The phone rang, it was friends calling to say they were enroute to our house.They were not expected, but it was going to be a treat to visit with friends we have not had a chance to see during the holidays.
The 'back' door bell rang and the kitchen door opened, as our friends expressed their 'specialness' by coming around the back! We love to have friends over and want them to feel welcome in our home. These friends don't mind seeing the way we live, like I said, "They came through the kitchen!"
But wait, what is it he is carrying with him? It is an extra special gift. It is 'extra' special because it was handmade by him, every part was cut, screwed and wired together by his hands. Just the creation of it was from him, even the blueprint (there was none!) Inside was a light, the word of God was written on a tag, and the creator had signed his name.
This was made for us, for our home. It has a place of honor on our mantel now. We were very touched to receive this gift.
It made me think of the Christ child, Who came to earth before I was even born, to die for me. He was an extra special child, He was the Son of God. The Christ child was handmade by the Holy Spirit's divine touch. The Christ Child was created by Him, no blueprint, but a Plan. Inside of Jesus was a light, one to light the world with salvation. The Word of God was written in His heart, the creator had signed His name...'I Am.'
This gift has a light inside, with parts of doors that many have walked through, and glass that others have looked through....seeking Him. It was made with recycled materials from our old church, even the old window panes.
Christ came for me, giving me the unexpected gift of salvation. I did not realize I was being offered that gift until I was sixteen years of age.
He came for you too. Have you received the unexpected gift, the one from Christ? Like this gift we received tonight, it is a gift that gives light that only the Creator can give, but you must receive it. The year is coming to an end, but this could be the beginning of a joyous journey with Him!
"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship
with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all
sin." 1 John 1:7
To contact me, please go to www.gingersanders.com or Ginger Sanders facebook page
Blessings
gs
Friday, December 26, 2014
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Return to the Hiding Place Movie...(do you have a Hiding Place?)
Hans Poley, who was a physics student, chose not to join the Nazi party. While hiding in the home of Corrie ten Boom, Hans is drawn into an intricate web of espionage and activities in the famous Hiding Place.
The movie is action packed with daring rescues, hijacks of Gestapo, and the miracles of one of history's most famous dramas. It is entwined with the love story of Piet Hartog and Aty van Woreden (Corrie ten Boom's niece).
The film has been in the making for twenty years, being guided by God's divine interventions. The writer, Peter C. Spencer, was a classmate of Franklin Graham and class officer at the Stony Book Prep School. (This was during the time when Corrie traveled and spoke with Billy Graham Crusades.)
The interweaving thread of the making of this movie, shows the hand of God leading and guiding through the various phases. It is finally ready to be viewed by the audiences, to be blessed in seeing the way God works in the lives of people.
View the Movie Trailer
The movie comes to WIDE RELEASE Friday, February 6 – Thursday, February 12, 2015. For ticket information and bulk reservations, please contact them at ticketsales.rhp@gmail.com
The way God continues to work in the lives of people, has always amazed me. He is the same God today as the God of Moses, Isaac, and Abraham, so I should not be amazed. He loved and cared for His people as they roamed through the desert and were in captivity in Egypt. He loved and cared for His people in the Hiding Place, protecting them. He loves and cares for us today, leading and guiding and protecting.
The movie, The Return to the Hiding Place, will show the audience how much God cares about His children. There is a breath taking rescue of an entire orphanage of Jewish children marked for mass execution by Hitler's assassins.
Does God care any less for us? No, but we need to see Him in all things....the good and the bad. Evil is on this earth and lays in prey for us, waiting on us to fail.
1 Peter 5:8-9 "Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world."
Also, as Christians, we need to be mindful of the hard times we all go through at sometime or another. We may not be in 'hiding' for our lives, but we may have other devastating situations in our lives. Let us keep our minds and hearts focused on the One that really matters and lean on Him to get us through.
When we realize that we have made it through our valley and have come out of our 'hiding place,' let us be like Hans in the movie....giving God glory.
Romans 8:28 'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.'
Blessings,
gs
Friday, December 5, 2014
Being a Christian and Playing a Part (Return to the Hiding Place Movie-Part 1)
This morning I had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with
Rachel Spencer-Hewitt, actress. It only took a few minutes of speaking to her, I knew her heart, she is a woman who lives for Christ. Rachel plays the
role of Aty, the niece of Corrie ten Boom, in the soon to be released movie “Return
to the Hiding Place.”
Rachel was raised in a home that attended church faithfully.
She was like any other child that grew up in church, acting in church dramas
and plays. However, there was one slight exception, her father was the writer
of the plays and her mother was the ‘historical’ and artist that designed the
period costumes. Rachel said she thought every child grew up in homes full of
acting, writing and designing dramas, until she was in her teens.
While listening to Rachel share the story of how the movie
came about (which I will be sharing in a future writing) shows me that not only
her father, but also the cast, was obedient to the Actors Guild and the
requirements, as well as to God.
A brilliant young physics student, Hans Poley, chooses not
to join the Nazi party. To protect him, his parents force him into hiding in
the home of Corrie ten Boom. When Rachel’s father met Hans, another Divine
Appointment, several years ago, Hans told him, if he you are to write this
story, “Tell it faithfully.”
A Casting Director was hired and Rachel went through same the
procedures as all of the other actors and actresses trying out for the parts.
She had the background of many stage plays, including playing Maggie in
Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof in Vienna, plays in NY, VA, and Washington
DC.
The workings of God often are a mystery to us, but seeing
Him in the production of a movie could be a new venue for some of us. The
social media, television, music and movies are one way that we as Christians
can reach out to the non-believers. The word ‘church’ is not a building, but it
is those of us that believe, those of us who can spread the Word and the gospel.
Christ tells us in Matthew 28:19 tells us ‘Go, therefore,
and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and
of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have
commanded you.”
