Included...

One thing the manger reveals to us...Jesus is inclusive...

“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, 
and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.”
John 6:37

Everyone can approach a manger...everyone can approach Jesus. Everyone.

The only folks who can’t come...those who ARE excluded, are the ones who think they are too good for...a stable; or too superior...to need help; or too proud to bow their knee. These excluded folks...have trouble with Jesus. Sometimes...I am this type of folk.

Jesus simply says come...no matter your past, no matter your pay-grade, no matter your persuasion...about anything. Simply come. The Holy Spirit will do the transforming. And we, myself included, need to stop the judging.

So...wretched sinner that I am – yet, being transformed by His power – come to the manger...to the now risen King and say, “Thank you” for including me.

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photo: Naomi Jellison w.permission

Silent Night...

Silent Night…Holy Night.

When our Savior entered the world as a wee babe…fully God…fully man…He was entering enemy territory.

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
Ephesians 6:12

Jesus’ walk upon earth was a rescue mission…and things haven’t changed. In this passage we hear Paul’s voice for the church to put on the armor of God…and do battle against the enemy…not against people. Yet, how quickly I get my eyes on stuff, situations, and...others, when the real conflict is against demon hordes and the enemy himself? Jesus has called us…to be an army that battles…on our knees.

What are you facing? Who are you directing your anger, anguish, or irritation towards? It might be time to let the Holy Spirit reveal what is really going on…who the real culprit is. Then…and only then, real victory can be secured in Jesus’ Name.

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Small Things...

Small. Small things. Small packages.

“A little one shall become a thousand,
And a small one a strong nation.
I, the Lord, will hasten it in its time.”
Isaiah 60:22

For years I despaired that what I had to offer the Lord was too small. For years I despaired that I was too small. For years I despaired, compared, and felt defeated.

Yet…our Heavenly Father…well…He apparently delights in small things. So…if this season finds you fretting about the size of…your home, your income, your ministry, your influence…your…self…remember…

To God…big things come in small packages. We need only look at the baby in the manger to see the size of His heart and what He can do with the small things we surrender to Him.

Trust...

The angel's words to Mary...are amazing...

“Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
Luke 1:45

We can sing His praise, we can dance in worship, we can shout in jubilation in the midst of His presence…we…we…we can go to church every Sunday, read our Bibles daily, and share the gospel…but…oh my…without faith…it impossible to please Him Hebrews 11:6.

As you read this, what are you struggling with? Choose instead…to believe His Word…in spite of what you are…feeling. Emotions will follow your choice. Ask for His help with your unbelief, but start somewhere…because His fulfillment of much of what He wants to do in your life hinges on...faith. No not works, but the Lord loves it when we trust Him.

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Angel Unaware...

No joke. I am 99.9% sure I encountered a real angel last year at Christmas at my workplace.

“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.” 
Hebrews 13:2

Last Christmas Eve, I was alone in the office when a scraggly man appeared at my door…oh my…now what? This older rag-tag man with the most piercing blue eyes told me how he was caring for his elderly mom and needed my help…THAT DAY…the above verse came mind. I knew the Holy Spirit was speaking to me to shape up because someone special was in front of me…

I was cranky. Yet...I tried to help him.Then...it became laughable…I just knew this was the real deal. The Lord has a sense of humor…FOR SURE. When everything finally came to a close the man took my hand, looked me straight in the eye…and said to me… “You are a real...angel.”

So this Christmas…and every other day of the year…slow down and take notice. You never know…you may be entertaining an angel sent from the Lord or you may be their…God-sent angel.

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Messed Up...

There is a line from a Christmas carol that wrecks me every time...

“Til He appeared...and the soul felt its worth.”

I...for one...spent many years feeling worthless. Never mind my adoring parents and joyful childhood. My self-loathing was a product of simply being born into a broken, fallen world which the enemy of my soul rules. I masked this self-loathing in a cloak of pride...but that is another story. The wonder of it is...Jesus set me free...and continues to release me from the grip of this “feeling unworthy” lie.

Jesus came for the sick...the sick at heart. (Mark 2:17)

I have met people...many people...who think their self-sufficiency is all they need. That really do seem to have it altogether. I am afraid for these people. I am afraid they will miss what He has for them...how He can carry the load...and they don’t have to prove anything anymore. Is this you?

What a relief to know He is everything...and this messed up girl is now the most valuable thing in His heart.

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Bethlehem...

I can’t think of any food more satisfying...than…bread.

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel..."
Micah 5:2

Many years ago I learned the name of the most favored, but insignificant town - Bethlehem - literally means: House of Bread. Yes. House of Bread. Where the Bread of Life was born and laid in a manger.

If you are lacking in your soul as you read this…lacking peace, or joy, or satisfaction…or significance in your own eyes, the One who was born in the House of Bread…He alone will meet, fill, and satiate...your need.

So…come…taste…and see that the Lord…is…good. This One, named the Bread of Life came for you.

