2/19/21 2/19/21

Devotion Games We Play

Proverbs 16:2-3 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weighs the spirits. Commit your works unto the LORD, and your thoughts shall be established.

We like to play the game of “let's pretend,” rationalizing our thoughts/words/actions. The trouble is, playing the game and rationalizing is dishonest. It is a lie.

We cannot live a lie and live the abundant, joy-filled life God intends for us. We may fool others. We do not fool God. He IS honesty and integrity.

Dishonesty puts a barrier between us and God, brings darkness instead of light, and ends up hurting the very one you so want to protect--yourself.

Help me, Lord, to stop playing games with truth and be honest with You (who already knows the truth), with myself, and with those around me. Amen.

2/15/21 2/15/21

Blog Do I redeem my time by using it wisely?

We live in a society that is ever seeking ways to fill our time. Zip-out of bed in the morning. Zip-off to work to this or that activity or appointment. On Saturday, zip here and there—shopping, cleaning, catching up with “friends” on social media.. (There is always a to-do list.)

Do we take time to slow down and rest, even on Sundays? Sundays can be very full days. Even with a day of “rest,” we manage to keep busy. Work happens whether it's in the office or at home by Zoom or other media. There are still meetings to attend.

School for kids takes up time, even if online. God had something besides our hectic pace in mind when He inspired Paul to pen these words. “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” --Ephesians 5:15-16

What does making the most of our time even mean if it doesn’t mean filling every moment? God isn’t about wearing us out, but in building us up--mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Even He got away from the crowd to pray, to rest, and to be refreshed.

Making the most of our time refers to using our time wisely and in the most beneficial ways for our health and well-being--starting with a daily quiet time to start the day out with a calm, focused mind. Spending time communicating our “higher power” throughout the day, and meditating on His Word, helps us find direction for those hectic days.

How should we spend our time? Doing so wisely means taking time for family, spouse, and children--time to listen, to share, to hug, and to care. It means considering their needs important enough to be there when they need you and be 100% present, not only giving half your attention to them.

It means taking time to teach, to lead, to guide, to be an example. This type of relationship doesn’t just happen. It takes lots of time, effort, and attention.

Using time wisely means spending time with friends and neighbors, and building foundations for the long term. relationships. It means making and taking opportunities to show we care.

Using time wisely--redeeming the time--also means being careful what we put into our hearts, our minds, our homes, and our lives. This includes what we see, read, watch and play. It means time with family and friends isn’t at the bottom of our priority list.

Using time wisely doesn’t happen in a vacuum. We need to take stock of our activities and time, decide priorities, and budget time for those things deemed most to least important—starting by making time for faith, family, and friends.

Remember, redeeming our time is good for health mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Let’s redeem our time for our well-being and the health of those around us.

(C) 2021 Carolyn R Scheidies
Column in Kearney Hub published 2/15/21
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Read more like this in my book.From Listen! Who Me?

2/2/21 2/2/21

Devotion The People of God Shall be Strong

...but the people that know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.--Daniel 11:32b (KJV)

In today’s society, surrounded by material possessions, untold entertainment, and the pressure to keep our faith to ourselves, many of us are all too willing to do just that. Sharing Christ can be embarrassing, even detrimental, to our work or school environment and even to friendships.

We often go about our daily lives, leaving Jesus for Sunday and church and not much else. We’re very good at hiding our light. But God is not the God of apathy, fear, or inaction.

He calls us to be strong and do exploits in His name. He clearly calls on us to fight the evil forces around us and to speak and stand up for what is true and good and right for ourselves, our families, and our culture.

Jesus calls on us, not to hide away, but to show forth His word and His light and to make a difference in the world for Him. This is the time to stand. This is the time to hide God’s Word in our hearts and let Jesus direct us into taking action as God’s people.

This is the time to work against the forces of darkness and evil that seek to destroy our nation, our culture, and our families.

It is time to stand against the forces that seek to destroy the most vulnerable among us from the pre-born baby to the helpless, elderly, and the disabled. We need to stand against forces that teach that life does not have intrinsic value.

This is the time to stand before another holocaust sends evil agents to your door because this time it is your life that is forfeit. Such a future doesn’t need to happen today or tomorrow if God’s people will fill their hearts and minds with His Word and power and stand strong in faith and trust against evil--evil often parading as tolerance or an alternate lifestyle or some other politically correct view.

