Choose Kindness

The “Good Samaritan” story is familiar to most of us.  It’s the story of how a Priest, a Levite and a Samaritan passed by a man—a Jew-- who was robbed and beaten by thugs and left to die.  The most likely candidate to take of the wounded man seems to be the Priest.  He is after all, seemingly, a godly man, yet he chooses to walk away.  The Levite, another supposed godly man does the very same thing.  It’s clear they saw him, but chose to not take any action. 

Then a Samaritan came by.  This is significant because in those days Jews and Samaritans were enemies.  They didn’t talk to each other or communicate in any way.  The usual tactic was avoidance.  Yet, this enemy of the Jews, chose to give him aid.  What a great role model!  

  Our world is changing in ways most of us would never have imagined.  As “success” is defined by how much material wealth a person can have, we seemed bent on climbing the corporate ladder to the highest rung, as quickly as possible, regardless who we step on during our climb, and even sometimes through other, less than moral ways.  It’s the “way of the world” and totally expected and often accepted!

It makes me wonder what happened to the Good Samaritan thought process!  To find someone who will stop to help another [especially a noted enemy] is unheard of --- or so rarely heard of, if the media hears of it, it’s instant news!  Most of the time, it’s how hard do I have to hit you to get you down beneath me….and oh, while you’re there, I’m gonna give you a good swift kick!

This seems to happen across the spectrum from within families (who aren’t supposed to be strangers at all) to our families within the church.  Not many of us even know our neighbors, except possibly the one who lives right next door!  Relationships are becoming more and more strained as we hover in our own little world, staying connected to our technological devices.  

The ‘web’ is not any safer than intermingling with ‘strangers’, since there’s the added element of being able to skew what we want other people to know or see, via the internet.  This is so prevalent we are encouraged to be wary of people we don’t know and be certain we are careful when sharing financial information or personal information that may be used and abused against us!

God didn’t intend His people to be unkind, mean or thoughtless!  God’s world is defined by light, and goodness, kindness and love.  So I encourage you to reflect on who you call “your neighbor.”  Is the person in front of you at the supermarket, “your neighbor?”  Is the homeless person on the corner, the sick and impoverished of your town, “your neighbor?”  Can we really “choose” who or neighbor is?  God loves all people, and that is what he wants to see in us, as well---regardless of race, color, creed, religious beliefs, nationality or anything that makes us different!

Photo Credit:  https://www.dreamstime.com/photos-images/kindness.html 

And Instead of Or

       I remember as a child hearing the expression “you can’t have your cake and eat it too.”  I suspect as a little person I didn’t totally understand the weight of that comment when related to real-life situations.  Certainly, as a young person, for example, I likely wanted to have money to spend on a desired toy, but once I spent it, I no longer had it!  I couldn’t have both, the money and the toy at the same time!  

During a conversation recently, the idea of “and” and “or” came up, because there are some huge gaps in words where the journey must be “or”, because “and” isn’t going to work!  For example, a person can desire change or stability.  Change is going to be unsettling creating instability.  Another might be conservative or liberal.  This is usually a political idiom and I certainly don’t want to get in a debate about this, yet I consider myself a conservative and miles away from being a liberal.  

Unify Rather Than Divide

Are there areas where “and” can unify rather than divide?  After some research, I found there are places where “and” is a necessity, especially from a Biblical sense.  Evangelism and discipleship, as one of my favorite pastors explained, is absolutely necessary, if a person or church is going to be able to grow.

Another area “and” is essential would be “multiple locations” and “one church.”  From a secular perspective, this is a contradiction.  How can it be multiple and still be one? It’s true there are varied denominations, which lends itself to the idea of “multiple locations” but scripture teaches we the people are “the church.”  We assemble in multiple locations to worship.  As Believers, we are urged to meet with other fellow Believers.  Certainly, given geography, it is necessary to meet in separate meeting places.  This does not, however, lessen our relationship with Christ, because each Believer is a member of “the one true church.”

One more example might be growth and assimilation.  I see this hugely impacting the music in our churches.  I admit, my favorite gospel music is Southern Gospel.  I enjoy the old hymns and the new songs in this genre.  I also totally enjoy the newer contemporary music.  The lyrics often cause me to embrace the music in an amazing sense of worship. I can assimilate and embrace both for a wondrous worship experience.  My husband, on the other hand, has a hard time with contemporary music.  Assimilation, therefore for him, is very difficult.  Yet, the contemporary music helps draw in the younger population.  In this case, it must be “and” rather than “or” if our congregations are to continue to grow.

