Time with Purpose

Time With Purpose 

The history of Queen Esther is recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible. She was born a simple Jewish girl, faithful to God and family. Her parents died while she was still young so her cousin, Mordecai, adopted her and raised her as his daughter.

During that time in history, the Jews had been exiled from Jerusalem. They found themselves integrated into a community under the reign of King Xerxes in the area of Susa. It happened that Mordecai reported an assassination plot against the king and so earned favor with Xerxes.

It was also around then that the king unseated his wife and queen for embarrassing him. So he looked for a new queen. Searching for a beautiful replacement, several women in the area were chosen to ‘apply’ for the job.  Enter Esther! After meeting the requirements and being accepted by the king (short version), her influence saved the Jews from being destroyed by an evil man and his plot.

Esther 4:14 reveals Mordecai’s encouragement to deal with an evil plot. It gave purpose and incentive for her placement and role as queen. If she chose not to intervene, there would be devastating consequences, and all Jews would be murdered.

If you stay silent during this time, deliverance for the Jews will come from somewhere, but you, my child, and all of your father’s family will die. And who knows? Perhaps you have been made queen for such a time as this. Esther 4:14 (Voice)

I wonder if she might have had the message Joshua received from the Lord ringing in her heart and mind!

Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9  (AMP)

As we enter the new year of 2024, where do you find yourself in life? Tjoshua’s promise is true for us as well - the Lord our God is with us wherever we go. Have you been separated from family or friends, lost loved ones, are ill, or moved by unexpected circumstances to a new and uncomfortable home or job? Do you sense God’s purpose for your role and position? The challenge in each of our lives demands courage and faithfulness to what God has given to us or allowed for us. Perhaps you have been made _____ for such a time as this.

By Joy Pedersen

CHECKING OUT MARK 13

 

CHECKING OUT MARK 13

Events of this last week alerted us to the devastating war in Israel. For many minds and hearts, questions and concerns arose. Are these the last days before Jesus’s return? Will God’s justice overturn the conflict against His nation, Israel, in this battle? What lies ahead for our nation and the possibility of wars moving forward? But, only God knows what is in store for Israel and ourselves.

Reading the thirteenth chapter of Mark, Jesus' prophetic words focused on the temple destruction in Israel. This must have created alarm and possibly fear when hearing this news. For us, it may also stir those same feelings as we reckon with current happenings and his forecast for the future.

When Peter, James, John, and Andrew privately inquired about the timing of such a fatality, they wanted to know what sign they could look for to show the coming of this event. However, Jesus began to expound on the tragedies that would grow beyond Israel affecting the whole world. It must have been beyond their imagination! They had barely begun to understand Jesus, His actions, and His deliverance for mankind. This revelation just didn’t seem to fit with all they were learning.

His telling was preparation for the calamities ahead, warning about deeper evil, and yet included instructions for peace.  He warned that deceptions, expansive devastations, persecution, betrayal, and abuse would take place. His words seem heavy. I wonder if it was a blow to their belief in God.

It may seem purposeless and avoidable to us. However, Jesus says it must take place (vs 7). Why? It is our opportunity to tell the world about the good news of Jesus Christ and what He has done for us on the cross and through his resurrection. It is time for us to grow strong in the Lord so we are ready to declare His love, power, and glory in the hard times – now and in the future.

Jesus gave instructions to keep watch (vs 35) for what is ahead. Watch for deceivers (vs 23) staying focused and attuned to Him.  He reminds us to have a mindset free of worry and panic. So what can we do about what lies ahead? Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT) gives this instruction: “…let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.”

Beginning in verse 24 we are told that the anguish of these days will be followed by the the return of Jesus with angels to receive His followers out of the troubles.  That will be amazing. Clouds ablaze with heavenly beings, Jesus appearing in beauty and magnificence as victor over sin and death.

Let’s remember what Jesus said in Mark 13:33:  “Since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert^!”

Let us praise God for His work on behalf of mankind, and the victory we know He has already won in the battles we face. Let us pray for the salvation of all people – and especially Israel. 

by Joy Pedersen

Father's Day

Father’s Day is a reflection and appreciation day. When I do this, my mind recalls the hard work Dad consistently powered through until the very day that he went to Heaven. He tended farm animals and tended soil and crops. He built houses and led men in the process. He instructed his children by word and deed ethically and spiritually. He helped his neighbors in need. He provided shelter, food, and clothing for his family – at times others. He prayed daily with the family after sharing the Word of God. Though imperfect, he served the Lord faithfully in all he did. He has been gone from this world for 37 years, but I am so grateful for the impressions he left on my life, and looking forward to seeing him again in heaven.

