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! We have already had a few sprinkles, but now the wind is blowing and the puffy clouds are racing across the blue sky, and the sun is shining, so maybe no rain after all!
I went back out to Walmart yesterday to return the pillow I bought which was not satisfactory, picked up a few other things I had forgotten, and on the way back, I stopped in at the Park. I got out to walk a little bit, and saw Jill and Liz coming off the boardwalk. I stopped to look high up in the oak trees by the building, and discovered the hawks have another nest built. Saw and heard the anhinga perched on the maple stump...it almost seems to speak to the people who stop on the bridge to look at him. He has a peculiar caw for his call. Turtles were sunning on the bank of the weir again and a peacock was trying to ignore some people standing near talking. I think he hopes they are admiring him. :o)
It was after lunch time by then, so I went to Subway to get a chicken teriyaki sandwich and met up with Bud Brown! People I know are everywhere! God is good!
Since May is upon us and I won't be sending the email tomorrow, the following is a salute to May from an old Guideposts day planner;
A Prayer for May:
The rose is nature's gift of love,
And as I watch it bloom,
I marvel at the sweetness
of its delicate perfume.
My heart is filled with praise, Lord,
For this very special gift,
And the lesson that it teaches
When my spirit needs a lift...
It's a lesson that in spite of thorns,
The painful barbs of strife,
My faith can bloom as sweetly
Above the trials of life.
--Alice Joyce Davidson
In May as the earth comes to life with fresh color and new growth, God seems to be going oiut of His way to touch us with beauty and wonder, pouring an extra helping of blesssing into the world.
This month why not go out of your way and pour an extra helping of blessing into someone's life? Offer an extra portion of your time, money, concern or creativity. Jesus called bestowing such bonuses going two miles instead of one. He knew that being a two-miler makes the heart strong.
So, during May, grow strong in heart!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Ecclesiastes 4
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! It is a little cooler today, but we are supposed to be in the nineties this weekend. Officially. summer is not until June, but this is Florida!
When I went to the Park yesterday, I saw over a dozen black turtles flattened on the bank of the weir and the gator on the other side on the bank. The gopher tortoise was in his spot by the curve and the anhinga on the maple tree stump. All was peaceful. I drove on to Walmart and was pleasantly surprised by the wide aisles and sparkling clean floors! They must have a new manager or else have cut down on their merchandise. I did my walking from one end to the other and in between. Good exercise and not too crowded.
I saw the cutest thing in the yard yesterday. A baby squirrel was playing with a fairly long twig that had dropped from the tree. He was throwing it up, rolling on the ground tossing it, and leaping up in a ball, just like a kitten, playing with a toy. It put a smile on my face. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Ecclesiastes 5:9
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back to back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
5:12
People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much. But the rich are always worrying and seldom get a good night's sleep....
19
And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life--that is indeed a gift from God. People who do this rarely look with sorrow on the past, for God has given them reasons for joy.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I went to the Park yesterday, I saw over a dozen black turtles flattened on the bank of the weir and the gator on the other side on the bank. The gopher tortoise was in his spot by the curve and the anhinga on the maple tree stump. All was peaceful. I drove on to Walmart and was pleasantly surprised by the wide aisles and sparkling clean floors! They must have a new manager or else have cut down on their merchandise. I did my walking from one end to the other and in between. Good exercise and not too crowded.
I saw the cutest thing in the yard yesterday. A baby squirrel was playing with a fairly long twig that had dropped from the tree. He was throwing it up, rolling on the ground tossing it, and leaping up in a ball, just like a kitten, playing with a toy. It put a smile on my face. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Ecclesiastes 5:9
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back to back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
5:12
People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much. But the rich are always worrying and seldom get a good night's sleep....
19
And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life--that is indeed a gift from God. People who do this rarely look with sorrow on the past, for God has given them reasons for joy.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Words of truth from Matthew
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cool day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! This is probably the coolest weather we will have before summer, or so the weatherman says. It is in the sixties this morning, with a cool breeze blowing. That time of year when no heat or A/C is needed. Yay!
I had quite an outing yesterday...first to the church to pick up the agenda from the annual meeting that I missed, then to the park, where I saw the tree trimmers at work on the fallen maple tree. Also, the mowing crew was there doing their limited mowing and edging. I also saw a line up of turtles on a log drying out for a little bit. the water is very high from the storm, so everything is nice and swampy.
