Olivia had extended an invitation for Dylan and his parents to visit her church and meet her parents, and they had accepted. All week long, Dylan and Olivia texted each other with concerns over their parents upcoming meet. Dylan knew that his parents wanted him to focus more on his studies and put off dating until he was sixteen. Olivia's parents disagreed with that. When Sunday finally came, Dylan could hardly focus on the message. All he could think of was what his parents would do at the Church's coffee social afterwards. When that time came and his parents were gliding toward Olivia's parents with hands out-stretched and ready to shake, Dylan suddenly blurted out, "Mr. M***** would you allow me to date your daughter?"
Dylan instanly knew, that he had made a mistake. After obsessing about this thing all week, he was on a hair trigger. He loved Olivia and he wished he could just yell it out and tell the world. He had not told her yet, but he felt sure that she felt it too. "David, nice to meet you and your wife Amanda. Dylan, my impetuous son, has told me a lot about you." Everyone nervously laughed. "Yes, and it's nice to meet you Eric and Judy."
"We have made it no secret that we think these two shouldn't rush into anything. What with all their school work, and extra-curricula activities. I'm afraid it will harm both their chances at a good college. They have a nice thing just as it is. They do bible study together and attend the same youth group." "I'm gonna be sixteen in three months dad. I think I'm old enough to date now." "Dylan, you have not been focusing on your studies lately. You're always texting with Olivia!" Judy retorted,"well, I hope your not blaming that on our daughter."
"No, but I would like it if we parents could agree on some guidelines for texting. It seems that she texts Dylan at all hours and he drops everything he's doing if he sees it's her!" "Well, that's your son's fault, because Olivia doesn't get on the phone until her homework is done!" Dylan and Olivia's worst nightmare had come true. Their parents had just met and they were already fighting. Dylan and his father continued fighting on the drive home. "Dad, everything came so easy for you at school. You are so tough on me." "Dylan, your dad's just looking out for your future. There's a lot of things you don't understand yet. A lot is at stake." Mom, you always take his side, whether he's right or wrong."
"I would like you to cool down Dylan. Olivia seems like a very nice girl but I would like you to slow this thing down. You are so young Dylan. You just have other priorities right now that need your attention." "Oh yeah, like you dad! All you do is work. You're never around. You're the only dad who hasn't car-pooled for our youth group. You never have time when Pastor asks for help at Church. I don't want to be anything like you dad. "
"That's enough Dylan. You are not dating Olivia and that's final. You can talk to me in three months. Let's see if you can get your grades up and then we'll talk!" To Dylan this was just unfair. "My dad is such a control freak," he thought. As the week went on, he looked forward to seeing Olivia at the upcoming teen ministry outing to New Roc City. New Roc City is an entertainment center located in New Rochelle, N.Y. There are go-karts, arcades, laser tag etc. Olivia couldn't wait for Friday night either. She just needed a break from school and from her parents ruminating about their meeting with Dylan's parents. She understood that they were just being protective of her, but she had prayed all week long that everyone would just calm down and leave her and Dylan alone.
AT NEW ROC CITY
DYLAN- Olivia, my dad says we can't date.
OLIVIA- Are you breaking up with me Dylan?
DYLAN- No, this has nothing to do with what I want and how I feel. This is what my parents decided for me, but why should we let them stop us?
OLIVIA- Dylan, we are trying to follow Jesus, and that means we must honor our parents. It's God's commandment to us. I can't encourage you to disobey your parents.
DYLAN- So wait, you're breaking up with me?
OLIVIA- Why are you twisting this around Dylan?
Malik- Guys, everyone's going on the Spaceshot now. Are you coming?
As he climbed on the ride which was to take him on an 185 foot drop from the roof of New Roch City, he was in a fog. Otherwise, he would not have allowed Malik and Justin to talk him into going on this ride. They all screamed as they came thundering down that precipice. Malik and Justin wanted to go on the ride again, but this time Dylan declined. It was starting to sink in, he and Olivia are broken-up. That Sunday, on the ride to church, Dylan and his dad hardly spoke. It was that way at church too. He was not in the mood for small talk. But, just when we need it most, God will always find a way to reach us.