What better way to share the gospel than through the
entertainment media? Not only that, but this movie will challenge us as
Christians, to realize that God does work in the lives of the faithful. What is
sacrifice? What is boldness? What is faithfulness? Who are we, as we sit and do
nothing, while others are dying in their sin? Are we the faithful Christians? Would
we stand bold in the confrontation?
Be sure to watch for the release of ‘Return to the Hiding
Place’ movie in Feb, 2015 in a theater near you!Tell your church leaders to request the movie in local theaters! Spread the word!
To see a preview of the film, go to www.hide-movie.com/
Blessings,
gs
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Go to the Mountain
While reading scriptures, they tell us Jesus went 'out' to pray. Sometimes that means he separated Himself from others, the crowds, to be alone. Other times it tells us He went up into the mountains, to be alone.
Luke 6:12
One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.
Matt 14:23
After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.
Time and time again, we get so caught up in the day of 'things to do' we forget to get to pray. Jesus realized He needed to get alone to have time with the Father. We need to remember that as well, when the 'crowds' of family and friends have filled our day, to get alone with the Father.
We need this time to keep our sanity, to fill our spirit with that of the Lord's, to be able to love one another, forgive and delight in the time we are together. Admit it, families and friends come together at the holiday celebrations, usually with stress. Food preparation, gifts, even what to wear can be challenging. The holidays, or any time with the 'crowds,' should be time of enjoyment and laughter. But, because of the pressure of everything being just right, we let it turn into a time that everyone is usually glad when it is over!
If more of us would take the time to 'go to the mountain' to be alone with God, like Jesus did, we would be more likely able to endure the crowds. Our bodies get physically exhausted due to the demands others seemingly put on us, why do we let our spiritual life get drained as well?
Look to the upcoming days, the joy of the season, with a different perspective this year. Start the days off by setting time aside everyday alone with God...'go to the mountain'...to talk with Him. My mountain is on my back porch in the summer, but in the winter, it is usually by the fireplace. It doesn't matter where your mountain is, just as long as you have a place to be alone with Him.
You will find peace and comfort in Him and it will make those 'crowds' a lot easier to deal with during the festivities of the season. It will let you see Jesus in the midst, after all the celebrations are for Him anyway, isn't it?
Where is your mountain? If you don't have a place to go to Him, find it today, declare your mountain.
Blessings,
gs
Luke 6:12
One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.
After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.
Time and time again, we get so caught up in the day of 'things to do' we forget to get to pray. Jesus realized He needed to get alone to have time with the Father. We need to remember that as well, when the 'crowds' of family and friends have filled our day, to get alone with the Father.
We need this time to keep our sanity, to fill our spirit with that of the Lord's, to be able to love one another, forgive and delight in the time we are together. Admit it, families and friends come together at the holiday celebrations, usually with stress. Food preparation, gifts, even what to wear can be challenging. The holidays, or any time with the 'crowds,' should be time of enjoyment and laughter. But, because of the pressure of everything being just right, we let it turn into a time that everyone is usually glad when it is over!
If more of us would take the time to 'go to the mountain' to be alone with God, like Jesus did, we would be more likely able to endure the crowds. Our bodies get physically exhausted due to the demands others seemingly put on us, why do we let our spiritual life get drained as well?
Look to the upcoming days, the joy of the season, with a different perspective this year. Start the days off by setting time aside everyday alone with God...'go to the mountain'...to talk with Him. My mountain is on my back porch in the summer, but in the winter, it is usually by the fireplace. It doesn't matter where your mountain is, just as long as you have a place to be alone with Him.
You will find peace and comfort in Him and it will make those 'crowds' a lot easier to deal with during the festivities of the season. It will let you see Jesus in the midst, after all the celebrations are for Him anyway, isn't it?
Where is your mountain? If you don't have a place to go to Him, find it today, declare your mountain.
Blessings,
gs
Friday, November 21, 2014
My Attitude Adjustment
As I sit down to write this blog, my mind is overwhelmed by the times we have seen God's Presence working in people's lives. I think of all the times He must have been there, but we were not aware. I think of all the whys and why nots, in our lives, and how God plays a part in all of them. The deciding factors, of course, are our choices. He will lead, guide and nudge me and sometimes He gives me a push, just to keep me on track.
I remember once, not wanting to go on visitation with my husband, an incident I really am not proud to share with you. He was a deacon in our church and the deacons rotated for Sunday afternoon visitation. We had four children at home and Sunday mornings were usually hectic, feeding and dressing the children, making sure we were not late for Sunday School. By the time we were home and finished with lunch, I was usually exhausted. But he insisted that I go on visitation with him, since it was a mother with three children that had been at church that morning. Her husband was in the navy and was on deployment at sea.
Complaining and whining, but still dressed in my Sunday dress and shoes, I tagged along. My attitude was not one that God was happy with, I am sure...and I know my husband was not
happy with me.
When we arrived at the small trailer, at the back of the trailer park, I still was not feeling excited, much less happy, about going in to meet this lady.
It had started to drizzle rain....more whining."I don't want to go into someones house and track in with wet shoes," I said, trying to make a good sounding excuse. My husband insisted we go to the door and see if she was home.
Knocking on the door, we heard the chatter of little girls inside the house. As the door opened, a very young mother was standing there looking pleasantly surprised. She welcomed us into her meek home. We sat at the small kitchen table, where the young children were drawing and coloring.
The mother shared with us that their family was in another state and her husband's military service had brought them to our town, Virginia Beach. Since he had been deployed, she had meet only a few neighbors, none that went to church. She had been raised in church and said she knew she would be welcomed in God's house that morning, but had never expected anyone to come and visit her so quickly. She was so grateful that someone cared enough to come and see them.
She wanted us to stay and visit as long as possible, but having others to visit, we needed to be on our way. She hugged us, with tears in her eyes, and said, "I am so thankful God sent you all today. He heard my prayers!"
