Drink

I have a tender memory when I was a little girl. I remember being on vacation with my parents

heading north to Canada. We stopped at a rest area to stretch out and get some food. I remember my dad hiking a few feet up a nearby mountain and encouraged us all to sit.

He took his pocket knife and poked around in the grass. To my surprise a fountain of water seemed to appear. I was so intrigued. He encouraged us to drink as he himself brought some of this crystal-clear water to his lips. I recollect being skeptical about engaging with this new-found thirst-quenching water. As my dad drank, he prompted me to drink as well. Truly, I don’t recall if I did.

I grew up in the Bronx. Water came from the faucet not the ground!

What I did not understand at that early age was that Water Springs are drinkable. There is a natural filtering process created by God to give us life-sustaining water.

In a simple statement, rain that falls on soil finds its way into permeable rock such as limestone or sandstone and through natural gravity finds its way toward a river or stream.

The stream that was intercepted by my dad’s pocket knife was a natural spring.

There is a process here. Pure water does not reach my lips just because it falls from the sky. It falls on the surface and gets into the mountain side. It must travel through rough patches, be refined by rocks and yet still it needs to go deeper so the refining process can produce life-saving water!

Are you thirsty yet?

Jesus said, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” (John 7:37b-38)

See, life can be difficult. The troubles of this world seem to hold us hostage. Just when we come up for some air it seems we are back into the thick of difficulties.

The Apostle Paul realized that the troubles of this world were producing something good in him. “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. “ (Romans 8:18)

Oh, the trouble is not pleasant, but it does cause us to press in deeper toward the Lord. He himself brings forth a purity that otherwise would not come.

The grace of God is always refining us.

Our desired changes don’t rise to the surface by themselves.

Like a beautiful Spring flower pushing its way through the still frozen ground surface, the process produces a beauty that reminds us life is emerging again.

“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 6-9)

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33b)

I’ve come to know that Jesus who offers life-saving water can lead us through the hard places that try to consume us. He walks us through the valley and takes us by the hand into greener pastures. It’s a hard process to come out on the other side.

Jesus intercepts time, and Scriptures says that on Mount Calvary Jesus gave himself for us, a piercing that caused his blood to flow.  A much-needed sacrifice for the purification of our lives. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)

The woman at the well was probably skeptical and wondered what this Rabbi was offering. She was broken but desperate enough to ask Jesus for the Living Water he offered. “The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” (John 4:15)

She left his presence rejoicing and transformed.

Are you thirsty?

John Newton put it like this, “Through many dangers, toils and snares I have already come; 'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far and Grace will lead me home.”

I live in Orange County but you won’t find me at the edge of a mountain searching for water. Today my water comes in a bottle. Nevertheless, its Spring Water for me. Water that carries life with natural minerals.

But, the thirst of my heart is satisfied in Christ, the Living Water!  

Broken and desperate is the condition of the heart before we encounter Jesus.

We need purification.  He'll bring us through sanctification!  

He knows how to lead. 

Join me as we reminisce through this old hymn.

“The Lord has promised good to me. His word my hope secures. He will my shield and portion be as long as life endures.” (Amazing Grace)

God bless you!~Liz

Breaking News

I overheard the news anchor say, "the person was last seen wearing a black shirt, dark jeans and a

backpack". I thought to myself, "what kind of description is that?" That can be several people I know. That could be me!  The description was so vague. They have so little to go on. The investigation has to continue if they are going to arrest the correct person.

How is God described today? If we had to tell someone about him and give details, would he be described like any other god?

This is Sally from TruthNews, "can you describe God to me?"  "In my mind, god is powerful but I guess not all-powerful because sometimes evil wins." 

 "Someone must have created god because things are not created out of nothing." 

 "He must have a beginning and I guess an end too, right?" 

 "This world is a free-for-all and god can't seem to rule, he can't be everywhere; have you seen the news?" 

 "I guess he needs to get some rest. Everyone gets tired! Perhaps tomorrow when he awakes things will be better." 

"God, is there a god?"

It seems amusing but sadly our world is in trouble much like the days of old. We need to know about the One True God, Yahweh!

In the Book of 1 Kings there must have been some who were misinformed; a correct description of the True God of Israel needed to be proved, put on display for all to see (especially for Ahab). 

In a very powerful but comical encounter, Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal with a very well known practice of that day regarding sacrifices. The prophets of Baal begin the sacrifice ritual to their god. "So they took the bull given them and prepared it." Then they called on the name of Baal from morning till noon. “Baal, answer us!” they shouted. But there was no response; no one answered. And they danced around the altar they had made." (1 Kings 18:26) Scripture reads, that they cut themselves in an attempt to have Baal light the fire.

