Verne's Oasis

Did We Fail?

2009-12-21T09:56:00.004-05:00

During the past months we have had many experiences where for one reason or another our expectations were not met. There were times when we felt like abject failures ... in our families, at the workplace, even in our spiritual experiences.

In retrospect were we really failures?

I have learned that such experiences are not really failures. You see an experience is not a failure:

1) If it pushes us to keep on trying. Quitting is really not an option.

2) If through it we discover our mistakes and put that knowledge to good use

3) If through it we discover our true selves

4) If through it we become better disciplined persons

5) If through it we come to to a deeper knowledge of God

So did we really fail? You decide.

Happy holidays!!! Love you all.

Verne

The Mathematics of Life

2009-11-30T11:33:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe that another year is winding up so rapidly. Can you imagine that tomorrow will really be the first of December? It is said that 'time flies' but it seems to me that this year time has 'rocketed by' for want of a better word. There goes my leave. Come January I will be back to school. Not very appealing considering the fact that I have been quite enjoying lying in bed late with not a care in the world as it relates to getting ready for work. I'll be on the morning shift so that means arising at 4:30 each morning to rush, rush rush!!! Sounds like fun? Not at all. Well, I guess I've been quite spoiled by four months of leave. Now I'll just have to work on 'unspoiling' myself. I guess I have one more month to do that. Ah well! That's just the way things are.

My mind has been quite busy recently. I've been trying to figure out how to increase my cash flow or even how to spend less. Not that I've been spending a lot these days. The solution to my financial crisis seems to be eluding me. My husband and I were thinking of leasing some more land for farming but we seem to have arrived at a dead end where that is concerned. With a baby looming on the horizon I need the faith of Abraham. Well, I'll be satisfied with mustard seed faith so I'm praying for that. If my faith multiplies I'm sure my concerns will be divided and no doubt solutions will be added. Then, worry will be subtracted and become a zero factor.

Quite a bit of mathematics for someone who dislikes the subject. As usual, I'm stopping to smell the roses. I'm praying and waiting for my change to come. I believe it will come sooner than later. Whatever your situation keep on trusting the great I AM GOD.

Blessings

Verne

2009-11-26T14:01:00.002-05:00

Hi friends,

Just a brief note to let you know that I am still being blessed. I'm having a severe case of writer's block. This morning I hopped over to Caribbean Wordkeeper and read one of my favorite quotations:

God never leads His children
otherwise than they would choose
to be led,
if they could see the end
from the beginning,
and discern the glory of the purpose
which they are fulfilling
as co-workers with Him."

- The Desire of Ages, pp. 224, 225

I'm encouraged just by reading the quote again. Sometimes I'm really tempted to ask why me though. I want to stay encouraged even circumstances seem less than favorable. Seems like I'm affected more by the pregnancy of my twenty-one year old daughter more than by all the illnesses I could ever have. I know that she is an adult but it is difficult to see her make mistakes which will probably impact her entire life.

Well, I guess becoming a grandmother can be a good thing even though I can't seem to figure out the implications on my already tight budget. No! The father doesn't seem to be taking an interest in the pregnancy so I guess I'll be the one doing all the running around and shopping. Really the leading is unclear right now but I'll just have to see how it goes. It is comforting to know that God is still in control. Our children sometimes falter by the way but God never fails. I'm still stopping to smell the roses.

Love you all.

Verne

Life on the Cutting Edge

2009-10-31T20:21:00.002-05:00

Hi friends,

Lately I've found myself somewhat caught between a rock and a hard place. I'll share a wee portion of my present life with you, my blog readers, in this post. A few years ago I had my appendix removed. The doctors had thought it necessary to do the surgery as I was having severe pain in that region of my right side. After the surgery I was told that my appendix was not that bad after all. According to the surgeons they had taken it out any way as they had already done the cut. As you can imagine I was not amused but there was hardly anything to be said as the surgery had already been performed.

I was sent home on antibiotics and painkillers. Within few days however I began to experience pain and had to be admitted in a hospital near to my home. The doctors there said that I had been released too early from the other hospital and that I should not have started eating when I did. My condition improved and I was allowed to return to my home once more. Well, as far as I could see, I was none the worse for the experience except for the fact that the side of my tummy which was cut seemed to be unusually high. That's what I thought!!!

Less than a year passed and I had to be readmitted to the hospital. What was the problem? According to the doctors I had healed with adhesion that clung to my intestines and I now had intestinal obstruction. This has been one of my most horrifying experiences. Swallowing down an NG tube is a nightmare for me and having the catheter inserted is no fun either. Until I had this experience I really did not know how blessed I was to be able to perform such simple bodily functions as passing wind and defecating. I really did not dwell on the fact that the digestion of food is a great blessing. I accepted these functions as a normal part of my life and didn't even think of thanking God for making them possible. Big mistake!

Well, in the ensuing years, I continued having this problem. Each time it occurs I am unable to perform these bodily functions and since nothing can go down to be passed out, everything starts coming up and out and I have to be rushed to the hospital to have the tubes inserted all over again. Recently I have been told that I have also developed incisional hernia- which according to the doctors is contributing to the obstruction. Now I'm being told that the only way to solve these problems is to put my trust in surgeons again and return to the cutting table so that they can repair what has gone wrong. Need I say that I have lost interest in surgery?

Here I am on the cutting edge. This past week I realized that once more I seemed to be in danger of going back to the experience of swallowing the NG tube. I was having difficulty in 'passing my stool' and by Tuesday I realized that I was unable to 'pass wind' either. In spite of my plight though, I had a deep settled peace. I began talking to Jehovah Rapha, truly He is my Healer. I told Him about my health issues even though I know He knew about them from the foundations of the earth. I didn't ask Him for physical healing but I asked that He would do whatever He thought was best for me. Of course, I asked Him to prepare me for eternity- spiritual healing- that's what I crave and need so urgently.

I decided to call my mother who was at that time visiting my sister. I asked her to get me a bottle of prune juice on her way home. She was so concerned on hearing of my plight that she left immediately, bought the prune juice and hastened home. I took one long draught and wonders of wonders I was actually startled by the loud passage of wind from below. Later on I was relieved of my stool. The pains went and I was free again.

As I worshipped today (I'm a Seventh Day Adventist), I was in a deep attitude of gratitude. My God cares. I know that I'm just a pilgrim passing through this world of sorrow and woe. I know too that I'm not worthy of the least of God's blessings. But isn't it just like our Father to give us undeserved gifts? Yes, I'm on the cutting edge my friends, but I'm allowing myself to fall in the hands of my loving Father. Each day that I awake I will glory in His divine compassionate love. On the cutting edge, I thank Him for all the gifts that seem so insignificant, even my finger and toenails. How would I manage without them?

Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me bless His Holy Name.

Is There Love At Home?

2009-10-27T10:37:00.001-05:00

We live in a society where crime, violence, lawlessness, hatred and all the baser passions abound. The image of God is rapidly being effaced from human beings as satanic agencies contend for the mastery. It is no wonder then that life in general and human life seems to have very little value at this time in earth's history. Love is rarely expressed and it is now easier to 'like' an individual than to love him or her. It is left to those who are Christians to transmit the light of love to a dark and cold world. But to give love we must first have it. So... Is there love at home?

