God had a plan. Ezra studied, applied and taught – in that order!
I like Ezra. He was a man with a heart for God. He knew what he should do, and he did it – in the right order! He first studied the law of the Lord, he then applied it to his own life, and he also taught what he had learned to others. How our own lives could be changed with this simple, yet profound formula.
There are many who teach. But not all take the time to really study first, so they might know for sure that their teaching is accurate and complete.
Sadder still are the many who teach – but they don’t take to heart the words they teach for themselves first so that they might apply it to their own lives. How it must grieve the Holy Spirit to hear the teaching of some when He knows the truth behind closed doors.
Still, God is patient. When we fail to study, apply or teach – at all, or out of order, or incompletely, or inaccurately, or with false motivation (I suppose the list of ways we can get it wrong is nearly endless) I believe He must remind Himself once again that we are ‘but flesh, a wind that passes and does not return.’ And He does not give up on His plan.
Ezra 7:10 For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel.
Psalm 78:39 Thus He remembered that they were but flesh, A wind that passes and does not return.
***
Job 42:1-2 Then Job answered the LORD and said, "I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.
[ALL SCRIPTURES NASB]
Monday, December 29, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
Stupid Fish
FRIDAY FICTION
(Glad it's a re-run - I never would have had time for anything new this week! Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!)
(Glad it's a re-run - I never would have had time for anything new this week! Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!)
STUPID FISH
“Mom, you can’t be serious!”
Annie turned and occupied herself with kitchen chores. “Now, honey, I know you’re disappointed, but it’s not as bad as all that.” She placed a few utensils into the dishwasher.
“It is too that bad! It’s a stupid fish in a bowl!”
“Mark, don’t call it stupid. Why don’t we give it a name?” She tried to sound cheerful as she wiped off the counter.
“Fine!” Mark retorted. “Its name is Stupid Fish!” With that he stomped out of the kitchen.
Annie stared at the placid little fish. “Sorry, fella.” She spoke softly and lightly tapped on the bowl. “You’re a fine fish, as far as goldfish go. It’s just that he has his heart set on a dog.”
She thought regretfully of her argument with her husband, Dave, the night before. He had conceded eventually, but not because he agreed with her. She simply had way of wearing him down. He had finally said, “Fine, no dog!” and walked out of the room.
Annie grabbed the phone. When she had him on the line, she said, “Dave, I made a mistake. I bought the fish.”
Dave sighed. “Sweetheart, I told you, you can’t substitute a goldfish for a dog.”
“I know. I should have listened. Dave, I miss my dad.”
Dave hesitated, unsure where the conversation was heading. “I know.”
“When I was little, He always said, “You can’t live with her.” And he’d get this sad smile on his face. And then he’d get his fishing pole, and when I asked him where he was going, he’d say, “Just looking for my quiet little corner of the roof, Annie.” And he’d pat my head and then he’d go off fishing. Now I understand he was talking about the contentious woman – you know in the book of Proverbs?”
“Yeah, Annie, I know.”
“Dave, I don’t want to be my mother.” Her voice shook, and Dave knew she was on the verge of tears.
“Honey,” he reassured her, “you are not your mother.”
“I’m becoming just like her! It isn’t normal, is it, for the kitchen floor to be truly clean enough to eat off, I mean literally?”
“Uh, no, I guess not.”
“You know what else my dad always said?”
“What?”
“Well, when Mom would really get carried away with all the housecleaning stuff, he’d say, “You don’t have to be so dad-gum nit-picking!”
Dave remembered her mild-mannered father’s use of that odd, old-fashioned word. It was the closest he ever came to swearing.
Annie took a deep breath. “Dave, I don’t want to be so dad-gum nit-picking that no one can live with me.”
Dave protested, “Annie, you’re not.”
“I’m going to trade the fish in for a puppy.” There was stunned silence.
When Dave recovered enough to speak, he said, “No, Annie, wait. Let’s don’t bounce from one mistake to another. You were right about a puppy. We both work and Mark is in school all day. I’ll pick out a dog for the family – just trust me.”
“Okay.” Annie’s dread over getting a dog dissipated into relief. Dave was taking care of everything.
Two days later she was awakened by a snuffling sound as a slobbering tongue found her face. “Howard, no! Sit! Stay!” Howard, a full-grown Saint Bernard mix, sat obediently, woofing slightly as Annie pushed herself out of bed. “Mother was right, you are disgusting!” In spite of the words, her tone was affectionate and Howard wagged his tail.
Grabbing a robe, she headed for the kitchen where Dave and Mark were busy packing lunches. “Hey,” she said sleepily, “it’s Saturday. What’s up?”
“We’re going fishing,” Mark shouted happily.
“Come with us,” Dave said. “It’ll be fun.”
Annie smiled. “Are you sure you aren’t leaving to find your corner of the roof?”
Dave chuckled. “Come on, we need a family day.”
Annie thought. She should stay home and clean floors. She imagined being at the lake, watching her son throw sticks for his new furry best friend. “Okay,” she agreed. “I’ll get a quick shower. First I’ll feed the fish.”
“Let me do that, Mom!” Mark elbowed her aside. “I’m going to take good care of Stupid Fish from now on.”
“Why is that?” Annie asked suspiciously.
“If the pet store ever runs out of supplies, the fish’s new name is going to be ‘Dogfood’!” Mark laughed gleefully before yelling, “Come on, Howard, let’s go help Dad load the car!”
“Mom, you can’t be serious!”
Annie turned and occupied herself with kitchen chores. “Now, honey, I know you’re disappointed, but it’s not as bad as all that.” She placed a few utensils into the dishwasher.
“It is too that bad! It’s a stupid fish in a bowl!”
“Mark, don’t call it stupid. Why don’t we give it a name?” She tried to sound cheerful as she wiped off the counter.
“Fine!” Mark retorted. “Its name is Stupid Fish!” With that he stomped out of the kitchen.
