God's goodness

God’s Goodness in My Morning Walk

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

As I rounded the corner to turn west that morning, the flag flying low slapped me in the face. Oh. I walk by this flag every morning, but I barely notice it. This brush across the face by the stars and stripes reminded me that I’ve been slapped with freedom just by being born in this country. It reminded me that I’m proud to be a citizen of this great nation. Politics aside, I’m living free. And that feels good.

But I also notice a few less patriotic scenes as I walk along. One of the recently sold houses was purchased by a young family. I’ve never seen the kids, but I see all their bicycles and toys and deflated inflatables lying on the lawn. For the life of me, I don’t understand why they don’t pick up these toys each night and put them away. And, for pete’s sake, the SOLD sign is still stuck in their yard. But the scene that I witnessed that morning outshone all the mess before me. I saw the mom and dad on the porch hugging each other as they shared a morning kiss. They stayed in that embrace for a few seconds before he pulled away. As he walked down the stairs to his truck, he timidly smiled at me.

Oh. I’ve noticed this couple on the front porch several other mornings, just not in a sweet embrace. I’ve seen them sitting there chatting before their busy day starts. One morning, they were sitting on the lawn and she held a book in hand. I imagined that she was reading the Bible to her husband as a loving way to start the day. But I don’t know if that’s true or not. It’s refreshing to see a young couple enjoying each other’s presence before the house erupts with kid’s needs.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalm 100:4

On around the corner sat the sheriff’s car. I’m not sure if he was processing paperwork or waiting for speeders. Either way, I walked on by without hesitation. I’ve seen this car in the church parking lot many other times, but never with a law enforcement officer sitting in it.

I’ve had multiple occasions to meet dogs while getting my steps in. One such morning, I walked past a trailer just as the owner opened the door to let her two dogs out. One rushed at me and brushed against my leg. As I continued walking, the owner yelled with her gruff, smoky voice to get back here, with a profanity thrown in for good measure. Each morning that same dog barks at me from inside the trailer as I walk past, and the owner lets out a gruff rebuke each time.

On one morning’s walk, I had the opportunity to meet a dog named Goldie. Her owner held tightly to the leash, because she said Goldie would want to follow me. I told her that I once had a dog that would try the same thing. Goldie seemed to be mild mannered and gentle. She didn’t rush toward me or make a sound as I walked past. Oh. I called her by name so she would hopefully see me as a friendly sort.

Further on in my walk, another dog ran through a neighbor’s yard toward me. Oh. He was a friendly guy. He’s a hunting dog. I had met him a few month’s earlier when he got loose one morning. At that point, I had no clue where he lived or who owned him, so I was able to pull him into the house and call the number on his collar. The owner later came to pick him up. Through my morning walks, I’ve now discovered where Toby lives. He barks at me each morning as I walk past his house. He doesn’t realize I rescued him months earlier. But on this particular morning, he ran toward me from a yard that was not his. As I reached to find his owner’s phone number on his tag, he felt the shock from his collar. Off he ran toward home. And as I continued on my path to home, I heard his owner yelling loudly at him over and over again.

I notice the cars and trucks on the streets as people are leaving to begin a new workday. I’m thankful that my years of daily work have come to an end, and look forward to years ahead of slow living. I hope these workers realize that while the days are long the years really are short. Soon, they will be the ones pursuing a slower pace of life.

I see the old 2-story Victorian that recently had a facelift. It now looks loved and well cared for. It now looks inviting. I would love to commend the owner if I ran into them on the sidewalk. If only the neighboring houses would follow suit. Too many houses in this small town don’t have any appeal, yet the streets are lined with years old trees. It’s obvious the houses and the village have been around for many, many years, but the pride in it has fallen to a severely low point. I discovered a lawn ornament in the lawn across the street from that spiffed up house. I’m not sure how long it has sat there, but I have to believe it’s been a long while. The pale blue toilet sure makes a statement, all right.

I noticed the alley that I recently learned has likely been used as a drug selling spot at one point in history. I avoid walking that path. Now the owner of the big house has a legitimate job and the illegal sales seemed to have stopped. At least, that’s what I’ve been told. If only he would take care of his property, the neighbors would rejoice.