Such action must start with a right relationship with Jesus Christ, move to earnest prayer for our families and nation, and then wait for God’s guidance and direction. We will only be successful if we fight in His will, His time, and in His way.

Help me, Lord, be informed and sensitive to the issues of the day. Help me to view them from your perspective, not mine by meditating on Your Word. Also, give me the courage to speak up and stand firm for righteousness and truth, no matter what, but do so in truth--and love. Amen.

Meditations: Read Psalm 28
Monday: Mark 11:15—19; Proverbs 1:7
Tuesday: Proverbs 8:13, 12:1; 16:2-3
Proverbs 17:15, 18:5; 25:5,11
Wednesday: Psalm 18:1-6, 17-24, 32
Thursday: Jonah 1-2
Friday: Jonah 3-4
Saturday: Psalm 40

2/1/21 2/1/21

Blog Attitude and blessings during a pandemic

The immense challenges of 2020 were unexpected. No one predicted the year we’ve left behind—with relief. We’ve dealt with any number of unexpected events and tragedies during my lifetime including 911 and flues that sent many home from school and jobs to recover, to the hospitals, and to the mortuaries.

Still, nothing prepared us for not only the Covid-19 pandemic but also the response to it that had never before been part of dealing with a contagion, flu or other deadly diseases. This time we insisted those who were still healthy be as restricted as those who showed signs of illness.

This disease targets the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, yet we insist on treating children in the same way we treat adults—cutting them off from human contact in public and at school.

Without their consent or vote, we locked up the elderly in centers where family members could not check on them to make sure our parents or loved ones were not being abused in any way. They were cut off from family and from hugs and attention at the very time they most needed it.

We insisted on masks and self-distancing until it almost became a habit and someone giving a hug looked at almost with horror. Restrictions on gatherings have caused untold difficulties from the destruction of livelihoods to the inability to worship all together and encouraging interpersonal relationships so vital to the health and the well-being of human beings.

Many died. Many from Covid, some from the increase in loneliness, suicide, drugs and alcohol usage, and mental health issues--some of which stemmed from the lack of contact. We can look back and see nothing but tragedy or we can look back and also see the positives of the year, positives that can carry us forward with hope.

This pandemic happened at a time practically the whole world is interconnected. We have social media with friends around the world with whom we can “talk.” We have video chats and Zoom, which means we can still be part of a worship service, a business meeting or gather as a family from places all over the country to laugh and catch up with each other’s lives.

Many parents have discovered the value of homeschooling and have turned to this more intimate mode of education for their children. Schools have gone to online education, which while certainly not as personal as classroom learning still helps ensure children are not left behind.

Staying home for some individuals and families has been a blessing, with more family time, along with more quiet time to think and just be. Businesses have discovered many employees work as effectively at home as at work. Some businesses will even continue this arrangement with some employees after the pandemic is over.

We are a resourceful people, and we can be amazingly creative in handling whatever comes up. We must also remember we are a free people and be cautious of the intrusion of government into our lives.

The best way to beat this situation is to look for the good and positive. Count the blessings and give thanks. The best way to deal with what’s happening isn’t with complaints, anger, and frowns, (though we can push back on unscientific masking and shots) but with hope and a positive, upbeat attitude that God is good and tomorrow really is another day.

1/24/21 1/24/21

Devotion Am I Loving God by my Actions?

Read: Matthew 22:34-40

Jesus said to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. --Matthew 22:37

Loving God with every aspect of who I am? That’s not simple or easy. What does it entail? We can’t even know the depth of the verse in Matthew unless we read, meditate, and study God’s Word.

We need to not simply read a verse here or there, hit or miss, but we need to be reading God's Word every day. This allows God to fill us with His perspective, principles, and guidance. We also need to be in regular communication with Jesus.

Can you imagine letting days, or weeks go by without talking or discussing things with your best friend? Would you ignore emails, posts, or letters sent? Umm. How often do we claim Jesus is our Savior and friend, yet ignore His Word and stop communicating with Him? Hard to know His direction without His input.

What happens when I ignore Him? Much easier to scream at the kids for messing up the living room or not cleaning their rooms. Much easier to sneak a look at that racy show that caught my interest, though it promotes everything God says is harmful to those He loves and created. Much easier to take offense at something said or done. Loving God--not with my mind.