After I left the Park, I went out to the Mall, shopped for a little while at Dillard's and then to Peltz. By the time I got on the road again, I was hungry, so went to Subway for a teriyaki chicken sandwich and came home, pretty much exhausted! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Matthew 7:1-12
Stop judging other, and you will not be judged. For others will treat you as you treat them. Whatever measure you use in judging others, it will be used to measure how you are judged. And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, "Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye," when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye.
Don't give what is holy to unholy people. Don't give pearls to swine! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you.
Effective Prayer
Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks. You parents--if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had quite an outing yesterday...first to the church to pick up the agenda from the annual meeting that I missed, then to the park, where I saw the tree trimmers at work on the fallen maple tree. Also, the mowing crew was there doing their limited mowing and edging. I also saw a line up of turtles on a log drying out for a little bit. the water is very high from the storm, so everything is nice and swampy.
After I left the Park, I went out to the Mall, shopped for a little while at Dillard's and then to Peltz. By the time I got on the road again, I was hungry, so went to Subway for a teriyaki chicken sandwich and came home, pretty much exhausted! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Matthew 7:1-12
Stop judging other, and you will not be judged. For others will treat you as you treat them. Whatever measure you use in judging others, it will be used to measure how you are judged. And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, "Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye," when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye.
Don't give what is holy to unholy people. Don't give pearls to swine! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you.
Effective Prayer
Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks. You parents--if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Galatians and Ephesians
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! When I stepped outside this morning in the pre-dawn light, my eye caught a glimpse of something red in the oak tree, then I heard the faint "chip, chip" of the cardinal, singing his early morning song. A spot of beauty amidst all the green and gray!
Speaking of the trees, Mike came early and not only removed the hanging large branch, but also removed a lot of other dead wood and cleaned up the yard, blew everything off and stuffed it all in the dumpster. Don't know how he got it all in there, but it is gone now! God has blessed me with many friends and I am so grateful!
When I went to the park yesterday, I saw that a big maple tree was down between the building and the picnic shelter. The wind probably did more damage back in the hammock, but rain and wind don't seem to bother the squirrels. They are still scampering all over the roads, and chasing each other up, down, and all around our oak trees. They seem to have a lot of fun, while on the never ceasing hunt for acorns, toadstools and whatever else they can eat. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Galatians 6:9, Remember that you can't ignore God and get away with it. You will always reap what you sow! Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful desires will harvest the consequences of decay and death. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time. Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone, especially to our Christian brothers and sisters.
Ephesians 1:10 God's secret plan has now been revealed to us; it is a plan centered on Christ, designed long ago according to his good pleasure. And this is his plan. At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ--everything in heaven and on earth. Furthermore, because of Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us from the beginning and all things happen just as he decided long ago.
I always give thanks for you,. remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Speaking of the trees, Mike came early and not only removed the hanging large branch, but also removed a lot of other dead wood and cleaned up the yard, blew everything off and stuffed it all in the dumpster. Don't know how he got it all in there, but it is gone now! God has blessed me with many friends and I am so grateful!
When I went to the park yesterday, I saw that a big maple tree was down between the building and the picnic shelter. The wind probably did more damage back in the hammock, but rain and wind don't seem to bother the squirrels. They are still scampering all over the roads, and chasing each other up, down, and all around our oak trees. They seem to have a lot of fun, while on the never ceasing hunt for acorns, toadstools and whatever else they can eat. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Galatians 6:9, Remember that you can't ignore God and get away with it. You will always reap what you sow! Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful desires will harvest the consequences of decay and death. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time. Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone, especially to our Christian brothers and sisters.
Ephesians 1:10 God's secret plan has now been revealed to us; it is a plan centered on Christ, designed long ago according to his good pleasure. And this is his plan. At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ--everything in heaven and on earth. Furthermore, because of Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us from the beginning and all things happen just as he decided long ago.
I always give thanks for you,. remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, April 26, 2010
His Love
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! And it is a good morning, after the storms last night! Thankfully, we were spared any damage and no tornados. I am waiting for my friend, Mike, to come an remove a dead limb that is hanging precariously over the driveway. I am calling the tree trimmers to come and thin out the oaks and remove deadwood, because when hurricane season gets here, I won't have to worry about the trees. Storms with a lot of wind always break off smaller dead wood from the trees, which I already picked up.
I hear squirrels running across the roof as I type, so they must hunker down in the branches during a storm, because they are all over the yard this morning. God takes care of even the littlest creatures.
