What are you wearing?

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
- Colossians 3:12, New International Version

In the intoxicating rush of the holiday season, do you find yourself almost running on auto-pilot at times? Do you walk by the bell ringers without so much as a sideways glance? Do you rush past fellow shoppers, in a hurry to grab your goodies and run? It's really easy to be sucked into the madness.

You don't have to give away a ton of money that you don't even have, or buy presents for misfortunate children when you can't even afford to buy for your own. As God's children, we do have a responsibility, though, to share and display the five virtues as listed in the scripture above.

The next time you feel yourself rushing and ignoring everyone else around you, stop. Breathe a prayer of thanksgiving. Then show compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience to others.

Book Review: Joshua's Hope

I have been reading through ebooks like crazy lately. My latest favorite read is Joshua's Hope, by Carol Ann Erhardt.

Hope's Review

Hope Courtland has survived an emotionally abusive marriage and is fighting for the one thing that made it all worthwhile--her stepson, Joshua. She's frustrated with God and feels like He's just not listening to her prayers. Zack Stone is a small-town sheriff, healing from the unexpected death of his wife, who tells himself he only wants to help Hope, then discovers he's falling in love with her despite himself.

Author, Carol Ann Erhardt hit a home run with Joshua's Hope. This fast-paced story kept me reading from start to finish (in a matter of a couple of hours!). The story is complete, with an emotional tale and characters who grow spiritually and emotionally throughout the book. Joshua's Hope contains mystery, murder, mayhem, and romance. It was truly a treat to read Joshua's Hope and I look forward to reading more of Carol's books.

 

To purchase

I highly recommend Joshua's Hope. If you've never purchased or read an ebook, this one is a great way to begin. Joshua's Hope is available through The Wild Rose Press. Click here to buy your copy.

Neglect Not The Body

"For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself."
- 1 Corinthians 11:29

I receive several quotes and scriptures daily via email. When this one landed this morning, I sort of skimmed over it. I've heard this scripture used many times, most often during communion services. Just as I hit the delete button to trash the email with this verse, though, I received a bit of insight...I believe, from God.

This scripture is most commonly used to depict the importance of a sober spirit before one takes communion. Often, we are admonished to take stock of ourselves and consider whether or not there is anything inside us that should not be, lest we take communion and be guilty of taking it in vain. However, I think there is another meaning to this scripture that we have overlooked, one that has nothing to do with eating and drinking in the physical sense.

1 Corinthians 12:27 (NIV) states, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." Every one of us play a unique role in forming the body of Christ. Some are fingers, some are the neck, some the nose. But together, as a whole, we collectively form His body. When one of us is hurting or struggling, the entire body should feel that illness as well.

The trouble is, today lends itself to a fast-pace, in-your-face lifestyle. We get in such a big hurry that we often overlook hurting parts of the body. We assume someone else will reach out. We neglect the pained and sore members, leaving them to fend for themselves.

According to 1 Corinthians 11:29, when we continue to live and go about our lives like nothing is wrong, when we know fully well that there are those around us who need support and love, we are bringing judgement upon ourselves.

This scripture also applies to those who are too busy to fellowship with the body of Christ as well. Hebrews 10:25 (Amplified) says, "Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching." If you are too busy working (or playing) to attend regular services, you are placing your soul in great danger. We all need each other. As the time of rapture nears, we need to encourage each other and lift each other in the spirit, so that we can all be ready to hear Him say, "Welcome, my faithful child."

A Sip of Inspiration

Happy Thanksgiving 2008

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom."
- Marcel Proust

During a time of year when the pace of life increases, remember to take a few moments to express your gratitude towards the ones you love. Rather than focus on people who might create negative feelings or emotions, spend time with the ones who love you and nourish your heart, mind, and spirit.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!