Annie stared at the placid little fish. “Sorry, fella.” She spoke softly and lightly tapped on the bowl. “You’re a fine fish, as far as goldfish go. It’s just that he has his heart set on a dog.”
She thought regretfully of her argument with her husband, Dave, the night before. He had conceded eventually, but not because he agreed with her. She simply had way of wearing him down. He had finally said, “Fine, no dog!” and walked out of the room.
Annie grabbed the phone. When she had him on the line, she said, “Dave, I made a mistake. I bought the fish.”
Dave sighed. “Sweetheart, I told you, you can’t substitute a goldfish for a dog.”
“I know. I should have listened. Dave, I miss my dad.”
Dave hesitated, unsure where the conversation was heading. “I know.”
“When I was little, He always said, “You can’t live with her.” And he’d get this sad smile on his face. And then he’d get his fishing pole, and when I asked him where he was going, he’d say, “Just looking for my quiet little corner of the roof, Annie.” And he’d pat my head and then he’d go off fishing. Now I understand he was talking about the contentious woman – you know in the book of Proverbs?”
“Yeah, Annie, I know.”
“Dave, I don’t want to be my mother.” Her voice shook, and Dave knew she was on the verge of tears.
“Honey,” he reassured her, “you are not your mother.”
“I’m becoming just like her! It isn’t normal, is it, for the kitchen floor to be truly clean enough to eat off, I mean literally?”
“Uh, no, I guess not.”
“You know what else my dad always said?”
“What?”
“Well, when Mom would really get carried away with all the housecleaning stuff, he’d say, “You don’t have to be so dad-gum nit-picking!”
Dave remembered her mild-mannered father’s use of that odd, old-fashioned word. It was the closest he ever came to swearing.
Annie took a deep breath. “Dave, I don’t want to be so dad-gum nit-picking that no one can live with me.”
Dave protested, “Annie, you’re not.”
“I’m going to trade the fish in for a puppy.” There was stunned silence.
When Dave recovered enough to speak, he said, “No, Annie, wait. Let’s don’t bounce from one mistake to another. You were right about a puppy. We both work and Mark is in school all day. I’ll pick out a dog for the family – just trust me.”
“Okay.” Annie’s dread over getting a dog dissipated into relief. Dave was taking care of everything.
Two days later she was awakened by a snuffling sound as a slobbering tongue found her face. “Howard, no! Sit! Stay!” Howard, a full-grown Saint Bernard mix, sat obediently, woofing slightly as Annie pushed herself out of bed. “Mother was right, you are disgusting!” In spite of the words, her tone was affectionate and Howard wagged his tail.
Grabbing a robe, she headed for the kitchen where Dave and Mark were busy packing lunches. “Hey,” she said sleepily, “it’s Saturday. What’s up?”
“We’re going fishing,” Mark shouted happily.
“Come with us,” Dave said. “It’ll be fun.”
Annie smiled. “Are you sure you aren’t leaving to find your corner of the roof?”
Dave chuckled. “Come on, we need a family day.”
Annie thought. She should stay home and clean floors. She imagined being at the lake, watching her son throw sticks for his new furry best friend. “Okay,” she agreed. “I’ll get a quick shower. First I’ll feed the fish.”
“Let me do that, Mom!” Mark elbowed her aside. “I’m going to take good care of Stupid Fish from now on.”
“Why is that?” Annie asked suspiciously.
“If the pet store ever runs out of supplies, the fish’s new name is going to be ‘Dogfood’!” Mark laughed gleefully before yelling, “Come on, Howard, let’s go help Dad load the car!”
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
God Had a Plan, No Room at the Inn
It must have been a difficult announcement to receive, “No, we have no rooms available at this time.” How hard it must have been for Joseph to walk back out to Mary and tell her. She had already endured so much, being great with child and yet having to travel to Bethlehem. I wonder if she had any sense of panic at all. I would think she at least had to question, “God, how can this be right? Do you really want your Son to be born in a stable?” But she did what she had to do, and soon shepherds arrived from the surrounding regions to give glory to God for the birth of the Savior, the long-awaited Christ. I can almost see God looking down with a smile at the baby in a manger, smiling in love and in knowing that His plan was moving along just fine.
Luke 2:1-20
1Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth.
2This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.
4Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
5in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.
6While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.
7And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.
10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;
11for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
12"This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."
15When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."
16So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.
17When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.
18And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.
19But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.
20The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.
Job 42:1-2 Then Job answered the LORD and said, "I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.
[ALL SCRIPTURES NASB]
Luke 2:1-20
1Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth.
2This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.
4Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
5in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.
6While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.
7And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.
10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;
11for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
12"This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."
15When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."
16So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.
17When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.
18And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.
19But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.
20The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.
***
Job 42:1-2 Then Job answered the LORD and said, "I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.
[ALL SCRIPTURES NASB]
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
God Had a Plan, Wives have to submit - Oh My!
I missed getting this posted as a submission on a weekly theme hosted by another blog... but I had written it, and decided that after all it fits with my own 'God Had a Plan' theme... so here it is:
Have you ever heard the statement, "Well, Paul just didn't like women?" It's a sort of excuse for not applying submission as an act of obedience to God. Of course, the idea that wives should submit to their husbands didn’t begin with Paul. Look back at Genesis and see – God had a plan, even before the fall of mankind.
As a non-Christian, my own life was pretty ragged and torn. I met a handsome young man who knew Jesus as Lord and Savior. He led me to know Him, too. We began dating, and before a year was up we had wed.
Before our wedding day, I had been learning all about submission, along with lots of other Christian virtues. I clearly remember thinking that as my husband he would be easy to submit to – after all, he was a good Christian man who loved the Lord. I really think Satan snickered about that one right after we said, “I do.”
That was a very long time ago, and although learning to submit was never easy, I can honestly say I am glad I made the hard choice to obey God. Even though it is still a choice I have to make daily and sometimes hourly, it is not nearly as difficult, and I am even thankful now for the very roles God has given us as a team.
Trusting the Lord is essential in obeying my husband. If I don’t believe that He is able to be God to my husband, then I have to lean on myself – whether through nagging or manipulation, or deceit, or even outright intimidation. No, that really is not who I want to be. I want to lean on Jesus, in this area of my life at least as much as in all other areas.
“Helper” wouldn’t have been my choice – why shouldn’t he be MY helper? Now days I almost gag at the thought! You see, I really am growing to be comfortable in my skin, and being a submissive wife is part of that.
Within the boundaries of submission, I find confidence in just being the person God is creating me to be, in the talents and gifts and roles He has given me even as I pursue knowing Him and trusting Him day by day. I fully extend my arms in praise and worship to the God who made me, designed me and suited me to a purpose.
If you would like to see the recurrent theme of submission throughout the bible, here are a few scriptures to get started with:
Genesis 2:18 Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him."
Genesis 3:16 To the woman He said,
"I will greatly multiply
Your pain in childbirth,
In pain you will bring forth children;
Yet your desire will be for your husband,
And he will rule over you."
All of Numbers, chapter 30, speaks to the issue of authority – whether to a father or to a husband… because in Old Testament times, vows to God were binding – yet God clearly places submission to authority on a higher level than even vows to God, by saying that the vows of women are subject to father or husband. The chapter says that if her husband or father annuls her vow by forbidding her, God will forgive her. But the grave responsibility the man bears for this is shown in verse 15 - "But if he indeed annuls them after he has heard them, then he shall bear her guilt."
Truly, what a tremendous responsibility the man bears as head of household! The role of submission is not an easy one, but neither is his an easy role, and he is accountable for it before God. I find compassion in knowing that, and also a reminder of my own very necessary responsibility to pray for him.
So today, after more than 30 years of marriage, I am still learning to value my husband along with his roles and my roles, and to trust that our Savior, God and Friend always has a plan.
If you would like to read some stories on the theme of submission by other bloggers, I invite you to visit Patty Wysong at
Patterings, find Monday, Dec 8, and follow the trail from there...
Job 42:1-2 Then Job answered the LORD and said, "I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.
[ALL SCRIPTURES NASB]
Have you ever heard the statement, "Well, Paul just didn't like women?" It's a sort of excuse for not applying submission as an act of obedience to God. Of course, the idea that wives should submit to their husbands didn’t begin with Paul. Look back at Genesis and see – God had a plan, even before the fall of mankind.
As a non-Christian, my own life was pretty ragged and torn. I met a handsome young man who knew Jesus as Lord and Savior. He led me to know Him, too. We began dating, and before a year was up we had wed.
Before our wedding day, I had been learning all about submission, along with lots of other Christian virtues. I clearly remember thinking that as my husband he would be easy to submit to – after all, he was a good Christian man who loved the Lord. I really think Satan snickered about that one right after we said, “I do.”
That was a very long time ago, and although learning to submit was never easy, I can honestly say I am glad I made the hard choice to obey God. Even though it is still a choice I have to make daily and sometimes hourly, it is not nearly as difficult, and I am even thankful now for the very roles God has given us as a team.
Trusting the Lord is essential in obeying my husband. If I don’t believe that He is able to be God to my husband, then I have to lean on myself – whether through nagging or manipulation, or deceit, or even outright intimidation. No, that really is not who I want to be. I want to lean on Jesus, in this area of my life at least as much as in all other areas.
“Helper” wouldn’t have been my choice – why shouldn’t he be MY helper? Now days I almost gag at the thought! You see, I really am growing to be comfortable in my skin, and being a submissive wife is part of that.
Within the boundaries of submission, I find confidence in just being the person God is creating me to be, in the talents and gifts and roles He has given me even as I pursue knowing Him and trusting Him day by day. I fully extend my arms in praise and worship to the God who made me, designed me and suited me to a purpose.
If you would like to see the recurrent theme of submission throughout the bible, here are a few scriptures to get started with:
Genesis 2:18 Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him."
Genesis 3:16 To the woman He said,
"I will greatly multiply
Your pain in childbirth,
In pain you will bring forth children;
Yet your desire will be for your husband,
And he will rule over you."
All of Numbers, chapter 30, speaks to the issue of authority – whether to a father or to a husband… because in Old Testament times, vows to God were binding – yet God clearly places submission to authority on a higher level than even vows to God, by saying that the vows of women are subject to father or husband. The chapter says that if her husband or father annuls her vow by forbidding her, God will forgive her. But the grave responsibility the man bears for this is shown in verse 15 - "But if he indeed annuls them after he has heard them, then he shall bear her guilt."
Truly, what a tremendous responsibility the man bears as head of household! The role of submission is not an easy one, but neither is his an easy role, and he is accountable for it before God. I find compassion in knowing that, and also a reminder of my own very necessary responsibility to pray for him.
So today, after more than 30 years of marriage, I am still learning to value my husband along with his roles and my roles, and to trust that our Savior, God and Friend always has a plan.
If you would like to read some stories on the theme of submission by other bloggers, I invite you to visit Patty Wysong at
Patterings, find Monday, Dec 8, and follow the trail from there...
Job 42:1-2 Then Job answered the LORD and said, "I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.
[ALL SCRIPTURES NASB]
Friday, December 5, 2008
Martha, Let Go of the Tablecloth
Thanks to Patty Wysong at Patterings for Fiction Friday - here is my entry - a play I wrote sometime ago...
A Christmas Play - Martha, Let Go of the Tablecloth
The Characters:
Samantha, the mother
Darrel, the father
Caitlin, the 13-year-old
Jeremy, the 5-year-old
Jesus – the usually silent, white-robed figure, standing in the background of every scene
The Story: It’s almost Christmas! Samantha is focusing on all the cleaning, cooking and decorating with her usual style of frantic over-achievement. In the midst of the chaos, 5-year-old Jeremy asks a pertinent question – but is anyone listening?
