Thursday, September 11, 2008

Justice

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!  Once again it was so cloudy when I stepped outside this morning, that no stars or moon were visible. Until Ike moves out of the area, I think this will be the norm for the a day or two.

Yesterday, I walked to the first nest and saw fresh tracks in the underbrush, and looked out to the huge mound, and saw what looked like broken egg shells on it, but no sign of babies or big mom. Mark, one of the staff, told me that they had hatched out and were all clinging to the nest, but I didn't have my binocs with me, so didn't get to see them.

None were visible at the second nest, either, so I went on to see Mama gator and her babies. The babies were scattered yesterday, with two at the base of the nest by themselves and nine clustered together some distance away, under a fern covering. I really had to look to see them, and while I was standing there, a butterfly fluttered between my feet! Cool! No sign of Mama, though. She must have been on a break, or under the boardwalk. God is Awesome!

Well, we went to the retirement party at War Vet's Park, and found the proceedings were moved from the "point" which is on the water, to inland #4 shelter. The wind was blowing and the tide was up, so the "point" had water coming up. There was lots of good food, and just about every park worker in the county was there, so it was a noisy, good time. We sat at Terry's table and chatted with Gail, over the din. Sigh. The parks will really be different when Oct. first comes around.

From the Promise Bible NLT:

What can I do when I suffer injustice?

Romans 12:17-19 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible. Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God. For it is written, "I will take vengeance,; I will repay those who deserve it,"says the Lord.

Proverbs 20:22 Don't say, "I will get even for this wrong." Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.

God teaches us to respond differently to injustice than the world does. Vengeance and retribution are the way of the world. God teaches us to trust in him and allow him to settle the score.

How can I respond to persecution?

Matthew 5:11-12 God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.

2 Thessalonians 1:3-6 God will use this persecution to show his justice. For he will make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering, and in his justice he will punish those who persecute you.

Persecution is part of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. God blesses those who bear dishonor and hardship for his sake.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis