What do You Want for Christmas?

 

 

The two questions I get asked every year after year after year:  "What do you want for your birthday and what do you want for Christmas?"

I know it irritated my kids when I would offer up the same reply every year, to each of these questions—-a clean house and peace and quiet. I have everything materially that I need, and am more practical than materialistic, so as long as the things I have fulfill my basic needs — roof over my head, food in the cupboards, clean clothes, comfortable shoes, and reliable transportation, then I’m good. 

 

I don’t NEED designer handbags, expensive jewelry, or the latest in fashion trends. It’s not about the price tag or the name on the label. For me, it’s about what’s practical, and back then, with 3 kids, what was practical to me, was a clean house and peace and quiet.

  

But times have changed, and the kids have grown and so have I.  So this year, I have a different reply. What I really want for Christmas is still practical but it’s not a one-time, because it’s Christmas kind of thing. It’s an everyday, 365 day per year request.

What I want all year round is the following:

-I want you all to know happiness, joy, and peace. Take one day (There are several to choose from. God gave us 7 each week.) and do something just for you. Let go of all worry, anxiety, sadness, despair. I know it’s hard, but you can do it. Doing something for yourself doesn’t necessarily have to be extravagant or expensive. It could be just closing your eyes for a few minutes and letting your mind drift to a wonderful memory, image, or thought that calms, comforts, and brings a smile to your face. 

- Please stop worrying so much. The future is still going to come. Tomorrow comes after each day. We can shape our future through our decisions and choices, but we can’t stop it from coming, or any hidden curve balls that may be contained in it. Ask yourself, is this really going to matter 5 years from now? If the answer is “no”, then let it go. If the answer is “yes”, then write out your plan and stick to it. Determination and follow through are key. Trust me on this one. I know.

-Do one act of kindness each day for someone else. Even if you’re having a miserable, rotten day, just do it. You’ll feel much better, and guess what? You’re day just got a little less rotten. This doesn’t have to cost anything either. Hold a door open for someone, offer to help out with the workload if you are able, give a genuine (never forced or fake) and sincere compliment or word of praise. Of course, if you do have the means, offer to pay for coffee, lunch, or dinner. What may seem like a small act to you, may be a huge blessing to another.

 

 

-Make time for others who are alone. Not everyone has a spouse or special someone that they share their daily life with. Go and visit your single or widowed friends. Your spouse or partner will survive one morning, afternoon, or evening, out of the average 30-31 days every month, without you for a few hours, and your single friend (s) will be grateful for the time you spend with them. It is very hard, sad, and lonely when you come home to no other human day in and day out, go out to eat alone, go to a movie alone, go shopping alone, and pretty much do everything alone because everyone else is too busy to make any time for you. Trust me on this one too, as I know it all too well. 

- Reconcile your differences with each other. We all have different opinions, different perspectives, different beliefs. Don’t let them destroy your relationships. Refer back to the 5-year rule. Is this all going to matter 5 years from now? Think about it. 

- Make a bucket list and do one thing on it each year. Take the risk. Do it. It’s not just a cliché, you really do only live once. 

- Learn something new every day. It’s amazing who your teacher will be—a parent, a close friend, a colleague, a small child, an elderly senior, a stranger in line at the store, the homeless person sitting on the corner, or your own enemies??? Yes, we can learn much in how not to behave from them.  

 

-Please put away the phone when listening to or spending time with each other. Be present for each other. 

 

- Write and send someone (yes, good old-fashioned snail mail) a heart-felt letter. It’s a beautiful and meaningful surprise for the recipient. Much more so than store bought items or gift cards, and will only run you the cost of a postage stamp.

 

- Pray. Pray in corporate worship. Pray together. Pray alone. There is much power in your prayers.
- Laugh, dance, and sing every moment you can. It’s ok if you have “2 left feet” or sing off tune. So what? Enjoy the moment.

-Parents: the work world will still be there in the morning. Pay attention to and lend that time to your children, for the time WILL come, when it’s not “cool” to hang out with your parents and friends tend take first place. It comes way too fast.