The rain had started to come down pretty hard, so she closed the door. The wooden deck porch had gotten pretty wet and slick. As I started down the wooden steps, I slid down, landing on my knees on the grass below. As my husband passed by, he said, "Yep, God smacked you in the head for that one!"
Sometimes I hate to admit he was right, but I guess this was one of those times that I needed an attitude adjustment. I did not literally 'see' God that day, but felt Him discipline me in my heart and physically too if you ask my husband!
I have tried to learn to accept things as they are in my life. This is not always easy, because I want to fix things. When I slow down enough to allow God to show up, not complain about what is going on, let life unfold according to His plan, things go much smoother. These are the times that I have found I have a much better attitude. There should not be any 'whys or why nots,' because the answers are grounded in faith.
Paul says in Romans 7:15 "For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate." It is a continual battle to trust God in all things, because we live in the flesh. But just one hour at a time, day by day, He will see us through the battles.
Blessings,
gs
I remember once, not wanting to go on visitation with my husband, an incident I really am not proud to share with you. He was a deacon in our church and the deacons rotated for Sunday afternoon visitation. We had four children at home and Sunday mornings were usually hectic, feeding and dressing the children, making sure we were not late for Sunday School. By the time we were home and finished with lunch, I was usually exhausted. But he insisted that I go on visitation with him, since it was a mother with three children that had been at church that morning. Her husband was in the navy and was on deployment at sea.
Complaining and whining, but still dressed in my Sunday dress and shoes, I tagged along. My attitude was not one that God was happy with, I am sure...and I know my husband was not
When we arrived at the small trailer, at the back of the trailer park, I still was not feeling excited, much less happy, about going in to meet this lady.
It had started to drizzle rain....more whining."I don't want to go into someones house and track in with wet shoes," I said, trying to make a good sounding excuse. My husband insisted we go to the door and see if she was home.
Knocking on the door, we heard the chatter of little girls inside the house. As the door opened, a very young mother was standing there looking pleasantly surprised. She welcomed us into her meek home. We sat at the small kitchen table, where the young children were drawing and coloring.
The mother shared with us that their family was in another state and her husband's military service had brought them to our town, Virginia Beach. Since he had been deployed, she had meet only a few neighbors, none that went to church. She had been raised in church and said she knew she would be welcomed in God's house that morning, but had never expected anyone to come and visit her so quickly. She was so grateful that someone cared enough to come and see them.
She wanted us to stay and visit as long as possible, but having others to visit, we needed to be on our way. She hugged us, with tears in her eyes, and said, "I am so thankful God sent you all today. He heard my prayers!"
The rain had started to come down pretty hard, so she closed the door. The wooden deck porch had gotten pretty wet and slick. As I started down the wooden steps, I slid down, landing on my knees on the grass below. As my husband passed by, he said, "Yep, God smacked you in the head for that one!"
Sometimes I hate to admit he was right, but I guess this was one of those times that I needed an attitude adjustment. I did not literally 'see' God that day, but felt Him discipline me in my heart and physically too if you ask my husband!
I have tried to learn to accept things as they are in my life. This is not always easy, because I want to fix things. When I slow down enough to allow God to show up, not complain about what is going on, let life unfold according to His plan, things go much smoother. These are the times that I have found I have a much better attitude. There should not be any 'whys or why nots,' because the answers are grounded in faith.
Paul says in Romans 7:15 "For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate." It is a continual battle to trust God in all things, because we live in the flesh. But just one hour at a time, day by day, He will see us through the battles.
Blessings,
gs
Friday, November 14, 2014
Fan the Fire
Anyone, who wants to feel the heat, can only stand close to the fireplace for a few moments before having to back away. Sometimes we turn as if we are on a spit!
When our family gets together, we sometimes have a bon fire, roasting hotdogs or marshmallows. I fondly have memories of when I catch my marshmallow on fire, because I love the taste of the crisp, toasted, gooey mess.
Why is it that fire mesmerizes us? It is there and then it is gone. But is it really gone?
I think the Holy Spirit gets left out of our Christian lives so much when we pray or praise. Knowing what the scriptures say about the Holy Spirit and its description of Him, He reminds me of fire or a flame.
We know the Spirit was present in the beginning, Genesis 1:2 "and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." We also know that He was present in the Old Testament many times.
But, look at when the Spirit came to live inside man. When the Holy Spirit began His ministry of indwelling the early church, He chose to appear as “tongues of fire” resting on each of the believers. At that moment, “all of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” Acts 2:3-4. John the Baptist had predicted that Jesus would be the One to baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. Matt 3:11
When I walk close to God and have a good relationship with Him, the Spirit inside me glows, like having the flames fanned by the Word. When I do not take time to communicate with God or read His Word, the embers of the Spirit is still within me, but they are not filling my soul with the warmth.
We all enjoy being filled with warmth, inside and out. There is even a saying, "A warm, fuzzy feeling." I am not sure where that saying came from, but I do like the comfort of feeling that way.
Let us all cozy up to the fireplace of sitting by Him and letting the Spirit fill us inside with His Presence. Let us fan the flames so His warmth may be felt by others and want to join us around fire!
Blessings,
gs
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Election Day is Over
Whew! I say I am glad the election is over, but at the same time, I am thankful we have the freedom to have an election. What I am really saying is that I am glad we don't have to listen, read and see all the politicians and news media everywhere we turn.
This blog has started a little different than most of my blogs, because I NEVER am one to talk politics (ask my husband who says I don't listen to it either!) But, now that it is over, I do have a few comments. Yes, this is still a free country, anyone can run for any office and the citizens have the right to vote for whomever they want. There were amendments (that I read about the night before the vote) on the ballot in my state.
Of the many, many things that I could list that I do not like about politics, there are two which make my stomach roll with anguish. First, I do not like the daggers the opponents throw at each other. Second, I am amazed at the amount of money which goes into the 'run' for office, as they stand there and tell us how much money they are going to 'save' and cut taxes, etc. This just seems a little ironic to me.