As I turn the curve to my street, I notice how it is lined with trees to the west. I walk the remaining yards to my front door, and head to the shower to remove all traces of sweat. It’s gonna be a good day.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever. Psalms 23:6

Why am I thankful for this phase of life I’m in? There is power and freedom in a slow lifestyle. Living in a simple, half-forgotten village that seeks for relevance is not for everyone. It’s a quiet life that I’m loving. And I’m reminded each day on my walks that God is so, so good to me. I have so much to be thankful for. For many years I lived with the hustle and bustle of city living, full-time work and busyness. Retirement brings contentment and fulfillment in ways I never imagined. Life is good.

He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

I love You, Lord
Oh, Your mercy never failed me
All my days, I’ve been held in Your hands
From the moment that I wake up
Until I lay my head
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

I love Your voice
You have led me through the fire
And in darkest night You are close like no other
I’ve known You as a Father
I’ve known You as a Friend
And I have lived in the goodness of God, yeah

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God, yeah!

‘Cause Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
With my life laid down, I’m surrendered now
I give You everything
‘Cause Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
‘Cause Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
With my life laid down, I’m surrendered now
I give You everything
‘Cause Your goodness is running after (It keeps running after me)

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God
I’m gonna sing, I’m gonna sing
‘Cause all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God
Oh, I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God

~Bethel Music

The Goodness of Change

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

The weather has been mild this past week. Aahhh. We say. The winter has been cold and any snow is too much for me, so I’m happy with the sunny warmer days. I’ve begun taking walks around this very small town of mine. I’ve never lived here in the springtime, so it will be interesting to see how well neighbors care for their properties. Oh. I’ve already decided that it would be very appropriate to start a beautification project in this small village, but I’m sure it might ruffle some feathers. I see many homes that need some sprucing up. There’s mildew on the exterior in some places. There are unruly leftovers from past gardens. I’ve spotted multiple vehicles that have never moved from their spot in the past six months I’ve lived here. And I’ve read that this village has a problem with feral cats, none of which I’ve seen.

Oh sure. I saw the American flag waving in the cool breeze, but I also spotted a couple of leftover political signs that should have been removed after the fall election. I noticed some boarded up windows in multiple houses, and I wonder what has happened to cause them to be vacant. Even a local church boasts the same look. In one home, the blinds have been drawn so no one can even get a glimpse of any movement in the house. I hear dogs barking in other houses as I walk past, but I see no one.

I passed a couple walking their dogs a few days ago, but they wouldn’t even look in my direction. I know they had to see me walking their way, but they gave not a hint of friendliness. Perhaps not everyone in this town is friendly. Or. Perhaps they’re just cautious about anyone unfamiliar walking their streets. It’s also the time of year that the golf carts start circling the country de sac where I live. Apparently, it will be an interesting first spring in this new home of mine.

As I move through the town, I’m pleasantly surprised to discover the brick sidewalks that line many streets. Some of the residents have kept these vintage sidewalks in mint condition, while others have allowed grass to cover them. If you didn’t know the bricks were in place in some areas, you would never even suspect what is below the surface. If only all the homeowners along those streets would uncover the bricks and let them shine. They’re a throwback to the days of old when this town was once a thriving place. I’m sure some homeowners aren’t interested in maintaining these unique reminders of the past, so they have allowed the bricks to be hidden. It’s a reminder that perhaps this small village is dying for a reason.

I have no idea of the history of this place. I wonder if the very small library holds information of the town’s humble beginnings. I see the empty and unused storefronts that once housed long ago closed businesses. I can just imagine the horses and buggies parked out front, but not many people walk this part of town any longer. Oh sure. There is a bank. And a post office. There’s a town hall and a seldom used funeral home. I’ve visited the antique shop that’s open two days a week. Oh. And there’s a bar that’s open each evening. I’ve also driven past the cemetery on the edge of town. And let’s not forget the corporate grain elevator that sends trains down the tracks at all hours of the night. Across the interstate, I can see two ugly solar farms. That’s someone’s idea of progress. But others have a differing opinion on the topic of those windmills. I see signs posted on the side of a barn and along the roadside sharing their thoughts on that sore subject.

Yet I am confident I will see the Lord ’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living. Psalms 27:13

I know of several homes in foreclosure in this town. Mine was one of those at this time last year. Fortunately, it’s been saved and we’re now called the proud owners. The house next door is in the same predicament. I think I spied a final walk through of the house one day this week. We’ll see what the future holds over there. It would be nice to have another set of good neighbors. So far, I’ve only met a handful of neighbors, and others wave as they drive past.