When love is in the home the following will be inevitable:

1. There will be prayer in the home. It has been said that the family who prays together stays together. Why, do you think this is so? God is love. Ultimately, it is God who give us the capacity to love. As we behold Him in prayer and study of His word we become like Him in His love. We are then able to love our family members and as a family we will be able to extend God's love to others, near and far.

2. Sharing will be natural as lives are shared daily.

3. There will be something visual to keep love going- something to remind you of the one you love.

4. Things will be done just because of you/ just for you.

5. Love will change as it keeps renewing itself. It must grow because love is never passive. Love is active and dynamic.

6. Life's disturbances or issues will be resolved. Love knows how to deal with these issues. Friends will not be seen as enemies.

7. There will be a high standard of forgiveness at home.

8. There will be acceptance, apologies will be offered freely, there will be full forgiveness and restoration of the relationship will be complete

9. When things are going badly we will want to work them out- sort of like ironing out the crinkles.

10. When there is love at home, home will be a place with an open door when the whole world lets us down.

If there is love at home, let us freely share it with the world. Today, let the world know you care in some small way. Let love's light glow in your corner of the globe.

I love you all.

Verne

Learning to Lean

2009-10-22T11:21:00.006-05:00

Today, my thoughts are with Raine@Simply Getting By. Her father is battling with a malignant tumor at a time when she is pregnant. She needs our prayers for strength to deal with this family crisis. I guess it is one of those illnesses that sort of unnerves us... makes us realize how fragile we really are. Please help me pray for Raine and her family.

These are truly the days of our lives. We awaken to face:

1. Bad News
2. Pain
3. Anxiety
4. Fear
5. Weakness
6. Heavy Burdens
7. Hopelessness

Then when we think we are crushed beyond measure Jehovah Jireh provides for us so much more. He gives us:

1. Good News and takes our Bad News
2. Relief and takes our pain
3. Confidence and takes our anxiety
4. Boldness and takes our fear
5. Strength and takes our weakness
6. Light Hearts and takes our heavy burdens
7. Bright Hope for the future and takes our hopelessness.

But have we learned to lean? Or do we prefer to stand on our own two feet? Daily it is my desire to lean. I want to stop and smell the sweet fragrance of the roses. I want to lean on Him who alone is strong. For Raine and those of us who are troubled about many things, let us learn to lean on El Roi- The God Who Sees us in our several situations and will undoubtedly meet us where we are. Indeed He is able to give us so much more if we only lean on Him in childlike confidence.

Love you all.

Verne

Kreativ Blogger Award

2009-10-20T20:34:00.012-05:00

I thank Ann again for nominating me for this award. I really appreciate it. I'm trying to get this perfect but - if I don't - forgive me. I guess this is where I should name seven things about myself that folks may not know. I need to put on my thinking cap here. Let's see if I can identify seven...

Here goes:

I have a sweet tooth although I try to keep it under control. I love pastries, cakes, and baked goodies in general. I day dream about double scoop ice cream sundaes with butterscotch topping and fruit cocktails. Mmmm... (Guess I shouldn't have disclosed that one).
Rats are my nemesis. I fear them dead or alive. (I get up on tables, stools, beds, just about anything to avoid them. Then, I scream my head off).
I enjoy visiting scenic places in Jamaica and having fun with friends but I'm not too enthused about taking a flight in an aeroplane. Have never felt the pull to visit another country. Don't know if I ever will. LOL.
I prefer to avoid soup and porridge. (Am I happy to be an adult! No more spankings to ensure that I eat these foods).
Enjoying good music is one of my passions but I am no singer. Strange!
My favourite colour is red and my favourite number is seven.
I enjoy preaching. I'm thinking of becoming an evangelist some time in the future, if it is God's will.

These are the seven bloggers who I will nominate for the award, although there are so many others who have inspired me and are deserving of this award:

Well! I guess this is it. If I have not done everything right forgive me because I'm still in the learning process.

Love you all.

Verne

Thank You

2009-10-20T16:40:00.001-05:00

I notice that Ann @His Grace To Me has nominated me for an award. I don't know whether to be thrilled or sad so I'll just be thrilled since that's the easier option. You see I'm quite lost. I do not know where to go to collect the award so that I can put it on my blog. I am not really versed in these things. I'd really love to have the award on my blog so any help will be welcome.

Ann, I want you to know that I really appreciate your kind gesture in nominating me. I'm very happy that you have been blessed by the thoughts I share from time to time. God is truly awesome. It seems to me that He really wants me to continue with my blogging. Each time I feel like giving up on it something or someone like Ann happens to get me back on track.

In recent times I've been thinking that maybe, just maybe, my posts weren't really touching lives in the way I intended. You see my blogging is really intended to minister of God's grace to others. At the same time, I want to share a little bit of me with my blog friends. Sometimes I really wonder whether or not I'm striking the right balance. I actually contemplated giving it up to just concentrate on my ministry in my community.

Today, I thank God for using Ann to encourage me to continue when I would have given up. Who is like unto God? His hand truly covers it all. Well, I'll see if my little sister (Ruth) can assist me in getting the award on my blog.

May God bless you abundantly.

Love you all

Verne

2009-10-01T10:46:00.004-05:00

It's another day of golden sunshine. Let's see if I can share this with you today:

Although things are not perfect
Because of trial or pain
Continue in thanksgiving

Do not begin to blame

Even when the time is hard and

Fierce winds are bound to blow

God is forever able

Hold on to what you know

Imagine life without His love

Joy would cease to be

Keep thanking Him for all the blessings

Love imparts to thee

Move out of 'Camp Complaining'

No weapon that is known

On earth can wield the power

Praise can do alone

Quit looking at the future

Redeem the time at hand

Start every day with worship

To thank is a command

Until we see Him coming

Victorious in the sky

We'll run the race with gratitude

X-alting God Most High

Yes, there'll be good times and yes there'll be bad. but

Zion waits in glory... where none are ever sad.

"I am too blessed to be stressed.The shortest distance

between a problem and a solution is the distance between your

knees and the floor.

The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything."

As I said it came in my email. It's titled, 'The Holy Alphabet'. Need I say more? May your day be a Spirit-filled one. Love you all.

Things were much Better Today.

2009-09-30T21:05:00.002-05:00

I must let you know that today was a great day. In response to your enquiries, Shan found her journal tucked away in another book when she went to hand in another assignment. Can you imagine? There we were searching for a journal that was right where it was supposed to be- in her school bag- among the other books. But guess what! We actually searched that bag several times to no avail. Well! God certainly knew where it was. I'm certain there was a lesson to be learned somewhere in that experience. Hmm.. I wonder... I'm going to sleep on that one. It will come home to me by and by.

I received this in my email today:

Ooops! I'll put it on tomorrow if my life is spared. It isn't uploading. Not sure that I really understand that part. Ah well! I'm sure I'll soon learn. Have a blessed night. Love you all.

