The Sanctity of Life

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Just yesterday, I attended the celebration of life service for an infant who didn’t survive the womb. Stillborn. Her life was cut so short that she was alive only in the womb. She died pre-born. Her parents are devastated, to say the least. She was very much wanted by this loving couple. Their first child buried before her due date. That precious life that was cut short before it really began was sacred. That child’s life was determined and ordained by God. Only he knows why her life did not go beyond the womb.

The service was beautiful. The gospel message was shared. Beautiful music filled the sanctuary. Friends and family came to pay their respects to a child they never knew. Many photos of this child were shared. Photos of her alone. And photos with her parents. I must say. Some may have been taken aback by the photo display, but they are a precious memory the parents will savor for a lifetime. Those photos told the story of a life cut far too short. They told the truth of a life not ready to be lived outside her mother’s womb. But that photo montage also told a story of love that those young parents have for their child. A beautiful love that will last a lifetime, but now cemented in death.

Those photos were also the vivid evidence that a pre-born child is fully human. That this pre-born child was fully formed and a person. If anyone had doubts before seeing the photos, there absolutely could be no question now. To say a baby forming in her mother’s womb is not a person is to deny reality. And this display proved it without a doubt.

When the parents, with tears streaming down their faces, carried the casket down the aisle, there was not a dry eye in the church. It was a tender moment to see them to carry their child one last time.

What makes life sacred? What does that sacredness demand? And what are its limits?

What does it mean that God made mankind in his own image? What does that mean for us? Human life has inherent value not because of what a person does, but because of what they are. They are a bearer of God’s image. As image bearers, we are designed to know and love God, as well as live under his rule. We are made to worship God.

Earlier this week, I read of parents in the Netherlands who allowed their nearly two-year old daughter to be euthanized. Why? She was born prematurely and had severe epilepsy, cerebral palsy and brain damage, along with other debilitating conditions. This was not the termination of a pregnancy, mind you. This was the deliberate act of ending the life of a toddler who had no say in the matter. All because of severe disabilities. We shudder at the thought. Don’t we?

Some say this was a grave ethical violation. Many others say it was murder. And still others call it justified.

You must not murder. Exodus 20:13

Earlier this year, a popular YouTuber and his wife proudly and publicly announced the impending birth of their first child. They were excited, to say the least. Then tests showed that the child was to be born with an extra chromosome. Trisomy 21. Downs syndrome. They chose to end the pregnancy. And they’ve staunchly defended their actions. Defiance and pride have somehow allowed them to push aside their joy and excitement of becoming parents. They didn’t want a child who would be totally dependent on them, so they terminated the life growing in the womb.

Isn’t life still sacred even though the body may be disabled or disfigured? Or, if someone is mentally ill or faces lifelong challenges? That body houses a living person with a heartbeat and a soul. So, does life stop being sacred when it doesn’t fit our definition of a full and acceptable life? Have we gotten to the place that life must be easy and convenient in order for it to be good? If someone can’t contribute as we expect them to or be self-sufficient, are they unworthy to live? These lives have value. They are not disposable.

We have forgotten that God knew us in our mother’s womb. He’s ordained each of our days and knows everything about us. Even the disabilities and deformities he knows and allows.

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me! Psalms 139:13-18

Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.” So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:26-27

We’ve heard of the mother who killed her three young children and then tried to end her own life. Her case ended in a mistrial. The jury couldn’t come to a unanimous decision. One juror wouldn’t be swayed by the bullying of eleven others to declare her not guilty by reason of insanity. He’s now been doxed and threatened because he stood strong on his beliefs. He’s been made to look like the bad guy.

And in a copycat situation, another woman ended the life of her two-year old after becoming invested in the sympathy being shown to the first woman. She’s now charged with murder. Let’s hope and pray that a trend is not on the horizon.

When you make killing children in the womb all the way until birth a religious sacrament, as the Left has, you inevitably slide down the slippery slope. ~Nate Jackson

And another sad reality is that now we’re applauding the murder of people we disagree with. The UnitedHealthcare CEO who was gunned down in broad daylight. The widely known Christian leader murdered in front of a large group of college students. There are those who rally around the killers and applaud their evil act. We’ve lost the ability to have public discourse on highly debatable topics. If we don’t agree, the person must be destroyed in whatever manner deemed appropriate.

If anyone takes a human life, that person’s life will also be taken by human hands. For God made human beings in his own image. Genesis 9:6

We have really drifted as a society and have normalized what was not supposed to be normal in the name of acceptance and tolerance. ~Anonymous

We’ve normalized the unthinkable, and we continue to slide down the slippery slope of ethical and moral behavior. The slide may not end, but it will continue to escalate. We have to remember that all humanity is created in the image of God. Murder isn’t just a crime against a person. It’s an assault on the image of God himself.

The sixth commandment is pretty clear and basic. You must not murder. Yet we do it without counting the cost. It’s someone’s life that is ended, due to another person’s anger or selfishness. Jesus raises the bar in the Sermon on the Mount when he says you’re subject to judgment if you’re angry with someone. He doesn’t even mince his words when he calls out people who offend others with only their tongue, let alone if they end someone’s life. All life is precious in the sight of God. Not only should we not end another’s life, but we also shouldn’t speak ill against them. The sacredness of life moves away from the hand and into the heart. Gulp.

Jesus came into the world fully human. It’s because of the Incarnate (Son of God in human form) that makes our humanity so sacred. We are the image and property of God, which means that all of life is sacred.

You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. Matthew 5:21-22

And here’s the kicker. We are capable of so much. God made us as reasonable beings. We’re capable of knowing and loving and serving and enjoying him. He made us different from all of his other creation. He made us to think and to reason and determine right from wrong. And deep down, whether we admit it or not, we know who God is and what he expects of us. We choose to ignore it and follow our hearts, which will lead us far astray. And that’s what has been happening ever since Adam and Eve deliberately chose to eat the fruit that God told them not to eat. We’ve been slowly and steadily sliding down a decaying moral and ethical slope.

Here’s the good news. We can stop the slide. We can halt the decay in our own hearts and lives. We can repent and turn our hearts toward God and choose to serve Him only. We can refuse to sin. As Christians, we must live the alternative to cultural demands and expectations. We must not back away from truth and the belief that all lives have value, even the vulnerable ones. We must stand for life.

Our Church

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When we moved to this state two years ago, it was important to us to find a church. We are Christians, and we attend church every week. We believe church is a vital part of a faithful Christian life. We didn’t know how long it would take for us to find the right church. We hadn’t made a list of specific things we were looking for, but we knew there were some necessary requirements.

We actually started our online search for a church before we moved and immediately found one we wanted to visit. A church close to home that was active and thriving. As Christians, it was important to us to find a biblically sound church. One that preached the Bible and historic Christianity, not progressivism or deceptive spiritual practices. We wanted the Bible. And boy. Did we ever find the church.

We moved here before my husband retired, so I was living here alone while he remained in our previous city. He would come home every few weeks and attend church with me. I have to admit. The first few weeks were rocky. People weren’t friendly. Only two people introduced themselves. I wasn’t quite sure what to think. But I kept going back every week. I knew the church had a lot going for it, so I wanted to give it a chance. And now I can say that I’m glad I stuck it out.

Our pastor invited me to a group of likeminded people. And one of those people invited me to join a small group. The people in that group welcomed us with open arms and have become friends. We’ve also gotten involved in other areas. Awana for me. Worship team for him. We attend the monthly senior’s dinner. We also enjoy the fellowship we find at the church’s monthly first Sunday potluck. And we attend other events as they pop up. Worship nights. Hymn sings.

There are many things I really appreciate about our church. Things I didn’t realize I wanted or needed in a home church. But here they are in no order of priority or importance. Some are just nice-to-haves. We worship in a true sanctuary, not a gymnasium. We sit in pews, not chairs. We have communion every Sunday. Our worship music is a more mellow contemporary style with occasional hymns thrown in. We have an actual grand piano along with the keyboard. The music is worshipful, and not performance driven. And it isn’t too loud. The elementary children are in the service until the sermon. They’re learning to worship with the adults. We have a children’s choir. The building actually looks like a church and not a square box. The church is debt free and supports a long list of missionaries. The elders take an active role in the weekly church service by leading communion and prayer time. The preaching is strictly expository biblical sermons. Our church stands unapologetically on the Word of God. They are making disciples.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

This summer, we made the decision to become members of the church. So, we’re all in. We’ve found our church home, and we couldn’t be happier. I can’t imagine attending any other church.

But don’t get me wrong. Our church isn’t perfect. After all, it is full of people. And people are imperfect and broken. I’m sure there are many hurting people who walk through the doors each week, and no one would ever know they are struggling. Unless they tell someone. I believe our pastors and elders have the best of intentions when helping others. They lead the church from a biblical lens.

I’ve witnessed the way others at our church care for each other and for those who are needy. Meal trains. Prayer meetings multiple mornings each week. Men building beds for kids who don’t have one. Women’s Bible studies. Men’s ministry group. Worship nights. Fun family and group outings. Coffee hour. Colson Fellows. Missions trips. Community projects. Children’s ministry. Youth ministry.

Our church offers multiple outlets for service and fellowship that welcome any and all to participate. There’s a place for everyone to get involved, but not everyone does. It’s voluntary, so someone can be as involved as they feel comfortable. The purpose of our church is to help others seek a close relationship with God, serve and fellowship with his people.

Fellowship is an important aspect of the Christian life. It provides moral support and and spiritual communion with likeminded people. We don’t have to do life alone. We can find others with similar beliefs who will walk alongside us in all phases of life. It’s a vital part of being involved in a church. I have to say that I’m very thankful that we have found such a wonderful community of Christians. It’s been the icing on the cake for our retirement move.

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42

When the Needy are Right in Front of You

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It was my weekly grocery day, and I was in the store. I noticed a young father with his three girls buying groceries. A lot of groceries. He pushed the family-size cart, which was full. The oldest daughter pushed the small cart, which was loaded. The middle child was pushing the child-size cart, and it was also packed. I really thought nothing of it and carried on with my shopping.

When I made my way to the checkout line, I noticed the line was at least six people deep. That surprised me, because it was early enough in the day that the store isn’t usually too busy. Fortunately, the line moved quickly even though only two checkout lanes were open. I noticed the young father in the farthest open lane, and his checkout time seemed to be lengthy.

The older gentleman in front of me made it to the open lane that was near those of us waiting. I noticed his small cart was packed full of groceries. I wasn’t really paying much attention to him, until I heard him tell the cashier that his card should have three hundred dollars on it. I looked up from my phone to see that his card was declined. When the cashier asked what his balance showed on the screen, he said sixty seven dollars. That amount would not go far enough to pay for the one hundred seventy three dollars worth of groceries that had just been rung up. She quietly asked the man if he needed to make a phone call. He said yes. As his cart was pushed to the side, I assumed he would stand nearby to make the call. But no. He left the building. Empty handed.

A few minutes later as I was walking out the door with my cart full of groceries that I was able to pay for, the man was nowhere to be seen. Looking back, I now wonder what was going through his mind as he placed each item on the conveyor belt. I wonder if he was confident he had enough money, or if he was afraid the card would be declined.

Before I finished paying for my groceries, I happened to overhear the bagger tell the cashier that since it was the first week of the month a certain type of cards had been freshly loaded with cash. Now I understood. People with those newly loaded cards were stocking up on their monthly groceries. I thought that must be a terrible way to live. Because if the food runs out before the month does, what do they eat? And if they only have 67 dollars left on their card, how much food can they buy?

Times are tough for many people. Not everyone has enough income to make it through the end of the month. They struggle to feed and clothe their families, and I wonder what they do when an emergency strikes. We never know when our time of hardship may come. It could be just around the bend.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Psalm 46:1-3

Just this week, a family from our community lost their unborn child. Their first child. Gone before she got to have a life. And another family in the community lost their eleven-year old daughter. Brain tumors that couldn’t be stopped. Gone at such a young age. An only child has now left her parents childless. Both sets of parents are heartbroken and grieving. They’re both turning to the church for comfort and support.

Another person who has struggled with personal choices comes to mind. Living in a hotel room and surviving paycheck to paycheck keeps him humble and clean. He’s working to make better choices, all the while knowing that he has faltered on his journey more than once. He’s turned to God and the church to help him with his struggles. Many are coming alongside him to hold him accountable and help him choose alternatives to addiction.

Someone else now facing her second battle with cancer in a year crosses my mind. Just as she was recovering from the after effects of chemo and radiation, she’s now facing a new diagnosis and treatment plan. Her faith is strong, but her body is weak. Her years are advanced, but her faith in God is ever strong.

We aren’t promised an easy and carefree life. Our struggles aren’t always financial or health-related. It could be a relationship issue or long-term consequences of previous battles. Struggles are very real. Some are by choice and others by chance. But we walk through them regardless of the cause. It doesn’t mean that God has it out for us or has forgotten us. It means that life happens to each of us, and waves of trouble will roll through our lives.

We must remember that God is for us and not against us. He doesn’t cause our problems, but he allows them to come. We must know that God knows far in advance what is coming our way, and he will walk with us each step of the journey if we put our trust in him. It’s through these trial that our faith in God can deepen and our walk with him can be renewed. We have to trust his promises and know that they are true.

Life on this earth will never be perfect. Our faith in God is the steady force that will sustain and guide us during those difficult times.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

A Personal Holiness

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I took a political science class when I was in college. One of the assignments was to post a political sign in a public place for the upcoming election. I don’t remember all the details, but it might have been a school board election. I just knew that I didn’t want to participate in the assignment, but it was part of the grade for the class. My sister took her sign to a small grocery store, and I took mine to the post office. How was I to know post offices can’t publicly support candidates? So, I did what any good American would do. I taped the sign to my car window. That way anyone I drove by could see the sign. Genius!

This assignment was one I wasn’t interested in doing. At the time, I had absolutely no interest in politics or political candidates. I only fulfilled the assignment so I could honestly report back that I did it. I didn’t care how well or accurately I had done the job, I just knew that it had to be done. I completed the assignment and passed the class. I did as little as was needed to fulfill my obligation.

I sometimes have the same attitude about my morning walk. I don’t always want to take the walk, but I know that it’s best if I do it. I don’t expect to be graded for my effort, and no one is holding me accountable for my walking. I just know it’s a healthy activity I should do. I had recently sloughed off because I caught a cold. So, I took some time off from my morning routine. And even though it’s been five weeks since I was sick, I haven’t gotten back in the habit of walking. Honestly, I haven’t really missed it, but I know I need to put my walking shoes back on.

On Monday morning this week, whether I wanted to or not, I headed out the door. My route only takes about twenty minutes, and it’s a good habit to have. Why do I try to avoid it? So, I found myself out walking two mornings this week. I’ve found an excuse not to do it the rest of the week, so now I’m working hard to change my attitude about the “interruption” to my morning. It’s one small activity I can check off my daily to-do list, and it isn’t even painful. Why do I tell myself that it’s a bother when it’s actually good for me? Laziness can be such a killer.

But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16

I wonder. How many Christians actually prioritize their walk with Christ? Do we think the relationship will just grow on its own? Do we make sure to avoid sin? Have we Christians become lazy when it comes to living a holy life? Do we have a good attitude about exhibiting godliness to those we encounter on a daily basis? Do we avoid sin? Or, do we think others will understand if we have a bad reputation, or if we make it a regular habit of speaking ill of others while also claiming to be a Christian? What happens when someone we trust finds us involved in an activity that we both know dishonors God? Are we concerned when our selfish actions speak louder than our verbal commitment to God? Do we who call ourselves Christians actually live a holy life?

What exactly is holy living, anyway? What is holiness?

A holy life is one that is lived separate from the secular life. It’s a life lived in agreement with biblical teaching. It’s living our life in God’s will, instead of just barely fitting God into our life or keeping him on the fringes. We deliberately separate ourselves from sin.

And the sad thing is that perhaps many Christians don’t even care about holiness. They don’t care that their behavior isn’t any different from someone who doesn’t claim to be a follower of Christ. But when we say we are Christians, what sets us apart from those who aren’t? There has to be a difference. Otherwise, what’s the point of Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross? It wasn’t for nothing. And it certainly wasn’t for us to celebrate the Easter bunny. Holiness is an essential part of living a growing Christian life.

It may be easy to slough off on developing a deep walk with Christ and wholeheartedly following him. Any relationship takes work, and it isn’t always easy. There are hills and there are valleys. But the long, slow walk of obedience is the path of peace and deep fulfillment. Holy living isn’t for the weak. Some will say it means sacrificing what we desire for what God wants for us. And yes. There are sacrifices. How can it be called bad when someone actually relinquishes their selfish pride or stops lying?

And here’s the kicker. Jesus expects obedience out of his followers. How can we call ourselves a follower if we’re not actually following his teachings? It’s not a one-sided relationship. In order to live without spot or blemish as it says in the book of Ephesians, we need to figure out the difference between pure and impure motives and actions. That’s holy living in a nutshell. We must pursue a holy life every single day until Jesus calls us home.

He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. Ephesians 5:27

In my college days, I completed my assignment, not because I was interested in politics but so I would receive a passing grade. And I walk now because it’s a healthy step in aging gracefully. It’s good for me. But living a holy life is not a recommendation by God. It’s a requirement.

Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24

When Your Heart Skips A Beat

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What crosses your mind when someone brings up their faith or Christianity or their church service last Sunday? Are you all in for the conversation, or do you try to duck out and spare yourself some grief? Does your heart skip a beat when someone mentions that God is good or that He has answered their prayer in a great and mighty way? Do you want to be swallowed up by the earth at that very moment because you’re uncomfortable with the subject? Or would you be genuinely interested in what they had to say?

Many people, Christian or not, try to avoid conversations about the Bible or church or faith in general. Perhaps they think they’re not educated enough to speak about those issues. Perhaps they don’t have faith and don’t want others to know. Perhaps they are a believer, but don’t want others to know. Some people just want to avoid the topic, no matter what.

If you had been alive during the time of Jesus’ birth, you would have been in one of two camps. Either your heart skipped a beat when you heard the news, because you knew this long awaited event was the best thing that had ever happened to mankind. You knew this was the event that had been promised so many years ago and it had finally happened in your lifetime. This was incredible news! Or. Your heart skipped a beat because you were enraged that someone, and of all things a tiny baby, was said to be the Savior of the world. You knew you would fight this announcement at all costs. Because it just couldn’t be true. How could it be? A baby is no savior. Who cares about the stories of the star in the east and the prophesies of a Messiah. This baby is nothing special, and you were determined to squelch all rumors that he was.

And here’s what we know today. The good news of Jesus Christ’s birth, death and resurrection still causes a mixed reaction. Multitudes experience a life-changing event when they repent of their sins and choose to follow Him. They know their lives have been changed, and they want to let others know. On the other hand, there are many others who reject the good news of salvation and want nothing to do with it. They reject it outright and oppose it as if it were the kiss of death. They will oppose all talk of the subject.

And here’s what we also know. We each have a choice as to how we will handle the news of Christ’s offer of salvation. We can accept it and follow the path to eternal life with him. Or we can reject it, which means we will wallow in sin. And living a sinful life will look different for everyone. The life of someone not following Christ may be very successful and full of material possessions. They may achieve at the highest level of corporate success. They may be able to afford all the latest gadgets and toys and vacations and pleasures that money can afford. But they reject any discussion about the Savior of the world. Success in this life doesn’t mean that someone isn’t a follower of Christ, but it also doesn’t mean they are. And just because someone doesn’t live a life that is questionable doesn’t mean they are living forgiven.

Choose this day whom you will serve. Joshua 24:15

God isn’t afraid of our choices, but he knows the end result of what we choose. After all, he allows his angels to choose and a host of them chose unwisely. And he’s not afraid of skepticism or doubt. That’s normal in life. But when we choose to challenge him, we need to know exactly who and what we’re dealing with. When we choose to ignore him, we need to know the full extent of the choice we’ve just made.

I want to be careful when I say this, but the rejection of Christ is an acceptance of the evil one himself, Satan. Many who reject Christ may say they’re not Satan lovers, but they’ve rejected Christ. So who do they think they’re following if it’s not Christ? I know. It’s an uncomfortable thought, and it may sound harsh. Most people who don’t accept the teachings of Christ don’t claim to be Satan worshippers. They don’t claim to follow the leader of the underworld. They may believe they are self-made and self-fulfilled and don’t need God in their lives. They don’t know the capabilities of the one who thought he could out-God God. They don’t know that he lost in his quest of self importance and pride to de-throne God. And that’s exactly why he’s no longer living in the presence of God Almighty. They don’t know that God threw him and his host of angels out of heaven and has doomed them to an eternity in hell. His name was Lucifer, and he was once a high ranking angel. Now he’s known as Satan and is the leader of darkness.