In a world where pleasure has become a primary focus, the eternal reward is often forgotten. Rather, working faithfully and responsibly we are to recognize all our works – manual and physical - are opportunities to reflect God’s love to others and then reap an eternal reward for our service in Heaven. Colossians 3:23 (ESV) is our reminder. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

by Joy Pedersen

MOTHER

 

Mother

Psalm 139:13 (AMP)

For You formed my innermost parts;
You knit me [together] in my mother’s womb.

Annually May comes around and we find Mother’s Day on the calendar. Depending on our childhood, we either want to celebrate it or hide from the occasion that is to honor our mother. We didn’t choose her and she didn’t choose us but we are bound by life to give respect for her position in our lives. 

Exodus 20:12 (ESV) reminds us to “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.” It is a command without consideration of the goodness, kindness,  or loving mannerisms of our parents. So what does it mean to honor our mother in the adult season of our life?

If we were raised in a loving environment,  admired, and shared life sweetly with them it is fairly easy to honor and respect her. If we grew up in an abusive environment this is much more difficult.

The Psalmist reminds us that we were put together in our mother’s womb by God. No matter the circumstances or persons involved, God himself formed us and put us together in her womb. It is amazing to think of His developing and organizing our innermost parts. And we were gifted purposefully to a particular mother with her imperfections and beauty altogether, This truth is beyond our understanding. And it is good only because He who created us is good. 

When we honor our parents we are in essence acknowledging the work of a good God. Psalm 145:9 (Amp) reads: “The LORD is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works [the entirety of things created].”

Honoring God and His creation of our mother [and ourselves], happens when forgiving the wrongs, praying for the Holy Spirit’s help in loving, enacting Christ’s love, and speaking kindly to and of her. So as you spend this Mother’s Day with or without your mother, may you seek ways of honoring her. Have a Happy Mother’s Day reflecting!

by Joy Pedersen

A Great Promise

 

A Great Promise

Bidding farewell to friends and family throughout life, I know some of the difficulty in letting go as they depart. Adjusting to the idea of life without them is almost unthinkable. Denial is usually my first response followed by sadness.  The assurances that they will stay in contact and/or return for a visit is often meant well but not fulfilled.

Jesus’s disciples were in a similar situation.  Jesus had prepared them with details of His death and resurrection, but now He began to prepare them for His ‘move’ back to Heaven. Leaving the gift of spiritual life for all mankind, Jesus was going away. For three years they had traveled together, ministered side by side, and been trained for their ministry roles – but His going away was unimaginable! How would they go on?

Startled by His announcement, Jesus left a promise for them and us that was designed to bring relief and hope. The communication was caring and compassionate as He readied them for this part of His and their journey. Jesus gave reason for His going – a promise! Unlike the farewell promises of mankind, however, Jesus’s was not in vain. He promised a Helper - almost a replacement of sorts - that we continue to benefit from. How?

The Helper (Holy Spirit) exposes the truth of individuals sinfulness, what righteousness is, and God’s judgement for those who do not have a love relationship with God and others. The message of salvation can be accepted and believed by the hearer when conviction is received. The Holy Spirit’s revealed truth is a weapon against the ruler of this world, Satan, who fights against truth.

How good to have a reliable promise to hold on to. In what time I am afraid, I have a Helper (Psalm 56:3). He makes us effective witnesses of Christ (Acts 1:8). He teaches us and reminds us to apply what He has said in the Bible (John 14:26). He goes with us wherever we go (I Corinthians 3:16). He strengthens us so we can mature in Christ (Romans 8:26-27). He helps become more and more like Christ (Romans 8:29).

Thank you Father, for the fulfilled promise of the Holy Spirit.

by Joy Pedersen

Easter On Our Mind

 Easter On Our Mind

Easter is on the minds of Jesus’s followers. Surrounded by new life – budding flowers, emerging leaves, and a rejoicing sun, at springtime, we are drawn to contemplate the amazing kindness of God. Though we have so often failed to walk His way, His mercy rings out and His forgiveness calls softly saying we are His beloved children. Fixing our eyes on the wondrous cross, where Jesus sacrificed His life and recalling the empty tomb where He was once laid is cause to worship the One who gave up His son for our freedom from sin.  

God’s love so deep He designed a plan to preserve us for eternity. Jesus agreed to the plan giving His life’s blood for the forgiveness of our sin (Hebrews 12:2). It was required once and covered all that accept this gift of forgiveness. No matter our past, present, or future He has shed His innocent blood for our guilty soul. He remembers(d) us and with grace proves(d) His love. Easter – a time to consider deeply God’s riches at Christ’s expense.

by Joy Pedersen

Ephesians 1:7 (NLT)

He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.