One of those Mornings

2009-09-29T08:50:00.000-05:00

Hi friends,

Today is just one of those mornings for me. I don't know if you have ever had mornings when it seems as if everything that could go wrong has indeed gone wrong. Well! This morning did not begin too well for me as first of all I awakened late with what seems to be the continuation of a headache which I went to bed with last night. I had promised to be ready to go to the hospital with my friend this morning but it was her second phone call that finally aroused me from sleep. I answered the phone but she was unable to hear me as it seems to be malfunctioning so she kept shouting 'hello hello hello!' So much for my headache.

I finally managed to complete the call, had a brief devotion by myself and went downstairs (my husband had already left). I was stunned to see that my daughter (I'm in the process of adopting her) was not ready for school. According to her she had taken her journal home yesterday and was unable to find it. She needed to take it to school with her. I joined the search party but it soon became evident to me that the journal was nowhere in the house. Of course, by this time Shan (short for Shanique) was in tears. She was in no mood for breakfsst and I was determined that she had to eat before leaving for school. By the time she ate she was late for school and of course I was not amused. I really hope she finds her jounal at school because she really put a lot of effort into making it neat and attractive. If she doesn't, much of her information will be missing. Ah well! When she comes this evening I will hear how her day turned out.

You may have realized by now that I was unable to accompany my friend to the hospital. I hope all turns out well for her. The Good Book says: 'In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.' I'm in the process of doing just that. There must be some good reason why Shan lost her journal, I woke up late, I was unable to accompany my friend and I had a headache that made my head feel heavy. No doubt I'll find out all about it in the sweet by and by.

I'm going to get myself some breakfast now and trust God to work out the rest of my day. What a blessing it is to be alive to experience mornings when things go wrong.

Have yourselves a blessed day. Love you all.

It's Time to Let Go

2009-09-27T07:12:00.003-05:00

Hi Friends,

It's good to be alive, isn't it? There are so many things our Heavenly Father has provided to enrich our lives and make our hearts glad. Nevertheless, not many persons today are enjoying abundant life. Many of us are too busy fighting our own battles against pain, suffering and injustice. We are therefore unable to stop, be still and recognize that amid the thorns are beautiful, sweet smelling roses.

Is it possible that injury can be endured with patience and without resentment? Is it even possible that we can serve others while our own lives are being battered and broken? I believe so. God sometimes allow His people to endure difficult circumstances so that their lives can be testimonies of His grace and care for all men. Sometimes, like Moses and other patriarchs of old, we become broken in the fingers of God for the ultimate good of those around us. It is through our own broken places that many of our family members, friends, neighbours and even enemies are able to see the great God of the Universe.

Have we ever stopped to comprehend the great truth that opposition and disobedience are calls to reveal grace? Interestingly, grace is needed when it is least deserved. It is when our spouse is at his/her worst that grace is most needed, but isn't that the time when we feel least like giving it? When our children are most obstinate and disobedient it is so easy to mete out justice and withhold grace. We find it easy to forget that God is watching with great interest to see how much compassion we have for those who are wayward.

We are not by nature lovable. My favourite writer made this statement: 'The beasts of the field obey their Creator's law in the instinct which governs them. He speaks to the proud ocean, "Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further" (Job 38:11); and the waters are prompt to obey His word. The planets are marshaled in perfect order, obeying the laws which God has established. Of all the creatures that God has made upon the earth, man alone is rebellious.' Interesting, isn't it? So then, man in and of himself is an enemy of God. Rebellion hurts so we can safely conclude that when we sin we hurt God since sin is rebellion against the divine authority of God. There's a big question here. Since God so loved us while we were yet sinners- rebellious, unthankful, unholy, why can't we love our enemies? Why can't we love the opposition? God gives to the unjust man rain and sunshine. how then should we treat them as well?

Here is where I'll leave off for today. We need to contemplate these things and see whether we can find it in our hearts to be meek enough to endure hurts with patience and without resentment. Can we love our rebellious children, our difficult spouses, our inquisitive and gossipy neighbour, our difficult employer, our co-worker who libels us, our offending family members, or the thief in our comunity? Can we...Can we...Can we...? We must.

Do have a blessed day. Love you all.

2009-09-24T08:46:00.001-05:00

Once again it is a lovely day. The sun is out in all its glory and there is a gentle wind blowing. It is a good morning to be outdoors so I'm about to join my husband outside. He is rarely here during the days so it is good that he decided to work in his nursery today. I'm going to help him fill some bags with soil.

Mikey ( short for Michael) is great with plants. He engrafts many different types of plants and sells them. By the way, did you know that one rose plant can produce a number of different coloured blooms (red , yellow, pink , etc). Well! that's what happens when he engrafts the plants. You can even have a mango tree producing several types of mangoes.

That's actually what happens when we are engrafted into the divine vine. God's people are like a profusion of buds of different hues. For the engrafted branch to grow and flourish it must stay connected to the plant to which it was engrafted. In the same way we must abide in Christ if we are to grow and flourish spiritually. Our God is a God of variety. That's why He made us all different. In spite of our differences, however, we become one plant as soon as we are attached to Christ- the Divine Vine. At first we are weak and fragile but as we are nourished by the vine we are strengthened and no longer easily broken by the storms of life.

Have to go now. Might be back later. Love you all.

Lovely Weather

2009-09-22T15:27:00.003-05:00

Wind, lightning and thunder! I have them all today commingled with rain. After the dry spell we had this is most refreshing. Right now I'm as cool as a cucumber. Just yesterday I was saying to a friend that it seemed as if we would get no September rain. Well... It is here. If I were younger I'd probably go out and skip around in it. Suddenly the trees appear much greener. I wonder why.

Guess I'm still a child at heart. Playing in the rain has lost none of its appeal. I know that it's not becoming for an adult but, man oh man, the thought of it gives me great pleasure. I used to love flood rains as a child. We would watch the water swirling around and wish our parents would vanish so we could go outside and enjoy splashing in it like the other children on our street.

Well, that only happened once when my father went to get my mother and brand new baby sister from the hospital. Boy! Did we have fun! Of course a nosy neighbour scolded us from across the road. We went in but she wasn't satisfied it seemed because she told our father when he returned. Of course that didn't end well for us because he spanked us soundly.

Well I daresay I wouldn't get spanked if I were to play in the rain today. Nevertheless, I'm going to be sedate and responsible, I hope, and stay dry.

Have fun with whatever weather you are having.

Be blessed.

2009-09-21T17:12:00.002-05:00

Delight yourself also in the Lord and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalm 37:4)

Wonderful promise! It is good to imagine getting our fondest dream. What is the desire of your heart today? It is true that God will give us the desires of our hearts but there is a condition attached. We must delight ourselves in the Lord.

So what does it mean to delight ourselves in the Lord? How do we delight ourselves in the Lord?

According to David, God's people should not fret themselves because of evil doers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. Instead they should commit their ways to Him and trust in Him. We are encouraged to rest in the Lord and wait patiently for him. David then instructs us to cease from anger, forsake wrath and fret not ourselves in any way to do evil.

In short, we need to live in a state of perfect trust. We need to have a deep settled peace as we realize God's presence with us and His work on our behalf. We can continue to praise Him and smile in adversity because no one and nothing can supersede our God.

If we can take such an approach to life we will receive that which God most wants to give us at the time we need it most. Trust Him! He'll do it again for you. Read Psalm 37 and be blessed.

Love you!!!

Praise Him

2009-09-20T08:38:00.007-05:00

Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice. (Phil. 4:4)

Somehow we find it easy to praise the Lord when when our circumstances are favourable or when we are experiencing joy. It is much more difficult to offer praise when we face our worst nightmares and it seems as if the very foundation of our world is crumbling away. Yet it is at such times that we need to praise the Lord as praise is a wonderful way of keeping our faith alive. It is when we are having our 'down in the valley' experiences that praise is able to lift us back to the mountain top.

So, how do we rejoice always? How do we praise the Lord when we are experiencing pain, the loss of a loved one, financial embarrassment, social oppression, loss of a job, and the list goes on? First of all we must recognize that praise is an act of faith. We praise God , not because we feel happy but becaise of the truth of who God is and what He has promised us.

Here are some benefits of praise:

Praise brings down walls. (Joshua 5:13-6:20)
Praise opens doors of deliverance and transforms the lives of people around us. (Acts 16:16-34)
Praise conquers battles. (2 Chronicles 20:1-30)

When the towering walls seem to hide your husband, children, or neighbours from view remember the crumbling of the wall of Jericho in response to praise. When circumstances seem to have you bound remember the opening of the prison doors in response to the praise of Paul andf Silas. Finally, my friends, when the battle rages around you and there seems to be no hope remember Jehoshaphat, who appointed singers to sing praises as they faced a great army. At the sound of praises that great army self-destructed.

Keep your eye of faith on Jesus, 'You have nothing to fear for the future unless you forget how God has led you in the past.' (Paraphrased from my favourite writer)

Praise Him for He is worthy.

Blessings!

Lunatic, Devil or God?

2009-09-18T10:24:00.006-05:00

Centuries ago a young man showed up on the streets of the Middle East making some radical claims. They seemed preposterous and farfetched. He claimed to be, get this, the King of the Universe. Who was he? A laughable egomaniac? Someone mentally deranged? The greatest imposter ever? Well... The young radical went on to make a series of claims so sweeping that if they were true nothing would ever be the same again. I speak of none other than Jesus of Nazareth.

Sinnners and alcoholics are very much alike. Once an alcoholic always an alcoholic. In the same way, once a sinner always a sinner. We may be sinners saved by grace but sinners nevertheless. We all have scars from our battles for freedom from sin. We struggle daily for the mastery over the sins that so easily beset us. I don't know your personal stories but I know our shared journey-battered and bruised by the enemy of souls.

You would never guess by looking at the smiling masks we wear to cover our faces as we keep replying, 'Fine thasnk you, and you?"in response to the question 'How are you doing?' that our marriages are on the rocks, our children need counselling , we are desperately in need of a job, we are contemplating suicide and the list goes on.

Many of us are defeated, discouraged, depressed and downright despondent, but there is hope spoken in the words of the radical. There is hope that can turn a vanquished sinner into a victorious one. Two words, the two most liberating words ever spoken falls from the lips of this radical. "I AM". In response to the Jews (John 8:58) Jesus of Nazareth declares: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I AM." There is no doubt that the Jews got His meaning. They knew the story of Exodus 3. They therefore knew that Jesus was claiming to be the great 'I AM' God of the Old Testament- The Self Existent, and Eternal One, the Great Creator God of the Universe and of the burning bush.

What shall we in the 21st century do with Jesus' incontrovertible claim to divinity? He claims to be God! Shall we stone Him too? I guess we are too modern for those primitive measures. It's easy to just ignore or reject Him. It's even easier to forget Him. Nevertheless Jesus asks the question, "What think ye of Christ? Whose son is He?" (Matthew 22:42) How do we in the 21st century respond to His question? What do we think of Jesus?

A man who was just a man and said the things Jesus said would either have to be a lunatic or a devil. So, is it possible that a great prophet could make these claims, or maybe a great teacher? No! No! Never! Who then is this Jesus who declares resoundingly:

I AM the Water of Life (John 4:26)

I AM the Bread of Life (John 6:35)

I AM God (John 8:58)

I AM the Light of the World (John 8:12)

I AM the Door (John 10:7&9)

I AM the Good Shepherd (John 10:11)

I AM the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)

I AM the Vine (John15:5)

I AM the Way (John14:6)

The story of a great musical conductor is told by David McLennon. Arturo Toscanani was rehearsing Beethoven's Ninth Symphony with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. After the last note of the symphony's moving finale had echoed away, silence filled the rehearsal hall. Toscanani then spoke. "Who is Toscanini," he asked. There was no reply. "I am nobody," His voice echoed through the the hall. "It is Beethoven- He is everything." Today, in the 21st century what was true for the followers of Beethoven in the realm of music must be true for the Christian in the realm of life. Jesus must be everything.

The radical declares, "I am the Way."

My friends, what will you do with Jesus?

Will you ignore Him as a lunatic? Reject Him as a devil? Think of Him as a great prophet or even a great teacher? Or, will you crown Him as King of your life?

Jesus (El Gibhor) is everything.

(Source book: The Claim by Dwight K. Nelson

Who is God to You?

2009-09-17T13:56:00.004-05:00

I have always been fascinated by the Hebrew names for God. They seem to be so much more personal than just saying 'God'. These names speak volubly to His character. Today, I wish to share a few of my favourites with you. It is my hope that you will capture the essence of his character as you go through my brief list. Then decide: "Who is God to You"?

One of my favourite names for God is 'Elohim'. It refers to Him as God (Creator, Mighty and Strong). I hug the name to me becuse it is wonderful to think of Elohim, the strong and mighty God, just speaking the world into existence.

YHWH/ Yahweh is another of my favourites. It is the revelation of God's name first given to Moses, 'I Am who I Am. The name Yahweh speaks to the fact that God is near to those who call on Him for deliverance. He is near to me. He can be near to you too.

Jehovah Jireh reminds me that God is my provider. I am confident that he can provide for me in the same way he provided for Abraham, the ram to be sacrificed in place of Isaac.

I am happy that Hagar ascribed the name El Roi to God. She was alone and desperate in the wilderness after being driven out by Sarah but then she met the Angel of the Lord. As soon as she saw Him she realized that El Roi saw her in her distress. She then testified that He is a God who lives and sees all. El Roi means the God of Seeing. Believe me friends, we are living in dark times but God sees us. His eyes are constantly on us.

Now for the name that thrills my soul, Jehovah Rapha, The Lord Who Heals. God is my Healer. He heals both body and soul. My friends, what a God! He is not only interested in healing our physical bodies but He wants to pardon our iniquities and fill us with His grace. Jehovah Rapha, I revel in the name. His healing hand is on me and I am humbled by His grace.

To me God is immortalized as my Jehovah Rapha. My friends... Who is God to you?

Some Texts to Reflect On

2009-09-16T22:17:00.004-05:00

This I recall to my mind. therefore have I hope.it is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed,because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning, great is is thy faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:21-23

For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
Jeremiah 29:11

He shalt cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shall thou trust, His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Psalms 91:4

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary and they shall walk, and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31

And this is the confidence that we have in Him , that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us.
1 John 5:14

Take heart my friends, God cares. I love you all, but He loves you best.

How to Save Your Marriage

2009-09-15T10:40:00.004-05:00

Many perons get married with the expectation that the honeymoon would last forever. They are therefore sadly disappointed when they come frace to face with the grim reality that this is not the case. All too quickly they are bombarded with the realization that marriage is lived out in a real world where difficulties and problems exist.

Marriges do not succeed by chance. A good or successful marriage is the direct product of hard work. If both individuals so joined are not committed to the task, it is inevitable that the marriage will become a torture and without godly instruction will end in heartbreak and misery. So, how do we save our marrriages? While I do not set myself up as an authority on such matters, here are a few tips that should be useful.

Invite God to be an honoured guest in your home - listen intently to His adviee then act on it.

Show appreciation for your spouse - use words and not just actions to express your appreciation

Spend quality time together- don't be too busy to have fun together

Be committed to your marriage

Be understanding and supportive of your spouse.

Take time to communicate effectively- LISTEN WELL- your spouse wants to be heard too

Your spouse needs sexual fulfilment. Never ignore this need.

Conflicts will occur from time to time. Have a positive appproach to resolving them. Let love and good sense prevail at all times. May your marriages be long and enduring.

I really hope that these tips will be found useful. Love you all.

Divorce...Is it the Answer?

2009-03-27T11:36:00.003-05:00

Marriage is one of the two sacred institutions given to man at creation. It was designed to bring love, joy and harmony into the lives of those so joined. It is very sad that in today's world, marriages are falling apart left, right and center. Persons no longer regard marriage as a bond that should never be broken and so it has become all too easy to put an end to marriages which seem difficult and burdensome.

The big question that is asked is: How much is too much? When should a spouse decide that enough is enough? Some suggest that when a wife burns the egg and appears to lack what it takes to make her a good cook, that is just too much for any well thinking male to deal with and a divorce is in perfect order. Others suggest that if a man is churlish enough to raise his voice while in a dispute with his wife, that would be surely too much for her to deal with. Again, a divorce would be the perfect answer.

It is no surprise then, that marriages are taking a downward spiral. Counselling in many cases is of no avail as couples are no longer interested in trying to work out their differences. The Bible is clear on the basis for divorce. According to Jesus, the bill of divorcement should only be given in cases of fornication, and interestingly this results only because of the hardness of one's heart.

Divorce....Is it the answer? I think not.

So... what is the answer?

See my next post, 'Save your marriage'. It will be published soon.

Love you all.

Enjoy It

2009-03-16T15:11:00.004-05:00

Life can get so busy that we miss out on the very joy of living. I guess the economic melt down has a melting effect on our ability to remember that this world was created for our enjoyment. We try to cut down on expenditure as much as possible, hence, family times out become very few. Our view of life becomes narrow as we try to focus on what we love to refer to as the essentials of life.

Well! Yesterday my husband and I decided to break that mold. We decided that despite our limited resources we were going to deviate from the norm of our humdrum existence and go on a little trip with our friends, Jimmy and Melba. We had quite a day. In fact, just being out together in nature seemed to have a rejuvenating effect on both our marriages. It was truly fun driving to places of scenic interest. The cares of life seemed distant as we spent time recapturing our first love.

At the end of the day, we were very happy that we did not stay home just for the sake of cutting costs. We believe that it was definitely worth the expense. Love, romance and excitement do have a place in one's family life. If you are thinking of scaling down on expenses that's okay but once in a while... recapture love's adventure. You'll find out that it's worth it.

Remember... take time to smell the roses. It will be worth it.

Oooh I'm back

2009-03-06T10:52:00.002-05:00

Hi friends,

I've been out of commission for some time. LIFE! I guess it finally took its toll on me. Nevertheless I'm back. It feels sooooooo good to be actually posting once more. I tell you... this world is like a roller coaster ride. Today you are up and tomorrow you are right down in the valley. Then before you know it you are right up there again. Whew!!! Lucky for us this world is really not our home. Yes! we are just passing through.

There's a cool, gentle wind blowing here in St. Ann, Jamaica and I'm feeling truly blessed. I love cool days. Sometimes I try to imagine Adam and Eve there in the Garden of Eden when there were no extremes of temperature. It must have been simply wonderful. I yearn for that day when Eden shall be restored in all its perfection. No extremes in temperature, no extremes in human behavior... Instead all will be perfect bliss.

Today, I am confident that I am simply too blessed to be stressed. Oh! What a beautiful day! I pray that all who read my post today will be rejuvenated, recharged and capture the essence of The Perfect God who inhabits eternity. Remember, there is no hurt too great that God cannot heal it, no sorrow so deep that God cannot soothe it. Have a blessed day. Embrace the hope that God has given you. Love!!!

2008-12-23T22:12:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone! I hope you are all enjoying this lovely holiday season. Today I went into the town with my mom and the children. We had a simply marvellous time. Of course we went early to avoid the afternoon rush. It seems as if many persons had the same idea we did because there were lots of people shopping and folks seemed to be having a jolly good time despite the economic melt down.

I really believe that each holiday season gives persons the opportunity to relax and unwind regardless of their financial status. My mom seemed to be in her element. I was very happy to see her so alive and vibrant because she seldom wants to go out and interact as she seems to think that she is too old to enjoy life anymore. Shopping for my sister's wedding anniversary certainly brightened her up. On Christmas Day my little sis will be celebrating her 11th anniversary.

Well... my mom had a whale of a time. She met friends she hadn't seen in ages. I'm real happy for her. As I was saying, money or no money, people seem to be having a very good time. True happiness really does not consist in wealth or possessions. I think it is just lovely to saunter along the streets in the radiance of the sunshine. Indeed today was a lovely day to be out.

I believe we are very blessed here in Jamaica. Today I enjoyed these blessings:

The warmth and brilliance of the sunshine
The beauty of the azure sky
The friendly service of the salespersons
The companionship of my family members- particularly my mother's
My view of the lush green hillsides
Wonderful Jamaican meals

Tomorrow I'll be busy baking cakes. That should be great fun. I just love baking.

Have a good night and may God bless you all.

Families United in Christ

2008-12-15T11:33:00.002-05:00

Last night we had wonderful family togetherness programme at church. It was really awesome I wish I had a few pictures to show you but I'm still saving to buy myself a digital camera so I can capture some special moments to share with you. At my church we have a member who lost her mother, her house and all her possessions in a fire a few years ago. She struggled along with her husband, as they tried to start all over again. I imagine that a blow of that nature must have been staggering, given the fact that they were past middle age.

As a church, we encouraged and assisted where possible as they tried to make sense of the tragedy that had overtaken them. Sad to say a few months ago this sister was dealt another cruel blow when her husband was snatched away from her by the cold hands of death. We can only imagine her pain and intense mental anguish. Not only that, but without her husband her financial woes increased. The devil certainly knows how to pour it on doesn't he?

Well! What can I say? We serve a mighty God who is great in providence. Giving all to Him makes a difference. Our family togetherness programme was designed to show our unity as we reached out in a tangible way to alleviate the distress of our sister. All the families in the church made their contribution to provide a 'purse' for our sister so she could have a brand new start. The support was tremendous as persons gave freely as the Lord had blessed them. God is indeed able to provide for His people abundant blessings.