When we moved here six months ago, we had no idea what was in store for us. Aside from all the needed repairs to the house, living here has been a nice change of pace. Slowing down and settling in to a new home, village and church feels good. It still feels like we made the right decision to pack up and move two states over. At this point, I wouldn’t change a thing.

I know change can be hard, but at times it’s necessary and welcoming. At other times, change comes and it’s out of our control. We just have to roll with the punches. So far, this change hasn’t felt like a gut punch, but there have been some unpleasant finds with this home that we’ve had to weather. But life is good. And I foresee many more good days ahead.

Who knows. Trouble can come tomorrow, and we must know it’s always around the corner. But we shoulder through each day, because it’s the only one we’ve got. We’ll face tomorrow’s troubles tomorrow. Today has enough of it’s own. And even whether the sun is shining or not, God is always good.

Give thanks to the Lord , for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Psalms 107:1

And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 2 Corinthians 9:8

Much To Be Thankful For

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Oswald Chambers says it best when he says that troubles almost always make us look to God, but His blessings tend to divert our attention elsewhere. Isn’t that the truth? As I sit here in my warm house, I’m faced with a second day of plumbers trying to figure out why my water isn’t running. They have to resolve that issue before they can repair the burst water line that froze in the very cold temperatures over the weekend. There is now a hole in my kitchen ceiling awaiting repair.

The fun never ends with this house. We’ve lived here not quite five months, but it’s beginning to feel like five years. I have a bathtub full of water that is used for flushing toilets. I have bottles and gallon jugs of water ready for cooking. Every sound I hear makes me wonder if there is another leak in this house we thought was so awesome. Oh. It is still an awesome house, but I’m becoming weary.

I’m reading the book of Job right now in my yearly chronological read of the Bible. I know that my troubles are nothing like his. He lost everything. All he owned and all his children in a single day were just gone. Then he got boils all over his body. His wife told him to curse God and die. His friends tried to give him advice, but they had no clue. Oh. I know my life is nothing like Job’s, and if I’m honest I don’t want it to be.

Now. I know I’m not being persecuted for my faith, as the Bible says Christians can expect. And I’m not really living through a Job experience. I know all that. But for the last four and a half months, I’ve lived through more home repair issues than I’ve ever experienced in my entire life. And I’m tired of it.

You can make many plans, but the Lord ’s purpose will prevail. Proverbs 19:21

Oh. I’ve always dreamed of a rosy life. No hardships. No failures. No troubles or trials. No sickness. No empty bank account. Just a good and easy life. And really, if I’m honest. I have a good life. And it’s relatively easy. Oh. I’ve had hardships and failures. I’ve had troubles and trials. I’ve had minor sickness and definitely an empty bank account. But I’ve survived. And so far, I’m still standing. But I can’t take all the credit. I have a faith in God that is steady and continuing to grow. I know that as the Ruler of the universe, his plans are perfect. He directs my path just as he directs the blowing of the wind. God does not play favorites, so everyone of us can expect some good and not so good things in life.

And just when I’m in the midst of moaning and complaining, I feel as if a miracle has happened. Oh sure. I’ve had plumbers in my house two days in a row. And both days I was told that I would need to replace the water softener that was installed only four months ago. The plumbers weren’t even here to look at the water softener, but they assumed because water wasn’t coming out of the faucets that the water softener was the problem. But these plumbers got it all wrong. Somehow, they didn’t recognize that some of the water pipes were slightly frozen. And when a different team of plumbers arrived the next day, the water had thawed and was running freely.

Just to be clear. The plumbers on the first day got everything wrong. We didn’t have frozen pipes above the kitchen. That leak was caused by water coming from either the leaky roof or snow that had blown into the house and melted onto our kitchen ceiling, causing a huge mess. But they didn’t catch the fact that the reason the water wasn’t running was because of frozen pipes in the crawl space. And they cut the lines to the water softener, because they thought that was the problem. The plumbers on the second day realized there were no busted pipes above the kitchen, but they also said that we would need a new water softener. I’m not sure if they wanted to back up the story from their coworkers who misdiagnosed everything on the first day, but they were all wrong.