Without His guidance, it is easier--and without as much guilt—to pass on that juicy piece of gossip. And complaints, they get easier, too, whether about the neighbor's tree branch that hangs over the fence or about the city blocking streets for construction. Instead of trying to help, I judge my neighbor for how she cares for her children. What a terrific witness I make with my better-than-thou attitude!

Loving the Lord, with all my heart, soul, and mind--and my neighbor as myself. Whew! I have a lot of maturing to do and it starts with a commitment to study God’s Word and to communicate with and listen to the One who loves me best--Jesus.

Help me, Jesus, not only claim I belong to You but help me to show both by my speech and actions that, indeed, I do love You with all my heart, soul, and mind. Help me practice loving others as I follow You. Amen.

Meditations:
Monday: Deuteronomy 6:4-25
Tuesday: Mark 12:29-44
Wednesday: Luke 10:30-37
Thursday: Romans 3:9-10; Galatians 5:14-16
Friday: Ephesians 4:21-29
Saturday: James 2:1-10 & 4:8

1/22/21 1/22/21

Devotions. Exposing & Fighting Evil

Jenni sighed and put down the paper. The statistics on abortion legislation depressed her, not so much because of the article itself, but due to the gross inaccuracies evident within the story.

“So-called ‘facts’,” she mumbled cynically, “produced by the vested interest of pro-abortion lobbying organizations.”

She shook her head, saddened by the overwhelming magnitude of self-interest proliferated by the media without regard to truth. Remembering the violent immorality of the movie she and her husband had started to watch on TV the night before, she shuddered. How could anyone broadcast such awful stuff, knowing that children watch television, often without much supervision?

She recalled reading about lawsuits perpetrated by pornographers against regular, everyday people who want to shop without exposing themselves or their children to violence and pornography in pictures, posters, magazines and videos. Women and children are degraded in horrific ways. The music companies were almost worse.

Jenni sighed again. How futile her own small efforts seemed. Why even bother? Nothing changed. In fact, the release of horror and porn, and evil got worse every year. And yet, the quote from Edmund Burke flashed in her mind. “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

God called her to light a candle. Sitting down at her laptop, Jenni typed out a letter to the media and social media. How often do we feel like Jenni, but give up in despair and do nothing, say nothing

The Bible tells us to “Expose evil.” But how can I fight such pervasive evil? God does not expect us, or any individual, to right all the world’s numerous problems. He expects only that each of us be available and faithful to obey Him when He calls us to step forward as His witness of what is good and true and righteous. Not more, but not less.

Have children? Our task is to love them and raise them to love and follow Jesus. Maybe He is calling you to write a letter, call a friend, volunteer at church or a local pro-life center. Maybe there is a way to share Christ through your attitude and actions at work as well as through words of encouragement.

In the right circumstances, and by listening to the leading of Christ, share God's Word. We need to be faithful to God's guidance. That means asking Jesus to live through us with a light that “exposes evil.”

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.--Ephesians 5:11 (KJV)

Help me, Lord, not become so overwhelmed by the evil I see around me that I forget You are in control. Help me remember, that with Your guidance, I can do any task You ask of me. Amen.

Meditations:
Sunday Read: I Peter 3:10-16
Monday: Ephesians 5:1-11
Tuesday: Colossians 3:1-15
Wednesday: Ephesians 6:11-18
Thursday: I Timothy 6:11-14, 17-21
Friday: Romans 12:16-21Saturday: Isaiah 40:29-31; Daniel 11:32b

1/19/21 1/19/21

Blog Bio Feeling Welcome—Even Without a Mask

These days, I don’t go out often, but before masks became mandated in Kearney, there were a few places I felt comfortable going. Now I just stay home. Why? I am one of those who cannot wear a mask.

I am thankful that Kearney considered this and wrote into the mandate exceptions for people like me. Though the exception exists, going without a mask does not engender positive responses from others encountered when out in public. Unlike for some, my case wouldn’t be difficult to prove.

However, others may not look as though they have a respiratory problem or are unable to put a mask on or off on their own, We live in a society etched in fear and fear breeds anger. Americans have been told over and over that masks are some sort of magic bullet to the point that those who are unable to not wear masks are not always treated well.

Anger lashes out. “Wear a mask, already!!”