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Revelation 12:7-11

How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world. For you said to yourself, ‘I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God’s stars. I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north. I will climb to the highest heavens and be like the Most High.’ Instead, you will be brought down to the place of the dead, down to its lowest depths. Isaiah 14:12-15

Many call themselves Christians, yet they haven’t repented of their sins. But Christianity is a humbling act of confession and turning from all sinful behavior. It’s a commitment to living a life in fellowship with Jesus Christ. There is no middle ground. If we haven’t chosen Christ as our Lord and Savior, he will not recognize us on the day we stand in judgment before him.

Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’ Matthew 25:41

In Joshua 24:14-28, Joshua implored the Israelites to choose to serve the Lord, and they promised they would. He knew exactly what punishment would lie ahead for them if they turned their backs on God. He told them plainly that he and his household would serve the Lord, and they must choose who they would serve. Just as Joshua chose and all of Israel had to choose, so does everyone else even today. Who do you choose to follow? One more question. When you’re face to face with God on judgment day, will your heart skip a beat because you’re being ushered into his presence for eternity or because you’re not?

For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Romans 10:13

It’s Time to Read

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I remember a practice that my dad started in our household when I was a child. I don’t remember when he started it or when it ended it, but it ended after I left home. Every night before we went to bed, my dad would call all seven of us kids into the living room to read the Bible and pray together as a family. It didn’t matter what we were doing, we had to stop and go to the living room immediately. My dad sitting in his recliner would call out, “It’s time to read!” And we would all gather and spread ourselves throughout the large living room. Some of would sit on the couch and others would be sprawled on the floor. My dad would then pull out the worn old Bible story book and open it to the next story. Once he was finished reading, we would all kneel and pray. One night my dad would lead in prayer and the next night my mom would. After one of them prayed, we all would recite the Lord’s prayer together. And then it was bedtime.

It sometimes felt aggravating to stop what we were doing so we could have family devotions, but now it’s one of my favorite memories of my childhood.

There would be nights that my dad wasn’t home to read to us, so my mom would do it. On those nights, we got to choose one of the kid’s Bible story paperback books for her to read. These books were written more on a child’s level of understanding, and we loved those books. I hope one of my siblings has that book collection and read them to their children when they were young.

I’m not sure how many times my dad read through the Bible story book, but it must have been hundreds. Once he finished the last story, he would start at the beginning and read it all the way through again. And we never got tired of listening to those stories. They were still as interesting and precious to us each time they were read.

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:6-7

I recently read an article where the writer shared a similar story of her childhood that she’s started with her own family. At dinner time every night, everyone at the table would pray out loud. The article mentioned that her dad said that if you were old enough to talk, then you could pray. So everyone did. And I think that’s a really great practice for families. Being able to pray out loud in front of others is not for the weak. I mean. No one wants to be judged for the way they pray. But sometimes it’s a bit uncomfortable to pray in front of people who are only acquaintances and not close family members.

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

I wonder. How many Christian families today have instilled such practices in their homes? How many parents set aside a few minutes a day for family devotions and prayer time? Is it so unusual? I mean. If you’re a faithful follower of Christ, how do you train and disciple your own children? Do you expect their Sunday School teachers, children’s church leaders and your pastor to be the only godly examples for your children?

These practices that call for spiritual growth and enrichment in a family don’t have to be perfect. At times, they might be a bit messy, depending on the age of the kids. But it’s a necessary practice to establish early in a child’s life. It gives them the safety net of learning to express and practice their faith in front of those who won’t judge them for what they say or don’t say. Teach them how to pray. Be the example they need to feel comfortable praying for others and with others. Give your kids a list of topics to pray for. Teach them the Lord’s Prayer and what it means.

Read the Bible to your kids. Most parents read books to their kids while they’re very young, so why not throw in Bible stories or the Ten Commandments or the Sermon on the Mount or the miracles of Jesus? There are so many action stories in the Bible that peak curiosity and interest in a young child, as well as teaching them how to live out their faith in difficult circumstances. There’s the story of Creation. David and Goliath. Daniel in the lion’s den. And these are just a few examples.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4

The Apostle Paul wrote to a young man who had traveled with him on missionary trips. Timothy had been raised by godly parents and a grandmother, all who taught him the Scriptures from a young age. Paul encouraged him to continue in his faith by remembering those biblical teachings, because Paul knew the truth of those sacred teachings would never grow old. They would be a stronghold in the life of one who would be persecuted and martyred for his faith. Those same Scriptures are what will be the glue that holds us together in our times of great trial. It’s never too early to start teaching your child the sanctity of Scripture and prayer.

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15

Helping Others

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

I don’t mean to brag, but I helped someone this week. This is someone I met last year at my church. When my husband and I learned that she and her husband lived near us, we told her to let us know if they ever needed help. We’ve repeated that offered multiple times. You see. She and her husband are up in years, and he has been diagnosed with a progressive disease. They both see the signs and issues it causes, and he recently told her that they needed to move. So they bought a house in town and need help packing up their old one. That’s where we come in.