Growth In 'And Instead of Or'

I encourage you to consider decisions that require “and” or “or.”  Does choosing “or” create a separation which hinders Christian growth, but does not go against your Christian beliefs?  Is it a preference or does scripture clarify the “right and wrong” of it?  Are there alternatives which enable “and” being used, again while not going against God’s Word?

Sometimes “or” or even a “no” must be used, because God’s Word doesn’t offer an option.  But when we want to encourage growth, rather than stifle it, we would benefit by using and believing in, “and.”

Photo Credit: https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/cake/8 

In His Presence

  A friend shared the story about how he and his wife, before she passed away, would go for walks in the park, long drives, or even just sit together on the front porch swing, discussing any variety of subjects from their children, future plans and even about daily activities.  And then other times in the same scenarios, be together without ever saying a word.  He said even in silence, there was a connection neither one could likely describe, but it was comfortable and filled with a peace and unity that only comes from love.

I loved my friend’s story and must admit I’m more like the Biblical Martha in the scripture from Luke 10:41-42 when Jesus comes to visit her and her sister.  I am a terrible ‘sitter’!  I’m one who is up and down, over and around, always seemingly doing something.  I fret when there are dishes in the sink, when the floor isn’t swept or laundry folded.  These things drive me to keep at it, until the task is finished, regardless of the time or how tired I am.

Years ago, when my husband worked night shift, he would miss dinner with the children and me.  This was before the magical microwave invention!  At night when he’d arrive home, whether it be 10 p.m. or 1 a.m. I would get up, fix his food and then do dishes—without the added convenience of a dishwasher!  There were mornings I would wake, go to the kitchen, see the clean dishes in the sink, know that I’d washed them, but have no memory of having done it.  

I’m not sure what that says about my personality, except that, I’m somewhat of a stressor, which is why I feel more like Martha.   But the idea of sitting at Jesus' feet and ‘just being’ gives such an image of rest and peace.  

We don’t all have someone in our lives with whom we can share the kind of connection, my friend described.  And to complicate this in today’s world, are those devices that are designed to keep us ‘connected’ yet seem to be, on some levels, breaking us apart.

It's interesting, that I watch my own children grow in their families, and how quickly they reach for their phones for games or email, messages, etc when even a moment goes by without conversation. (And sometimes even during a conversation!)   It makes me wonder if they are afraid of their own thoughts.  I don't know, but it causes me pause.       

Peace and contentment are amazing gifts and sometimes we forfeit them for the most recent television show, movie, video game or other activity (even cleaning?).  Sitting still and ‘just being’ in God’s presence is amazing.

I’ve found the only way I can accomplish ‘being still’ for more than a moment is to have a planned time for God in my day.  This works best for me early in the morning and some days it’s an effort to get up early enough before the ‘busy-ness’ of the day overtakes me!  Yet, I find if I don’t do this, my day seems ‘off.’  It’s clear I’ve missed a valuable component of the day that sets my mind, my heart, desires ---my comfort, peace and contentment levels—where they need to be!

https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-holding-their-phones-3184435/ 

Anything Is Possible

I’ve heard it said (and totally believe) that you actually learn more when you teach!  And if you want to get the most out of a book, especially a “self-help” book or even a text book, when you can “teach” the information, and make life application with the material you have read, you will likely retain the information much longer.  In essence, creating a “learning relationship” with those around you!

When you add inspirational material to this concept, the rewards can be astronomical!  As you share what you believe, your faith in what you accept as true, while trusting and living out your values, will aid both you and those around you, to broaden your sense of “possibilities” in life.  It demonstrates that as you live your life in a positive manner, one person can make a difference.

We’ve all been given different personalities and abilities.  How we choose to use the gifts we’ve been given will determine the direction we take in life.  When we choose not to develop those qualities we’ve been gifted, we have squandered opportunities of success.  Sadly, our culture today enables this attitude.  We’ve become a society who is set on having what we want, when we want it---and often that was yesterday.  So, we take chances, go in debt, and rely on others to support us.  