Pastor Bob's Sermon was entitled, "A Recipe For Disaster." What could that be about", thought Dylan? "Pastor never talks about cooking! This sounds boring." However, as Pastor began to preach, Dylan changed his mind. Pastor Bob opened up by saying that "he hoped all his brothers and sister in Christ would hear his confession. James 5:16 tells us that we are to, confess our sins one to another. Well, what kind of Christian would I be if I did not do that? This week, brothers and sisters, was a terrible week for me, where I failed miserably in being a godly man. As you know, Laura has had to spend the week with her parents as her mother recuperates from surgery."
"I was left in charge at home and I did a rather poor job of it. The house quickly turned into a mess, the food was burnt, and I failed to be the father that I should have been. I was self-centered and controlling." Pastor Bob encouraged us all to acknowledge our short-comings and take responsibility for our actions. He told us that he has confessed to God, and apologized to his wife and children. He then went on to share scriptual guidance on developing godly attributes. It all ended with an emotional altar call for the whole church to recommit themselves to family life. One by one, people made their ways down the aisles toward the front of the church. The deacons were praying with men and women as they confessed their sins, prayed for guidance and renewed their commitments.
This was one of the biggest outpourings of emotion that Dylan had ever seen at his small church. Pastor Bob had obviously hit a cord with many today and none more so then with Dylan's dad, who had never went up for an altar call in all his life! Without saying a word, Eric pushed past his wife Judy and Dylan, and stood in line to receive ministrations. In a few moments, Pastor Bob was embracing Eric and praying with him. At that instance, Dylan bolted up and ran down the aisle.
AT THE ALTAR
ERIC: I know I have failed you Dylan. You were right about everything that you've been saying son. But, I'm gonna do better. I asked Pastor Bob to hold me accountable and I am asking you to do the same thing."
DYLAN: I can't believe this dad, I've been praying about this so long.
ERIC: God's been so good son, but I had begun to loose sight of that. I am lucky that I have a praying son. I am so proud of you, I love you so much Dylan. I'm sorry I gave you such a hard time about Olivia too. I must confess that I was trying to use the situation to get you to work harder at school, I realize that I made a mistake. You have more than proven that you are a godly young man ready to date.
At this point, Dylan hugged his dad tightly and started to cry. His dad had always been so cold and distant. It seemed impossible to please him. But, something began to change that night for Dylan and his father. Something that began with Eric's heart opening to the message of that sermon. To understanding that the message was for him and accepting the challenge. I dare say that we all need to accept some challenge today. That challenge could be like Eric's to change long-held family patterns, or it could be to pray for our dad's, the way Dylan did. It might be learning patience as we wait for a situation to work out. Whatever it is, accept your challenge today!
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Monday, August 21, 2017
Dear Eclipse Watchers
Dear Eclipse Watchers,
The rare Solar Eclipse which today will cross the continental United States has created quite a stir. Scientists are excited to study it and again test the strength of Einstein's theory of relativity. Hotel rooms are filled in prime viewing areas across the United States. Traffic jams snarl roads in rural areas unaccustomed to such traffic.This will be the most watched solar eclipse in United States history.
As I viewed the photos of unprecedented numbers of people camping out in national parks, the whole event seemed to take on a circus-like atmosphere. What are people looking for? I saw photos of people who will mediate and do yoga throughout the entire event. I saw musicians who are going to sing during the event. People are clearly looking for meaning in their lives and wondering about what these celestial events might portent.
People get emotional during such events for certain. It is a disconcerting feeling when the sun is slowly blotted out of view creating an eerie darkness in the middle of the day. It is not a normal experience such as when clouds roll in. Humanity has always attached great meaning to this. What does it mean in God's economy?
While there are many thoughts and feelings on this, I know that at the end of every significant event in our life, including celestial and historical events is a call from God. A call to be part of His plan for both our life and that of this world. A call to be in relationship with Him. To see things in a whole new way. This begins with us. We must consider our life and how God sees it. If you are not sure what sin is, reading the Bible will help you with that. Make a decision to repent of the sins that you are engaged in and ask God's forgiveness. He is waiting for your reply. He gives us many invitations. The signs of the times tell us to choose who we will follow. Is it the other gods of nature that we choose to worship? I urge all within my reading circle to consider God and all He has done.