I went to the park after church yesterday, but the wind was already blowing and my arthritic foot was bothering me, so i just enjoyed the green trees and shrubs and saw the anhinga on the maple stump and turtles sunning on the bank of the weir. God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
(I have always enjoyed the music that Bill and Gloria Gaither have written. Here are the words to one of Gloria's songs. We sang this many years ago in the choir from a cantata.) If you know the melody sing it in your mind. :o)
His Love....Reaching
Right from the beginning God's love has reached, and from the beginning man has refused to understand. But love went on reaching, offering itself. Love offered the eternal ...we wanted the immediate. Love offered deep joy...we wanted thrills. Love offered freedom...we wanted license. Love offered communion with God Himself....we wanted to worship at the shrine of our own minds. Love offered peace....we wanted approval for our wars. Even yet, love went on reaching. And still today, after two thousand years, patiently, lovingly, Christ is reaching out to us today. Right through the chaos of our world, through the confusion of our minds. He is reaching....longing to share with us....the very being of God.
His love still is longing, Hes love still is reaching, right past the shackles of my mind. And the Word of the Father became Mary's little Son. And His love reached all the way to where I was.
-Gloria Gaither
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis (Had to interrupt this for half and hour because Mike came, and did a wonderful job of trimming much more than I had expected!)
I hear squirrels running across the roof as I type, so they must hunker down in the branches during a storm, because they are all over the yard this morning. God takes care of even the littlest creatures.
I went to the park after church yesterday, but the wind was already blowing and my arthritic foot was bothering me, so i just enjoyed the green trees and shrubs and saw the anhinga on the maple stump and turtles sunning on the bank of the weir. God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
(I have always enjoyed the music that Bill and Gloria Gaither have written. Here are the words to one of Gloria's songs. We sang this many years ago in the choir from a cantata.) If you know the melody sing it in your mind. :o)
His Love....Reaching
Right from the beginning God's love has reached, and from the beginning man has refused to understand. But love went on reaching, offering itself. Love offered the eternal ...we wanted the immediate. Love offered deep joy...we wanted thrills. Love offered freedom...we wanted license. Love offered communion with God Himself....we wanted to worship at the shrine of our own minds. Love offered peace....we wanted approval for our wars. Even yet, love went on reaching. And still today, after two thousand years, patiently, lovingly, Christ is reaching out to us today. Right through the chaos of our world, through the confusion of our minds. He is reaching....longing to share with us....the very being of God.
His love still is longing, Hes love still is reaching, right past the shackles of my mind. And the Word of the Father became Mary's little Son. And His love reached all the way to where I was.
-Gloria Gaither
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis (Had to interrupt this for half and hour because Mike came, and did a wonderful job of trimming much more than I had expected!)
Friday, April 23, 2010
More Roamin thru Romans
Good morning, a little late, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners ! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! David, came and mowed the yard and made everything neat, so I was late getting to my usual activities. He put six boxes out for me for the Salvation Army to pick up, and then I opened a drawer and filled another box and carried that out. The truck is due between 8-4 so, hopefully, earlier than later.
I watched the NFL draft last night until Tim Tebow got picked in the first round! Yay! I know he will do his best for the Denver Broncos!
Was surprised that Claussen and Colt McCoy did not get picked yet.
Yesterday, by the time I was ready to walk, it was too hot, so I enjoyed looking at the canal and watching an egret silhouetted against some water bulrushes . IF I had taken a camera with me, I could have gotten a perfect shot that looked like the real Florida. I watched a large gopher tortoise whizzing through the tall grass. :o) and saw a peacock on the way in to the park. The long tail feathers were just gorgeous glowing in the sun. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Picking up from yesterday:
Romans 12:1-
And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask? Don't copy the behavior and customs of the world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.
As God's messenger, I give each of you this warning: Be honest in your estimate of yourselves, measuring your value by how much faith God has given you. Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.
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, a much as possible.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis ( have a wonderful weekend, everybody)
I watched the NFL draft last night until Tim Tebow got picked in the first round! Yay! I know he will do his best for the Denver Broncos!
Was surprised that Claussen and Colt McCoy did not get picked yet.
Yesterday, by the time I was ready to walk, it was too hot, so I enjoyed looking at the canal and watching an egret silhouetted against some water bulrushes . IF I had taken a camera with me, I could have gotten a perfect shot that looked like the real Florida. I watched a large gopher tortoise whizzing through the tall grass. :o) and saw a peacock on the way in to the park. The long tail feathers were just gorgeous glowing in the sun. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Picking up from yesterday:
Romans 12:1-
And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask? Don't copy the behavior and customs of the world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.
As God's messenger, I give each of you this warning: Be honest in your estimate of yourselves, measuring your value by how much faith God has given you. Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.