Our mission in life should not be “let someone else do it!”  As part of a community, family, and even the human race, we have a responsibility to protect and be productive within whatever environment we find ourselves.  Our workplace offers opportunities to be productive, yet often we do the bare minimum to just get to the end of the workday and ultimately the weekend.

  Our homes and families are another area where relationships are contingent on what we put into them.  As adults, we need to teach our young people the importance of having a mission, of wanting to do something kind and productive for someone else, without the necessity of payment, gaining fame or fortune; just doing it because it’s the right thing to do.  

Children are quite capable of relationships with all ages.  Wouldn’t it be wonderful to encourage young ones to figure out ways they can help someone else; whether it’s the elderly in their community, family members, or friends?  As they become productive, they can teach others, as they share their enthusiasm with “work well done.”

It’s sad to witness, however, the amount of adults who have stopped “teaching” in any form—except to remain focused solely on what is happening on television, or video games.   Our children have become a generation of “I don’t need to go outside and socialize, or be helpful in any way” because this is what they have learned!

 It doesn’t take a degree to teach in an area in which you are interested and knowledgeable.  The idea is to share ideas; to share gifts; and ultimately our faith in what is right and good.   Consider your life and what it is “teaching” those around you.  How do you demonstrate the positive mission of “teaching,” especially if it’s using those gifts you’ve been given, just because it’s the right thing to do?  When you do, anything is possible, and one person can absolutely make a difference!

Photo Credit:  free pics of children helping someone 

Conversation With God

Anyone who knows me, knows I am a chatter.  I love conversation and if you ask my husband it doesn’t have to be about anything important.  I just enjoy engaging conversation.  I was asked recently, “If you could sit on a bench for one afternoon and talk to anybody you wanted, who would it be?”  

I thought about it a while and came up with a list of people that I’d love to talk with.  Joanna Gaines and Mr. Fred Rogers are on the top of that list.  Thomas Jefferson would be another mention, as is Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Earl Hamner and Richard Thomas, Sally Fields, Dolly Parton, Dr. Seuss, C.S. Lewis, King David, and Mary, the mother of Jesus.  (And yes, that's a lot, but like I said, I like to chat!) But the one who sits on very top of this list is Jesus.  

Just think; he was a real-live human man.  He knows knows what every emotion -- grief, sadness, anger, frustration, anxiety, ---and celebration of joy, excitement, happiness, love, compassion-- I’ve ever had, feels like.  He was the perfect man, yet the perfect God.  I know I can (and do) have daily conversation with him every single day, and I cherish these times. 

When I have conversation with someone, I like to look him in the eyes.  I remember even during high school and college; I much preferred sitting in the front, so I could see the instructor.  Even when I attend church, I choose to sit up front because I want to see the speaker, because expressions are so important.

Can you imagine what it would be like to be sitting next to Jesus on a bench on a perfect, warm, sunny afternoon, and be able to see into his eyes, watch his facial expressions as they change during conversation?  That would be beyond awesome!

While we don’t have the current ability to do that in our human frames, there will come a day when, as Believers, we will be able to do just that!  My heart races even as I think about it!  What an amazing gift!  In the meantime, it’s so important to have daily (or more often than just once a day) conversation with the King of Glory.  

We are to have a relationship with the Father!  Relationships require quality time together to grow.  As we spend time with Him in prayer, our souls sour and our spirits grow in love and adoration with our Creator.  

The next time you bow your head and heart in prayer, visualize, if you can, what it’d be like to just be having a heart to heart conversation with your best friend.  Make it real.  Pour out your soul, share the good things (praises and victories) and thank Him!  Then share the sad and your requests and be assured He hears you.  Ask questions and wait for an answer!   Isn’t that what God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit wants from all of us?  Personal, quality time spent together.

Photo Credit:  free pictures of a park bench

Cultivating Joy Over Happiness

        Some years ago, my husband and I were traveling across country.  We stopped at a resort we planned to stay for the week, and of course there were planners and hospitality folks (Concierges) who love to help you do the most with your time while you are staying with them. 

We obliged and sat with a very nice young lady, who advised us, based on our interests.  As the conversation continued, for whatever reason, near the end of our conversation (and I can’t remember now), I handed her one of my business cards.  She picked it up, studied it for a moment and then said, “I knew there was something.”  