She approached me a couple of weeks ago at church and told me that only the realtor knew of their recent home purchase. She asked if I would be able to help her with the packing. Of course, I’m willing to help. She mentioned that we had kindly offered many other times to help if she needed anything. And she wasn’t too proud to ask this time. She knew she needed the help. That’s what friends are for. To help someone in their time of need.

I’m glad she felt comfortable asking for help. I know it isn’t easy to humble ourselves and admit that we can’t do everything. And that happens more often as we age. We’re just not strong enough or sturdy enough to do heavy work. Her husband surely isn’t able to do physical work any longer. And while she’s still willing and able, cleaning out a house and purging used household items is hard work at any age. Trust me. I know. We just did that two years ago, and it’s a very painful but necessary ordeal.

So, the time has come for her to call on friends to help. And here we are. Ready and able.

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Isaiah 46:4

I don’t know too much about their family situation, but they seem to have no one else to call on to help. And that’s rather sad, because I know they have family who live nearby. I’m just happy that she felt she could actually ask us for help. Because we’re more than willing. So we went and helped. I cleaned out and packed up the buffet filled with two sets of beautiful fragile china dishes, and my husband kept her husband company. I’m sure she may ask me to come back another day, and that’s ok, too.

Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:32

Many times, older people are shoved aside and left to fend for themselves. Sometimes they have family nearby to help them, but other times they don’t. And there are those whose family members won’t even offer to help. But there are also many people who are afraid to ask for help. They don’t want to be a bother, so they suffer quietly and alone. There’s no need for that. Especially when they have a strong church family who would jump at the chance to lend a helping hand. No one is seeking payment or recognition. It’s just the Christian thing to do to step in when someone is in need.

We never know when we may be in a similar situation. When we can no longer pack up boxes or lift and move heavy items. And we may not have family nearby or anyone we feel comfortable leaning on. What happens then? Who will we call on?

And it isn’t just the older crowd who needs help. At times, it can be a young person who isn’t living near family. And they have no one close by. Perhaps they are new to an area and don’t have any close friends. They may need help. Who do they call? When we see someone in need and we have the time and means to help, shouldn’t we extend a hand?

I recall just two short years ago when I was new to the area where we now live, I only knew my family members who lived nearby. It seemed almost every week I was having a new crisis with the house we bought. And I had no one else to call. My family came through every single time. I’m not sure what I would have done without them.

We don’t have to act all tough and rugged and pretend everything is great, all the while wilting on the inside. That’s no way to live. We aren’t considered a failure just because we need help. No one can do everything all the time. And, no one knows we have a need unless we share it. There’s no reason to protect ourselves and isolate from those around us who would be willing to lend a hand if only we shared our need. Most people are willing to help someone, if only they knew.

God didn’t create us to be totally self-sufficient. He blesses each of us with many different gifts, and then he gives us opportunities to use them. Those gifts can’t be hoarded and kept to ourselves. They are to be used to bless others who have a need for what we have to offer. My prayer is that I will be willing and able to help others the next time I’m asked. I’m sure the day will come again when I will be the needy one calling on others, and I’ll appreciate the help they will give. But until that day comes, I’ll be glad to help when the need arises.

So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:10

Do to others as you would have them do to you. Luke 6:31

When Tragedy Hits Home

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

Two weeks ago, members of our family experienced a horrible, horrible tragedy. An unnecessary tragedy, but I’ll keep the details private. Two young people lost their lives. One was in her mid-twenties, and the other just missed his third birthday. A mother and son gone too soon. The eight month old baby survived. The children are distant relatives of mine, and I never met them. That doesn’t soothe the heartbreak for the family members who knew them well. These family members who are in the deep throes of grief know all too well that this tragedy was avoidable. But somehow, here they are mourning lives they’ll no longer see.

I’m sure they’re all questioning why. Why did this terrible thing have to happen? Why this family? Deep down. They know the reason, but still. At this point, we look beyond the why and pray for healing for those who are left behind. The family is hurting and in deep pain and will be for a very long time. I’m sure there are thoughts of “if only”, but reality has a way of telling us that we can’t go back and undo past decisions. Sometimes they have long lasting consequences.

So, now we pray for healing for the family. For the pain and questioning and anger to ease. Looking forward to making memories looks different than it did a couple of weeks ago, and there’s no going back. Oh. It will take time to work through the grief. Grief is a hard place to be, and it escapes no one. I’m sure they’re reliving happier times, knowing the delight the young lives that were taken brought to the family. And the loss is real. The pain is real. The family has unfortunately lost others, so they know the path of grief. But that doesn’t ease the sting of this new monumental loss.

Acknowledging the pain of loss and walking through it is not for the weak, but it’s a necessary step in the healing process. Living with the grief, while difficult, is the only way to heal. We can’t ignore it or dismiss it. We walk in the midst of it and allow ourselves to experience the hurt and anger and loss, so healing is possible. Nothing will bring them back, but healing can lessen the emotional costs that can consume a heartsick soul. And for most days, at least in the foreseeable future, all thoughts will be consumed with the loss. The replaying of the event. The repeating of the story. The questions. It’s a normal part of the grieving process. It will lessen over time, but for now it’s front and center.