(Scene 1)
Setting: Our story opens in the living room. Samantha is multi-tasking. While talking on her cell phone, she is attempting to trim the tree, wrap some gifts and oversee the efforts of the children, who are impeding, helping or otherwise entertaining themselves.
Samantha: “Carol, have you seen Brenda since – well, you know… yes, mmm-hmmm.” [She briefly interrupts her phone call.] “Jeremy, don’t play with the nativity set,” “Oh yes, I know! I saw her at church on Sunday, and she said the same thing! Isn’t it awful? Jeremy! Stop and put the baby, Jesus, back in the manger. No, I’m still here, Carol. By the way, what are you planning for Christmas dinner? I still can’t make up my mind. The problem is my Aunt Bertha. She always makes that casserole with green beans, and really, what does that go with? It’s so … outdated!” [She laughs.] “Caitlin, please help me with your brother! He shouldn’t be playing with the nativity set, it’s too fragile, and I am trying to have a conversation here!” [She hangs another ornament on the tree. Caitlin appears not to hear, and Samantha goes on with her phone conversation.] “Carol, did I tell you about the tablecloth I’m going to make for Christmas dinner? No? Oh, it’s going to be beautiful! I found the most gorgeous red and green linen fabric at Sews-a-Lot! And I had this great idea for the napkins - I’m going to make them look like angels – well, it’s hard to explain, but it will be so pretty!”
Caitlin: “Mom, do you think Dad will like the present I got for him?” [She is sitting on the floor with wrapping paper and a gift in front of her.]
Samantha: “Of course he will like it, dear! Carol, are you having relatives over for Christmas? Oh, you’re going there? How lucky not to have to do all this cleaning and decorating - oh, I know! Jeremy, put that back, and this time I mean it!”
Jeremy: “Mom!” [He stops playing and carries the baby Jesus over to stand by his preoccupied mother.] “Mommy, is Jesus still a baby?” [He pats her to get her attention.]
Caitlin: “Mom!” [Spoken a bit louder than last time.] “Do you think Dad will like this?”
Samantha: “Of course he will like it, dear!”
Caitlin: “How do you know he will like it? You haven’t even looked, and you don’t know what it is!” [Caitlin puts the gift behind her back in a challenging manner.] “Hmm, Mom, how do you know he’ll like it if you don’t know what it is?”
Jeremy: “Mo-o-omm, is Jesus still a baby? Tell me!” [He pats her harder now.]
Samantha: “Carol I can’t get a moment’s quiet around here. I’m going to have to call you back – maybe when the kids are, say, eighteen? I hear they’re either out of the house or glued to the computer in their rooms by then! Ha ha! Okay, see you then!” [Samantha clicks off the cell phone, then gently but firmly takes the baby Jesus from Jeremy and puts it back in the manger.]
Samantha: “It’s not a toy, sweetheart, if you play with it, it might break, so let’s just leave it in the manger. Caitlin, let me see what you got for your dad – yes, he will definitely like that. What is it?” [She looks slightly mystified, but only for a moment as the phone still in her hand rings and she answers and begins a conversation with Aunt Bertha.] “Oh, Aunt Bertha, it’s so nice of you to call. Yes, we are looking forward to your spending Christmas with us, too. No, it won’t be too much trouble at all! Oh, of course you can bring the green bean casserole. You know everyone is looking forward to that!”
Jeremy: “Mom, not green beans! I don’t like green beans! Tell her to bring chocolate cake! Mom, Becky at school says Jesus is only a baby and you can’t talk to Him. I told her you talk to Him. Is Jesus still a baby? Mom, Mom! Is Jesus still a baby?” [He starts patting to get her attention again.]
Caitlin: “Jesus still a baby!” [She laughs.] “Little brothers are so dumb!”
Jeremy: “I am not dumb. Girls are dumb! They talk all the time and they never answer any questions!” [He walks away from his mother with his arms folded resolutely.]
Samantha: “Oh dear! Aunt Bertha, I’m going to have to call you back – the kids apparently need some attention. Okay, mm-hmm. Okay, we’ll see you then.” [As she clicks the phone off and starts to focus on the children, she glances at her watch.] “Oh my gosh, do you see what time it is? Your father will be home soon and I haven’t even thought about what to fix for dinner yet.”
Caitlin and Jeremy in unison: “Yay, pizza, pizza!”
Samantha: “We can’t order pizza every night!”
Caitlin: “Oh, Mom! Why not?”
Jeremy: “Yeah, Mom! Why not?”
Samantha: “Because the food police will arrest me for being a bad mother. Come on, let’s go to the kitchen. Caitlin, we’ll make a nice salad and open a can of chicken or something. Jeremy, you can set the table for me.”
(Scene 2)
Setting: The kitchen. Samantha is in her robe, hair in curlers. She’s holding a large coffee mug in one hand and a bible in the other. Darrell is pulling boxes of cereal out of the cupboard. Caitlin and Jeremy are at the table, still in pajamas.
Samantha: “Can you all manage if I disappear for a few minutes? I really need to have my quiet time.”
Jeremy: “Mommy, are you going to talk to Jesus?”
Samantha: “Yes, dear, I’m going to talk to Jesus.” [She tousles his hair and pats Caitlin on the back.]
Jeremy: “Becky says you can’t talk to Jesus because He is still a baby.”
Darrell: “We’re fine, dear. Don’t take too long, though. I have to get to work early this morning.”
Samantha: “Okay.”
Caitlin: “Mom, I don’t want to wear the blue skirt this morning. I want the pink one I wore Monday.”
Samantha: “I washed it, dear, and it’s not ironed yet. We’ll see if there’s time to iron it before school.”