- Children (no matter your age): make time for and always respect your parents. They love and adore you and appreciate your time—even if it’s just a phone call. Strained relationship with your parent? Never stop trying. Reach out and let them know you are still there for them. Very difficult, I know, but be the bigger person and at least make the effort.
-Lastly, I want you to know that you are loved, you are worthy, and you are beautiful. You are welcome to visit, raid the fridge, vent, and call me any time (yes, ANYTIME) day or night. I will be here waiting. 
THIS is what I want not just for Christmas, but every day. For, if we can draw a little closer as family and friends and practice good will towards others at Christmas time, then we can do it at any other time as well. Why only one time per year? Christmas is for everyone, every day. It’s truly not about the tinsel, the lights, the expensive gifts or toys, the big table-filled dinner, or the how much one gets. It’s oh, so much more.
Wishing you all a happy, healthy life filled with blessings and joy, now and each and every day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holy Land Visit

Lessons learned while in the Holy Land:

-It is true that a Mediterranean diet and exercise is good for you. (Many people gain weight on vacation. I lost 7 pounds).

-Despite eating grilled vegetables, chicken, fish, and hummus nearly every day, I still like these foods.

-Israel in September is just about as hot as Sacramento in July. Some places, like Nazareth, are very humid, and others, like Masada, are very dry --all depends on how close to the Mediterranean Sea or the desert you are.

- When traveling internationally, you will go through so many security checks that you will most likely qualify for a position within the FBI.

-A good hat, sun screen, moisturizer, a cheap little fan to plug into your phone, and LOTS of water, will most certainly be your new best friends.

-If you were out of shape before going to Israel, you will be in much better physical condition when you leave. (There will be much daily climbing up and down very steep steps and slopes, and lots, and lots, of walking and sweating in the heat.)

Some people can be very aggressive, rude, and well, to be honest, annoying. Being on a tour, you're stuck with 40 plus other people, and you must be able to put up with such behavior. There is a reason why much of the world sees us as "Spoiled Americans."

We have become accustomed to convenience and having a wide variety of foods and comforts at our fingertips. When traveling to another country, one needs to be aware of the local foods, landscapes, climate, and culture, and honor and respect that--not gripe about it the whole trip. Forgive them Lord, for they are just people and know not what they do.

-Pretty much everything you've heard about the Dead Sea is true. It has an extremely high salt and mineral content, and it leaves your skin feeling amazing. The water and the mud are very healing.

-The history and the biblical significance of each holy and ancient site is incredible, but words don't do justice for the feeling and presence of both Spirit and spirit in these places. Some are dark and negative, some very solemn, some joyous, but all having a deeply, profound effect on each individual.

-What you have heard or seen on TV about the Middle East is only partly true. Yes, there is still conflict there, and there may always be conflict there until the end of time.

 Yes, terrorism exists, but these are the extremists, and there are evil people of all races, faiths, and cultures. Open your history books. The people I encountered in both Israel and Jordan were just ordinary people like you and me--living their lives, going to school, going to work, and caring for their families. They were very friendly and welcoming, and at no point was I ever afraid.

-A few personal experiences:
-- I am not the same person I was years ago, and I am grateful for that. I am continuing to grow every day.

-- We must take the time every day to be still and listen. That small voice that speaks to you is an important message from God. Listen to it. For His voice only has your best interest at heart and He will NEVER steer you wrong.

-- My life is not my own. No matter how much or how often I try to take matters into my own hands, it's still His will--not mine.

-- I am still on the right path both in my faith journey and in the mundane world.
-- All of God's children are beautiful and worthy of love despite the sin, lifestyle choices, and character flaws.

-- There is life outside of work, and difficult as it may be, you need to make the time for yourself. Work will always be there. Your life won't. Live life to the fullest, keep checking things of your bucket list, and stop talking it so seriously. Spend time alone, time with family, and time with friends who are also family. Frown less, smile more, and seize every moment to enjoy a good, hearty laugh.

