Mid-Week Message - He Will Rejoice Over You

"For the Lord your God is living among you.  He is a mighty savior.  He will take delight in you with gladness.  With his love, he will calm all your fears.  He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."  Zephaniah 3:17  (NLT)

They were born in New York City, the sons of Jewish immigrant parents.  In all, there were six of them.  One died when he was only a few months old.  You may have heard of this family.  The Marx Brothers got their start in Vaudeville and four of them went on to make some of the funniest classic movies you will ever see.  Though Chico, Harpo and Groucho were the most famous due to making the most movies, all of the brothers were extremely talented and also played at least one instrument.  

My favorite part of any Marx Brothers movie is the instrumental scene which features Harpo.    Though he was proficient in playing six instruments, he earned his nickname when he chose to specialize in playing the harp.  I am always fascinated by the look on his face as his hands work to form the right notes and the beautiful piece comes together.  I've seen that when I have observed other musicians, and even some artists as they create.  It is a look that I imagine the Lord has as He looks at His creation while He lovingly guides His children.  

We don't often think about God creating music.  I have heard many sermons likening Him to an artist.  Even I have used examples of our lives being tenderly and expertly woven together by His hands. But today's verse, this one verse in Zephaniah, brings us something new to consider.  Can you perceive of Him singing over you?  

When my daughter was born, I made up a lullaby for her.  I wanted her to have a song that was hers and hers alone.  I wanted it to be something that no one else would ever sing over their own little one.  I have no idea how many times that tune lilted through our home.  Sometimes, as she grew, she would ask me to sing it to her and I hope that meant that she considered it special because it was meant to be.  I do know that she remembers it still and she is twenty-nine years old now.  

Possibly, our Heavenly Father has a special song for each of us.  Though created in His image, we are all individuals with our own likes and dislikes, abilities and personalities.  I think each blessing from Him is a type of song written especially for the one receiving the blessing.  

This I know for sure, no greater love exists than His love for us.  No matter where we find ourselves, no matter what we are struggling with, no matter what we are going through at any given moment, that love is real and accessible.  We are seeing things in our country that most of us have never seen before and will hopefully never see again.  We don't know what will happen tomorrow, next month or next year.  But...we do know the One that is never caught by surprise.  He already knows how we make it through and all that He is asking from us is that we love Him and love one another. 

What song is He singing to you today?  Listen, maybe you will hear Him.  God bless.  

Mid-Week Message - I'm Tired, Lord (Reprint)

  "Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer; from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint.  Lead me to the rock that is higher than I, for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.  Let me dwell in your tent forever!  Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!  Selah"  Psalm 61:1-4 (ESV)

I'm tired, Lord.  How many of us have begun a prayer with those words?  My guess would be that, at some point in time, most of us have.  It is simple and it is honest.  Let's face it, life isn't so much fun some days.  Just standing up from the bed or couch can feel like a marathon for those with physical maladies.  For those in the workplace, we all know that the stress can be grueling.  The day in and day out of going through the same motions can be exhausting.  No wonder we come home and flop down in front of the television.  It gives us a chance to get our minds on something else, if only temporarily.  At bedtime, we count the hours we can sleep before repeating the same routine again.  

I chose today's verse because it expresses our need for a place to run to and find shelter when life gets hard.  Of course, we know Jesus is always with us but it can be hard to remember that when we are struggling and feel alone.  We all need a secure place to feel protected and loved and there is no place better than in the arms of our Father.  

There is a song that I love to listen to when I feel that I just can't go on.  Sung by Josh Groban, "You Raise Me Up" helps me to picture Jesus' hands coming down from Heaven to scoop me up and hold me close.  His strength is all that gets me through each day of my life.  He is our source for strength, for hope, for safety and for rest.  In Him we find understanding and direction.  