What will I be doing today? I will stay focused on my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I will be doing the work of this day and meditating on God's revelation to me. This includes things such as this solar eclipse and His instructions to me in the Bible. My thoughts today will reflect upon 1 Chronicles 16. Here is a portion of it for you to think about:
The rare Solar Eclipse which today will cross the continental United States has created quite a stir. Scientists are excited to study it and again test the strength of Einstein's theory of relativity. Hotel rooms are filled in prime viewing areas across the United States. Traffic jams snarl roads in rural areas unaccustomed to such traffic.This will be the most watched solar eclipse in United States history.
As I viewed the photos of unprecedented numbers of people camping out in national parks, the whole event seemed to take on a circus-like atmosphere. What are people looking for? I saw photos of people who will mediate and do yoga throughout the entire event. I saw musicians who are going to sing during the event. People are clearly looking for meaning in their lives and wondering about what these celestial events might portent.
People get emotional during such events for certain. It is a disconcerting feeling when the sun is slowly blotted out of view creating an eerie darkness in the middle of the day. It is not a normal experience such as when clouds roll in. Humanity has always attached great meaning to this. What does it mean in God's economy?
While there are many thoughts and feelings on this, I know that at the end of every significant event in our life, including celestial and historical events is a call from God. A call to be part of His plan for both our life and that of this world. A call to be in relationship with Him. To see things in a whole new way. This begins with us. We must consider our life and how God sees it. If you are not sure what sin is, reading the Bible will help you with that. Make a decision to repent of the sins that you are engaged in and ask God's forgiveness. He is waiting for your reply. He gives us many invitations. The signs of the times tell us to choose who we will follow. Is it the other gods of nature that we choose to worship? I urge all within my reading circle to consider God and all He has done.
What will I be doing today? I will stay focused on my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I will be doing the work of this day and meditating on God's revelation to me. This includes things such as this solar eclipse and His instructions to me in the Bible. My thoughts today will reflect upon 1 Chronicles 16. Here is a portion of it for you to think about:
23 Sing unto the Lord, all the earth; shew forth from day to day his salvation.
24 Declare his glory among the heathen; his marvellous works among all nations.
25 For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods.
26 For all the gods of the people are idols: but the Lordmade the heavens.
27 Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place.
28 Give unto the Lord, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength.
29 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.
30 Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved.
31 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth.
32 Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: let the fields rejoice, and all that is therein.
33 Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the Lord, because he cometh to judge the earth.
34 O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.
Sunday, August 20, 2017
High School Breakup -Part 1 (Young Adult Series)
Dylan* and Olivia* had been high school sweethearts. Dylan first met Olivia at a teen ministry event in Westchester, N.Y. Not willing to give his heart or body away until marriage, Dylan kept mostly to himself at his public high school. When he met Olivia, all his defenses came down. He met a sweet and godly girl his own age who shared his commitment to God. That was powerful to him. They had fun and got to know each other as they enjoyed bible study and fun activities at Church.
Dylan had been quite depressed in his first six months of high school. A lot had happened the summer before that freshman year. His beloved grandfather had passed away and at the same time, his best christian friend, Sebastian had moved with his family to Atlanta. He took both events quite hard. Everyone noticed this: his parents, teachers and pastor. They all tried to reach out to assist Dylan, but to no avail. His parents were quite distressed. They met privately with their Pastor to discuss the problem further. Pastor Bob* recommended a local teen ministry at another church. It was a place where parents from many small local churches brought their teenagers to develop faith and fellowship.
After many months of negotiating and pressure from his parents he agreed to attend a bowling event at a nearby alley. He had not had much social activity since starting the ninth grade. He was half looking forward to it. He was pleasantly surprised that evening when he seemed to hit it off with everyone in his assigned bowling team. Justin* helped everyone with their bowling technique, Malik* was the team comic, and Olivia was full of encouragement.