There are the looks, the edging even further away than regular distancing allows. I don’t need that, nor do I wish to make anyone else uncomfortable. I find the situation sad. Still, I recently had a taste of freedom and welcome on January 2nd.

Since Keith and I were married September 2nd --more than two kids and five grandkids ago, the oldest of which turns 21 this year—we have a tradition of going out to eat the 2nd of each month. We did that until the mandate. Then Keith brought dinner in. It is not the same.

Keith knew I wanted to go out and he found a way. Odessa doesn’t have a mask mandate and the Apple Barrel Restaurant doesn’t require masks. I called and asked. We entered the restaurant and were given a cheerful welcome. The menu was filled with a variety of food items I wished I could choose.

Still, even with all my allergies, the staff made sure what I did order met my many needs. The hamburger was 100% beef with no pepper spice. No tomato. No ketchup. No bun. I ordered a bacon cheeseburger with lettuce and onion and with cottage cheese on the side. The portion was just right for my needs. Keith’s portion was so large, he had to take it slow and easy.

Our food was delicious and we’re ready to return. As individuals came and went I could tell this was a hometown, family restaurant where most of the customers were regulars who were greeted by name.

Our service was great, and we spent time talking to our waitress who is a student at UNK. We even spoke with a patron who shared a Star Wars picture with Keith on his phone, when Keith commented on a conversation. The biggest surprise came as we finished our meal. The waitress stood at our table and told us someone had paid for our meal, and when we were finished we could just leave. That made our day. (And we still left a tip for our waitress.)

It was such a relief to feel welcome—even without a mask. Our monthly anniversary experience gave me a positive memory I won’t soon forget. Maybe, next time, we’ll pass forward the blessing we received.

1/18/21 1/18/21

Devotion God is Good and There in Time of Need

Read: John 10:1-15

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd gives his life for the sheep. --John 10:11

“I am the good shepherd, “Jesus said. “I am the door.”

In John 14:6 Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but through me.”

Throughout the Bible, in illustration after illustration, God lets us know that the One to turn to in times of need is Jesus Christ. Jesus is the only one with the answers for the problems that beset our daily lives.

Whether war erupts, or our neighbor threatens to sue over some minor disagreement, Christ has an answer and way to deal with the situation without hate or revenge, and with an attitude that leads to freedom regardless of what happens with the situation.

While it is easy to speak in platitudes about God’s love and care, most of us wish for specific direction. How?
First, we need a close, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Without Him, our lives will be adrift with our own will and way.
Second, we need to spend premium time reading, studying, meditating and memorizing God’s Word every day. Why is this important?

Psalm 119:11 says, “Your word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against You.”

Following Jesus means knowing His Word.

Third, each day we need to spend quality time in prayer, worshiping God, asking His blessings and direction for our lives, confessing our sins and turning from them, and praising God for who He is.
Fourth, regardless of circumstances, we need to commit to doing things in God’s way, and in God’s time.
Finally, the key to positive problem solutions is our willingness to obey and follow the God we claim to serve, believing He truly is the “Good Shepherd” who will not lead us astray.

Thank you, Lord, that You are a good God and have my best interests in mind. Help me be willing to both seek and follow Your, not my, solutions to the problems I face each day. Amen.

Meditations:
Monday: Psalm 23
Tuesday: Matthew 11:28-30
Wednesday: Psalm 34
Thursday: Psalm 136
Friday: Psalm 27
Saturday: Psalm 86

1/17/21 1/17/21

Devotions Whom Do I Serve with my Time and Resources

Read: Matthew 6:19-24

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. --Matthew 6:21 (KJV)

Work! Work! Work! We strive to earn an extra dollar or to pay for that new car (when the other one might hold up for a few more years), for a new, larger, house (when, with some creative planning, the present one would serve), for that vacation (when did vacations become a “right” or a “need” rather than a “want?”) All those hours, all those wish lists end up with bottomless debt.

There are all sorts of rationalizations for spending long hours working, reasons for leaving children in the care of a nanny or in other child care--adding to the expenses that need to be paid. All in the pursuit of some nebulous “dream.”

Some work simply to pay bills, living paycheck to paycheck. Many have no idea what their income or expenses even are. Yet, often expenses--such as expensive cars, eating out, etc.-- are not necessary and could be cut to meet income.