Now, let us move on from being a citizen of this land to being a citizen of our eternal home.
Jesus went around the countryside, much like our politicians do, sharing Who He was and what He believed in with the people. Jesus told them His 'line' of salvation and the upcoming kingdom. He shared with them, that which would give them peace, joy and comfort. Some people understood what He was saying and followed Him.
What His followers didn't understand was the full picture of His kingdom. Much like voters today, we hear what is said, but don't always get the full idea of what was told to us or what they are actually going to do once they are in office. But, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life." John 14:6 He gave them hope.
Jesus did not spend campaign money that He had raised. He borrowed fish and bread and fed the crowds. Jesus did not talk about evil, He cast it out. He told of the joy and peace and comfort He could give. He gives us hope in John 14:3 "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." We will be with Him, not like politicians of today, who often stay away from the people.
There is a lot of difference in the earthly home we have and the heavenly home promised. Yes, we have freedoms, living here in America, but are we really free?
I think that answer is clear in the scriptures. Romans 8:1-4 "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit"
Let us live on this earth as citizens of heaven, that which Christ has promised us. Let us pray for our country, thankful for the freedoms. Let us pray for the Spirit of God to sweep over this nation and touch the heart and souls of our leaders, that they may know Christ.
Yes, this election day is over. We will now hold our breaths to hear the results. We will survive this next year, no matter who wins or loses. We should pray for all of them. We should keep our eyes focused on the One true King and let us 'run the race' that is set before us.
Blessings,
gs
This blog has started a little different than most of my blogs, because I NEVER am one to talk politics (ask my husband who says I don't listen to it either!) But, now that it is over, I do have a few comments. Yes, this is still a free country, anyone can run for any office and the citizens have the right to vote for whomever they want. There were amendments (that I read about the night before the vote) on the ballot in my state.
Of the many, many things that I could list that I do not like about politics, there are two which make my stomach roll with anguish. First, I do not like the daggers the opponents throw at each other. Second, I am amazed at the amount of money which goes into the 'run' for office, as they stand there and tell us how much money they are going to 'save' and cut taxes, etc. This just seems a little ironic to me.
Now, let us move on from being a citizen of this land to being a citizen of our eternal home.
Jesus went around the countryside, much like our politicians do, sharing Who He was and what He believed in with the people. Jesus told them His 'line' of salvation and the upcoming kingdom. He shared with them, that which would give them peace, joy and comfort. Some people understood what He was saying and followed Him.
What His followers didn't understand was the full picture of His kingdom. Much like voters today, we hear what is said, but don't always get the full idea of what was told to us or what they are actually going to do once they are in office. But, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life." John 14:6 He gave them hope.
Jesus did not spend campaign money that He had raised. He borrowed fish and bread and fed the crowds. Jesus did not talk about evil, He cast it out. He told of the joy and peace and comfort He could give. He gives us hope in John 14:3 "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." We will be with Him, not like politicians of today, who often stay away from the people.
There is a lot of difference in the earthly home we have and the heavenly home promised. Yes, we have freedoms, living here in America, but are we really free?
I think that answer is clear in the scriptures. Romans 8:1-4 "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit"
Let us live on this earth as citizens of heaven, that which Christ has promised us. Let us pray for our country, thankful for the freedoms. Let us pray for the Spirit of God to sweep over this nation and touch the heart and souls of our leaders, that they may know Christ.
Yes, this election day is over. We will now hold our breaths to hear the results. We will survive this next year, no matter who wins or loses. We should pray for all of them. We should keep our eyes focused on the One true King and let us 'run the race' that is set before us.
Blessings,
gs
Monday, October 27, 2014
Did God Mess Up?
When we look into the Bible, we see several instances where things happened and we wonder why God didn't 'fix' it.
We look at our own lives sometimes with illnesses, finances, death, divorce and many other troubles we go through, and wonder why God doesn't 'fix' it. It sometimes makes me wonder, "Did God mess up?" I know He hears and answers prayers.
1 John 5:14 "And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us."
exactly what happened or details of 'the rest of the story' as Paul Harvey would say.
We look at our own lives sometimes with illnesses, finances, death, divorce and many other troubles we go through, and wonder why God doesn't 'fix' it. It sometimes makes me wonder, "Did God mess up?" I know He hears and answers prayers.
1 John 5:14 "And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us."
When reading scripture, I wonder why things happened the way they did, when often times I see no immediate benefit. For instance, there are things we read where we are not sure
exactly what happened or details of 'the rest of the story' as Paul Harvey would say. - When God put Jacob's hip out of joint and left him with a permanent, painful limp
- When Jesus caused a minor panic among the disciples by telling them to feed a hungry crowd . . .
- When three times the Lord refused Paul's request for healing....
Was it to keep Jacob in pain, so that as he walked he would praise God? I don't think that is why.
Was He trying to pull a trick or embarrass the disciples in front of the crowd? I do not think that was it at all.
Did he not hear Paul's request and he had to ask over and over? No, I am sure He heard Paul, loud and clear.
Was He trying to pull a trick or embarrass the disciples in front of the crowd? I do not think that was it at all.
Did he not hear Paul's request and he had to ask over and over? No, I am sure He heard Paul, loud and clear.
However, we often have things happen in our lives and wonder, "What is going on here? Is God not seeing this? My world has just turned upside down!"
First, there is nothing that surprises God. He knows what is coming upon our lives, He is aware of the troubles we are going through and He walks with us through them.
Sometimes we come out humbled, like Jacob, and continue in life with scars (or limps) to remind us of those troubled times.
Maybe we see God perform a miracle in the middle of our panic, like He did with the disciples and the fish and bread, and we can praise and give Him glory immediately.
Maybe He hears our repeated prayers and requests, but His timing for answers is not always our timing.
Some answered prayers may not be completed until after we are gone from this earthly life. (read blog: God Answers Prayers, even after we are gone? http://bit.ly/ZUH8Xf )
Sometimes we come out humbled, like Jacob, and continue in life with scars (or limps) to remind us of those troubled times.