As the presentation was made the brethren rejoiced and cheered. It was a moment of gladness. Yet many cheeks were wet as tears of joy streamed down the face of that sister and the faces of those who were present. Indeed it was a blessed moment. It's not over yet. There will be more rivers to cross and more mountains to climb but knowing God, being a part of His family, and uniting in service will certainly make the journey more tolerable and successful.

May God bless you all.

Grade Dinner

2008-12-09T19:47:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow will be our grade dinner. We will be taking our Grade 9 students to a hotel to dine. As usual I'm expecting it to be great fun. We work hard during the school year and it is at times like these when we get an opportunity to play hard and just enjoy ourselves. I am definitely looking forward to this occasion.

I am a fun-loving person who thrives on adventure and excitement. Many people do not know that part of me as I tend to restrain myself. Yet there are times when I can't help but give in to the sheer joy of being alive. My students know both sides of me. They know me as a no-nonsense person who demands nothing less than the best from them. They also know my keen sense of humour and love of fun.

Well, I am definitely expecting to have a good time if all goes well. I got myself one of the prettiest dresses you ever did see. It feels so smug and comfy on me. Of course this was definitely not in my budget but since I will be on holidays for the next few weeks I'm hoping it will balance out. If it doesn't I'll be in trouble so I'm just praying and hoping. That's another thing about me I'm really too impulsive for my own good. I sometimes act and then I find myself thinking, 'Now why did I do that?'

I certainly hope I'll be able to hold my head up above water this time around. Ah well! I guess that I can only hope for the best. At least I'll have a jolly good time. With the economy as it is these times are not as regular as they used to be. I'll let you know how it fares. I guess you all know me a little better now. As time goes by I'll share more of myself with you.

May the Lord bless and keep us all.

Exam Time

2008-12-06T21:40:00.004-05:00

For the past week I've been very busy marking examination papers. Quite a task I must say, since I had a mountain of papers to go through. It is never easy at this time of the school year. Anyway, I seem to be getting through nicely even though I would have appreciated a bit of help if it were available.

I must confess that the marking of examination scripts can be a very rewarding experience even though marking is tedious and time consuming. There is this warm glow that spreads over me when my students excel. There are times when I come upon a particularly good paper and I just feel like punching the air and shouting with joy:

'Yes! Perfect! He got it! Great job!'

Right away I want to share my joy with someone else. I just can't keep it to myself. I am like a proud mother who wants share with a close friend that special moment when her child excels. It may seem strange but I have a strong bond with my students and consider them my children even though I am not their biological mother. If they hurt; I hurt. If they succeed; I am like a proud mother. Don't try to understand. I guess it is just one of those inexplicable things.

Anyway, I have had a number of students doing well in their examinations and to tell you the truth I am tickled pink. This takes me to the point I want to make. If I can feel this way about students excelling in a temporal examination, I wonder about God's reaction when we excel in the daily tests that prepare us for eternity. Paul offers us the following words of encouragement:" study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth".

Whether we believe it or not we are students in God's classroom and the lessons being taught are to prepare us for eternity. How well are we mastering the lessons taught? By the grace of God let us study well and be excellent students thus giving God the opportunity to say: Hast thou considered my servant ___________? (Put your name there.)

I'm sure He'll be tickled pink.

Have a blessed night.

Stock-Taking

2008-12-01T19:42:00.009-05:00

It's the first day of December. I don't know if you all feel the way I do. Somehow, I feel the need to revisit the rooms of my heart and ensure that they are prepared for holy visitors. As the old year draws to a close, I must take stock of how well I have managed my Master's assets. I'm expecting Him soon because I'll be one year closer to His coming as soon as the new year rolls in.

So, I enter the living room and begin checking. I look at the sofas all soft and comfy. Are they in perfect condition or do they show signs of wear? I inspect them carefully knowing that my Master expects them to be all worn out by the time He arrives. If I have entertained strangers, invited in widows and cared for orphans then my sofas will certainly show signs of wear. I'm not totally satisfied with the condition of the sofas. I'll have to certainly work on welcoming far more widows, orphans and even strangers next year. No, I'll begin right away. There's no time like the present. I look over at the television. Seems I didn't use it much. The Master won't mind though. He wants me to guard well the avenues of the mind. He also wants me to use my time wisely. I think He will be quite pleased to see that the television was seldom used.

Ah well! Let me hop over to the dining room. Is there wholesome food on my table? What have I been eating? What have I been feeding my family? Do I see some rich desserts filled with sugar and milk? Or do I see fruits, cereals and fresh vegetables? Wait a minute... Did I deliver any food baskets this year? Oh dear! Did I share my meals with the poor amd the needy? Could I have shared more? I do believe that I could have. The Master has given me so much.

Stock taking is difficult isn't it? I have not been to all the rooms. Two rooms and suddenly I'm all tired out. I have much to think about tonight. Probably you would like to join me in stocktaking. It might encourage my soul. Well, I'll do some more another day. See you soon.

Have a blessed night.

Christmas But Not Yet (Part 2)

2008-11-26T19:43:00.005-05:00

As I was saying in my last post Jesus will soon come to take His faithful people home. CHRISTMAS!!! As a result of His request in John 17:24 the marriage will be consummated. PRAISE THE LORD. The scripture records: 'And they that were ready went in with Him to the marriage and the door was shut'. HALLELUJAH!!! There is a sense of security because the saints have been shut in with with Jesus.

So here we are...down to the final ministration when the great work for man's salvation will be finished. According to Daniel 12:1-3 Michael stands up to go for His children. For the space of half an hour heaven is silent as Jesus approaches Planet Earth with His retinue of angels. CHRISTMAS!!! His children are heard saying in the words of Isaiah 25:9: 'Lo this is our God we have waited for Him and He will save us: this is the Lord we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation'. CHRISTMAS (not x-mas) is in the air. Christmas is a-coming and the grapes are already fat.

Good news, my friends, all are invited and all may attend. See (Matt.22:4, Luke 14:16-17 and Rev.22:17). Jesus has promised to gird Himself and serve us. The wedding supper of the Lamb will be served. Oh what a joy! Christmas at last! I can hear the ransomed choir start to sing 'Amazing Grace'. It will be a grand celebration, friends. Signs of the time signal that the Christian Christmas will soon be here. Jesus will come to serve at the banqueting table. My friends are you ready to celebrate? Will you be made ready? Accept Jesus today. By God's grace let us meet at the banqueting table.

Love you all but Jesus loves you better. Reach out in faith today and be touched by God's grace.

Christmas-But Not Yet- Part 1

2008-11-24T19:53:00.005-05:00

We are about a month away from what the world now dubs as Christmas Day and folks are getting excited. Yet, in all the general pandemonium that takes place supposedly in His honour, very little is seen of this Jesus- man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. Somehow He is strangely absent from the feasting and pleasure seeking masses which are held. Sad to say, many Christians are being swept away on the high tides of commercialism, sensuality and gluttony that sweeps over communities at this time of the year.

The life of Christ refutes the idea of Christmas celebration as we know it today. While on earth Christ lived a life of self sacrifice. Reveling, feasting and merriment were not to be His lot. Christ lived in the shadow of the cross and yet very few people recognized it. I can well imagine the intensity of emotions which many Jews experienced when they heard that Jesus was born. The thought of liberation from the Jewish yoke would have been uppermost in their minds. This would have been reason enough to celebrate. Christ, the Liberator, had come on the scene. "Christmas!" But not yet.