If we were satisfied with fewer and less expensive clothes, shoes, gifts, travel and entertainment, less expensive housing and transportation, we could manage on far less income. If we cut back our lifestyles, we’d have more time for our family. Maybe then, we’d also have more time for God.

In our busy schedules, how often do we stop, relax, take time to ask for God’s direction before charging ahead with our own plans, expecting God to fall in with and bless our plans?

He won’t. He doesn’t bless when we’re more concerned with career or volunteer work that siphons time away from family (however noble). He doesn't bless when we're more interested in buying “things,” than in investing time and effort in people, especially with our own families. (Do I really need to go shopping--again?)

Such pursuits are self-centered, not God or other-centered, and do not help our witness or further God’s kingdom. They also further shred our relationships with spouse, kids, family, and friends.

How often do I warm a pew a Sunday, feeling smug that I never miss church with my family, while ignoring my family and their needs the rest of the week? Maybe it is time to prune my lifestyle, commit to a budget, and make sure I give my best, not just leftovers to those closest to me.

Help me, Lord, to begin putting You first in my life and my home. Help me listen to You, reading Your Word, not only alone but also with my family. Help me get my spending habits under control and make sure to have my priorities in order. Amen.

Meditations:
Monday: Matthew 6:33; Ephesians 4:24-32
Tuesday: Philippians 2:3-13
Wednesday: Titus 2:1-8
Thursday: I Peter 3:5-9Friday: Psalm 63
Saturday: Romans 12

1/15/21 1/15/21

Devotion Exercising Spiritual Discipline

Read: I Timothy 4:7-12

But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.--1 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

Today, many individuals seem to be out jogging. There are even baby strollers created for taking along that little one. Others exercise in one of the hundreds, or thousands, of gyms operated all over America--even the world. Healthful eating habits and exercise are common buzzwords in advertisements and conversations. Maintaining physical health takes desire, commitment, and follow-through.

More important than physical health is our spiritual well-being. Sometimes we forget that, like physical conditioning, spiritual health takes planning, time, training, and discipline.

Every day, we’re faced with choices--good and bad. When we choose God’s Way, we’re strengthening those spiritual muscles. When we choose our own way, we lose momentum and spiritual ground.

What steps can we take to make sure we’re gaining, not losing, ground in building up our spiritual health?

We need to commit to reading God’s Word every day. We also need to study and to memorize-- hiding God’s Word in our hearts for guidance and direction. Regularly reading God’s Word is a spiritual discipline. Doing so in the morning sets the tone for the day.

Though dragging ourselves out of bed Sunday morning may take effort, Hebrews 10:23-25 asks us not to forsake the fellowship of other believers. Fellowship encourages us in our walk of faith and lifts us up. We hear a message from God’s Word, and weekly fellowship gives us the opportunity to receive and reach out in love and care to others.

Consider ways to incorporate both physical and spiritual exercises, doubling benefits. (Example: practice Bible verses memorized while jogging.)

Help me, Lord, make a commitment to being spiritually as well as physically fit by putting my walk with You and knowing Your Word as a top priority in my life. Amen.

Meditations:
Monday: II Timothy 3:16-17
Tuesday: Hebrews 12:1-3
Wednesday: II Timothy 2::4-7
Thursday: Hebrews 5:12-14
Friday: I Corinthians 9:24-27
Saturday: Psalm 119:9-16

1/5/21 1/5/21

Blog You can make 2021 better than 2020

On Facebook, I’ve seen comments and all sorts of graphics about the year of 2020--of how tired everyone is of the year, and how everyone hopes 2021 will be different--a year everyone hopes is far from disease and death and restrictions and masks, with which everyone is so tired of dealing.

But for all the hopes, it appears many of the restrictions will continue on into a year we all hoped would be different. Already the unintended consequences of restricting individuals and families to their homes is being paid in a variety of ways from increased abuse and suicide, to higher drug and alcohol use and even death from loneliness.

What many do not realize is that mental health matters to physical health, We, and especially children, need to be touched, and hugged. Need to communicate face-to-face. Need to be part of the community in a way that technology, as nice as it is to have, can not. There is no substitute for people being together.

There are differing opinions about masks and restrictions and many other aspects of the situation we’re in. There is hope vaccinesCovid shots will change the picture—the data shows they neither stop one from contracting Covid nor stop the transmission of it.

