each of us who call Christ our Lord and Saviour, encourage the newly repentant that they grow in grace and truth. Amen.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Lost and Found

The Prodigal Son's Turning Point, Luke 15:11-32, NIV

It’s quiet now, at the break of day,     not a sound, except my thoughts. As I drift back and think of all,     the evil works I wrought. I want what’s mine, I’ll have it now!     Give me what I’m due! My father stood there, listening to,     the vile things I would spew. So he gave it all to me,     my inheritance. I then went off, so far away,     til every coin was spent. Women, parties, drunken nights,     I was a Jew gone wild. I was that fool who didn’t know,     he was a prodigal child. Soon my belly craved to have,     food I could not buy. I went to those, I thought were friends,     their words just made me cry. I took a job, far out from town,     feeding the farmers swine. The slop they ate, it looked so good,     I’ll eat it just this time. As I prepared, to eat that food,     a thought came suddenly. How better off the hired were,     they lived far better than me. And so I left, and headed back,     to my father’s home. I’ll seek forgiveness from the one,     that I had never known. While I was, still far away,     my father spotted me. He ran up close to where I was,     to finally set me free. A robe, a ring, and sandals too,     forgave me for my wrongs. The fatted calf was also killed,     a feast was held with songs. My son was lost, but now he's found,     he’s now come home at last. He’s learned the lessons of right and wrong,     I forgive him of his past. Poem by MTJ

Father God,

The song writer said, "Amazing grace how sweet the sound... that saved a retch like me...I once was lost, but now I'm found... was blind but now I see."

How lost I am without Your Spirit to guide me! What can I do? Where can I go? What can I say, that exceeds Your lovingkindness extended to me? Do I need thee? Yes, Father God, I need thee! Every hour, I need You. You are the Great and Mighty I Am. The Sovereign God who chose to give His Son, to redeem us from sin and death. I rejoice in Your goodness. I'm thankful that I have salvation in Jesus Christ. Guide me with Your Holy Spirit, that my life will testify to the power of Jesus Christ, my Redeemer who lives and reigns as King of kings, and Lord of lords. In the depth of my despair, You found and rescued me. May the life I live, be pleasing in Your sight, Dear Lord. Amen.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).