Maybe we see God perform a miracle in the middle of our panic, like He did with the disciples and the fish and bread, and we can praise and give Him glory immediately.
Maybe He hears our repeated prayers and requests, but His timing for answers is not always our timing.
Some answered prayers may not be completed until after we are gone from this earthly life. (read blog: God Answers Prayers, even after we are gone? http://bit.ly/ZUH8Xf )
In any event in our life, God never messes up. He knows right where you are, hurting in pain, hungry for answers, or pleading with Him over and over.
Luke 12:28 "But if God so clothes
the grass which is alive in the field today and tomorrow is thrown into
the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O men of little faith!
29 And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be
of anxious mind. 30 For all the nations of the world seek these things;
and your Father knows that you need them. 31 Instead, seek his kingdom,
and these things shall be yours as well. 32 Fear not, little flock, for
it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom it is not hid from you."
God 'fixed' us completely when He forgave us and we received Him as our Lord and Savior. We need not worry about anything else, period. We should focus on Him and serving Him. If we do that, start everyday focusing on Him, He will take care of any needs we have that really matter. We should allow His priorities to become our priorities.
We may mess up our priorities, but thank goodness, our God never messes up!!
Blessings,
gs
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
What's in A Name?
When our children were little, we gave them little fun nicknames...such as Beegee (B.J.) or Todd-a-Rod (Todd). They always knew when they were in trouble when their real names were called and really bad trouble when their full, first and middle, names were used. It just never seemed right getting on to them using a nickname! I am sure you all can remember when your full names were used by a parent, grandparent or teacher, it was never good.
I love it, where in scriptures, even Jesus corrected Peter by using either Simon or Simon Peter.
Then, as they grew older and started going off with their friends, their dad would always remind them, "Remember who you are!" This meant you are a Sanders and do not embarrass or ruin our name. When they became Christians, this meant that they were not only Sanders, but a child of God.
When our daughter married, she accepted the name of her husband. Our daughter was adopted from S. Korea and had been given a Korean name at the orphanage of Kung Hee Park. Park was the President of S. Korea at that time (he was later assassinated.) When we brought her to our home, our little gift from God, we called her Kara. She then became an American citizen and her last name was changed to Sanders. Now she has taken another name for the man she loves.
We realize that the last name carries a 'brand' or 'trade' with it from earlier times. If your last name is 'Carpenter' for instance, your grandparents, way back, were probably carpenters. The 'Cook' family were probably chefs and so on..
We know that God has many names for His many characteristics and His nature. We know many names for Jesus are used for different prayers at different stages in our lives. But I guess my personal favorite of all His names would be 'I Am', for that says it all.
Exodus 3:14
“God said to Moses, ‘I AM who I AM.’ And he said, ‘Say this to the people of Israel, I AM has sent me to you’
"Very truly I tell you," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" John 8:58
Looking at our world today, the news about the beheading of Christians, makes me think of what our future holds for names. Will it someday be required to add the tag 'Christian' to our names? Hmmm..... Ginger Sanders, Christian. Who knows what the future holds for us, except Christ will return someday and our 'tag/name' better be there.
The names on this earth have little meaning actually. They are all nicknames or whatever we are called. The name that will be important will be the name in the Book of Life. I have a 'legal' name and then the nickname that my husband and friends call me. It does not matter to me which name Jesus has in that book, as long as He sees it was written there the very night I accepted Him as my Savior.
What about you? What is your name and where is it written? Are you ready to be called out by Him?
Signing off today with
Blessings,
gsanders 'Christian'
I love it, where in scriptures, even Jesus corrected Peter by using either Simon or Simon Peter.
Then, as they grew older and started going off with their friends, their dad would always remind them, "Remember who you are!" This meant you are a Sanders and do not embarrass or ruin our name. When they became Christians, this meant that they were not only Sanders, but a child of God.
When our daughter married, she accepted the name of her husband. Our daughter was adopted from S. Korea and had been given a Korean name at the orphanage of Kung Hee Park. Park was the President of S. Korea at that time (he was later assassinated.) When we brought her to our home, our little gift from God, we called her Kara. She then became an American citizen and her last name was changed to Sanders. Now she has taken another name for the man she loves.
We know that God has many names for His many characteristics and His nature. We know many names for Jesus are used for different prayers at different stages in our lives. But I guess my personal favorite of all His names would be 'I Am', for that says it all.
Exodus 3:14
“God said to Moses, ‘I AM who I AM.’ And he said, ‘Say this to the people of Israel, I AM has sent me to you’
"Very truly I tell you," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" John 8:58
Looking at our world today, the news about the beheading of Christians, makes me think of what our future holds for names. Will it someday be required to add the tag 'Christian' to our names? Hmmm..... Ginger Sanders, Christian. Who knows what the future holds for us, except Christ will return someday and our 'tag/name' better be there.
The names on this earth have little meaning actually. They are all nicknames or whatever we are called. The name that will be important will be the name in the Book of Life. I have a 'legal' name and then the nickname that my husband and friends call me. It does not matter to me which name Jesus has in that book, as long as He sees it was written there the very night I accepted Him as my Savior.
What about you? What is your name and where is it written? Are you ready to be called out by Him?
Signing off today with
Blessings,
gsanders 'Christian'
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Where is GOD?
Remember the days of lying in the grass, looking at the sky and 'seeing' things in the clouds? Oooo, there is a dog, a rabbit, and sometimes, if we looked close enough, there would be a face! Could it be the face of Jesus or even God Himself?
We seek to be close to God, but be real....do we just seek Him when times are hard, when we are going through the troubles and valleys of this life? It is so easy to talk to Him when we are hurting and searching for answers. Why, I bet many of you reading this, have already laid your burdens at His feet this day.