-- Don't take everything so personally. This is another difficult area.
--People are just that--people. Some are better than others in the way they treat themselves and others, and some are genuine while others are not. People will say hurtful words, do hurtful things, and will abuse the good qualities you harbor.

People will also care for and love you deeply even if they don't say it aloud or show it much, they still do. Forgive those that hurt you, never stop loving those who love you, and keep moving forward with God.

-- Although I have said this before, it still holds true. I really am blessed with the greatest of family. I have no friends, for the non-biological folks are all family too, and I love you all.

-- Don't go to Holy sites anywhere in the world and expect to see, with your eyes, Jesus. Just like 3 days after being in the tomb, He's not there. He has risen, and is everywhere--within and without (all about) you.  Instead, see with your heart and soul.

-- And lastly but most importantly;

I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVES  !!

 

Sunday Sermon at Open Door Church 5/28/17

Jesus Offers us a Banqueting Table of Love

 

This Sunday's sermon was delivered by Roger Joyner, who spoke about bringing down drug culture in our society.  

Roger spoke about how God has spread a banquet before us. A banquet of love and mercy and salvation that we can take our fill of.  

He referenced the Song of Solomon 2:4 ,"Let him lead me to the banquet hall, and let his banner over me be love."  

He shared that while walking one day in San Francisco, he came across a man in Golden Gate Park, that was clearly, dealing with the effects of drug addiction. He asked the man if he could pray with him, and prophesied over him. The man wept, and asked what had just happened. Roger explained to him that he had just experienced a God moment, and that life for the man would be so much better, if he would continue to let God into his life.  

Roger stated that we must keep praying for God's presence--for a great feast of God to be spread out among the city and its people. We need to serve a "piping hot" testimony to others and let them see how God is working in your life. 

He also spoke about how he had recently traveled to 30 states in 45 days, and he was able to witness in various towns and cities in these states, that God is surely alive in our states and cities !!  People have begun turning back to God, and when you turn to God, He enlarges your heart.  

Roger asked us to seize the opportunities to spread the word of God to others. Everywhere you go, every step you take, you are leading a pathway to God.  

We learn in 1Kings 18:24, "The god who answers by fire—he is God.” There is an appointment of fire for each of us, and we must present ourselves. 

Roger explained how, during the revolution that was taking place in the 1960's in San Francisco, young adults and teens turned away from their parents and away from God, and were easily led into a world of drugs, alcohol, sex.  They were filled with songs about rebelling against the government, against authority, and that promoted the use of drugs, alcohol, and sex as a means of achieving freedom from discipline and order.  

Many young people in this generation fell into this dark, subculture, and consequently, also fell into the world of alcoholism and drug addiction. A world, where nothing else matters, not even God. All that matters is how to get your next "high" and stay "high".

 

This became the accepted "norm" across the country, and despite many people turning back to God, there are still hundreds of thousands still caught up in the throes of addiction, who worship the temporary and sometimes fatal "high" they derive from this lifestyle.  

The time is now for those ravaged by drugs, alcohol, and part of a society that has turned its back on God, to come back to the feast at God's banquet table; back into the arms of Jesus.

Roger spoke about "The Sound 2017," a festival of God that is going to take place in San Francisco in July.  

It will take place at the Gerry Garcia Amphitheater and surrounding area. More information can be found at thesound2017.com. We will release the sound of worship and a new day for America.  

Unlike the 1960's, where people were lured into the depths of rebellion and addiction, this will be the start to a jubilee of God.  

The spirit of Elijah will be brought forth to answer: How long are you going to waiver between two opinions? 1Kings 18: 21 "Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions?"  

Malachi 4,5, and 6 all state, " The spirit of Elijah will come before the judgment day --back to our father, to our children."  

James 5:17, "Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years."

 

 by Laurie Moulton

 

Nahum Prophesies

This post is from Laurie's notes during the Bible Study at Open Door Church Sunday Morning.

 

 

 

This week's Sunday school lesson continued on the book of the prophet, Nahum, and the destruction of Nineveh. 