Caitlin: “You know there won’t be time, there’s never time for anything. We’ll be rushing out of here at the last minute, like always! This family is never on time. This family is whacko!”[Samantha starts to respond, but Darrell pushes her gently out the door.]
Darrell: “We’re fine, dear. She’ll wear the blue skirt. Go!
Caitlin: “Dad! I want the pink one!”
(Scene 3)
Setting: Samantha’s quiet room – a small back bedroom, a sometimes-guest room, reading room, sewing room, and the place Samantha chooses to spend her quiet time each day with God. Samantha is presently seated on a small sofa, bible in her lap. Jesus stands behind her.
Jesus: “Martha, Martha, Martha!”
Samantha: [quietly] “Is that you, Lord?” [She laughs slightly.] “Lord, You know my name’s not Martha. You know my name is Samantha.”
Jesus: “My child. I surely know you.” [No one speaks for awhile.]
Samantha: “Lord, I’m sorry for being so – detached from You. I know I said that yesterday, too. I know I’ve been distracted. It just seems like there’s so much to do, especially now – You know – with Christmas coming in just a few more days.” [She sighs.] “I know. It’s supposed to be all about You, a celebration of your being born as a baby here on this earth. And I keep making it all about cleaning and cooking and decorating.” [She pauses again. Jesus is silent.] “But Lord, You know all those people really are expecting dinner and – well, it is a special occasion, it has to be nice, and who is going to do all this stuff if I don’t? I really do wish some of these people would see I just can’t get it all done and they should help me. I do everything myself, all the time, and sometimes I just feel so tired of it!” [She pauses, almost sulking, and looks at her nails.] “And besides all that, I need a manicure and a pedicure and a facial! I mean, really, do I have to look like an absolute frump when everybody gets here?”
Jesus: “Martha, Martha, Martha!”
[Samantha pauses, sighs, and opens her bible, but she doesn’t read it long.] "Okay, Lord. I’m being a Martha. And I’m whining. And I’m not paying enough attention to what’s really important. But I’m here now. I’m trying to be Mary now.” [Another pause and sigh.] “Lord, I need your help.”
Jesus: “I will help you. Focus on what’s important.”
Samantha: “You’re important. I do love You, Lord.”
Jesus: “Why are you here, Samantha?”
Samantha: [After thinking.] “I’m here because I need You more than anything. And because I said I wanted to learn to listen to You. I want to hear Your voice. I want to know what’s on Your heart. And I need to give You the first of my day, because I need You with me all day long.”
Jesus: “I am with you always. And I’m glad that you seek Me early. People are on My heart. Listen to me, and learn to listen to people. Jeremy asked you a question.”
Samantha: “I heard him, Lord. He asked if you are still a baby.” [She laughs slightly.]
Jesus: “I want you to answer the question.”
Samantha: “Lord, he’s so young, and I hardly understand You myself! How somehow You are the very God who created the universe, and yet You came to earth as a baby, You lived and walked as God in the body of a man, and then You died for the sins of all mankind, and You rose again to live as God in heaven and yet You live in our hearts through the Holy Spirit – and You’re always everywhere all at the same time - how am I supposed to explain all this to a five-year-old?”
Jesus: “It’s important that you not ignore his questions about Me, Samantha. When you speak, I Myself will give you wisdom what to say. He will grow to understand. Remember, it’s not about man’s ability to perceive Me – it’s about My ability to reveal Myself. Let the little children come to Me.”
Samantha: “You’re right, I know. Of course You are, You’re always right.”
Darrell: [Calling from the kitchen.] “Sam, I have to go!”
Samantha: “Coming! I gotta go, Lord. Please be with me and help me today!” [She starts to exit.]
Jesus: “Martha!”
Samantha: “Uh-oh.” [She stops with her hand on the doorknob and stands, head down slightly, not moving, waiting.]
Jesus: “Martha, let go of the tablecloth.”
Samantha: “Oh, Lord, my beautiful tablecloth I want to make for Christmas dinner? But Lord, I already bought the material! It’s so pretty – and if I can make the napkins stand up and look like angels – won’t it be just the prettiest Christmas table you ever saw?” [Jesus doesn’t respond. She hesitates, before sighing and speaking.] “I know. I really don’t have extra time for sewing right now, do I?”
Jesus: “Let go of the tablecloth. It will give you time to talk to the Jeremy.”
Samantha: “I guess the green one I made last year will do. And I have that beautiful red and gold ribbon to use for napkin rings, it won’t take any time. Okay, Lord. I will talk to Jeremy instead of sewing my tablecloth tonight.”
Jesus: “Samantha, it’s about ‘worth.’ Talking to Jeremy is worth far more than having the tablecloth. Remember, I love you!”
Samantha: “I know You do, Lord. I trust You and I love You, too!”[She exits.]
THE END
A Christmas Play - Martha, Let Go of the Tablecloth
The Characters:
Samantha, the mother
Darrel, the father
Caitlin, the 13-year-old
Jeremy, the 5-year-old
Jesus – the usually silent, white-robed figure, standing in the background of every scene
The Story: It’s almost Christmas! Samantha is focusing on all the cleaning, cooking and decorating with her usual style of frantic over-achievement. In the midst of the chaos, 5-year-old Jeremy asks a pertinent question – but is anyone listening?
(Scene 1)
Setting: Our story opens in the living room. Samantha is multi-tasking. While talking on her cell phone, she is attempting to trim the tree, wrap some gifts and oversee the efforts of the children, who are impeding, helping or otherwise entertaining themselves.