I called my kind next door neighbor who is also my water softener guy, and he sent his dad over to check out the situation. He quickly figured out the problem and solved it. There is nothing wrong with the water softener, and there never was. He was very kind not to insult the poor diagnosis given by the plumbers, but we both knew they had greatly misdiagnosed the problem. Once again, it pays to have a very kind neighbor. He didn’t charge me a penny for the repair work. He said it would have been covered under the warranty, anyway, if they would have replaced the equipment.

I did nothing to deserve the kindness of my neighbor, but once again he has extended grace when he didn’t need to. He has a business to run, and he has to keep the lights on so he can’t give everything away. But his father said they don’t charge for repairs such as mine, and for that I’m extremely grateful.

However, I am still waiting for the roofing repairs to be completed.

It’s a great reminder that some days we get things wrong and other days we get things right. I’m not angry with the plumbers, but I will not be as trusting the next time I might need them. Oh. We all make mistakes as we go through life, and some cost us and some cost others. We do need to show grace to those who have wronged us, either intentionally or unintentionally, as hard as it may be. But we would also want others to show kindness and forgiveness to us when we have wronged them.

Life is one big lesson of learning. One minute we can be anxious and frustrated, and then turn around and get good news that melts all of those pent up feelings. It just goes to show that we can’t live on our feelings, because they are fickle and unpredictable. Our faith needs to be firmly grounded in Jesus Christ, the One who will never fail us. He won’t make a wrong diagnosis or lead us astray. His ways are always perfect.

For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. Matthew 5:45

Don’t Lose Heart

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Do you remember the day that your world fell apart? Was it a diagnosis? Or a job loss? The ending of your marriage? Or the loss of a child? Or parent? Or someone very close? Was it the last straw in a bad situation gone worse than expected? Was it the last door closing on a much awaited second chance?

Did you get a call in the middle of the night with unexpected news? Was a false accusation thrown in your face? Was your credibility questioned? Were evil people trying to ruin your reputation? Were your enemies attacking you?

What was that thing that made you wonder how life could ever be good again? Did you wonder how you could go on? Did you wonder if life was worth living? Was all hope gone?

Even the best of us are faint of heart when our world bottoms out. Being in dire straits is not an everyday event in most of our lives. We don’t live by the seat of our pants for day to day survival. Oh. Once that may have been the case for some of another generation. But today. Today, we have most everything we want. And more. Life is pretty good for most of us. But on occasion, the bottom drops unexpectedly. It’s in those moments that we can question everything or cling to the Giver of Life.

I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Psalms 27:13

Our faith is the stronghold of life. Our faith is the lifeline we reach for when we’ve reached the end of our rope. Our faith in God can and will support us through our darkest days and nights.

I’ve felt overwhelmed when it seems my world was falling apart. I’ve worried about the future. I’ve had moments where I’ve wondered if I’ve lived my best life, and that the remaining life I have would be less than what I wanted.

Our momentary troubles today are sometimes of our own making. We drop our phone and the screen cracks. The brakes of the car are squealing and in need of new pads. The door of our three car garage isn’t working correctly. We dig ourselves into debt that we can’t climb out of. We start a new job hoping it’s the one, but instead turns out to be worse than the one we left. When we’ve worked through our self help list and finally give God a chance, God will help us. Why not go to him first?

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:33

If you’ve read Psalm 27, you know that David was in trouble. His enemies were in hot pursuit. They were closing in on him. No. He didn’t say a word against them. He turned to God, the only One who could rescue him. Instead of asking for enemies to be ruined, he asked for God’s grace and mercy to shine upon him.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2

The goodness of the Lord is nothing to laugh at. Imagine how desperate we would be if we didn’t have the promises of God to rely on. Imagine the emptiness that must set into an unbeliever’s heart. What do they hope for when what they were hoping for falls through?

God’s goodness is so extreme, yet so simple. God is still good even when life isn’t. God never changes. He is consistent. His love endures everything and lasts forever.

God’s goodness, grace and mercy continually flow, surrounding us with his presence in the midst of turmoil. Life may not always be good. But God is good. Always and forever.

We must hold firm to our belief that we will see the goodness of the Lord. God’s goodness will be evident when we step through heaven’s gates and enter his presence.