Before the end of the evening, the teen minister introduced himself to Dylan and had issued a personal invitation for Dylan to attend next weeks' bible study. To Dylan's surprised, he really wanted to go. He accepted that invitation immediately. When he arrived at the bible study, the following week, he was again befriended by the same group that he had met while bowling. They did a study from the Book of Ruth and the Youth Pastor spoke about the many trials that Naomi had experienced causing her to become bitter. Dylan felt a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach as he related to the trials and tribulations of Naomi.
There was a lot in the story of Naomi that lined up with Dylan's recent experiences of death and loss. The Pastor encouraged discussions on this topic at each table. Malik spoke first and told a story about the loss and depression which he had experienced when his grandmother got hit by a car two years ago. Malik continued, "in proverbs it says that a merry heart maketh good medicine," I joke around and try to follow God. I trust in him to get me through this!" Dylan was encouraged by Malik's story and felt safe and ready to share his own story. He didn't feel alone anymore.
As the months and years went by, he found fellowship and fun at the new teen ministry. His friendships grew with Justin and Malik but, especially with Olivia. They talked on the phone and encouraged one another in school and with their christian walk. It was clear to their families that Dylan and Olivia had feelings for each other. Dylan's family thought he was to young to date, while Olivia's family was glad that she was interested in dating a boy that she met at bible study. It was time for the families to meet. They choose the coffee social after a Sunday service.
Next week- the story of Dylan continues.
*the story is true but the names have been changed and a few events to keep privacy. It is concordant with the original story.
Dylan had been quite depressed in his first six months of high school. A lot had happened the summer before that freshman year. His beloved grandfather had passed away and at the same time, his best christian friend, Sebastian had moved with his family to Atlanta. He took both events quite hard. Everyone noticed this: his parents, teachers and pastor. They all tried to reach out to assist Dylan, but to no avail. His parents were quite distressed. They met privately with their Pastor to discuss the problem further. Pastor Bob* recommended a local teen ministry at another church. It was a place where parents from many small local churches brought their teenagers to develop faith and fellowship.
After many months of negotiating and pressure from his parents he agreed to attend a bowling event at a nearby alley. He had not had much social activity since starting the ninth grade. He was half looking forward to it. He was pleasantly surprised that evening when he seemed to hit it off with everyone in his assigned bowling team. Justin* helped everyone with their bowling technique, Malik* was the team comic, and Olivia was full of encouragement.
Before the end of the evening, the teen minister introduced himself to Dylan and had issued a personal invitation for Dylan to attend next weeks' bible study. To Dylan's surprised, he really wanted to go. He accepted that invitation immediately. When he arrived at the bible study, the following week, he was again befriended by the same group that he had met while bowling. They did a study from the Book of Ruth and the Youth Pastor spoke about the many trials that Naomi had experienced causing her to become bitter. Dylan felt a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach as he related to the trials and tribulations of Naomi.
There was a lot in the story of Naomi that lined up with Dylan's recent experiences of death and loss. The Pastor encouraged discussions on this topic at each table. Malik spoke first and told a story about the loss and depression which he had experienced when his grandmother got hit by a car two years ago. Malik continued, "in proverbs it says that a merry heart maketh good medicine," I joke around and try to follow God. I trust in him to get me through this!" Dylan was encouraged by Malik's story and felt safe and ready to share his own story. He didn't feel alone anymore.
As the months and years went by, he found fellowship and fun at the new teen ministry. His friendships grew with Justin and Malik but, especially with Olivia. They talked on the phone and encouraged one another in school and with their christian walk. It was clear to their families that Dylan and Olivia had feelings for each other. Dylan's family thought he was to young to date, while Olivia's family was glad that she was interested in dating a boy that she met at bible study. It was time for the families to meet. They choose the coffee social after a Sunday service.
Next week- the story of Dylan continues.
*the story is true but the names have been changed and a few events to keep privacy. It is concordant with the original story.
Monday, August 14, 2017
Asking For Help
Asking for help when we need it, is a sign of wisdom. Yet, all too often we feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness. The Bible should quickly dissipate any such notions. Further, it should help you to feel more comfortable as you face your all too frail humanity. Yes, you are in great company alongside the great men and women of the Bible who expressed a need for help in a number of situations.