Still, we hope cases will not only decrease, but new cases stop altogether. In the midst of conflicting information even from “experts,’ we need to find our way for ourselves and our families.

America stands on three pillars--faith, family, and freedom. This pandemic has shaken every one of these pillars in one way or another. However, we don’t have to give in to despair. While this may not be over in the dawn of the New Year, we have hope of an end.

Nothing lasts forever. As for faith, even when we are told not to meet together in large groups, we can still read God’s Word and communicate with God anytime and anyplace.

We can pray for others, especially for those who are ill or grieving. We can reach out to those in need with a letter, a phone call, or a donation.

Our freedom has been greatly impacted and that truly bothers me. Our elderly citizens didn’t vote to be locked away from family and friends--and pay dearly for such a “privilege.” This has been wrong on so many levels.

I am not the only one who, now, has no intention of ever going into a home--if it can at all be avoided. Even in this, attitude matters. We can complain or focus on the positive and we can seek to make changes.

If we want changes, we need to let our Representatives, Senators, Governors, and Mayors know what we think and expect. Let’s do our part to stop Covid-19, but also to realize balance is needed and make our concerns known--through letters to the editor, phone calls, and letters to those making and enforcing restrictions.

Maybe you agree. Maybe you don’t, but you are the citizens. Do your research, beyond government and media sources, knowing they are often very biased. Those for whom we vote are supposed to be our employees, not our masters.

Make tomorrow be different by standing up for faith, family, and freedom. Then 2021 will become the year of hope and change we want so much right now.

Published in Kearney Hub 01/04/2021
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1/5/21 1/5/21

Poetry Devotion— How to Gain Discernment

And this I pray, that your love may aboundyet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;That you may approve things that are excellent;that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness,which are by Jesus Christ,unto the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11

Lord,
In this day of compromise,
Help me discern wrong from right.
Keep me open that I might learn,
Issues and standards on which I must stand firm—
Help me research and do my part
To uncover falsehood and fraud,
Encouraging others to follow
the rule of righteous law.
Help me, Lord, know truth from lies, and then,
Give me strength to stand forthright and strong.
Amen.

C) 2016, 2021 Carolyn R Scheidies
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From Journey of Faith

1/4/21 1/4/21

Poetry Victory

Lord Jesus,
Let cold hearts be set afire,
By the desire,
Not for money or for power,
Not for ambitions of the hour,
Not for perverted greed,
But instead to heed your call,
To share with all,
Your message of love and hope and peace,
Freedom at the foot of Calvary.
Amen.

But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. —Matthew 6:33
(C) 2016, 2021 Carolyn R Scheidies
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From Journey of Faith

12/28/20 12/28/20

Poetry Silent Wings

Angels soar by
On silent wings, pause...
Stoop to touch the earth with song,
And slowly glide on.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God... Luke 3:13

As the Angels heralded your birth, Jesus,
help me herald your love in all I do and say. Amen.

(C) 2016, 2020 Carolyn R Scheidies
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rom Journey of Faith
There is a Paperback and Kindle version.
There are NO authorized hardback versions!!!

12/27/20 12/27/20

Poetry The Blessing of Grandchildren

Grandchildren
They fill my life
With exhaustion and energy,
Antics and anxiety.
(What will they try next?)
And with miles and miles
of hugs and smiles.
And lessons learned
Usually on the fly,
Me, as much as, or more
Than they.
I am filled with a satisfaction
wide and deep,
From simply being
in their presence,
Finding opportunities to share Jesus
Sharing a laugh, a hug,a knowing smile.
Receiving back so very much
Love and joy and more
The very love of Christ
From the heart of
Precocious,
Precious,
Grandchildren!
(C) 2020 Carolyn R Scheidies
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12/22/20 12/22/20

Blog Don’t let the holiday season steal your joy

The holiday season seems the perfect time for get-togethers—though this year large gatherings are discouraged. The holiday season started even before Thanksgiving, still technically autumn, though weather often indicates otherwise. All too soon Christmas arrives with New Year close behind, which brings school and church programs and, most years, family gatherings.

By the end of the holiday season, we’re are depleted physically, mentally, emotionally-- and financially.

Time to stop and ask, “What am I doing? Did I even try to say, ‘No!’ to some events I really didn’t need to attend? What did I gain for all my efforts?”

