Prayer: The Gate

Photo by Chrissy Oldham

Sometimes we go along not expecting too much.  You even hear people say to not expect much so you won’t be disappointed.  I heard the most wonderful story on Friday and I must share it with you as it involves miracles and expecting a lot.

I worked with Joe for 10 years and have known him for 25 years.  His wife Takiko, in her early 70’s recently had some severe medical problems.  She was in ICU for nearly 2 weeks.  Hospice has been there the day before as everyone felt all hope was lost.

Joe’s neighbor asked him if her prayer circle could go to the hospital and pray.  He said OK.    Well the prayer circle of 7 people went into ICU and prayed, and this woman spoke for the first time in a week and  said “Thank You”. She has continued to get better and stronger each day since.

Thank you God, for answered prayers and miracles!

Matthew 7:1 Do not judge so that you will not be judged.  7:2 For in the way you judge, you will be judge; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. 7:3 “Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

How quick we are to tell someone what they are doing wrong.  How quickly we become offended.

Allow us, Oh God, to look for the goodness and beauty instead of deficiencies in everyone we meet today.  Let us see each other as you see us.  Let us hold each other in respect and esteem.  Amen

Photo by Chrissy Oldham

Sometimes we become consumed with our differences.  I have allowed myself to be separated from God as well as be separated from other people by focusing on differences and shortcomings.  Somewhere on my journey I changed. I now believe when there is something large to overcome; we need to build a bridge.  Live and let live, build a bridge.

Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called,

4:2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love,

4:3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Most loving and amazing God, let us learn to do the things in this verse written by Paul 2000 years ago.  Let us learn to treat our fellow human beings with humility, and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love.  This world would be a different place if this could happen for even one day.  Guide us and give us grace and wisdom.  Amen

Photo by Chrissy Oldham

We each have an amazing ability.  That is to help another person see the beauty and wonder of themselves, and to be more than they thought possible.

Our thoughts and words and deeds flow from us.  You may think no one is listening, but our words do not fall void to the earth.  So whether is is a smile or a scowl; a criticism or an encouraging word, you have the power to contribute to the state of the world.  Use your power wisely.

Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Verse 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

Verse 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander along with every form of malice.

Verse 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Let us bring out the best in each other today.  Let us encourage each other. Let us bring inspiration and hope to all we meet.

Presents for You

My father used to tell me a story about someone who was new in heaven.  This person was getting a tour and a door was opened to a room filled with beautifully wrapped gifts.  When the person asked their guide about the gifts, the answer was they were hopes and dreams that people had given up just before they were to receive them.  Hold onto your faith.

Most Holy God,  The answers to prayers come in your perfect time. Yet, time seems like a tricky thing for some of us.  We all have hopes, dreams, and desires.  We all want to know there is a reason we are here.  We all want to  believe that the gifts and abilities you have given us can be useful.  We pray for hopes and dreams to be fulfilled.  Amen 

Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.