Once, I heard a little boy answer his grandmother, in the innocent voice of a child, about what was in his pocket. He told her it was a biscuit for God that was tucked inside his pants pocket. When she questioned him further, he answered, "But, Grammy, you said God was everywhere and He may get hungry today!"
The scriptures say He is with us always.
Zephaniah 3:16-17 " In that day it will be said to Jerusalem: "Do not be afraid, O Zion; Do not let your hands fall limp. The LORD your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy."
We are His people. He cares for us in the good times as well as the bad times. Have you ever sat in perfect stillness in the mountains, or along the waters, just listening to nature? He is with us no matter what emotions we may be filled with: sadness, grief, joy, peace, or contentment. He loves us unconditional, without any respect to our personal feelings. Why can we not understand that He never leaves us? He walks with us continually, to be our guide, comforter and friend.
We get so caught up in our own emotions, do we forget He is there? He is the peace in times of turmoil, the joy in the time of sadness, the peace in the time of grief, He is there. He knows what is in our minds, the scrambling of the thoughts running rampant. He even said "Be still and know that I AM GOD" Psalm 46:10. We need to 'be still' sometimes to find Him.
He is there for you in all circumstances. Let us just pause a moment today and 'be still' and remember Him as He is....The Great I AM. Let's all just look to the heavens and see what we can see, there and in our hearts. Look to the clouds and the sky, look at the stillness and the peace He gives us.
Doing all of this, maybe we will see His face, maybe we can keep Him in our pocket (heart)!
Blessings,
gs
We seek to be close to God, but be real....do we just seek Him when times are hard, when we are going through the troubles and valleys of this life? It is so easy to talk to Him when we are hurting and searching for answers. Why, I bet many of you reading this, have already laid your burdens at His feet this day.
Once, I heard a little boy answer his grandmother, in the innocent voice of a child, about what was in his pocket. He told her it was a biscuit for God that was tucked inside his pants pocket. When she questioned him further, he answered, "But, Grammy, you said God was everywhere and He may get hungry today!"
The scriptures say He is with us always.
Zephaniah 3:16-17 " In that day it will be said to Jerusalem: "Do not be afraid, O Zion; Do not let your hands fall limp. The LORD your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy."
We are His people. He cares for us in the good times as well as the bad times. Have you ever sat in perfect stillness in the mountains, or along the waters, just listening to nature? He is with us no matter what emotions we may be filled with: sadness, grief, joy, peace, or contentment. He loves us unconditional, without any respect to our personal feelings. Why can we not understand that He never leaves us? He walks with us continually, to be our guide, comforter and friend.
We get so caught up in our own emotions, do we forget He is there? He is the peace in times of turmoil, the joy in the time of sadness, the peace in the time of grief, He is there. He knows what is in our minds, the scrambling of the thoughts running rampant. He even said "Be still and know that I AM GOD" Psalm 46:10. We need to 'be still' sometimes to find Him. He is there for you in all circumstances. Let us just pause a moment today and 'be still' and remember Him as He is....The Great I AM. Let's all just look to the heavens and see what we can see, there and in our hearts. Look to the clouds and the sky, look at the stillness and the peace He gives us.
Doing all of this, maybe we will see His face, maybe we can keep Him in our pocket (heart)!
Blessings,
gs
Friday, September 12, 2014
Questions About God
God has blessed me with friends that love to share the gospel and we love to dig deeper in His Word. Often someone comes up with a question or two about the bible or God or heaven. We put the option for our College and Career class to come up with questions they have about those things. We have ended up having some very interesting conversations in that class.
This past week I heard several questions and the discussions were great. I love to talk about the scriptures and God's character.
One of the questions today, (some of you may have read it on my facebook page 'Ginger Sanders') was "How do we know for sure if it was God we heard speaking? It has not come to past and it has been a long time."
Several times we have all wondered, "Is this what I want or is this really God speaking?" Is it truely His Will for us or we just hoping that He wants us to have that new job/house/car or whatever it is we are wanting. How do we know?
When we are in a close and right relationship with Christ, I think He does speak to us. I think there needs to be several factors in play to enable this. We must be ready to hear and receive what He is saying is the first. We must stay in His Word and be in prayer about all things.
Second, we know that He speaks through His Word, through His teachings and examples and all the scriptures. We also know that our relationship with other Christians is important, to aid and encourage us along in life. He uses other Christians and often speaks through them. It is easier to live a faith filled lifestyle, when surrounded by others that are like minded.
Third, I believe it is important for Christians to grow in Him, to be nurtured in their Christian walk. We must start living the walk. Christians should actively seek opportunities to tell others about what they are learning from and about God. By sharing your thoughts about God, the internal becomes external, and the lessons learned in private become part of an outward lifestyle that is changing toward God’s purposes.This helps us and others grow more in Him as we seek answers about Him.
God does not want to be a mystery to us, but to be our Father. We cannot comprehend all He is, but we can continue to learn.
Ecclesiastes 8:17 ' then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all their efforts to search it out, no one can discover its meaning. Even if the wise claim they know, they cannot really comprehend it.'
Ecclesiastes 11:5 ' As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.'
Let us not grow weary in learning about Him! Let's think more about Him and learn together! Yearn for Him and His Word!
I welcome all comments!!
Blessings,
gs
One of the questions today, (some of you may have read it on my facebook page 'Ginger Sanders') was "How do we know for sure if it was God we heard speaking? It has not come to past and it has been a long time."
Several times we have all wondered, "Is this what I want or is this really God speaking?" Is it truely His Will for us or we just hoping that He wants us to have that new job/house/car or whatever it is we are wanting. How do we know?
When we are in a close and right relationship with Christ, I think He does speak to us. I think there needs to be several factors in play to enable this. We must be ready to hear and receive what He is saying is the first. We must stay in His Word and be in prayer about all things.