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, a much as possible.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis ( have a wonderful weekend, everybody)
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Roamin' thru Romans
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! We can't ask for any better weather than this! Coolish in the morning and warm in the afternoon, with the humidity bearable at this point. Just great!
Some time ago, I read that the anoles and lizards were not as plentiful because the unusual cold spells this past winter, froze many of them. Well, I have seen them running around my garage and outside lately, and in fact, watched an anole crawl across my wall last night here in the house. It inched its way across to the light coming in from the window in the door. If it hadn't been so high up, I would have tried to escort it outside. I saw it again a couple nights ago..just so it doesn't walk across my face during the night, with its sticky little feet!
I haven't seen any lizards at the park, but see the larger critters; such as a pair of egrets flying over the canal, and the usual anhinga airing out the wings on the maple tree stump. The azaleas have finished blooming at the park, but everything has greened up nicely. I noticed some more jacaranda blossoms yesterday around the neighborhood, but most of the trees are bare and frostbitten. I actually have an amaryllis blooming and another bud opening on that same plant, and another bud coming up from another plant!
Amazing, since I do not take proper care of them! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 8:24
...For if you already have something, you don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently.
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress,. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 12:10
Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Some time ago, I read that the anoles and lizards were not as plentiful because the unusual cold spells this past winter, froze many of them. Well, I have seen them running around my garage and outside lately, and in fact, watched an anole crawl across my wall last night here in the house. It inched its way across to the light coming in from the window in the door. If it hadn't been so high up, I would have tried to escort it outside. I saw it again a couple nights ago..just so it doesn't walk across my face during the night, with its sticky little feet!
I haven't seen any lizards at the park, but see the larger critters; such as a pair of egrets flying over the canal, and the usual anhinga airing out the wings on the maple tree stump. The azaleas have finished blooming at the park, but everything has greened up nicely. I noticed some more jacaranda blossoms yesterday around the neighborhood, but most of the trees are bare and frostbitten. I actually have an amaryllis blooming and another bud opening on that same plant, and another bud coming up from another plant!
Amazing, since I do not take proper care of them! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 8:24
...For if you already have something, you don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently.
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress,. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 12:10
Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Wildflower worth
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! After a few sprinkles this morning, the sun is now shining and it looks like a beautiful, warming up day! I have been turning on the A/C in the late afternoon, because the house gets stuffy even with some windows open. Summer is on its way!
I enjoyed an outdoor cookout with the Pryme Tymers from church yesterday. Colorful umbrellas were over the tables, giving welvome shade from the hot sun, but the breezes were cool and the food was good. Lots of good conversation, and good food. Life is good!
I drove to the park and watched the water rippling and saw a great blue heron patiently waiting for lunch to come along. All is peaceful but even though the park is very wet now, when the summer drought comes along, much trimming will have to be done to keep the fire danger down. Guess volunteers will have to do that. since paid help is scarce.
I also saw a large baby osprey on the nest between CVS and Publix yesterday. those giant birds build their nests on high platforms and then, gradually, all the sticks and stuff comes tumbling down until there is not much left, but the young ones still stay. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God
Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are, and if God cares so wonderfully for flowers, won't he more surely care for you?
Luke 12:27-28 NLT
Each spring , wildflowers bloom in profusion at a place in Idaho called "Craters of the Moon." Nourished by snowmelt and occasional rains, the flowers spring up in the lava rock left by an eons-old volcano. It is a stunning sight to see the small, delicate wildflower blossoms bursting into life amid the huge, rugged boulders.
Sightseers can follow footpaths all through the lava rocks to discover the surprising spots that dusty maiden, dwarf monkey flower, and Indian paintbrush find to grow. the life span for the fragile flowers can be as brief as one day if the hot desert winds blow into the area.
When Jesus taught His followers, He often sat outside. Perhaps He sat among the spring wildflowers when He pointed at the lilies, encouraging the worriers not to be blinded to the fact that God takes care of all His creation, even a short-lived wildflower. If He takes care of them, He certainly will care for us.
How do we avoid worry? By increasing our faith in our God who loves us. By starting each day focusing on Him instead of our fears and remembering His loving care, even for the brief life of a wildflower.
All I could never be,
All men ignored in me-
this I was worth to God.
Robert Browning
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I enjoyed an outdoor cookout with the Pryme Tymers from church yesterday. Colorful umbrellas were over the tables, giving welvome shade from the hot sun, but the breezes were cool and the food was good. Lots of good conversation, and good food. Life is good!