Samantha: “Carol, have you seen Brenda since – well, you know… yes, mmm-hmmm.” [She briefly interrupts her phone call.] “Jeremy, don’t play with the nativity set,” “Oh yes, I know! I saw her at church on Sunday, and she said the same thing! Isn’t it awful? Jeremy! Stop and put the baby, Jesus, back in the manger. No, I’m still here, Carol. By the way, what are you planning for Christmas dinner? I still can’t make up my mind. The problem is my Aunt Bertha. She always makes that casserole with green beans, and really, what does that go with? It’s so … outdated!” [She laughs.] “Caitlin, please help me with your brother! He shouldn’t be playing with the nativity set, it’s too fragile, and I am trying to have a conversation here!” [She hangs another ornament on the tree. Caitlin appears not to hear, and Samantha goes on with her phone conversation.] “Carol, did I tell you about the tablecloth I’m going to make for Christmas dinner? No? Oh, it’s going to be beautiful! I found the most gorgeous red and green linen fabric at Sews-a-Lot! And I had this great idea for the napkins - I’m going to make them look like angels – well, it’s hard to explain, but it will be so pretty!”
Caitlin: “Mom, do you think Dad will like the present I got for him?” [She is sitting on the floor with wrapping paper and a gift in front of her.]
Samantha: “Of course he will like it, dear! Carol, are you having relatives over for Christmas? Oh, you’re going there? How lucky not to have to do all this cleaning and decorating - oh, I know! Jeremy, put that back, and this time I mean it!”
Jeremy: “Mom!” [He stops playing and carries the baby Jesus over to stand by his preoccupied mother.] “Mommy, is Jesus still a baby?” [He pats her to get her attention.]
Caitlin: “Mom!” [Spoken a bit louder than last time.] “Do you think Dad will like this?”
Samantha: “Of course he will like it, dear!”
Caitlin: “How do you know he will like it? You haven’t even looked, and you don’t know what it is!” [Caitlin puts the gift behind her back in a challenging manner.] “Hmm, Mom, how do you know he’ll like it if you don’t know what it is?”
Jeremy: “Mo-o-omm, is Jesus still a baby? Tell me!” [He pats her harder now.]
Samantha: “Carol I can’t get a moment’s quiet around here. I’m going to have to call you back – maybe when the kids are, say, eighteen? I hear they’re either out of the house or glued to the computer in their rooms by then! Ha ha! Okay, see you then!” [Samantha clicks off the cell phone, then gently but firmly takes the baby Jesus from Jeremy and puts it back in the manger.]
Samantha: “It’s not a toy, sweetheart, if you play with it, it might break, so let’s just leave it in the manger. Caitlin, let me see what you got for your dad – yes, he will definitely like that. What is it?” [She looks slightly mystified, but only for a moment as the phone still in her hand rings and she answers and begins a conversation with Aunt Bertha.] “Oh, Aunt Bertha, it’s so nice of you to call. Yes, we are looking forward to your spending Christmas with us, too. No, it won’t be too much trouble at all! Oh, of course you can bring the green bean casserole. You know everyone is looking forward to that!”
Jeremy: “Mom, not green beans! I don’t like green beans! Tell her to bring chocolate cake! Mom, Becky at school says Jesus is only a baby and you can’t talk to Him. I told her you talk to Him. Is Jesus still a baby? Mom, Mom! Is Jesus still a baby?” [He starts patting to get her attention again.]
Caitlin: “Jesus still a baby!” [She laughs.] “Little brothers are so dumb!”
Jeremy: “I am not dumb. Girls are dumb! They talk all the time and they never answer any questions!” [He walks away from his mother with his arms folded resolutely.]
Samantha: “Oh dear! Aunt Bertha, I’m going to have to call you back – the kids apparently need some attention. Okay, mm-hmm. Okay, we’ll see you then.” [As she clicks the phone off and starts to focus on the children, she glances at her watch.] “Oh my gosh, do you see what time it is? Your father will be home soon and I haven’t even thought about what to fix for dinner yet.”
Caitlin and Jeremy in unison: “Yay, pizza, pizza!”
Samantha: “We can’t order pizza every night!”
Caitlin: “Oh, Mom! Why not?”
Jeremy: “Yeah, Mom! Why not?”
Samantha: “Because the food police will arrest me for being a bad mother. Come on, let’s go to the kitchen. Caitlin, we’ll make a nice salad and open a can of chicken or something. Jeremy, you can set the table for me.”
(Scene 2)
Setting: The kitchen. Samantha is in her robe, hair in curlers. She’s holding a large coffee mug in one hand and a bible in the other. Darrell is pulling boxes of cereal out of the cupboard. Caitlin and Jeremy are at the table, still in pajamas.
Samantha: “Can you all manage if I disappear for a few minutes? I really need to have my quiet time.”
Jeremy: “Mommy, are you going to talk to Jesus?”
Samantha: “Yes, dear, I’m going to talk to Jesus.” [She tousles his hair and pats Caitlin on the back.]
Jeremy: “Becky says you can’t talk to Jesus because He is still a baby.”
Darrell: “We’re fine, dear. Don’t take too long, though. I have to get to work early this morning.”
Samantha: “Okay.”
Caitlin: “Mom, I don’t want to wear the blue skirt this morning. I want the pink one I wore Monday.”
Samantha: “I washed it, dear, and it’s not ironed yet. We’ll see if there’s time to iron it before school.”
Caitlin: “You know there won’t be time, there’s never time for anything. We’ll be rushing out of here at the last minute, like always! This family is never on time. This family is whacko!”[Samantha starts to respond, but Darrell pushes her gently out the door.]
Darrell: “We’re fine, dear. She’ll wear the blue skirt. Go!
Caitlin: “Dad! I want the pink one!”
(Scene 3)
Setting: Samantha’s quiet room – a small back bedroom, a sometimes-guest room, reading room, sewing room, and the place Samantha chooses to spend her quiet time each day with God. Samantha is presently seated on a small sofa, bible in her lap. Jesus stands behind her.
Jesus: “Martha, Martha, Martha!”
Samantha: [quietly] “Is that you, Lord?” [She laughs slightly.] “Lord, You know my name’s not Martha. You know my name is Samantha.”