PEACE

PEACE

Philippians 4:8-9(ESV) “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

Something that we each want and search for is peace. To get it, there is a price to pay. When there is war, the sacrifice of lives is devastating. The world tries to attain it through negotiations and compromise. But the personal war we are faced with through illnesses, divorce, abuse, aging, and oppression will rob us of peace if we don’t also manage our thinking and focus. In this case the cost is dying to self and absorbing the peace that only God can give. So, how do we gain peace? We learn from God’s Word, and fix our mind and heart on Jesus Christ.

Personally, Philippians has been a great teacher on the subject. Coming to the One (God) who knows and cares about our troubles is the only way I have found peace. Yes, it is necessary to face the valleys in life honestly with truth and reckon with our limitations. It is necessary to process the physical and emotional issues that seem debilitating at times. Having experienced an unwanted divorce and illnesses creating limitations, sacrificing self-pity and grumbling is my sacrifice to obtain peace. I have found it is impossible to experience peace unless I can refocus on those things that are honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, or excellent. For me, these are found enjoying a simple meal, writing, examining scripture, reading, playing a game, and especially being with loving people. Learning to be content wherever I find myself is the most peaceful place. Accepting the way things are, and allowing God to give me the  strength to handle my weaknesses brings internal peace even if external things don’t change.

Contentment and peace walk hand in hand. Reframing our thinking and rejoicing over the things that are true (His truth), honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praise worthy is the key. Practice turning the darkness off and the light of truth on – it has made all the difference for me – and it can for you as well. 

by Joy Pedersen

He Never Leaves

If you’ve ever had a loved one walk out of your life – a family member, a friend, a spouse – then you know the trauma an experience like this causes.  This is especially true if it wasn’t because of something you said or did that was ‘wrong’, but it was a choice they made willingly and, perhaps, unexpectedly.

When a loved one leaves like this, it can feel a lot like a death.  I remember several years ago when my BFF at the time, a woman I considered a sister, walked out of my life right as I was in the middle of chemotherapy for breast cancer.  Oh, how I agonized and analyzed every word I had said to her during our last – seemingly wonderful – dinner together.  I searched my heart for weeks, looking for some clue as to what would’ve caused her to betray our friendship like that.  As physically sick and emotionally wrought as I was at the time, I didn’t have the strength to “pursue” her.  Not only that, I knew her well enough to know that whatever the reason, she wasn’t going to “come back”.

It took a while but I recovered, both physically and emotionally.  My health is very good now and I have made many new friends since then. Friends that fill my life with laughter, love and Godly wisdom.

One thing, and one thing only, do I attribute my restoration to:  I am loved by the God Who Never Leaves. 

Jesus, when He walked this earth, experienced the painful betrayal of family and friends.  He knows what it feels like when someone leaves you in your darkest hour.   He understands the humiliation and heartache of rejection.

And because of this, He knows exactly how to comfort us when someone does this to us.  His strength becomes our strength so that we can feel joy and hope again.  Isaiah 61:1-3 says that Jesus came to bind up the brokenhearted, to comfort those who mourn, and to give beauty, joy and praise to us when we’re mourning and in despair.

Friend, have you been abandoned and betrayed by someone you love? Come to Jesus!  Forgive those that have wounded you and let the Healer restore you to wholeness and peace.

He has always been, and will always be, the God who will never leave!

With love,

Janece

Chosing The Better Path

“But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made…. Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed – or indeed only one….” Luke 10:40,41

Can you feel it? 

The countdown to the end of the year has started with a vengeance! It’s that time of year when our time can easily be hijacked by cooking, baking, cleaning and shopping, family gatherings and work events. Our “To Do” list grows by inches, and even activities like decorating the house seem burdensome rather than fun. If we’re not careful, our joy is sucked up by stress. And not just because we’re busy.

 

Holidays can bring up all sorts of emotions and memories - some old and some very fresh - and often those memories can be painful. Perhaps this will be your first round of holidays without a beloved family member. Maybe you’ve just lost a job or a home. Or maybe childhood memories of dysfunction and abuse tied to family holidays are intruding on your peace.

The good news is, as Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, we can choose to do things differently than in years past. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s what – and WHO – is truly important. So let’s choose a better path through the days ahead by focusing less on DOING, and more on BEING. Being appreciative of all God’s blessings rather than complaining about what is missing. Being truly present for those we love by giving them our time and attention rather than gifts. Let’s simplify our days so that we spend less time in the kitchen (or the mall), and more time at the feet of Jesus. 

 - Janece Herrington