I drove to the park and watched the water rippling and saw a great blue heron patiently waiting for lunch to come along. All is peaceful but even though the park is very wet now, when the summer drought comes along, much trimming will have to be done to keep the fire danger down. Guess volunteers will have to do that. since paid help is scarce.
I also saw a large baby osprey on the nest between CVS and Publix yesterday. those giant birds build their nests on high platforms and then, gradually, all the sticks and stuff comes tumbling down until there is not much left, but the young ones still stay. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God
Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are, and if God cares so wonderfully for flowers, won't he more surely care for you?
Luke 12:27-28 NLT
Each spring , wildflowers bloom in profusion at a place in Idaho called "Craters of the Moon." Nourished by snowmelt and occasional rains, the flowers spring up in the lava rock left by an eons-old volcano. It is a stunning sight to see the small, delicate wildflower blossoms bursting into life amid the huge, rugged boulders.
Sightseers can follow footpaths all through the lava rocks to discover the surprising spots that dusty maiden, dwarf monkey flower, and Indian paintbrush find to grow. the life span for the fragile flowers can be as brief as one day if the hot desert winds blow into the area.
When Jesus taught His followers, He often sat outside. Perhaps He sat among the spring wildflowers when He pointed at the lilies, encouraging the worriers not to be blinded to the fact that God takes care of all His creation, even a short-lived wildflower. If He takes care of them, He certainly will care for us.
How do we avoid worry? By increasing our faith in our God who loves us. By starting each day focusing on Him instead of our fears and remembering His loving care, even for the brief life of a wildflower.
All I could never be,
All men ignored in me-
this I was worth to God.
Robert Browning
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The benefits of Wisdom
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! We have to enjoy the coolness of the mornings, now, because the weather will be heating up toward the end of the week, with temps near ninety! Looks like it will be a long, hot summer. Some don't like the cold and some don't like the heat, but God gives us what He wants and we should be content in all situations.
As I drove to the Park yesterday, I noticed blooms on a jacaranda tree, but very few. The Jacarandas were hit hard by the freezes we had, so I don't think there be a display like we had last year.. I am not sure about the Royal Poincianas, whether they are as sensitive to the cold as jacarandas. Just have to wait and see. But the Florida orchid trees, pink and white are in full bloom and I passed a house that had a beautiful apple blossom amaryllis in bloom in the yard. I think those are the prettiest with their pale pink and white flowers.
As I drove in the park, I almost hit a daredevil squirrel dashing across in front of me. They seem to be doing that more this year... in this neighborhood, too. I drove on and parked and walked to the canal to sit on a memorial bench and just look at the water for awhile. It was peaceful and the breeze was cool. I watched a pair of herons fly over and the ripples from the tilapia in the canal. The anhinga was air drying its wings and I actually saw a gopher tortoise on the way out! First time in a long while. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Proverbs 2:1-10
My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and protects those who are faithful to him.
Then you will understand what is right, just and fair, and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
As I drove to the Park yesterday, I noticed blooms on a jacaranda tree, but very few. The Jacarandas were hit hard by the freezes we had, so I don't think there be a display like we had last year.. I am not sure about the Royal Poincianas, whether they are as sensitive to the cold as jacarandas. Just have to wait and see. But the Florida orchid trees, pink and white are in full bloom and I passed a house that had a beautiful apple blossom amaryllis in bloom in the yard. I think those are the prettiest with their pale pink and white flowers.
As I drove in the park, I almost hit a daredevil squirrel dashing across in front of me. They seem to be doing that more this year... in this neighborhood, too. I drove on and parked and walked to the canal to sit on a memorial bench and just look at the water for awhile. It was peaceful and the breeze was cool. I watched a pair of herons fly over and the ripples from the tilapia in the canal. The anhinga was air drying its wings and I actually saw a gopher tortoise on the way out! First time in a long while. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Proverbs 2:1-10
My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and protects those who are faithful to him.
Then you will understand what is right, just and fair, and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, April 19, 2010
Failure
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! After a prediction of showers for today, the sun is now shining and the cool wind is blowing, making for a cooler day. It was nice to have a rainy day yesterday to settle the pollen, making it a little easier to breathe and not blow! The oak trees have mostly stopped shedding now, thankfully, and new green leaves are all over. I went through hard enough showers to really wash off the car, so it doesn't look quite as dirty. :o)
I determined to walk as far as I could Saturday, because I knew showers were coming for Sunday, and I am glad I did! On the drive in, I saw the usual gator sunning on the bank to the right. Then I parked and took out my walking stick, and started across the bridge. I received two comments on the curled walking stick, both positive, and continued on to the first shelter. I looked all around for any sign of the babies and was just about to give up, when I saw one, whose head is getting larger, swimming under the walk. He headed for the bank and crawled up on the mud, so I left and continued on, stopping now and then, to look over the rail down into the underbrush. Sort of hoping to see an armadillo, but guess it was too muddy for them. I went on to the tower and was pleased to see a flock of ospreys circling high in the sky. They gradually circled down, and I mentioned to a young man with a camera that they sometimes hover. He had never seen them do that, so sure enough, a couple started hovering and kept it up for awhile. I was so excited! While the ospreys were putting on a show, another gator came swimming across from the north side of the lake, so I watched it for make its way near us and then sink all but his head.