Jesus: “My child. I surely know you.” [No one speaks for awhile.]
Samantha: “Lord, I’m sorry for being so – detached from You. I know I said that yesterday, too. I know I’ve been distracted. It just seems like there’s so much to do, especially now – You know – with Christmas coming in just a few more days.” [She sighs.] “I know. It’s supposed to be all about You, a celebration of your being born as a baby here on this earth. And I keep making it all about cleaning and cooking and decorating.” [She pauses again. Jesus is silent.] “But Lord, You know all those people really are expecting dinner and – well, it is a special occasion, it has to be nice, and who is going to do all this stuff if I don’t? I really do wish some of these people would see I just can’t get it all done and they should help me. I do everything myself, all the time, and sometimes I just feel so tired of it!” [She pauses, almost sulking, and looks at her nails.] “And besides all that, I need a manicure and a pedicure and a facial! I mean, really, do I have to look like an absolute frump when everybody gets here?”
Jesus: “Martha, Martha, Martha!”
[Samantha pauses, sighs, and opens her bible, but she doesn’t read it long.] "Okay, Lord. I’m being a Martha. And I’m whining. And I’m not paying enough attention to what’s really important. But I’m here now. I’m trying to be Mary now.” [Another pause and sigh.] “Lord, I need your help.”
Jesus: “I will help you. Focus on what’s important.”
Samantha: “You’re important. I do love You, Lord.”
Jesus: “Why are you here, Samantha?”
Samantha: [After thinking.] “I’m here because I need You more than anything. And because I said I wanted to learn to listen to You. I want to hear Your voice. I want to know what’s on Your heart. And I need to give You the first of my day, because I need You with me all day long.”
Jesus: “I am with you always. And I’m glad that you seek Me early. People are on My heart. Listen to me, and learn to listen to people. Jeremy asked you a question.”
Samantha: “I heard him, Lord. He asked if you are still a baby.” [She laughs slightly.]
Jesus: “I want you to answer the question.”
Samantha: “Lord, he’s so young, and I hardly understand You myself! How somehow You are the very God who created the universe, and yet You came to earth as a baby, You lived and walked as God in the body of a man, and then You died for the sins of all mankind, and You rose again to live as God in heaven and yet You live in our hearts through the Holy Spirit – and You’re always everywhere all at the same time - how am I supposed to explain all this to a five-year-old?”
Jesus: “It’s important that you not ignore his questions about Me, Samantha. When you speak, I Myself will give you wisdom what to say. He will grow to understand. Remember, it’s not about man’s ability to perceive Me – it’s about My ability to reveal Myself. Let the little children come to Me.”
Samantha: “You’re right, I know. Of course You are, You’re always right.”
Darrell: [Calling from the kitchen.] “Sam, I have to go!”
Samantha: “Coming! I gotta go, Lord. Please be with me and help me today!” [She starts to exit.]
Jesus: “Martha!”
Samantha: “Uh-oh.” [She stops with her hand on the doorknob and stands, head down slightly, not moving, waiting.]
Jesus: “Martha, let go of the tablecloth.”
Samantha: “Oh, Lord, my beautiful tablecloth I want to make for Christmas dinner? But Lord, I already bought the material! It’s so pretty – and if I can make the napkins stand up and look like angels – won’t it be just the prettiest Christmas table you ever saw?” [Jesus doesn’t respond. She hesitates, before sighing and speaking.] “I know. I really don’t have extra time for sewing right now, do I?”
Jesus: “Let go of the tablecloth. It will give you time to talk to the Jeremy.”
Samantha: “I guess the green one I made last year will do. And I have that beautiful red and gold ribbon to use for napkin rings, it won’t take any time. Okay, Lord. I will talk to Jeremy instead of sewing my tablecloth tonight.”
Jesus: “Samantha, it’s about ‘worth.’ Talking to Jeremy is worth far more than having the tablecloth. Remember, I love you!”
Samantha: “I know You do, Lord. I trust You and I love You, too!”[She exits.]
THE END
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
God Had a Plan, Daniel was Exhausted
God had a plan. Daniel was exhausted. He’d been fasting for three weeks. As soon as the certain man dressed in linen with a belt of pure gold began to speak, he fell on his face in the dirt – asleep! Truthfully, he may have even fainted from fear. I tend to think any of us would react in a way similar to the way Daniel reacted. God certainly has not chosen us on the basis of our strength, our courage, even our ability to remain alert.
This man dressed in linen is sent forth by God to reveal the very secrets of God to Daniel, mere human being on the earth. And there Daniel is, face planted in the dirt. Imagine the one dressed in linen saying, “Hey Lord, Daniel’s tired. How ‘bout I go find someone else who’s at least awake to tell the vision to?” And imagine God replying, “Okay. Do that.” Of course that’s not what happened. That man dressed in linen woke Daniel up and stood him on his trembling feet.
You know, even Jesus Himself, in the garden of Gethsemane, had to be strengthened by an angel for God’s plan. And Jesus was strengthened for the plan of the Father because Jesus never was in pursuit of His own goals and personal happiness. He sought only the will of the Father, from start to finish.
Daniel, a man full of faith in God, was favored by God, and God pursued His plan through Daniel, not being set back by the mere mortal’s weakness. He was God’s chosen vessel for a message and a vision, and God always does what He says He will do.
Daniel 10:5-19
I lifted my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a certain man dressed in linen, whose waist was girded with a belt of pure gold of Uphaz.
His body also was like beryl, his face had the appearance of lightning, his eyes were like flaming torches, his arms and feet like the gleam of polished bronze, and the sound of his words like the sound of a tumult.
Now I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, while the men who were with me did not see the vision; nevertheless, a great dread fell on them, and they ran away to hide themselves.
So I was left alone and saw this great vision; yet no strength was left in me, for my natural color turned to a deathly pallor, and I retained no strength.