Well, Elijah can't seem to take it any more and he mocks their efforts and their god. He says to them, “Shout louder!” he said. “Surely he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened.” So they shouted louder and slashed themselves with swords and spears, as was their custom, until their blood flowed. Midday passed, and they continued their frantic prophesying until the time for the evening sacrifice. But there was no response, no one answered, no one paid attention." (1 Kings 18:27-29)

Vague descriptions lead to unclear answers.   

"At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.” Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!” (1 kings 18:36-39)

The Bible is filled with a detailed description of God. He has written to us with proof of who he is so that we won't fall for trickery or be mislead to follow false gods.  He shows us who He is from the very beginning of time.  He lavishes us with his love and calls to us.  He reveals himself, and points to his marvelous creation that testifies of him.

We are in trouble and we need a Savior!

He takes broken hearts and heals them.  He speaks to us with such tenderness calling us sons and daughters.  He rejoices when arms are opened to him causing celebrations in heaven over the lost son or daughter returning home. (Luke 15)

I'm your news anchor today. I will describe him clearly using HIS own resume.

He has no beginning and no end. "Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God." (Psalm 90:2) 

He spoke into the darkness and created the light. "The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light." (Genesis 1:2-3) 

"Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! " (Isaiah 30:18)

"For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (1 Corinthians 14:33) 

"Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." (Psalm 121:4) 

And yes, he is the son of God! "And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."" (Matthews 3:17)

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His [a]only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

So, how would you describe Him?  

Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." (John 20:27)

God bless you!~Liz

Shut In - Shut Out

"The animals going in were male and female of every living thing, as God had commanded Noah. Then the Lord shut him in."  (Genesis 7:16)

Ever felt like the “crowd” won’t let you in their circle? Perhaps God has shut you out.

The Lord shut Noah in to give him a safe haven. He was spared from the destruction all around him.

Surely, he felt the waters pound on the side of the wooden ark, God’s wrath hitting every part of the ship. I wonder how often Noah looked at the sealed door and remembered that God himself had shut him in? His security, his trust and future preserved by the hand of God. The winds howling day after day as the deadly waters filled the earth shutting Noah out from God’s wrath. The stench of death was all around him but his escape was in the obedience.

Much time was spent with the Lord. Every detail prescribed. Build the ship because the rain is coming. Noah could not fully understand but he obeyed. God shut Noah in to preserve him and shut him out from his global annihilation!

Adam and Eve were shut out from the Garden. But their exit would not be the end. The Messiah was coming. The enemy of our soul had gained entrance into their lives, but the penalty of sin would soon be overcome.

As we allow our spirit to listen closely to the Lord we will often here him ask us to get away quietly with him. Sometimes that gentle whisper comes in around 3 a.m. when everyone else is asleep. He wants to close us in so we can hear him clearly. He invites us to himself like he did with Moses.

He will gladly shut out all the earthly distractions that come to steal and destroy our relationship with Him. The noise of the world pounds hard and it makes luring invitations to us. “Sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” (Genesis 4:7b) Allow the door to be shut and run to the Lord! 

Those outside the Ark mocked Noah. Jeremiah brought a similar warning and the people mocked him as well.

Jeremiah replied, "But if I say, “I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.” (Jeremiah 20:9)

It’s in the quiet times that the Lord continues to permeate and flood us with his presence! He fortifies and strengthens us as we remain in his care.

We are Messengers of Life carrying this same fire! It’s the fragrance of Christ. “He uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere.” (2 Corinthians 2:14) 

As we stay close to the Lord the world around us loses its grip. Jesus spent time alone with the Father because he knew that soon he would be shut in. The cross would call, and the grave would consume him but not overtake him. On the third day the sealed tomb door exploded wide open with his Redemptive Power on display for all to see! Death could not keep him and the penalty of sin was paid.

“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.” Psalm 5:11-12

The next time we "feel" shut out let's remember that God may be protecting us and preserving us for a life-saving adventure! We must bring the Good News to all.  The boat is ready.  The rain is coming.  Even if we are mocked we must share the Love of God. It's like fire shut up in my bones!

God bless you!~Liz

Thump, thump. Can you hear it?

Is the shout clouding our judgment or common sense? Our hearts are racing, and all we can feel or hear is our own heartbeat. 

It’s a parade of opposition closing in over us!  We feel as if we are in a tunnel and everything is shrinking except for the noise.  The clamor is powerful because we chose to move backwards.  After all everything inside of us is shaking and commanding me to cave in.

Often when we feel intimidated or afraid, we run through a gamut of emotions. Reason is somehow obliterated, and it seems easier to go with the crowd.

During Jesus arrest and public accusation, we see such a case.  What was Pilate afraid off?  He had three opportunities to set the record straight, to release Jesus but the crowd’s noise silenced his convictions.