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

It’s at times like this when many unanswered questions are asked. Many unrealized dreams must be set aside. The new normal has begun. Once a loss has been sustained, you never see life the same. There’s a scar where there never had been before. It’s just a part of life and a piece of your story now.

The hard truth is that everyone of us, at some point in our lives, will be subject to immense grief. We have no way of knowing the reason or the timing or even the severity. We will have loss. Possibly, unspeakable loss. We can’t plan for it or stop it. It will just happen. Sometimes spontaneously and at other times at an eventual pace. The world is full of evil and uncertainty, and we cannot guarantee safety and security for all our days.

It is so important to build a deep-seated faith in God. Building our faith in the solid rock of the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ will be the foundation we stand on during the tempests of life. Our faith must be so strong and solid that nothing, not even the worst tragedy, will sway it. The tragedy will only strengthen our resolve to have full dependence on the God who redeems us.

Someone who doesn’t have a close relationship with the Lord may be questioning why those who do have faith say that it is what sustains them. Here’s the reason. The love of Jesus Christ never leaves us. It is the sustaining force when the waves of uncertainty and loss hit us. Knowing that our Lord suffered a horrific death on the cross for our sins and is waiting for us in our eternal home is more than sufficient when all of life suddenly shifts. Keeping our eye on the future with him is a liberating thought as we face the unknown. Our future is secure with him, because of his sacrifice. And that makes the pain of our loss bearable knowing he’s waiting for us.

And then there’s hope. The hope of spending eternity with Jesus is so comforting that it eases the burdens of loss. It doesn’t mean the grief and the questions and the heaviness aren’t a part of life. It means that my hope doesn’t lie in the life I’m now living, but it lies in an eternity where there is no pain or death or loss or grief. That’s what we have to look forward to when we place our trust in Jesus Christ.

The Missing Dime

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

There’s a certain spot on one of the streets I walk in my neighborhood that has something I’ve noticed. What I’ve seen is just a simple dirty dime that someone dropped on the road. And no one has picked it up. I’ve often thought to stop and put it in my pocket, but I never have. And then one morning last week, I noticed the dime was gone. I looked all around the area to see if it had just been moved. But no. Someone other than me had dared to pick it up and claim it as their own. And that suits me fine.

What can a single dime buy these days, anyway? Nothing. And I’ve noticed that now when I walk in that particular area, I don’t even stop to consider that a dime used to be on the road. I don’t even think of it. Before the dime went missing, I would start to wonder if it was still there whenever I approached the spot. Now I don’t have to wonder any longer. I can think on other things.

But I do wonder who might have collected the coin. Who thought a dime was worth saving? Would they add it to their rainy day jar? Or, did they wash it and give it to their child or grandchild? Did someone just push it into the grass? And I see others walking the same path I take, so it could be one of the other walkers who picked it up. I’ll never know. All I know is that it was once on the road and now it isn’t. It’s found a new home.

I also wonder if I would have felt that my life had changed it I had picked up that dime. Well, I already know the answer. It wouldn’t have. I’m not even sure what I would have done with it. I probably would have put it in my coin purse and carried on. I wouldn’t have given it a second thought. But I would have had an extra ten cents to my name. Now I don’t.

I didn’t leave the dime on the road because I felt it wasn’t mine to take. I’m not really sure why I never picked it up, other than the fact that it was only ten cents. Most likely, it was because I knew the dime wouldn’t change a thing in my life. Now, if it was a ten dollar bill, I wouldn’t have thought twice about it. But, a dime? It didn’t entice me.

And the thing is, the person who dropped the dime didn’t return to pick it up. Were they aware they had lost the dime, or did they just shrug and say, “it’s only a dime” and carry on? But here’s the other thing. The location where the dime was located wasn’t a spot where a car would park. And it wasn’t an area where someone would be digging through their pockets or wallet for change. It was close to the stop sign. So, how did they lose the dime in that exact spot? No one just throws a dime out a car window or empties their pocket while walking their dog.

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. Luke 19:10

I’m reminded of the parable in the Bible that tells of a woman who lost one of her ten coins. She searched diligently to find the coin. And when it was located, she called everyone to celebrate with her. Her ten coins were safe and sound.

The coin I found but never claimed wasn’t really mine. It didn’t bother me when someone else had picked it up and pocketed it for themselves. The woman in the parable knew the lost coin was hers and desperately searched until she found it. Perhaps the ten coins were all she had left. And she swept the floor and searched until the one was found. She called in her friends, and they rejoiced with her on that happy occasion. I had nothing to celebrate when someone else picked up the coin, but perhaps they thought it was a great find.

I think of the young man who made a decision earlier this year to follow Christ. He had been lost, but when his eyes were opened to his need for a Savior he accepted the call to surrender his life. And then he and his family celebrated his newfound faith. A sinner had been saved.

Every time a lost soul repents of their sins and makes a commitment to serve Christ is a joyous occasion. Even the angels celebrate. The soul of a man is worth much more than a lost coin. Lost coins can be found and then hidden away for safe keeping. A soul that has been found and saved has now entered into a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. There is much to be thankful for in that event. The coin is of little value, but God prizes the soul that calls on him. Those who call on the name of the Lord and are saved will be with him in eternity. Those who don’t will be separated from God.