Even though the urge to get out may not be as pressing this year, there are still places to go and gifts to buy, Christmas letters to write. Even searching for gifts online takes time effort and money.

Before we exhaust ourselves we need to ask, “Were friendships begun or deepened? Were family ties strengthened or simply frazzled by the time restraints, rush, and tension?

Did I take time to spend time with my spouse, my children?
Did I take time for friends?
Did I take time to worship the very One we’re supposed to be celebrating?

How often in the mindless hustle and bustle, did I consider what others really needed? That might be time, not stress, tension and gifts quickly discarded and forgotten.

In the end, when we stress out about events and shopping and gifts we end up overwhelmed and a little resentful—though we bring it on ourselves. Do we resent time spent gift shopping for things most do not need or want? Upset that gifts kids, especially, will abandon to play with the boxes those expensive toys were in? Why? Pride, status, being a good person, parent, or friend? How foolish!

True, there is pleasure in connecting with friends or family not seen in a while, and I love exchanging greetings with those from far away and catching up with each other's lives. There is also the love that goes into just the right gift for someone special. But just-right gifts don’t have to be expensive to share your love and care.

In fact, spending more than you can afford actually takes away the joy of your find--especially once the bill arrives. Gifts are no substitute for personal contact even if that is by phone, video, Zoom, etc.

Instead of rushing headlong into the season, stop. Take stock of your finances, commitments, and time and plan accordingly, leaving time to breathe. Take time to consider the true meaning of the season--Jesus. Jesus came in the quiet of the night.

This year, let’s spend less time hurrying and worrying. Let’s spend within a budget and give priority to family--and to worshiping Christ the Savior who came to bring joy and life to all who bow not just at the manger, but also at the cross.

Most of all, choose to slow down, listen for God’s direction, and share His love with those around you. If He can sustain us the rest of the year, surely He can sustain us during the hectic holiday season—if we let Him.

It is remembering that it is in giving, not in frantic activity, we will come to know the true joy of the season.

12/13/20 12/13/20

Poetry The Clock of Life

He put the clock on the mantel,
Wound the key at dawn,
Now each day gone,
Brings a new day on,
As the clock keeps tic, ticking on.

Life is like that mantel clock,
God's time the second hand,
And the seconds I lend,
Are seconds I spend,
As time keeps tic, ticking along.

Each moment
He gives is a precious one,
To be wisely used.
Not wisely used,
A moment I lose,
As time goes tic, ticking on.

Though life ticks on through pain, I find
Joy deepened by sorrow.
But for every sorrow,
There is hope for tomorrow,
As life goes tic, ticking by.

When the clock has run down,
And the mainspring has ceased,
My life shall be released,
To Heavenly peace,
And time to forever with Him.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. —Colossians 3:16-17

Thank you, Lord, for life. Help me live it in a way that brings honor to you. Amen.

12/8/20 12/8/20

Poetry Count the Blessings

Oh give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endures forever. —Psalm 136:1

We look before and after,
And desire what we have not;
Instead of being thankful,
For all that we have got....
Loving family, caring friends,
To support and lend an ear:
But most of all for the Savior,
Who is always near.

Help me Lord, count my many blessings, and be content with what I do have...you. Amen.

12/7/20 12/7/20

Poetry The Timepiece of Life

See then that you walk circumspectly [carefully], not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. —Ephesians 5:15-16

The timepiece
Ticks away time,
Tells us when to go where,
Faster and faster
We race its seemingly
slow hands,
And wonder
why it
Wins!

Lord, help me use the time you've given me to honor you in my home, my church, and in society.
(C) 2016, 2020 Carolyn R Scheidies
Feel free to share
From Journey of Faith

12/6/20 12/6/20

Poetry Thanks for Today God

This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. —Psalm 18:24

This morning I felt tired,
God seemed far away,
But I arose, dressed and ate,
And went to worship anyway.

This morning as I went to church,
I looked up in the sky,
Then felt His presence with me
As a cloud slowly drifted by.

Suddenly I was thankful,I got up today,
Rejoicing, I said, "Thank you, Lord."
For creating for me,
this beautiful day.

Lord, you created such a beautiful world. Help me recognize your handiwork, appreciate what you've provided and care for your creation. Amen.

I plan my life out a day at a time, so my posting schedule can be erratic.

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