“For the third time he spoke to them: “Why? What crime has this man committed? I have found in him no grounds for the death penalty. Therefore, I will have him punished and then release him.” “But with loud shouts they insistently demanded that he be crucified, and their shouts prevailed.” (Luke 23:22-23)

Have you been cornered and accosted to change what you know to be right?  Has fear of people caused you to be silent? It’s amazing how crafty the enemy has become in his pursuit to shut out truth and justice.

Pilate let the fear of the crowd change what he knew to be true.  Jesus was beaten and crucified.

Elijah ran away from Jezebel after he heard the message delivered to him that Jezebel was coming after him. This was a prophet mightily used of God but now running to the heartbeat of fear.

Jesus was crucified but rose from the dead!  Elijah encountered God in a whisper that encouraged his heart to focus again.   

What can we do when errors and wrongs are trying to manipulate us? How can we stand up for what is right and not succumb to the noise?

Sometimes stating what is right has to be learned because for some of us it does not come naturally.  It is easier to stay in the boat than to rock it!

We must recognize what we are thinking.  Our thoughts dictate what we feel, and they produce actions. Self-dialogue is good.  Communication should be respectful of others.  But we must practice assertiveness and state what we want to say.  Fear of other’s opinions will cripple us.

If we don’t address and speak what we want to convey, the silence will reap resentment in our own hearts causing stress and even anger at ourselves.  The thought, “why did I not say something” often reverberates within us.

Speak the truth with respect and promote honest dialogue.

We must acknowledge truth and learn to speak a yes or no when called for.  Often, we are afraid of what we should say.

Being quiet is a powerful tool. But, when we are called to speak, we must push past the fear and speak up.

Truth will prevail.

Let's not get caught up in the noise.

Pilate had three opportunities to release Jesus, but he was silenced and intimidated by the crowd.

Today we have an opportunity again to address and speak with respect to the situations that want to overtake us.

Humbly stand before the presence of the Lord like Elijah. Let his presence realign the heart.  Let our minds be renewed and our tongue surrendered to his use.  Every member in our body for his glory.

“When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? (Psalm 118:5-6)

God bless you!~Liz

Do we have riches? Or do they have us?

Why did the Rich Ruler leave Jesus’ presence so despondent? Was it the riches?

He stated to Jesus that he had kept all the commandments and yet he was still looking for approval from the Lord, the way of Salvation.

Do we have riches? Or do they have us?

When an orb-weaver spider creates its web, it’s a very clever design. Scientists marvel at their creativity even while not fully understanding the depths of this creation. “Spiders can spin different kinds of silk, and not all of their silk is sticky. In fact, in a spider web only the silk used for the intricate catching spirals are dotted with glue, so spiders know which threads to avoid.(https://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/spiderweb.html)

The Lord replied to the rich ruler, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Luke 18:22)

It’s easy to judge this man. But what happens when the Holy Spirit tells us to give something up? Perhaps money, time or just our French fries? What is our reaction? I’d dare say that if we quickly think of an excuse, then this thing has us! Pride reveals its ugly head and gives us permission to protect what is “ours.” We are caught in a web spun by our enemy.

We can learn a thing or two from the spider’s web designs. It knows how to create the web and not get stuck in its own trap. She makes herself a way of escape so that she herself will not end up being consumed.

The Rich Ruler’s response.: “When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy.” (v23)

Riches are a blessing from the Lord. We are entrusted with them but must be willing to release them at the Master’s request.

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19)

Let’s take a look at all we have, or better yet all that God has put on loan to us. Lord, may we use all you’ve entrusted to us to share the Good News and advance your Kingdom.

Go ahead and build a web of resources and dispense at the Lord’s request.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:40)

“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Romans 13:8-10)

Do we have riches? Or do they have us?

God bless you!~Liz

Will you follow? At what cost?

While reading Luke 9 today I can see a condition of the heart that at times can describe me and perhaps you as well. Surely it spoke to the disciples while they walked with Jesus himself.

Here are men who have been called by Jesus; invited to be in his inner circle. A front seat with the Master. He gave them authority to drive out all demons and cure diseases. (v.1-2) He reminded them that He himself would be their provision. Take nothing with you as you minister the Good News. (v.3)

The disciples are still students and we are about to embark on an object lesson. The multitudes have gathered, and they are hungry. What is the response from the students? “We only have 5 loaves and 2 fish.” (v.13) How quickly we forget that God himself is our provision.

FORGETFULNESS

It’s getting personal now. There is an inquiry, "who Jesus is?"
“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” (v.20) Peter acknowledges that Jesus is the Christ.