The coin I found on the road was most likely very dirty. It had been run over time and time again by vehicles as they went their way, never knowing the coin was under their tires. A soul that is completely dirty with sin can be washed white as snow regardless of any type of sin. God’s forgiveness is full and complete and starts the slate brand new. It’s a liberating feeling to be cleansed by the blood of the Lamb in forgiveness.

Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:8-10

Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7

When Truth is Suppressed

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Have you ever been in a conversation with someone who mentioned “my truth”? As if, their truth was something special and different from the plain old truth. Without coming right out and saying it, they were telling you that their belief in something was truth to them — even though their belief might be based on a lie. And you may have wondered how they could have ever arrived at that particular viewpoint, because in your mind it just didn’t add up. You knew the actual truth, and they had just skewered it with their opinion. Only they see it as truth, not just a biased opinion.

Those who believe “their truth” is the real truth are searching for something. They believe they’re living in freedom, but in reality they’re living in bondage to a lie they’ve been taught or imagined. Imagine living like that and thinking life is great. You’ve most likely seen photos of those who are living their own truth. Not to stereotype, but they typically look miserable and uptight. And they’re usually scowling or very angry. Honestly, they look like every last shred of life has been sucked out of them. At least, that’s what I see in the photos and videos I’ve come across. I wonder if this is a result of hiding from the truth. I never see a lighthearted attitude that shows them enjoying life. Are they happy or fulfilled? Or are they searching for true meaning? If that’s the case, do they think they’ve found it?

I don’t know their religious beliefs, but I just wonder if they believe in God. Are they atheists? Or socialists? Or communists? Or Marxists? They’re certainly not Muslims. Not this group. But on what do they base their “truth”? I really wonder.

But this question of speaking your own truth doesn’t apply only to those with purple hair and nose piercings. It could be the person dressed in the finest apparel and latest hairstyle sitting in church on a Sunday morning. They may use a “perfect” appearance in public to hide their private, unsettled beliefs and questions. They may be living like the devil during the week, only to appear angelic sitting in the pew. It happens more than we like to think. Double standards don’t escape many people.

We have to stop and ask ourselves if building a life on our own terms is really worth it in the long run. What are the consequences, both earthly and eternal? At what point, do we set aside our truths and start a deep dive into the truth of life and eternity? Some never reach that crucial point, and yet others hit rock bottom and face a reality they never imagined. With their eyes and minds suddenly wide open, they face the truth they’ve been suppressing. Reality has a way of opening up the truth once and for all.

If you would test the character of anything, you only need to enquire whether that thing leads you to God or away from God. ~Watchman Nee

They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Romans 1:25

When we knowingly and deliberately exchange the truth of God for a lie, we are putting ourselves before God. Creation over Creator. It’s idolatry and in a manner of speaking, we’re calling ourselves God. That’s rebellion. Rebellion and disobedience are deliberate arrows aimed directly at the heart of God.

When we choose ourselves over God, we can claim everyone’s doing it, or it’s not really that bad of a sin, or we only did it “just this once”. Do we think that makes it right with God? We can’t call evil good and good evil. Because, deep down we know the true. We just won’t admit it, because then we’ll have to change. And we don’t want to change. Life is good and comfortable, and we want to keep it that way. When we throw God in the mix, we know that life will never be the same for us. And we don’t want to give up our sinful ways.

According to AI, modern secularism is the ideological framework that seeks to organize society around non-religious principles — not merely separating church and state, but actively displacing transcendent moral frameworks from public life in favor of purely materialist, procedural, and technocratic governance. It’s not the same thing as the classical liberal separation of church and state. That was a structural arrangement. Modern secularism is a comprehensive worldview.

As Gavin Ortlund says in The Gospel After Christendom, “God himself is the antidote to modern secularism.” And Alexandr Solzhenitsyn says that “men have forgotten God; that’s why all this has happened”, in reference to the twentieth-century violence.

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. Romans 1:18-22

Man has repressed the truth of the everlasting power and the divinity of God. It has been exiled to his unconscious, to the crypts of his existence. That does not mean though that it has vanished forever. Still active, it reveals itself again and again. But it cannot become openly conscious; it appears in disguise, and it is exchanged for something different. ~Johan Bavick, The Church Between the Temple and the Mosque

The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. Acts 17:24-25

The open hostility which sinners express by their lives does not provoke God so much as the vile dishonor they give to His truth, which He sent to make them free. When God sees men scorn His truth by imprisoning it from having any command over their lives, this sight kindles the fire of His wrath into a consuming flame. It is a dangerous choice to walk contrary to the light of God’s truth. ~William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour

Dear friend, if you have chosen your truth over biblical truth, dare to open the Word of God and seek the truth that will liberate you. If you haven’t repented of your sins and asked Jesus Christ to be the Lord of your life, there is time today to do so. You may think you have all the time in the world to acknowledge and accept the truth of biblical teachings, but that may not be the case. We’ve seen the news this week of the senator who seemed healthy one day and was dead the next. We don’t know when God will call us to account for our lives. Now is the time to set aside the truths we’ve created in our minds or been told to accept by those who will intentionally mislead us. It’s time to bow to the Lord of the universe and follow him. There is freedom in the truth of God.