Second, we know that He speaks through His Word, through His teachings and examples and all the scriptures. We also know that our relationship with other Christians is important, to aid and encourage us along in life. He uses other Christians and often speaks through them. It is easier to live a faith filled lifestyle, when surrounded by others that are like minded.
Third, I believe it is important for Christians to grow in Him, to be nurtured in their Christian walk. We must start living the walk. Christians should actively seek opportunities to tell others about what they are learning from and about God. By sharing your thoughts about God, the internal becomes external, and the lessons learned in private become part of an outward lifestyle that is changing toward God’s purposes.This helps us and others grow more in Him as we seek answers about Him.
God does not want to be a mystery to us, but to be our Father. We cannot comprehend all He is, but we can continue to learn.
Ecclesiastes 8:17 ' then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all their efforts to search it out, no one can discover its meaning. Even if the wise claim they know, they cannot really comprehend it.'
Ecclesiastes 11:5 ' As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.'
Let us not grow weary in learning about Him! Let's think more about Him and learn together! Yearn for Him and His Word!
I welcome all comments!!
Blessings,
gs
Saturday, September 6, 2014
The Leap
This weekend we had some friends come by to spend the night, as they were driving through our town. We all had met several years ago on a disaster site while serving with the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. However, due to life changes and God's calling them into another ministry, we had not seen each other in quite some time.
When the doorbell rang and they entered our home, it was as if time evaporated. The friendship did not have to be renewed, it was 'the leap' that existed!
Let me stop right there and explain what I am talking about. I am sure several of you have experienced 'the leap' and was not even aware of it. After you read this today, may you never wonder anymore (if you ever did!) about it and be more sensitive to it in your life.
Luke 1:39-45 "
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby 'leaped' in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
This is exactly 'the leap' of the Spirit inside us that I am talking about and it causes the Holy Spirit to be filled. Personally, I think when Christian brothers and sisters come together in one accord, the Spirit of God recognizes and connects in some spiritual way.
There surely has been a time in your life where you have reconnected with an old church buddy or christian brother or sister and it seems you pick by up right where you left off years ago. This is the connection here that I speak of....'the leap' inside us.
This scripture of Elizabeth and Mary is more than just a stop by, spend the night, hello and goodbye visit. Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting and was filled with the Holy Spirit and the baby inside her womb leaped (probably for joy!) Then Elizabeth responded that she was honored that the 'mother of her Lord' would come to visit. Do you see the walls of communication tumbling down here? There was a revealing of the Christ Child and Elizabeth knew it!
When our guests came through our door, the revealing of the Spirit told the story. Here is a man and woman of God, coming to rest and renew in our home. There was no expectation from them, just the Spirit of God renewing and revealing Himself.
Can we make sure we are open to the Spirits call? Can we be aware when another brother or sister in Christ is present? Do they recognize us and are filled with the Spirit? How can this happen?
First let me share this, so no one is confused: The moment you received Christ, the Holy Spirit not only came to indwell you, but He imparted to you spiritual life, causing you to be born anew as a child of God. The Holy Spirit also baptized you into the body of Christ. In I Corinthians 12:13, Paul explains, "We were all baptized by one Spirit into one body."
Now to continue.....how can we be filled with the Holy Spirit?
The Spirit-Filled Life is an obedient and abiding life. It can be experienced daily as you:
Blessings,
gs
When the doorbell rang and they entered our home, it was as if time evaporated. The friendship did not have to be renewed, it was 'the leap' that existed!
Luke 1:39-45 "
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby 'leaped' in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
This is exactly 'the leap' of the Spirit inside us that I am talking about and it causes the Holy Spirit to be filled. Personally, I think when Christian brothers and sisters come together in one accord, the Spirit of God recognizes and connects in some spiritual way.
There surely has been a time in your life where you have reconnected with an old church buddy or christian brother or sister and it seems you pick by up right where you left off years ago. This is the connection here that I speak of....'the leap' inside us.
This scripture of Elizabeth and Mary is more than just a stop by, spend the night, hello and goodbye visit. Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting and was filled with the Holy Spirit and the baby inside her womb leaped (probably for joy!) Then Elizabeth responded that she was honored that the 'mother of her Lord' would come to visit. Do you see the walls of communication tumbling down here? There was a revealing of the Christ Child and Elizabeth knew it!
When our guests came through our door, the revealing of the Spirit told the story. Here is a man and woman of God, coming to rest and renew in our home. There was no expectation from them, just the Spirit of God renewing and revealing Himself.
Can we make sure we are open to the Spirits call? Can we be aware when another brother or sister in Christ is present? Do they recognize us and are filled with the Spirit? How can this happen?
First let me share this, so no one is confused: The moment you received Christ, the Holy Spirit not only came to indwell you, but He imparted to you spiritual life, causing you to be born anew as a child of God. The Holy Spirit also baptized you into the body of Christ. In I Corinthians 12:13, Paul explains, "We were all baptized by one Spirit into one body."
Now to continue.....how can we be filled with the Holy Spirit?
The Spirit-Filled Life is an obedient and abiding life. It can be experienced daily as you:
- Love God with all of your heart
- Spend time daily in prayer and Bible study
- Obey God's commands
- Witness for Christ
Blessings,
gs
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Baby Steps
I have waited a whole year to write this note to you. It is my birthday again and as I sit and think of this past year, I remember mother saying, "Time goes faster the older you get!" Well, that sure seems true, but the clock hands click by at the same rate and I have found that time stands still for no one!
As I have looked back and reminisced, I see the good, bad and ugly of this past year. God blessed in every situation, but there are some memories that I don't want to deal with (husbands tragic wreck) and some memories I would like to be repeated (playing with grandchildren). But, like the television show, time is like sand quickly running through the hourglass...hence 'the sands of time.'
Aging is a process that begins when we are born and it never slows or stops. It is the process where we learn our first steps, how to read and eventually set free by learning to drive! Then, when you reach a certain time in life, those things tend to reverse on us. My pace seems to be slower, the reading glasses are needed and leaving home is an effort now, and by all means lets be home by dark!!