I started back and looked over at the bank across the canal, when I got to the spot where they once in a while hang out, and sure enough, there was a huge one clear up on the bank! He must have been 10 or 11 ft. and very fat. I stood and watched him for a few minutes, and saw him uncurl one leg, but since I was standing in the sun, I started on back. I was slathered with sunblock, but that still doesn't give me enough protection. Guess I will have to start wearing a hat and have hat hair! Sigh. But I still enjoyed the walk and all creatures great and small. God is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is failure in God's eyes?
Colossians 3:23-24 Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and the Master you are serving is Christ.
Often our sense of failure is determined by the level of approval from others. Scripture reminds us to define success in terms of faithfulness to God. God will reward our faithfulness even if we fail in the eyes of the world.
Does failure make God love me less?
Hebrews 2:17-18 It was necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. He then could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and temptation, he is able to help us when we are being tempted.
Hebrews 4:15-16 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it.
God love us unconditionally, Jesus Christ, our High Priest, entered fully into the human experience and knows our trials, and temptations. While caring parents may be hurt or saddened by a child's failure, that failure doesn't make them love the child less. In fact, failure often awakens greater tenderness and support toward the child. Just as the Lord understands our weaknesses, our failures help us understand his marvelous grace.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving joy and love!
Love and hugs,
amaryllis
I determined to walk as far as I could Saturday, because I knew showers were coming for Sunday, and I am glad I did! On the drive in, I saw the usual gator sunning on the bank to the right. Then I parked and took out my walking stick, and started across the bridge. I received two comments on the curled walking stick, both positive, and continued on to the first shelter. I looked all around for any sign of the babies and was just about to give up, when I saw one, whose head is getting larger, swimming under the walk. He headed for the bank and crawled up on the mud, so I left and continued on, stopping now and then, to look over the rail down into the underbrush. Sort of hoping to see an armadillo, but guess it was too muddy for them. I went on to the tower and was pleased to see a flock of ospreys circling high in the sky. They gradually circled down, and I mentioned to a young man with a camera that they sometimes hover. He had never seen them do that, so sure enough, a couple started hovering and kept it up for awhile. I was so excited! While the ospreys were putting on a show, another gator came swimming across from the north side of the lake, so I watched it for make its way near us and then sink all but his head.
I started back and looked over at the bank across the canal, when I got to the spot where they once in a while hang out, and sure enough, there was a huge one clear up on the bank! He must have been 10 or 11 ft. and very fat. I stood and watched him for a few minutes, and saw him uncurl one leg, but since I was standing in the sun, I started on back. I was slathered with sunblock, but that still doesn't give me enough protection. Guess I will have to start wearing a hat and have hat hair! Sigh. But I still enjoyed the walk and all creatures great and small. God is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is failure in God's eyes?
Colossians 3:23-24 Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and the Master you are serving is Christ.
Often our sense of failure is determined by the level of approval from others. Scripture reminds us to define success in terms of faithfulness to God. God will reward our faithfulness even if we fail in the eyes of the world.
Does failure make God love me less?
Hebrews 2:17-18 It was necessary for Jesus to be in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. He then could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and temptation, he is able to help us when we are being tempted.
Hebrews 4:15-16 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it.
God love us unconditionally, Jesus Christ, our High Priest, entered fully into the human experience and knows our trials, and temptations. While caring parents may be hurt or saddened by a child's failure, that failure doesn't make them love the child less. In fact, failure often awakens greater tenderness and support toward the child. Just as the Lord understands our weaknesses, our failures help us understand his marvelous grace.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving joy and love!
Love and hugs,
amaryllis
Friday, April 16, 2010
More than Positive Thinking
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!
Looks like more clouds today, but we did not get any rain yesterday to settle the pollen, so maybe today we will get a few sprinkles, One can only hope! I don't believe I have ever before seen so many yellow cars and the windowsills on my house are layered with yellow pollen dust. More people are complaining of allergies this year, also. Well, hopefully, it will pass soon.