First the cross... but the Jews couldn't understand it. They failed to understand Christ's mission. Could it be that we are still misunderstanding even today? Interestingly, even the disciples failed to understand Christ's mission and looked for 'Christmas' prematurely. The sons of Zebedee were ready for 'Christmas'. They even desired to have the best seats at the gala. Judas too wanted 'Christmas' prematurely. His desire led to the betrayal of Jesus. Today we too want 'Christmas' prematurely.

The crucifixion of Christ was a crushing blow to His disciples. Today, persons are crushed when they face the startling fact that there must be a crucifixion of self before there can be a 'Christmas celebration'. Yet 'Christmas' is a-coming. Soon Christ will come for His people in fulfilment of His promise in St. John 14:1-3. (To be continued)

Praise The Lord!!!

2008-11-19T19:50:00.009-05:00

Am I the only one noticing how rapidly the days are passing? It seems like the years just roll in and out like the waves of the sea. Well, once more we are on the brink of a new year. The challenges, we must admit, have been many. There were times when we felt we could not nave made it so far into 2008. We were buffeted by the powers of darkness and at times it seemed as if the mountains were extremely difficult to climb.

For many of us there were mountains of debt we couldn't clamber over, mountains of poor health, economic instability, family disputes, misunderstandings, and even mountains of spiritual maladies/inadequacies. Yet as Ruth says there is much to praise God for. Tonight I want to praise the Lord for the following blessings:

1) The blessing of present life which according to His promise will one day blossom into life eternal. I look forward with a sense of anticipation to that day.

2) The blessing of health

3) The blessing of family and friends who support and encourage

4) The blessing of the students I teach- indeed despite the challenges they present their love and affection is genuine- I am rejuvenated just by being with them- they help to keep me young. :)

5) The blessing of a fruitful land to live in

6) The blessing of a church family by which my spiritual life is enriched

7) The blessing of comparative comfort of home- it still needs working on- but I feel extra blessed when I remember that the Son of Man had no place to call home

8) The blessing of the Internet which brings programmes which present deep spiritual truths that I'm enriched by

9) The blessing of sight, hearing, speech, smell and feeling- can't imagine how it feels to be deprived of one's senses

10) Last, but perhaps most significant, the blessing of trials and problems which serves to keep me focused and on my knees.

Hi

2008-11-18T22:40:00.006-05:00

I intended to post tonight but I'm deadbeat. I've been marking papers and recording grades from the moment I got home. I will try to post tomorrow

Have a blessed night.

Making the Moments Count

2008-11-16T19:05:00.006-05:00

As we look around us each day we see the baleful effects of sin on planet earth. Each day makes it increasingly clearer that signs of the times are appearing in rapid succession as prophecies reach their fulfilment. Today we live in a world where men's heart are indeed failing them for fear. Crime has escalated to alarming proportions and even babies are being brutally abused and slain. Yet we are assured that our present state of existence will not continue forever.

According to the Scriptures our Lord shall come and will not keep silence. For the Christian, 'we have this hope that burns within our hearts, hope in the coming of the Lord'. We can fully concur with Wayne Hooper that 'the time is here when the nations far and near shall awake and shout and sing Hallelujah Christ is King!' I believe with all my heart that some day soon our Lord will put in His appearance to eradicate sin from planet earth. Indeed our time here is short. There's no getting around that.

So how do we make the moments count? May I humbly make a few suggestions here? I do not count myself an authority on such matters so feel free to share your suggestions as well. Here goes:

1) Love God above all else.

2) Love all men- even the unlovable.

3) Give willingly- it will return to you full measure, pressed down and running over.

4) Be kindhearted to all regardless of class, colour or gender.

5) Be an intercessor- pray earnestly for others, even for your enemies.

6) Be temperate in all things- moderation is an excellent guide.

7) Maintain a healthy diet

8) Exercise daily

9) Take time for family and recreation

10) Be an effective witness- let your life be an open book which all men can read.

I'm sure there are several other ways of making the moments count. How about sharing some you have thought about with me. Remember, today take time to stop and smell the roses, you'll last longer my friend. :)

The Need for Light

2008-11-15T21:51:00.007-05:00

In every situation there is a lesson to be learned. The truth of this hit me like a hammer this morning as I prepared for church. A few days ago I told you about the unfortunate situation in which a gentleman found himself. I remember telling you that I giggled uncontrollably. Interestingly, I wasn't giggling this morning. Can you guess why? Of course you can! The laugh was on me!

I'll tell you what happened. I was all dressed for church when I decided that I needed a little listerine to make sure that my mouth was smelling extra fresh for the day at church. However, mine was finished. I asked my mom to let me have some of hers. We share the same house. She tossed me her key and I hastened to her room. By this time everyone was in the car waiting for me because we were already late.

Well my dear friends, I was in her room with a hop, skip and a bounce. In my haste I didn't bother to turn on the light even though with all the windows tightly locked the room was dark. I just bounded to her dressing table and picked up the bottle of listerine and poured some into my mouth so I could proceed with my gargling. To my consternation the strong scent of dettol assailed me. I had poured DETTOL into my mouth.

I hastened outside to spew it out. I was nauseated and gagged helplessly. Everyone hurried out of the car and tried to determine the cause of my discomfiture and to assist. When I could eventually speak my daughter began giggling uncontrollably. It was so funny now that she phoned my sister to ensure that she had a good laugh too. Needless to say I was not myself for the entire morning. You may be laughing now because I am quite okay and none the worse for the experience. What is the lesson here though?

Mankind needs light. When we walk in darkness we stumble and sometimes fall. Jesus declares 'I am the light of the world'. If I had taken the time to turn on the light I would have seen that the bottle contained Dettol. We cannot safely traverse this earth without the light of Jesus to guide our steps. The word of God, the Bible, is designed to flood our lives with heavenly rays of light. We need to take the time to open its pages and allow the rays of God's light to permeate our very being.

Turn on the light. It is your guarantee of spiritual safety. It will prevent you from imbibing poisonous doctrines. Be blessed and stay blessed. Love you all.

Amusing but Serious

2008-11-12T16:35:00.006-05:00

Yesterday I had a really interesting experience which I found amusing. My husband and I sat in a line of traffic which was moving slowly as a result of some road work being done. A man alighted from a car just in front of ours with two hefty pieces of luggage. These he placed in the trunk of a waiting taxi. Having secured his luggage he opened the door of the car he intended entering.

It was at this point that the plot thickened. As that poor man stood poised to enter; the car took off at a most surprising speed almost sending him sprawling. The man stared, mouth agape as his luggage disappeared around the bend. I giggled uncontrollably. However, there's a lesson to be learned.

The panic flight by the driver was caused simply because he was driving an illegal taxi and the transport authority turned up. Could we be in such a situation where we engage in forbidden activities and are forced to flee when we finally realize that God is right on spot observing us? That man who was left standing, bereft of his luggage was adversely affected by the driver's callous and inconsiderate behaviour. He could have been seriously injured. Where am I going with this line of argument? Our actions, believe it or not, impact on others. When we get caught in these dilemmas, those around us are left to stare in wide eyed astonishment. As a result, they sometimes stumble and fall.