Here are a few examples : Samson-"O Lord God,remember me, I pray! Strengthen me, I pray, just this once, O God,that I may with one blow take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes!" (Judges 16:28) Jabez-"Oh that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that you would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!" God granted him what he requested."(1 Chronicles 4:10) Mary, the mother of Jesus-"These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. (Acts 1:14)
I could go on but suffice it to say, you did not get the idea that expressing weakness is wrong from the Bible. In 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 we see Paul struggling with his impediments,“Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me,"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." What a revolutionary idea if you think about it. Knowing and owning your weakness makes you strong! That's better than eating your spinach. So understand right up front that frailty of health, both mental and physical is part of our humanity. Even frailty in the way that we do things, is part of our humanity. Expecting perfection in yourself and others is just setting yourself up and those around you for misery.
Let's take a look at what "failure to ask" looks like. The flu hit Westchester County very hard this past winter. Everyone I know had it. Yet, everyone acted as if they were fine and could manage on their own when I asked if I could do anything for them. It seemed that everyone was afraid to admit that they were in a weakened state or that they needed help. Everyday and in everyway, I see people trying to pretend that they have it all-together all the time.
Failure doesn't seem to be an option for men like Todd.* Todd grew up in a family that lauded success above everything else. His family did not teach him that we all "win some and we all loose some" or the wisdom of asking for help. As a child, he remembers how his Uncle Joe* was mercilessly ridiculed as a loser for some business decisions that he had made. Todd attempted suicide when his videography business began to go belly up. He thought that was a better option then to face going from being a millionaire to destitute. Thank the Lord, he did not succeed. Then there was Dr.*****, a talented surgeon who appeared to have it all. A McMansion in Westchester with a boat in the harbor and two kids in Yale. When he attempted suicide it came as a shock to even his closest friends,who did not suspect that he suffered from increasingly severe depression. Ignoring a failing business or our mental health will only ensure that things will get worse and asking for help is sometimes necessary.
Then there was Elizabeth.* She had been a Pastor's wife for thirty-five years until he passed away. He had always been the social one. A lot of marriages are like that. After his death, she began to isolate herself. At first it was due to grief, but she just became more depressed, more lonely, fearful and eventually paranoid. I met her in the neighborhood, toward the end of her husband's illness. I tried to keep in touch with her. I visited her, along with my children, and from time to time, we would bring her homemade gifts. I saw how her loneliness played tricks on her. She was ashamed of her feelings of loneliness and depression. I would always encourage her to accept invitations from her old friends and I invited her to go shopping with me, since she did not drive. Always, there was a pride and she would act like she didn't need people or help. How our feelings lie to us! The Bible teaches us that,"pride cometh before the fall."-Proverbs 16:18. How true that is. Our pride makes us feel strong but in reality we are going in the wrong direction.
So what can we do about it? We acknowledge our problems and resolve to ask for help and begin to take action. Are we struggling in our marriage? Do we feel like life is not making much sense? Lonely or depressed? You are not alone. In the journey of life these feelings happen. But remember, God is faithful. He hears and cares. There are people around us who are faithful too. There comes a time that we must look for them and reach out! Todd's attempted suicide landed him in Four Winds Hospital here in Westchester County. He was treated by a wonderful psychiatrist who assisted him in re-building his life. He has changed professions and is now living on a modest income. He started going to Church and has adjusted to his altered circumstances.
*the names are changed.
Here are a few examples : Samson-"O Lord God,remember me, I pray! Strengthen me, I pray, just this once, O God,that I may with one blow take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes!" (Judges 16:28) Jabez-"Oh that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that you would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!" God granted him what he requested."(1 Chronicles 4:10) Mary, the mother of Jesus-"These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. (Acts 1:14)
I could go on but suffice it to say, you did not get the idea that expressing weakness is wrong from the Bible. In 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 we see Paul struggling with his impediments,“Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me,"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." What a revolutionary idea if you think about it. Knowing and owning your weakness makes you strong! That's better than eating your spinach. So understand right up front that frailty of health, both mental and physical is part of our humanity. Even frailty in the way that we do things, is part of our humanity. Expecting perfection in yourself and others is just setting yourself up and those around you for misery.