But I heard the sound of his words; and as soon as I heard the sound of his words, I fell into a deep sleep on my face, with my face to the ground.
Then behold, a hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees.
He said to me, "O Daniel, man of high esteem, understand the words that I am about to tell you and stand upright, for I have now been sent to you " And when he had spoken this word to me, I stood up trembling.
Then he said to me, "Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to your words.
"But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was withstanding me for twenty-one days; then behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia.
"Now I have come to give you an understanding of what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision pertains to the days yet future."
When he had spoken to me according to these words, I turned my face toward the ground and became speechless.
And behold, one who resembled a human being was touching my lips; then I opened my mouth and spoke and said to him who was standing before me, "O my lord, as a result of the vision anguish has come upon me, and I have retained no strength.
"For how can such a servant of my lord talk with such as my lord? As for me, there remains just now no strength in me, nor has any breath been left in me."
Then this one with human appearance touched me again and strengthened me.
He said, "O man of high esteem, do not be afraid Peace be with you; take courage and be courageous!" Now as soon as he spoke to me, I received strength and said, "May my lord speak, for you have strengthened me."
Job 42:1-2
Then Job answered the LORD and said, "I know that You can do all things,
And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.
[ALL SCRIPTURES NASB]
This man dressed in linen is sent forth by God to reveal the very secrets of God to Daniel, mere human being on the earth. And there Daniel is, face planted in the dirt. Imagine the one dressed in linen saying, “Hey Lord, Daniel’s tired. How ‘bout I go find someone else who’s at least awake to tell the vision to?” And imagine God replying, “Okay. Do that.” Of course that’s not what happened. That man dressed in linen woke Daniel up and stood him on his trembling feet.
You know, even Jesus Himself, in the garden of Gethsemane, had to be strengthened by an angel for God’s plan. And Jesus was strengthened for the plan of the Father because Jesus never was in pursuit of His own goals and personal happiness. He sought only the will of the Father, from start to finish.
Daniel, a man full of faith in God, was favored by God, and God pursued His plan through Daniel, not being set back by the mere mortal’s weakness. He was God’s chosen vessel for a message and a vision, and God always does what He says He will do.
Daniel 10:5-19
I lifted my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a certain man dressed in linen, whose waist was girded with a belt of pure gold of Uphaz.
His body also was like beryl, his face had the appearance of lightning, his eyes were like flaming torches, his arms and feet like the gleam of polished bronze, and the sound of his words like the sound of a tumult.
Now I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, while the men who were with me did not see the vision; nevertheless, a great dread fell on them, and they ran away to hide themselves.
So I was left alone and saw this great vision; yet no strength was left in me, for my natural color turned to a deathly pallor, and I retained no strength.
But I heard the sound of his words; and as soon as I heard the sound of his words, I fell into a deep sleep on my face, with my face to the ground.
Then behold, a hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees.
He said to me, "O Daniel, man of high esteem, understand the words that I am about to tell you and stand upright, for I have now been sent to you " And when he had spoken this word to me, I stood up trembling.
Then he said to me, "Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to your words.
"But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was withstanding me for twenty-one days; then behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia.
"Now I have come to give you an understanding of what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision pertains to the days yet future."
When he had spoken to me according to these words, I turned my face toward the ground and became speechless.
And behold, one who resembled a human being was touching my lips; then I opened my mouth and spoke and said to him who was standing before me, "O my lord, as a result of the vision anguish has come upon me, and I have retained no strength.
"For how can such a servant of my lord talk with such as my lord? As for me, there remains just now no strength in me, nor has any breath been left in me."
Then this one with human appearance touched me again and strengthened me.
He said, "O man of high esteem, do not be afraid Peace be with you; take courage and be courageous!" Now as soon as he spoke to me, I received strength and said, "May my lord speak, for you have strengthened me."
Job 42:1-2
Then Job answered the LORD and said, "I know that You can do all things,
And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.
[ALL SCRIPTURES NASB]
Monday, December 1, 2008
The Sunrise
First there is the simple beauty of it – a strip of glowing, brilliant color along the eastern horizon. Then the colors dim and fade even as the sky grows brighter with light, the source of which cannot yet be seen. Waiting and watching, waiting and watching. Now it’s almost like full day light. The horizon glows softly, yet still the source of that light cannot be seen. It seems to take a very long time, this sunrise I observe.I am reminded that at times we begin to feel like the return of Jesus never will actually happen, just as this sunrise seems to take forever. Yet no matter how it feels, the sun eventually does complete its rising and peak over the horizon, right at its appointed time. And no matter how it feels, Jesus said He would return, and He will – right at the appointed time.
If you look back through time and scripture, you will find the evidence that God always does what He says He will do. Keep waiting and watching.
Luke 21:27-28
"Then they will see THE SON OF MAN COMING IN A CLOUD with power and great glory.
"But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
Acts 1:11
They also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven."
Matthew 24:36-39
"But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
Acts 1:11
They also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven."
Matthew 24:36-39
"But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone.
"For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah.
"For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark,
and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be.
"For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah.
"For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark,
and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be.
1 Peter 1:13
Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Psalm 19:1-6
The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, And night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; Their voice is not heard. Their line has gone out through all the earth, And their utterances to the end of the world In them He has placed a tent for the sun, Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber; It rejoices as a strong man to run his course. Its rising is from one end of the heavens, And its circuit to the other end of them; And there is nothing hidden from its heat.
(All scriptures: New American Standard Bible)
The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, And night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; Their voice is not heard. Their line has gone out through all the earth, And their utterances to the end of the world In them He has placed a tent for the sun, Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber; It rejoices as a strong man to run his course. Its rising is from one end of the heavens, And its circuit to the other end of them; And there is nothing hidden from its heat.
(All scriptures: New American Standard Bible)
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