Do you sing to the Lord?  There are so many wonderful hymns that many of us know by heart.  "Take My Hand, Precious Lord", "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" and "Leaning On the Everlasting Arms" are just a few but there are many others, including multiple contemporary songs that we can sing to Him while He is carrying us through difficulties.  Music is a gift that we can use to praise our Lord that will also buoy our hearts and remind us that there is Someone who knows everything we go through and loves us far beyond our physical, mental or emotional capabilities.  

When we feel so tired that we seriously wonder how much longer we can continue, when our souls are downcast and feeling abandoned, when we feel as though there is no help available, He is there.  His arms are always open and His shoulder is ready if you need to shed a few tears.  He has enough strength to help each and every one of us and have plenty left over.  There is never a time when He cannot see or hear what we are going through and His presence is always accessible.  

We do not have to carry life's burdens alone.  Lay them at the foot of the cross and ask our risen Savior to assist you through your day.  May you find rest and peace in whatever struggle you have before you.  God bless! 

Mid-Week Message - God's Song

"For the Lord your God is living among you.  He is a mighty savior.  He will take delight in you with gladness.  With his love, he will calm all your fears.  He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."  Zephaniah 3:17  (NLT)

They were born in New York City, the sons of Jewish immigrant parents.  In all, there were six of them.  One died when he was only a few months old.  You may have heard of this family.  The Marx Brothers got their start in Vaudeville and four of them went on to make some of the funniest classic movies you will ever see.  Though Chico, Harpo and Groucho were the most famous due to making the most movies, all of the brothers were extremely talented and also played at least one instrument.  

My favorite part of any Marx Brothers movie is the instrumental scene which features Harpo.    Though he was proficient in playing six instruments, he earned his nickname when he chose to specialize in playing the harp.  I am always fascinated by the look on his face as his hands work to form the right notes and the beautiful piece comes together.  I've seen that when I have observed other musicians, and even some artists as they create.  It is a look that I imagine the Lord has as He looks at His creation while He lovingly guides His children.  

We don't often think about God creating music.  I have heard many sermons likening Him to an artist.  Even I have used examples of our lives being tenderly and expertly woven together by His hands. But today's verse, this one verse in Zephaniah, brings us something new to consider.  Can you perceive of Him singing over you?  

When my daughter was born, I made up a lullaby for her.  I wanted her to have a song that was hers and hers alone.  I wanted it to be something that no one else would ever sing over their own little one.  I have no idea how many times that tune lilted through our home.  Sometimes, as she grew, she would ask me to sing it to her and I hope that meant that she considered it special because it was meant to be.  I do know that she remembers it still and she is twenty-six years old now.  

Possibly, our Heavenly Father has a special song for each of us.  Though created in His image, we are all individuals with our own likes and dislikes, abilities and personalities.  I think each blessing from Him is a type of song written especially for the one receiving the blessing.  

This I know for sure, no greater love exists than His love for us.  No matter where we find ourselves, no matter what we are struggling with, no matter what we are going through at any given moment, that love is real and accessible.  We are seeing things in our country that most of us have never seen before and will hopefully never see again.  We don't know what will happen tomorrow, next month or next year.  But...we do know the One that is never caught by surprise.  He already knows how we make it through and all that He is asking from us is that we love Him and love one another. 

What song is He singing to you today?  Listen, maybe you will hear Him.  God bless.   

Songs that Sing to the Soul - "When You Look at Me"

When you are feel alone and afraid, that is when you can say a small prayer that is mighty and calls on the power of the Lord to save you. When the Lord looks at you, He sees a child. His child. 

Singing Praises to Him

During our service at Lakelines Oaks Retirement Community, one of our dearest, Wanda, would sing hymns while walking through the building. It was one of the most calming moments in my life. There is something about singing praises to the Lord that just brings peace.

When you find yourself stressed beyond what you can handle, I suggest you hum or sing a hymn to put your mind at ease. It does wonders for the heart and soul.

But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.
Psalms 59:16 NLT