Let's take a look at what "failure to ask" looks like. The flu hit Westchester County very hard this past winter. Everyone I know had it. Yet, everyone acted as if they were fine and could manage on their own when I asked if I could do anything for them. It seemed that everyone was afraid to admit that they were in a weakened state or that they needed help. Everyday and in everyway, I see people trying to pretend that they have it all-together all the time.
Failure doesn't seem to be an option for men like Todd.* Todd grew up in a family that lauded success above everything else. His family did not teach him that we all "win some and we all loose some" or the wisdom of asking for help. As a child, he remembers how his Uncle Joe* was mercilessly ridiculed as a loser for some business decisions that he had made. Todd attempted suicide when his videography business began to go belly up. He thought that was a better option then to face going from being a millionaire to destitute. Thank the Lord, he did not succeed. Then there was Dr.*****, a talented surgeon who appeared to have it all. A McMansion in Westchester with a boat in the harbor and two kids in Yale. When he attempted suicide it came as a shock to even his closest friends,who did not suspect that he suffered from increasingly severe depression. Ignoring a failing business or our mental health will only ensure that things will get worse and asking for help is sometimes necessary.
Then there was Elizabeth.* She had been a Pastor's wife for thirty-five years until he passed away. He had always been the social one. A lot of marriages are like that. After his death, she began to isolate herself. At first it was due to grief, but she just became more depressed, more lonely, fearful and eventually paranoid. I met her in the neighborhood, toward the end of her husband's illness. I tried to keep in touch with her. I visited her, along with my children, and from time to time, we would bring her homemade gifts. I saw how her loneliness played tricks on her. She was ashamed of her feelings of loneliness and depression. I would always encourage her to accept invitations from her old friends and I invited her to go shopping with me, since she did not drive. Always, there was a pride and she would act like she didn't need people or help. How our feelings lie to us! The Bible teaches us that,"pride cometh before the fall."-Proverbs 16:18. How true that is. Our pride makes us feel strong but in reality we are going in the wrong direction.
So what can we do about it? We acknowledge our problems and resolve to ask for help and begin to take action. Are we struggling in our marriage? Do we feel like life is not making much sense? Lonely or depressed? You are not alone. In the journey of life these feelings happen. But remember, God is faithful. He hears and cares. There are people around us who are faithful too. There comes a time that we must look for them and reach out! Todd's attempted suicide landed him in Four Winds Hospital here in Westchester County. He was treated by a wonderful psychiatrist who assisted him in re-building his life. He has changed professions and is now living on a modest income. He started going to Church and has adjusted to his altered circumstances.
*the names are changed.
Sunday, August 6, 2017
How To Do Dishes
"It's a blessing to do a dish!" Is that how you feel? Probably not. So much of our life consists of the work that we must carry out to run our household. We must wash the dishes, do laundry and vacume the rug. How many diapers does a parent change? Quite a lot. There is garbage and recycling to process too. If you own a home, you must mow the lawn and pull weeds. On and on we go. There never seems to be enough hours in the day to accomplish everything on one's to do list.
Yet, what is our attitude about these chores? Do we fight over whose turn it is to take out the trash? Do we dread this part of life and just live for our next weekend adventure or vacation? Yesterday, I was having a lovely day. I had set aside some time to spend the day with a friend. We had lunch at the Local, a restaurant in Chappaqua,N.Y. Then, we were happily shopping when my cell phone rang. It was my husband telling me he got stung battling a bee's nest. He told me to call him before I attempted to come home. He needed to escort me to the front door so that I would not get stung. The hive was quite close to our front door!
My mood went from relaxed and happy to concerned and overwhelmed. "Oh boy, is he okay? He told me he was okay but like a lot of men, he won't go to the doctor unless it is absolutely necessary. Who should I call? Who do I know whose had a bee problem? Can we manage ourselves or should we call an expert? Susan* I better get home. There goes my Saturday plans." My husband was a Rock of Gibraltar while I just fell apart. What is wrong with me?
We should not ignore our attitude about everyday occurances and try to have a virtuous attitude as my husband did when the bee thing interrupted his day and weekend. He spent time and energy solving this problem with no complaints. There are implications of a bad attitude for our spouse, family, jobs and ourselves. If we dread our everyday chores, are we really living life to the fullest, or wasting a lot of time being miserable over a fact of life? Right now, marriages are being damaged because people unfairly dump the whole family work load onto their spouse.
