The Green Mile

The family watched "The Green Mile" starring Tom Hanks and written by Stephen King. It's an interesting story about life as a prison guard on death row set in the 1930's.

One of the things that struck me during the movie was that John Caffey was tired. He had been "given" a gift of being able to see a person's heart when they touched him. I wonder how old he was supposed to be? If Tom Hanks' character had an extended life span, how long had John Caffey had his gift?

I was struck by his decision to stick with the execution. Is that what we are to do? The Bible plainly tells us.

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:9-10

We are to continually do the right thing. Are you tired? Do the right thing. Are you stressed? Do the right thing. Are you lonely, bored, hungry, frustrated? Do the right thing.

Who are we to say that our time has come to an end? Our lives remain in God's hands. He may still have jobs for us to accomplish. And if we are not here to do the job, someone else will be called upon to do our part.

(Father God, help me to do the right thing according to Your Word and standards. Thank you for the leading of the Spirit so that I might know what the right thing is. Help me to show my family that choosing to do the right thing always honors You. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.)

Mundane and Routine

I really hate mundane tasks. I hate those overly repetitive things that require not thought to completing. They bore me. They offer no challenge to living.

Yet, they must be done. Laundry, dishes, vacuuming, cleaning out the gutter - all things that are routine and boring but have to be done or the results are, well, horrible.

But, routine can help us accomplish many things. I'm missing a bit of routine in my life. Since school is out, I don't have anything necessary for scheduling. Therefore, my day is random and unpredictable. I prefer the random and predictable to happen within a routine. Yes, I don't always get what I want and I see an opportunity to exercise some self-control. So, here goes...

(Father God, I need your help today and always. I know that you are an orderly God and not a god of chaos. You know what is good for me. I ask now that you help me establish a routine that accomplishes your good purpose. Thank you for the assistance you give freely and abundantly. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.)

Recipes

I bought a "Cooking Light" magazine the other day. After pouring through each page, I only found about 3 recipes that I'd like to try. I'm a picky eater. I like plain, simple, quick meals. I discovered why I hate making a roast. It takes too long to cook. After more than 10 years of working full time regular hours, I have to retrain my brain to start cooking earlier in the day. This is no easy task. Retraining a 40 something year old brain has its challenges.

Fortunately, God has provided a wonderful husband for me. My spouse will attempt to eat anything I attempt to make. He supports me. He encourages me. And, he is honest with me. If it's not good, he will let me know. This kind of environment has a way of making it possible to attempt something outside the "norm" and occasionally end up with a new favorite food.

Probably not my new favorite, but I won't know until I try.

(Father God, thank you for the spouse you provided for me. Your timing and selection are incredible. I love how he mirrors Your interest and care in the little things of my life. I have learned so much about You from him. Bless him today as he works. Give him straight paths. Guide his thoughts and speech. Help him to honor You in everything that he does. In the name of Jesus, Your son, I pray. Amen.)

Gloomy and Grey

It's a little gloomy and grey this morning. Yet, the birds are diligently seeking their food. I hear their melody of chirps and tweets. I watch as they wander about the yard checking my tomato plants.

I'm thankful that my Great God provides for their every need. Their creator and sustainer also created and sustains me. And, best of all, He created me in His own image. I am loved. I am cherished. I am His child. I choose to believe what He says is true. I trust Him. I talk with Him. I love Him because He first loved me.

(Father God, thank You for being the great I AM. Thank You for showing me that there is so much even in what I consider a gloomy and grey day. I pray that You will continue to remind me of all that You are. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.)

Another Cancer Adventure

Well, Mom has been diagnosed with bladder cancer. We are going today to schedule the surgery required. Mom has been a tower of strength even though she's now only about 5' 4". She has been such a sweet example through all this.

I haven't been such an example. I've been whiny and stressed. My flesh thinks this isn't fair. Why does she have to do this again? Why? Why? Why the changes to her way of life? I have many questions and can't see the answer right now. I rely on the knowledge that God has the answers.

(Father God, thank you for your care. Thank you for the answers that I can't see. You know and that's all I need to know. Please heal according to Your grace and mercy. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.)

Something Always Changes

It has been an incredible academic year. The 5th Grade Class' treasured year is over. Now, my role is changing again. I'm a little unsure of this new change, but I know that God will see me through. There is excitement and nervousness.

I will be working in my husband's business. I've got to learn everything about it in a short time. I know that God has prepared me for this time. I have a degree in Business Administration that I have never used. Now, it is time.

(Father God, please lead as I venture into this new area. I pray that you will strengthen my husband and give him clear direction. Show me where I can support him and how to be an encouragement to him. Thank you, Lord, for the jobs that are on our plate. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.)

Beginning a Treasured Year

Today begins a Treasured Year. Yes, I'm teaching a 5th grade class and our theme is "A Treasured Year". God has been faithful in providing for me. He's made it possible for this position. He's showing His control. It's an awesome thing.

I love 5th graders. They have a zest for life and learning that is contagious. It's incredible. We'll be learning about what real treasure is. We'll find out who has treasure and how to get more treasure. We'll be learning nautical terms, music, drama, visual arts, reading, math, science, and history. Oh, it will be exciting.

(Father God, thank you for the blessing and opportunity to teach. I stand amazed at your goodness, grace and mercy. You are an awesome God. I pray that you will watch over each child in class and grant me the ability to show them just a little bit of you. Thank you. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.)