Now that we have established authority, Jesus tells his students, “don’t tell anyone.” (v.21) He further explains that he must be killed and that he will rise again on the third day. “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self? Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” (v.24-26)

Liz do you still want to follow? You must deny yourself, take up your cross. (v.23)

DENY YOURSELF

As the Father commends his son from glory, what are we doing? Are we sleeping? Stay alert!
“This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.” (v.35)

LISTEN

The teacher once again shows his authority as he sets free a boy tormented by an evil spirit. The request came from a father, “Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child.”. With just one look the authority is established! “Jesus rebuked the impure spirit, healed the boy and gave him back to his father.” (v.42)

What was the trouble here? Jesus lets us know. “You unbelieving and perverse generation.” (v.41)

The students have a lot more to learn. Jesus reminds them again, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men.” (v.44)

Still want to follow? Where is my trust & faith? Did Jesus say, unbelieving?

DOUBT

He is leaving soon. But he promises to send His Spirit.

I’ll follow you Jesus, but can you let everyone know that I am the best? I would like that important seat next to you. Really, you know I’m your right-hand man or women! Well we know the scriptures does not say it like that, but it might as well. (v.46-48)

Humility, where is it?

PRIDE

Jealously arises and Jesus speaks.

“Master,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we tried to stop him, because he is not one of us.” “Do not stop him,” Jesus said, “for whoever is not against you is for you.”

The interesting thing here is that they were just chastised for not being able to deliver the little boy from and evil spirit. Now they are jealous that someone else did. Lord help us!

Their hearts still need change. When the Samaritans would not welcome Jesus, they asked the Lord if they should call fire on them. “But Jesus turned and rebuked them.” (v55)

JEALOUSLY

So much to learn as a student of the Lord. We don’t always have God’s intentions, because we often act and speak out of our own desires.

Scripture reads that pride is the downfall of man. Humility is a reliance on God and not our own flesh. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7)

I’ll put it like this: Humility is freedom from arrogance and pride. Those who operate in humility are able to achieve excellence by using their God-given gifts and talents without having to self-promote themselves. This perspective allows us to see the strengths of others. Humility does not mean that we lower our standards or that leadership is less effective. Humility speaks volumes. It allows us to excel in relationships and we are often noted as peace-makers. Leaders who motivate and promote others to achieve their best, to use their gifts and talents and overall improve in their area of influence are practicing a freedom from pride.

We have a lot to learn. I’m thankful that God is able to get to the root of my heart and it still pleases him to use me.

Still want to follow Jesus? Yes, Lord I am your servant, your student and ready to listen.

I have some much to learn, a transformation that only the Spirit of God can do.

OBJECT LESSON: So, I just finished writing on humility. I get a call from my husband and  here I go. The Spirit of the Lord gave me an opportunity to practice humility. My words, my conversation should have been gentler.  I should have been quick to listen and slow to speak. So what do I do.  I call him back an apologize for my rudeness. Ouch, object lessons hurt but they also refine.

Back to the classroom! I'm a perpetual student.

"He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.” (Luke 9:20)

Riches

Today I want to honor my brother-in-law Ivan who is now in the presence of the Lord.
These bodies aren’t meant to last forever.  “Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.” (Psalm 90:10)

Looking over photo memories, I recall our families gathering for holidays, specifically Christmas and Thanksgiving.  I have images that reflect us smiling and laughing, exchanging gifts and enjoying life together.

Thanksgiving was one of Ivan’s favorite holidays.  We often spent Thanksgiving at my mom’s home.  My sisters & I gathered crowed together in the living room.  Sometimes Spanish Christmas carols played in the background while others tried to join in with instruments.

Ivan would join the family but ultimately, he would go back to his home because he too had cooked a bird!  He loved cooking especially for Thanksgiving.

The last couple of years Ivan battled cancer.  An enemy that at times seems to have no mercy.  He fought strong and valiantly.

I treasure my conversations with Ivan because through it all he leaned and pressed into the heart of God.  He said he was not afraid to die because he knew where he was going.  His heart broke for the injustices all around us; the troubles of man, including sickness.

He new we were in a fallen world and truly recognized sin at it’s worst.  It would break his heart to others go without.  He also recognized his own need, a need for a Savior.  He trusted his life to Jesus.
Ivan was not a rich man as most of us define riches.  His treasure overflowed from his heart, a generosity and a spirit of kindness that was tangible.  A family man for sure. 

One of my fondest memories brings me back decades when he designed a gold bracelet for me with stones settings.  You see,  Ivan was a jeweler.  Again, the riches of gold in his hand but it was his heart that reflected riches.

I wonder how Ivan is enjoying the “streets of gold” today?   The Bible quotes Jesus, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)

Yesterday, God who gives the breath, called it back to himself.  Ivan’s place was ready.

Ivan has no need for earthly treasures of gold or stones.  These items are used as material where he has entered.

“The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.”  (Revelation 21:18-27)

Ivan’s name was in the book!

I’m thankful for the memories and life intertwined. Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

He will be missed.  But I will see him again."

God bless you!~Liz