In looking at this past year particularly, I have found that I can travel, but God does not mandate it for me to be able to share His love. He can use us right where we are, whether traveling in a State Park and a ranger accepting Christ or a local neighbor critically ill needing someone to care.
When we retired, I wondered what would we do with our time! But, now I wonder how did we have time to work! If you let people know you are available and are willing to help, especially for free, you will stay busy. This gives us opportunity to share the love and hope only Christ gives.
There is a fellow who volunteers with Samaritan's Purse. His name is Bruce and he is a humble man. Bruce volunteers to help wherever God leads him, but the reason he does is to share the love that Christ gives him. Bruce is like an overflowing cup that spills over and you just can't walk by him without it getting on you!
Did Bruce just all of a sudden realize that Jesus loved him enough that he could share it? No, I have personally watched Bruce start with the baby steps, then reading the Word and studying it, then being set free to 'share' the love of Christ! Since the first time I met Bruce, I knew God had a special plan for him. Bruce first tried to get ahead of God, but like a babe trying to 'run' those first steps, he fell down. But Bruce picked himself up and tried again, holding on to the hand of the Father this time. Step by step, he became stronger in Him until one day, I saw Bruce 'drive' and lead someone to Christ!
When I get to see someone like this, never giving up, but keeping on for Jesus, it encourages me. The 'sands of time' may pass, but if we are Christians knowing where we are going, the sands will never run out. So, my birthday today, is just my earthly birthday, a day to celebrate when I came into this world. My real birthday was the day I accepted Christ, in August of 1965. Since that day, I have been taking baby steps and learning to read about Jesus, learning more everyday.
Where are you? Are you like me and Bruce, growing everyday in Him? We all have to figure out where we are to 'serve,' but just holding on to the Hand helps us take those steps. Reach up to Him and hold on! It may be the best steps you have ever taken!!
Jeremiah 29:11-12New International Version (NIV)
Blessings,
gs
As I have looked back and reminisced, I see the good, bad and ugly of this past year. God blessed in every situation, but there are some memories that I don't want to deal with (husbands tragic wreck) and some memories I would like to be repeated (playing with grandchildren). But, like the television show, time is like sand quickly running through the hourglass...hence 'the sands of time.'
Aging is a process that begins when we are born and it never slows or stops. It is the process where we learn our first steps, how to read and eventually set free by learning to drive! Then, when you reach a certain time in life, those things tend to reverse on us. My pace seems to be slower, the reading glasses are needed and leaving home is an effort now, and by all means lets be home by dark!!
In looking at this past year particularly, I have found that I can travel, but God does not mandate it for me to be able to share His love. He can use us right where we are, whether traveling in a State Park and a ranger accepting Christ or a local neighbor critically ill needing someone to care.
When we retired, I wondered what would we do with our time! But, now I wonder how did we have time to work! If you let people know you are available and are willing to help, especially for free, you will stay busy. This gives us opportunity to share the love and hope only Christ gives.
There is a fellow who volunteers with Samaritan's Purse. His name is Bruce and he is a humble man. Bruce volunteers to help wherever God leads him, but the reason he does is to share the love that Christ gives him. Bruce is like an overflowing cup that spills over and you just can't walk by him without it getting on you!
When I get to see someone like this, never giving up, but keeping on for Jesus, it encourages me. The 'sands of time' may pass, but if we are Christians knowing where we are going, the sands will never run out. So, my birthday today, is just my earthly birthday, a day to celebrate when I came into this world. My real birthday was the day I accepted Christ, in August of 1965. Since that day, I have been taking baby steps and learning to read about Jesus, learning more everyday.
Where are you? Are you like me and Bruce, growing everyday in Him? We all have to figure out where we are to 'serve,' but just holding on to the Hand helps us take those steps. Reach up to Him and hold on! It may be the best steps you have ever taken!!
Jeremiah 29:11-12New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
Blessings,
gs
Thursday, August 14, 2014
The Bus is Coming!
This early morning scene played in my mind as I continued to imagine the children, now with their friends, happily on their way to school for the day.
I have been seeing the news on every station, over and over about the Christians being chased out of, or killed, in their home country. My heart grieves for them, my prayers go up for them.
Then we read all the comments in social media about the end of time. Are we seeing the End Time events unfolding before our eyes?
2 Timothy 3:1-5 ESV
"But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people."This is certainly what we see and hear on the news! However, we have peace in knowing that God is in control. My personal opinion: 'God gives man a choice to choose Him or deny Him. However, at the same time, God knows mans heart and knows all things. He knows who will choose Him and He knows who will deny Him.' Because of this belief, I believe there will come a day when someone shares the gospel or a person reads God's Word and the Holy Spirit speaks to that heart and that lost soul will accept Jesus Christ as their Savior....then God will say to the Son, "That's the last one, go bring the children home." Then, the skies will open up and the Son of God will come to gather the children home.
When...in time will this happen? The scriptures say
Matthew 24:36 ESV
“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only."But, the secure part, for those of us who believe, is that day is coming. We can be assured of it, because it is promised over and over in the Bible.
Matthew 24:44 ESV
"Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."Matthew 24:42
"Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming."It reminds me of the children, waiting on the school bus. Some were laughing, others were singing and then we had some bickering over foolish things.Isn't that the same way our world is today as we await the Savior?
The same as the children, our 'bus' will come to pick us up and then the streets will be quiet. There will be silence? No, confusion....because the Christians will have gone to their final destination...they will not be coming home that afternoon.
What do we need to do? Just as the children prepared to go to school, we need to prepare ourselves. We need to prepare our hearts, making sure we will be singing when He arrives, not bickering.
The children packed their backpacks with books and papers. We need to pack our hearts with scripture and love.
Listen, do I heard the bus cranking up? The motor may be humming our way soon, only the Father knows, but be ready! Don't miss the bus!
Blessings,
gs
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