At the Start of This...Crazy Christmas Filled Week...

At the start of this busy…crazy…wonder-full Christmas time week…

Should you grow weary, tired, impatient, or just plain done…remember Mary…she was having a rough go about this time too. Nevertheless, her trust was in the One who loved her beyond-reason.

Should you feel like you aren’t enough, have enough, or do enough…think about the shepherds. Their job was pretty much out-of-site, out-of-the-limelight, out-of-reach from the nearest paparazzi…yet…God chose them to be the bearers and witnesses of the Savior’s birth. God sees you, too!

This is a week of new beginnings, hopes that will be realized, and miracles to watch for. Keep your eyes open, your heart tender, and your mind from distraction. This week will be awesome in Jesus because Who is in you is greater than anything!
1 John 4:4

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Foolishness...

The Christmas story can sound ever so…foolish to some.

“But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;”
1 Corinthians 1:27

God became man and was born…among cows and chickens and pigs (well, maybe not pigs if the owners of the stall were practicing Hebrews!)…and dogs…and cats…and …and…yes…lambs?

Possibly the things going on in our lives right now…may seem so foolish…or weak…our failings and falters or circumstances. Yet…isn’t this the power of the gospel? The power of the Holy Spirit? To take the very things that have overcome, plagued, and harassed us and turn them on their heads to…God’s glory?

Let’s let the Lord Jesus take our foolishness and transform those areas and situations into the light of His glory. He can do it…

This is the power of Christmas.

His Mission...

The Greatest Story Ever Told is truly the story of God’s rescue mission.

“… For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.”   1 John 3:8b

When baby Jesus was born…He was making an invasion behind enemy lines 1 John 5:19…to rescue us. Yes…to rescue us from the domain of satan to whom the first couple handed their God-given dominion of earth to in the Garden.

Jesus also came to snatch us from the miry pits we often find ourselves in due to our own selfish and destructive choices. Add to these calamities, the fallout from the bad choices, habits, and addictions through previous family generations and environment.

So…in what area of your life do you need Jesus’ rescue? Ask yourself honestly. Then, ask Him honestly…to deliver you.

Yes…the Lord Jesus is enough…more than enough. His rescue is your destiny…and His abundance is your portion because of His glorious grace….

You will know life beyond your wildest dreams. 

Christmas Lists...

Christmas is in full swing...and my to-do list is a mile long...

“You have endowed him with eternal blessings
and given him the joy of Your presence.”
Psalm 21:6 NLT

I had a sweet quiet time with the Lord before work this morning. While still there in that peaceful place, I started my list of stuff...to-do. It went on...and on...and on...you know what I mean?

I heard the whisper of the Holy Spirit. “Let Me orchestrate this Christmas season.” For once, I didn’t question. Yep...I want to really enjoy this oh-so-short season in His presence. The eternal trumps to-dos. Yes...I need to go to work...get lights on the trees...buy presents. However, I am going to let Him call the plays. Want to join me in trusting Him for this season?

You know what? I forgot my list when I walked out the door. Honestly. I felt great relief.

Rescue...

In this Christmas season...

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”   2 Corinthians 8:9

I love the trees...I love the lights...I love the sparkle...I love the music...I love the fragrance of pine...I love the sweet delight of a crazy house full of family. Nevertheless...most of all...I love the wonder.

The verse above is unfathomable. Though He was rich...He became poor. The God of the Universe became man to rescue me. And you. This is the story of Christmas. So...in all the festivities...someone you know might need rescue, too. Be sensitive to those around you and the Holy Spirit calling to their hearts. And while you are at it...be sensitive to His calling to you...as He continues the riches of His rescue in your life as well. I will do the same.

What wonder.

At the start of this week...

At the start of this week...At the start of this Christmas season!

Should the stores be too frantic, the lines too long, and the wallet too thin...stop and hear the Lord’s still small voice. Let His words of hope and joy...fill you with hope and joy.

Should you already feel defeated before you have even stepped out the door, remember Paul’s words of truth: you are more than a conqueror through Him who loves you! Lean wholly into His amazing love until it drips from your life to others. Too busy? Cool your jets. Everyone around you will sense His peace when you let His peace reign in your heart. Romans 8:37

This is a week of new beginnings, hopes that will be realized, and miracles to watch for. Keep your eyes open, your heart tender, and your mind from distraction. This week will be awesome in Jesus because Who is in you is greater than anything!  Psalm 65:13
1 John 4:4

Falling Hard...

Fall hard into grace…

“You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.”
Galatians 5:4

Have you…like me…been impatient today? Or, have you been tempted…and fallen…fallen into some old habits and behaviors? Are you worried or anxious…though you know clearly He can be trusted to walk with you through whatever you face?

We need to remember…no matter what has taken place today, His grace is sufficient to cover our lack…our weakness…and yes…our sin. We “fall from grace” ONLY when we FORGET His grace. It is not a matter of sin...but realizing His extravagant forgiveness.