Surprise! I am much earlier this morning, in case you hadn't noticed! I rolled out of bed an hour early, drank some water, and decided to get at the prayers and devotions early. Good to see the sun rise.
Yesterday, I went to the park briefly, but did not walk. the street had been blown clear of the pollen and leaves, so it looked good. The anhinga that usually is perched on the downed maple tree was in place, drying his wings and squirrels were happily dashing across the street from one acorn to another.
I saw the tail of a peacock on the way in..the rest of him was hidden by a tree. God is good!
From Quiet Moments With God:
As he thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23;7 NKJV
What we think about determines what we do. Even more important, the Scriptures tell us that what we think about shapes our attitudes and how we live our lives.
The Greek city of Philippi was one of the places where the apostle Paul had a fruitful mimistry. The Greeks were great thinkers. They loved a good debate, a lively conversation about philosophy, or a rousing time of oratory that might trigger the imagination. Paul wrote to the Philippians.
Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble,
whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things
are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things,
Philippians 4:8 NKJV
It's interesting to note Paul wrote this immediately after addressing three other concerns in Philippians, chapter 4. First, he told two women who were having an argument to become of "the same mind in the Lord."
Paul wanted them to be at peace with each other and to rejoice together in the Lord.
Second, Paul told them to be gentle with all men. That's descriptive of having peace with those who don't know the Lord. And third, Paul advised them not to be anxious or worried about anything, but to turn all their troubles over to the Lord. He wanted them to have total peace of mind and heart.
As we look for the good in others and meditate on the unending goodness of our Creator, we find the path toward peace with others and the peace that passes all understanding in whatever situation we find ourselves.
Thinking right is more than positive thinking--it is living a life that is filled with God's goodness, wisdom and mercy!
The soul is tinged with the color and complexion of its thoughts.
Marcus Aurelius Antoninus
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Looks like more clouds today, but we did not get any rain yesterday to settle the pollen, so maybe today we will get a few sprinkles, One can only hope! I don't believe I have ever before seen so many yellow cars and the windowsills on my house are layered with yellow pollen dust. More people are complaining of allergies this year, also. Well, hopefully, it will pass soon.
Surprise! I am much earlier this morning, in case you hadn't noticed! I rolled out of bed an hour early, drank some water, and decided to get at the prayers and devotions early. Good to see the sun rise.
Yesterday, I went to the park briefly, but did not walk. the street had been blown clear of the pollen and leaves, so it looked good. The anhinga that usually is perched on the downed maple tree was in place, drying his wings and squirrels were happily dashing across the street from one acorn to another.
I saw the tail of a peacock on the way in..the rest of him was hidden by a tree. God is good!
From Quiet Moments With God:
As he thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23;7 NKJV
What we think about determines what we do. Even more important, the Scriptures tell us that what we think about shapes our attitudes and how we live our lives.
The Greek city of Philippi was one of the places where the apostle Paul had a fruitful mimistry. The Greeks were great thinkers. They loved a good debate, a lively conversation about philosophy, or a rousing time of oratory that might trigger the imagination. Paul wrote to the Philippians.
Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble,
whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things
are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things,
Philippians 4:8 NKJV
It's interesting to note Paul wrote this immediately after addressing three other concerns in Philippians, chapter 4. First, he told two women who were having an argument to become of "the same mind in the Lord."
Paul wanted them to be at peace with each other and to rejoice together in the Lord.
Second, Paul told them to be gentle with all men. That's descriptive of having peace with those who don't know the Lord. And third, Paul advised them not to be anxious or worried about anything, but to turn all their troubles over to the Lord. He wanted them to have total peace of mind and heart.
As we look for the good in others and meditate on the unending goodness of our Creator, we find the path toward peace with others and the peace that passes all understanding in whatever situation we find ourselves.
Thinking right is more than positive thinking--it is living a life that is filled with God's goodness, wisdom and mercy!
The soul is tinged with the color and complexion of its thoughts.
Marcus Aurelius Antoninus
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Words of wisdom
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! It is good to have a free day. That is, free of doctors' appointments and other things and just to have the time to do what I want and what is necessary.
The weather is beautiful and warming up so in the afternoon, that I have been turning on the A/C in the late afternoon. Well, I read in the paper yesterday that worms are attacking the oak trees. Oh, no! I remember several years ago in the park, the rails of the boardwalk were absolutely covered with blankets of worms. It was disgusting! You could not walk for worms dropping on your head. I am hoping it doesn't get so bad this year.