She already knew I was a writer. The only thing that she wouldn’t have known about me when I handed her the card was, I was a Believer.  I’ve had other people make similar comments.  I’m always astounded.  It’s not me, in that case, whom they see.  It’s Jesus!  It’s the joy I claim from the relationship I have with Christ.

I am certainly not always happy.  There have been major trials in my life, just like everyone else.  I cry, and have on some levels, dealt with depression during difficult seasons.  That sounds like a contradiction, but even David dealt with a large range of emotions, including anguish.  But even in the depths of his despair, he could (and did) still praise God, which can be difficult to do when your brain is yelling at your heart about the circumstances around you!

                                            Circumstances Dictate Emotions

Our circumstances often dictate our emotions.  We all occasionally feel like a leaf in a wind storm, not knowing if we will ever land, and that causes us to be anxious and unhappy.  That’s different than having joy. Life can be incredibly challenging.  

        Some use the expression, “fake it until you make it.”  I don’t know if I’m totally on board with that idea, but perhaps.  When we can smile, regardless of our circumstances we change our immediate mood, because our bodies respond positively due to tiny molecules being released from the brain to fight off stress.

                                                     Joy Comes From Christ

But even heartbreak or sadness cannot steal our joy if we are in Christ.  Even in the depths of sorrow we can cling to the knowledge that we have a God bigger than any trouble we may have.  He knows the beginning from the end and carries us when we can no longer walk!

Cultivating joy is all about nurturing the relationship with the Savior.  It means digging into the Word and knowing who He is.  It requires quiet time in prayer so we can hear his voice.  During this next week, as you deal with circumstances that are unpleasant, stressful, or downright ugly, remember the joy we have in Christ can be what brings us to the top of the turmoil we are under.  It’s greater than any human happiness.  It’s the unique love and inexpressible joy of Jesus, that can get us through!

#joy  #Christ'sJoy  #FakeItTillYouMakeIt   #circumstances  #life'sChallenges  #NotAlwaysHappy   #travel  #KnowJesus   #writer   #believer

Photo Credit:  free pics of joy 

Don't Give Up

  For several years, I worked as an instructional assistant in our local elementary school.  I worked with children who struggled, not because they weren’t capable, but they needed the “one on one” attention a classroom teacher just couldn’t give them.  There was one little girl who taught me a lesson!  

When she was reading, she would get stuck on a word.  With coaxing, she would figure out the word and then she would go back to the beginning of the sentence and begin again.  In this way, she not only learned the word, but strengthened her reading ability over all.  There were days when she would become frustrated, but she didn’t quit!

Keep Trying

Jesus teaches us through a parable in Luke 18 that we should never give up and rather be like that small child who kept trying to read.  She didn’t give up; she would begin again.  When things are not going our way or our prayer requests seem unanswered, we need to go back to the beginning and re-evaluate.  

When we become frustrated we need to let God know.  He wants us to tell him how we feel.  Perhaps it isn’t time, or our motives are off kilter.  But communicating with God is like talking to our best friend.   Isn’t this what best friends are for?  We must never give up!  We need to seek Jesus in prayer.  We should continue to seek his counsel and will; and believe there will be results.  When we do this, not only will we see answers to our prayers, but our relationship with Christ will grow stronger.

This child’s insight, with whom I worked so many years ago, was inadvertently perhaps, doing the right thing – by not giving up.  I’d like to be like her when things get all jumbled up in my mind, and further, into my world.  Giving up just can’t be an option.  There are always answers even if we have to dig way down into ourselves to find them.  Often it takes digging into ‘The Word’ as well as,  spending time on our knees.

Daily Frustrations

Our Christian walk can become frustrating with the demands of life.  We plan and schedule in Bible Study and prayer time, but life has other ideas!  Children get sick, a call comes in, company comes or we don’t feel well.  My nemesis has always been travel.  I get in a ‘good groove’ for several weeks, and then there is a road trip, sometimes lasting only a few days; other times several weeks.  Whatever the time frame, my ‘proposed schedule’ is out the window.  Once the habit (however meager) is started, breaking it, is remarkably easy and it’s harder than ever getting back on track.

I encourage you to consider areas in your life where “giving up” seems to be the best option.  Ask God to give you the courage to keep moving forward, clarity to know where you are heading, perseverance to stand against the obstacles that will certainly arise, and trust in God who goes before you in all things! Be inspired! Don’t give up!  

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