Paul’s words…are…freedom to our souls and open a release of the Holy Spirit to work transformation in our lives. Yes, let’s fall hard into His amazing grace.

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Happy Thanksgiving!

Oh, give thanks to the Lord!

“Your love, LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.”  Psalm 36:5

At work yesterday...we last stragglers who didn’t take the day off...all asked each other how we were spending the holiday. You know...who is cooking, what is being cooked, how many will be feasting. Of course, everyone groaned when I shared Randy and I would be driving 400 miles to Los Angeles right after work. Traffic, traffic, traffic! Next...cheers when they found I wasn’t cooking (my mother-in-law is the bestest chef!).

Bottom line...I am so thankful...for everything in my life. I told Randy the other night after receiving another clear CTscan report...I don’t ever want to be like the nine healed lepers who didn’t come back to Jesus and worship. I resolve to be more grateful...24/7/365. Really.

It is the only way to live...even when stuff isn’t yet resolved...because He has never failed me yet and His love and faithfulness are without end. I can trust Jesus...with everything. I choose to do so...with praise on my lips and my hands upraised. Will you join me?

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Actively Grateful...

I have so much to be thankful for...

“Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!”
Psalm 150:6

This week of Thanksgiving...let’s praise Him ‘til the cows come home. Let’s wake up thankful. Let’s go through the day blessing Jesus with our love and gratitude. Let’s get on our knees before bed tonight...and have a praise fest.

I had a trying day. You too? Not horrible...just stuff. But you know what? God is worthy to be praised...And when I get my thankfulness on...the doors of heaven open wide and the Holy Spirit causes me to soar.

The enemy loves nothing more than for me to get my eyes on myself and my circumstances and off the One and Only. So join me these next few days....months...years...let’s look up and lift up our hands...because...there is overflowing joy and power...in an actively grateful heart.

(Don't forget to click the Title...go to the site...and like the heart at the bottom of the page if this spoke to your heart...)

Jesus Called It...

Jesus called it...

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
John 16:33

We live in a messed up world. The King of Kings had no problem naming the devil as the culprit of earth’s darkness. However, the one who rules this planet (1 John 5:19)...the one who would kill, rob, and destroy, is no match for the One who came to give life abundantly. Jesus is our Peace. He is...the Light of the World.

We need to start – if we haven’t already – to take our stand...on our knees. Let’s be praying for those who don’t know Jesus yet. Let’s be praying for...nations. And, let’s be praying for the power of God’s Word and the miraculous in the Holy Spirit to be multiplied. So that many might come to faith. And...if we haven’t yet...let’s get serious about our own walk with the Lord.

One thing for sure. Praise God. In the midst of darkness...His Light shines brighter still.

At the Start of This Week...

At the Start of This Week...

Should you become over-scheduled, overwhelmed, or over-the-top nuts with stuff to do and no time to do it…take a breath…breathe a prayer…stop and be grateful for the One who came to give His all…that we might live. For He alone is worthy…

Should you have difficulties in a relationship, His love is greater...in...you. Seek His love first...because... His love is more than enough for both of you! Remember His complete forgiveness...towards you...then freely extend this gift to the person(s) you need to.

This is a week of new beginnings, hopes that will be realized, and miracles to watch for. Keep your eyes open, your heart tender, and your mind from distraction. This week will be awesome in Jesus because Who is in you is greater than anything! 
1 John 4:4

Make it Only Him...

What is your heart…set on?

“Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, 
Whose heart is set on pilgrimage.”
Psalm 84:5

Our hearts can be set upon…so many things: a new home, a job, a good education, finding the right person…a baby. So many good and wonderful things. Nevertheless…we need our hearts to be set on the One and Only…first.

The author of this passage knows that having our hearts set on God…is a journey, not a one-time event. Trusting Jesus is a process of one step in front of the other…every minute of every day. A pilgrimage…a continual…looking up…lifting and setting our eyes and heart on Him alone. And…

As the next verse will tell us, when we travel through the Valley of Baca, the valley of barrenness or weeping, we will find springs of living water, the rain and reign of the Holy Spirit creating pools of refreshment. We will journey from strength…to strength. What promises!

So what is your heart set on…make it only Him.

I Will...

There is just something so…so…faith building when we read the “I will” portions of God’s Word…

“… I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10b

Maybe it’s been awhile since you sensed…or…truly believed…God is working on your behalf. Sometimes life seems just…plain…hard. Do you need some of His “I wills?” May I suggest for starters: Exodus 6:6-8. And… and one of my go-to passages…Isaiah 41:10-20?

If it seems it's been awhile, since you have seen God move in your life…go straight to Him. Work and wrestle these issues and disappointments with Jesus. Don’t delay…and keep coming back…there is more at stake here than you may realize…because…

He is waiting and…He is willing…

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