It was explained that Daniel, when addressing the captives in Babylon, was still alive at the time of Nahum's prophesy. These were times of great battles between the nations for control of power over the people and the land.

Each time the land was besieged, trees would be cut down, and the land would be deforested (a cause of desert waist-lands). In an effort to control the people further, taxes were levied on remaining fruit-bearing trees, causing  famine.

Famine, coupled with the deforestation, drew lions to this area, an area where lions do not typically live. Remember Daniel and the lion's den?

As we read from chapter 1 of Nahum, we learned that Nahum had foretold that trouble was about to befall Nineveh, but that God is good and a safe place of refuge in times of trouble.  We must always look to God.

 

Our teacher showed us a  map of the location of Nineveh and the areas surrounding it as well as a video of a re-creation of Nineveh as it would have been in the days of Nahum. Ninevah was built on the river Tigris. It had magnificent hanging gardens along its city walls, and its culture was very advanced, including having its own postal system. Reservoirs and irrigation systems were developed to control the flow of water in Ninevah. 

During this time, Nineveh was the capitol of Assyria. It was a city of great, lavish buildings and commerce.  Despite repenting for their wicked behavior (bloody and violent sieges on Northern territories, sexual promiscuity, worship of idols and false gods, and infant sacrifices) nearly a century earlier, when Job told of God's anger toward Nineveh, and God sparing them;  the atrocities and debauchery continued.

 

This time, God would deliver justice upon Nineveh through its ultimate destruction.  Also during this time, the  surrounding kingdoms of Akkad and Medes came together to plot to overthrow and take down Nineveh.

 

God was on their side, and they were very strategic in their plans.  A year into the campaign,  God revealed to Nahum what would happen to Nineveh. The water in the reservoirs was lowered and released into the Tigris River, causing a great flood to force open the gates of Nineveh and flood the city. Nahum had a vision of this , and wrote it down, " But with an overwhelming flood, he will make a complete end to his enemies."

The battles fought by the Assyrians, were not just battles of land conquest, but they were also battles against God.

 

The Assyrians tried to pit the power of the gods they worshipped, against the One, True, God of all.

Ephesians 6 :12 tells us, " For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil."

In Nahum 1:10, we see that that the people of Nineveh are tangled up in their own evil ways and drunk on their own power, and they have let it go to their heads.

 

We, ourselves, at times, also become consumed by circumstances, and so, they too are consumed.

 

The Assyrians would often enslave their own people. God allowed this, because they were sinners, bowing down to and worshipping false gods. God gave them a choice, a warning, if you will, during the days of Job: be careful which path you choose--life or death.

 

God said, the people of Nineveh were vile because of their choice to honor false gods and partake of disgusting and evil rituals in obeisance to them.

 

In Deuteronomy 23:21-23, it states, "If you make a vow to the Lord, your God, do not postpone fulfilling it; for the Lord, your God will surely require it of you, and you would incur guilt. But if you refrain from vowing, you will not incur guilt. Whatever your lips utter, you must diligently perform, just as you have freely vowed to the Lord your God with your own mouth.

 

When we make a vow to God, He expects us to keep it. The people of Nineveh made a vow to God, when Job told of God's anger toward them, and that their destruction would be brought about. They repented and vowed to stop their evil ways, and they were initially spared, however, they soon resorted back to their old ways, and God brought justice upon them, and Nineveh was ultimately destroyed.

What is there to be learned from all of this?

Be careful what you vow to the Lord. As He has kept His promises to you, so you, too, are expected to keep your promises to Him.

God is a great and loving Father. He will provide shelter in times of great trouble.

 

It is in times of chaos, loss, strife, and trouble, that we sometimes try to take matters into our own hands. Some turn to drugs, alcohol, over-eating, rioting, violence (power struggles), and promiscuity, etc. as a means of escape.

 

God does not stop us from doing these things, as we do them of our own free will. He allows us to experience the consequences of these actions as a reminder that we cannot find a permanent shelter in these things, these idols that falsely promise relief. 

 

We need to seek the refuge that is God, and find the stillness and peace in Him, until the storm passes.