Let us therefore strive to obey the law of God so we have no fear of being condemned by it.

Love will make a Difference.

Milepost

2008-11-08T22:20:00.004-05:00

Those of you who read yesterday's post will realize that today is a significant milepost in my life. I reflect on the past as I realize that, I, albeit undeservedly, have had 20 years of extended life. Twenty years seems to be a long, long time. Yet, it pales into insignificance when compared to eternity.

Extended life in the here and now is good. Nevertheless I look forward to that day when time shall be changed into eternity. Death will have lost its sting and the grave its victory. You may have lost a loved one to the grave. Take heart. A day is coming when according to the promise 'there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be anymore pain for the former things are passed away'.

I've learned to smile in adversity because I'm assured that joy comes in the morning.

Blessings

I am Blessed

2008-11-07T19:34:00.003-05:00

Today I am feeling abundantly blessed. You may wonder why. It is with a sense of awe and humility that I share a tiny portion of my life with you. The year was 1988- twenty years ago to be exact.

I was poised precariously between life and death. I can even now remember the cardiologists hovering around me trying to hear my faint heartbeat which was somehow being silenced by the heartbeat of the baby I was carrying. The lines of concentration and care showed clearly in their faces. I struggled to remain calm although their serious expressions indicated that I was in a crisis. I was experiencing difficulty with my breathing and as the doctors prodded and poked at my swollen body I had a premonition that things were worse than I supposed.

It did not take long for my deepest fears to be confirmed. My condition was critical and I had to sign forms so that the doctors could perform the surgery to remove the baby the very next day. I was now 8 months pregnant and had been hospitalized for at least five months with only occasional weekends at home. Twice I had faded away into heart failure. Now the doctors were adamant that to keep me in that condition any longer was to sign my death warrant. Even now I can remember the fear that clutched at my heart as I overheard one of the cardiologists saying, "Sister, can't you see we are losing this patient?"

I painfully signed the forms then placed a call to my mother to let her know that I would be being operated on the next day. She was going to prayer meeting that night so she assured me that the brethren there would be petitioning God's throne on my behalf. I was somewhat comforted but could not stop the tears from rolling down my cheek.

I prayed and somehow slept that night. The next morning I was prepared for theatre and by midmorning the porters came for me. Once more tears rolled down my cheeks as the realization dawned on me that there was a possibility that even if the baby lived I might not make it out alive. Nevertheless, I placed my trust in God and made the decision that whatever the outcome I just wanted Him to save me by his matchless grace.

At 2:08 p.m on November 8, 1988, the doctors removed Roxanne from my womb and ushered her into the world. According to the records she gave a lusty cry. Her little lungs were strong, despite her mother's weakness. What of her mother? According to my doctors I was dead to the world. I could not be awakened. I was placed in the intensive care unit but as night approached I slept on. One doctor said he was convinced that they were losing me as it seemed that I would just slip quietly into that sleep of death.

It is good to place one's confidence in God. The Creator is indeed the Sustainer of all. This is what happened: I felt a slap on my thigh. I awakened to the cries of, 'Thank you Jesus'. As I looked across the ward I saw a nurse on the other side staring at me as if she was in a state of shock. By this time I discovered that I was the one shouting 'thank you Jesus'. As the nurse rushed over to my side I tried to control the emotions that flooded over my entire being. With much effort I quietened as the nurse tenderly administered to my needs. I had been touched from heaven's throne room. My God delivered when it seemed there was no hope. What a God to serve, to love, and pant after!!!

He delivered me and I am still alive 20 years after. Today as I re-live that experience I am blessed. He can deliver you, my friends. Only trust Him, serve Him fully, then experience His blessings.

Love you all.

Rainy Weather

2008-11-01T20:12:00.002-05:00

November is here and it seems to be bringing us some well needed rain. For many of us the change in weather conditions is a welcome one. Others bewail the wetness and the mud. I love the rain because it brings lushness to the crops in the field. My daughter is not very thrilled about the rain as her new room was flooded and she had to move into her original room. I suspect we have some fixing to do to cope with this rainy season. Nevertheless, there is much to thank God for.

He has been wonderful and gracious to us. It is not too early to start counting our blessings and naming them one by one. I know we will be just overwhelmed to see what the Lord has done for us throughout this year. I have been studying the atonement of Christ at my church and I am just tickled pink to think that God would give his only beloved son to die in my place. He died in your place too. Oh, what a love!!!

I hope you will all plan to give Jesus your heart. That is the best New Year's resolution you could ever make. Love you all.

Did you miss me?

2008-10-05T17:38:00.004-05:00

I haven't been around for a while but my thoughts have been with you. I hope you haven't missed me too much. God continues to be good to us in spite of the many trials we face each day. Recently, I had the privilege of spending some time at a hotel where I had a great time. It was a beautiful experience- an escape from reality to a haven of rest.

Of course, by that experience my thoughts were transported to another haven. I thought of that lovely city,the New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven. I sat there around the banqueting table enjoying all the pleasures of Eden restored. Soon it will no longer be a dream but a blissful reality. It will not be a hotel but it will be home sweet home at last.

If you are reading this today won't you plan to meet me there?

Love you all.

School Reopens

2008-09-02T12:28:00.003-05:00

I am back at work today and the heat is on . There is a bevy of activity all around me. Meetings and still more meetings. Yet it's good to slow down and reflect on one's blessings. The blessing of good health, the blessing of being employed, the blessing of being alive for just one more moment in time is enough to praise God for. Today, I am blessed. Hope you are too. May God bless you abundantly as you reflect on his goodness.

After the Storm

2008-09-01T14:27:00.006-05:00

It's amazing the havoc that a little storm can wreak in our lives. Our electrical supply is cut off, the water goes from our taps and in some cases our roofs are lifted from above our heads. We become vulnerable. It is good when the winds still, the water ceases its buffeting and the storm is over. We can begin the rebuilding process.

Life is a journey and, inevitably, storms similar to Gustav arise to jolt us out of our comfort zone. In many ways, our light is cut off, our water goes and our roofs lift. We become so vulnerable that we need a haven in which to rest - an oasis if you please.

Today, take heart 'because the journey is too great for thee'. Rest a while; after the storm there'll be the still small voice - that voice which will direct us to greater heights and higher pursuits. Take heart for after the storm comes the calm. We can rebuild.

Love you all,
Verne

Who needs rest?

2008-08-21T07:04:00.002-05:00

We live in a fast paced world where we are constantly bombarded by innumerable essentials that scream at us 'get me done now or else!!!' There is really no time for many of us to relax, unwind and be rejuvenated. As a result, we rush around in a mad round of activities which slowly but surely incapacitates us and steals our joy in living.

Today, if you are reading this post, you need rest. We all need rest so that we can reflect and focus on the bigger picture. We can begin to live abundantly.

Today, take some time to smell the roses; to see the beauty of the sunshine; to smile at that ragged, little boy; to tell your spouse 'I love you'. Slow down enough, my friends, to allow your inner man to be touched and influenced by the Holy Spirit. You will last longer, my friend.

May you be saturated by God's peace today. I love you all. Have a blessed day.