Many of us have failed to enjoy the beauty of every moment. The gift of life and all the ordinary things that entails. The joy and the meaning of family teamwork. A job well done together brings closeness. This point was indelibly brought home to me some years ago. My mother-in-law was recuperating from cancer surgery. She was unable to preform her daily chores. In this context, I was about to wash some dishes for her. She surprised me in the kitchen. I asked her if I could get her something. She said no, but she felt up to doing the dishes. I replied, oh don't worry about it, I've got this. To which she replied, it's a blessing to do a dish!
She really meant it too. Facing death made her cherish the ordinary and embrace it with gusto as a blessing. She was always a woman who served with love but I have not always been such a woman. I pray and work hard to embrace the chores and errands of life. To roll with it when a hive of bees interrupts things or raccoons are rifling through my garbage cans. Yet, it is in these ordinary moments that, I can best showcase the Christian ethos of being "light and salt" in this world.
This morning, I got up early so that I could put a meal in the slow-cooker before going to church. I vaguely wondered if we should eat out in stead. But, the joy that I got to hear about how good that meal was that evening made me glad of the work. We don't always get the accolades we expect or deserve but remember our Heavenly Father knows and cares. We can feel happy knowing that we are doing the right thing too. I hope that this makes you embrace all the things that you are called to do this week. May God strengthened you in it.
*the names are changed.
Yet, what is our attitude about these chores? Do we fight over whose turn it is to take out the trash? Do we dread this part of life and just live for our next weekend adventure or vacation? Yesterday, I was having a lovely day. I had set aside some time to spend the day with a friend. We had lunch at the Local, a restaurant in Chappaqua,N.Y. Then, we were happily shopping when my cell phone rang. It was my husband telling me he got stung battling a bee's nest. He told me to call him before I attempted to come home. He needed to escort me to the front door so that I would not get stung. The hive was quite close to our front door!
My mood went from relaxed and happy to concerned and overwhelmed. "Oh boy, is he okay? He told me he was okay but like a lot of men, he won't go to the doctor unless it is absolutely necessary. Who should I call? Who do I know whose had a bee problem? Can we manage ourselves or should we call an expert? Susan* I better get home. There goes my Saturday plans." My husband was a Rock of Gibraltar while I just fell apart. What is wrong with me?
We should not ignore our attitude about everyday occurances and try to have a virtuous attitude as my husband did when the bee thing interrupted his day and weekend. He spent time and energy solving this problem with no complaints. There are implications of a bad attitude for our spouse, family, jobs and ourselves. If we dread our everyday chores, are we really living life to the fullest, or wasting a lot of time being miserable over a fact of life? Right now, marriages are being damaged because people unfairly dump the whole family work load onto their spouse.
Many of us have failed to enjoy the beauty of every moment. The gift of life and all the ordinary things that entails. The joy and the meaning of family teamwork. A job well done together brings closeness. This point was indelibly brought home to me some years ago. My mother-in-law was recuperating from cancer surgery. She was unable to preform her daily chores. In this context, I was about to wash some dishes for her. She surprised me in the kitchen. I asked her if I could get her something. She said no, but she felt up to doing the dishes. I replied, oh don't worry about it, I've got this. To which she replied, it's a blessing to do a dish!
She really meant it too. Facing death made her cherish the ordinary and embrace it with gusto as a blessing. She was always a woman who served with love but I have not always been such a woman. I pray and work hard to embrace the chores and errands of life. To roll with it when a hive of bees interrupts things or raccoons are rifling through my garbage cans. Yet, it is in these ordinary moments that, I can best showcase the Christian ethos of being "light and salt" in this world.
This morning, I got up early so that I could put a meal in the slow-cooker before going to church. I vaguely wondered if we should eat out in stead. But, the joy that I got to hear about how good that meal was that evening made me glad of the work. We don't always get the accolades we expect or deserve but remember our Heavenly Father knows and cares. We can feel happy knowing that we are doing the right thing too. I hope that this makes you embrace all the things that you are called to do this week. May God strengthened you in it.
*the names are changed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)