While the whole world watches Australia burn, we are moved to tears and prayers. Tears for the devastation of land and life; prayers for the preservation and safety of the firefighters and inhabitants; time to ponder what it is like to live through what must feel like hell on earth. Yes, it is a time for tears and prayers, and a time to give thanks that the tears will be dried and the prayers will be answered. And may the rains be on their way.
So many people I know are suffering from severe physical pain which is depriving them of the quality of life they are meant to have.
Will you please join me in a prayer for pain for all people who are afflicted.
Our Father in Heaven, we pray for your healing love to touch all who are suffering debilitating pain in different parts of their bodies. We thank you that as you hear our prayers, you will touch each one with your healing power and set them free from back pain, neck pain, knee pain…any pain that is limiting your people in their daily activities. We thank you for hearing our prayers and answering them in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thank you to all who will participate in this prayer for pain.
There was a recent incident in my life which could have caused me fear and the need for protection. I felt neither. Instead, I made a conscious decision to support the person involved and later prayed for confirmation that the right decision had been made. Within minutes a flock of five blue jays appeared in my yard. That seemed strange because I rarely see a blue jay. I googled that bird and read:
This bird may symbolize protection and fearlessness. If blue jays appear in your life you will feel safe and protected.
Confirmation received with thanks. Happy Sunday.
I know of a few people who have been recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, including Alex Trebek, well known host of the TV game show, Jeopardy. This is a very frightening diagnosis and these people need our prayers. An extremely appropriate scripture appeared to me in my quiet time yesterday and I thought of all of these people. As much as it is possible for some, and to all others, happy Sunday.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified…for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV
I have come to the conclusion that we need not have a near death experience to get a glimpse of heaven. We get many glimpses of heaven right here on earth. Take for example:
Seeing newborn baby
The look of love in the eye of the beholder
People walking hand in hand (especially the very old and very young)
Devoted pets
Observing the universe; sun, moon, stars, galaxies,
The methodical movement of waves on a beach,
The sparkle of sunlight on rippling waters
The first words of an Autistic child who has been speechless for years
An occasional embrace from said child
The feeling of wellness after an illness
The healing of a strained relationship
The calm after the storm
Crocuses breaking through snow covered soil
Walking where Jesus walked
Answered prayers
Heavenly hugs
As you take time to catch a glimpse of your own heaven on earth, cherish the experience, and know that the best is yet to come.
Last Sunday’s sermon, “The Feast of Saint Jim”, was very inspiring. We learned that as believers, we are all “saints”.
I don’t know about you but I sure don’t feel very saintly; however I do know people who truly deserve that title.
These are people who give of themselves, their time, resources, energy, and never seem to tire of being saintly, although I’m positive that they don’t see themselves as saints.
It was an excellent sermon, “The Feast of Saint Jim”, and offered much food for thought.
If you are wondering who Saint Jim is, just substitute your own name or the names of people you know who not only believe but act on their beliefs. Go ahead…name a few saints you are acquainted with and the next time you are in their company be sure to say, “Hello, Saint So and So.”
Here are a few more sayings from my collection of many. It’s interesting how just a few words can make most us sit up and take notice.
Every generation needs regeneration. Charles H. Spurgeon
If it is not right, do not do it; if it is not true, do not say it. Marcus Aurelius
Seek not every quality in one individual. Confucius
Only a fool tests the depth of the water with both feet. African Proverb
We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark. The real tragedy of life is when adults are afraid of the light. Plato
Let us not be known for our knowledge alone but for the love and the caring and kindness we’ve shown. Mary Frances Martin
The tragedy of life is not death, but what we let die inside of us while we live. Norman Cousins
Losing your temper is no way to get rid of it. Our Daily Bread
Those with tunnel vision will eventually see the light. pab