After my doc's app't yesterday to get the all clear on my arteries, I felt so good, that I changed clothes and walked out to the tower. I stopped at the first shelter and no baby gators were to be seen, so I walked on the tower. I stopped at the second covered shelter and a lone squirrel, who had obviously been fed in spite of the sign that says no feeding the squirrels, was coming to me hoping to get a peanut. I did not oblige, but told him that was a "no-no". It was nice and windy at the tower, so I enjoyed cooling off.
On my way back I stopped at the first shelter once again and looked and looked and finally spotted four babies about 12 feet in front of the shelter. I know Mama must have been around somewhere, maybe under the shelter, but at least I saw them. God is good!
From the NKJV
Isaiah 61:1-3
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,
because the Lord has anointed Me
to preach good tidings to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those
who are bound; To proclaim the acceptable
year of the Lord,
And the day of vengeance of our God.
To comfort all who mourn,
To console those who mourn in Zion.
To give them beauty for ashes,
The oil of joy for mourning,
The garment of praise for the
spirit of heaviness that they may be called
trees of righteousness.
The planting of the Lord that He may be glorified.
Prayer of Habakkuk 3:17-19 NLT
Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there
are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop
fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though
the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my
salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make me as
surefooted as a deer and bring me safely over the mountains.
--i always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The weather is beautiful and warming up so in the afternoon, that I have been turning on the A/C in the late afternoon. Well, I read in the paper yesterday that worms are attacking the oak trees. Oh, no! I remember several years ago in the park, the rails of the boardwalk were absolutely covered with blankets of worms. It was disgusting! You could not walk for worms dropping on your head. I am hoping it doesn't get so bad this year.
After my doc's app't yesterday to get the all clear on my arteries, I felt so good, that I changed clothes and walked out to the tower. I stopped at the first shelter and no baby gators were to be seen, so I walked on the tower. I stopped at the second covered shelter and a lone squirrel, who had obviously been fed in spite of the sign that says no feeding the squirrels, was coming to me hoping to get a peanut. I did not oblige, but told him that was a "no-no". It was nice and windy at the tower, so I enjoyed cooling off.
On my way back I stopped at the first shelter once again and looked and looked and finally spotted four babies about 12 feet in front of the shelter. I know Mama must have been around somewhere, maybe under the shelter, but at least I saw them. God is good!
From the NKJV
Isaiah 61:1-3
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,
because the Lord has anointed Me
to preach good tidings to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those
who are bound; To proclaim the acceptable
year of the Lord,
And the day of vengeance of our God.
To comfort all who mourn,
To console those who mourn in Zion.
To give them beauty for ashes,
The oil of joy for mourning,
The garment of praise for the
spirit of heaviness that they may be called
trees of righteousness.
The planting of the Lord that He may be glorified.
Prayer of Habakkuk 3:17-19 NLT
Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there
are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop
fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though
the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my
salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make me as
surefooted as a deer and bring me safely over the mountains.
--i always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, April 12, 2010
A Prayer
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! I put the heavy blanket back on the bed, expecting colder weather over the weekend and was pleasantly surprised by the warm sunshine and dry weather! So, off with the blanket again, although my 95 year old uncle says he has not planted his tomato crops yet, because he is expecting one more freeze in Alabama. Hopefully, not here!
When I walked in the park, Friday, I saw lots of baby gators and Mama gator guarding them at the first shelter. The shelter was full of people just looking and taking photos, so it was a little difficult to get to the rail to look down. But it was a beautiful day and I am getting stronger. David, who does the yard, brought me a crooked, walking stick; the kind that the teacher at Sawgrass used to carry. I think it will be helpful in giving me more balance. I am anxious to try it out!
Yesterday, I saw a baby osprey sticking its head out of a nest high atop a light pole at Sawgrass elememtary school. They build nests everywhere! Have you noticed the gorgeoous Florida orchid trees blooming all over the city? This is the time of year when the azaleas and orchid trees bloom at the same time in a riot of color. Also, I noticed that I have an amaryllis bud coming up! God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Liberation from Materialism
Forbid it, Lord, that our roots become too firmly attached to this earth, that we should fall in love with things.
Help us to understand that the pilgrimage of this life is but an introduction, a preface, a training school for what is to come.
Then shall we see all of life in its true perspective. Then shall we not fall in love with the things of time, but come to love the things that endure. Then shall we be saved from the tyranny of possessions which we have no leisure to enjoy, of property whose care becomes a burden. Give us, we pray, the courage to simplify our lives.
So may we be mature in our faith, childlike but never childish, humble but never cringing, understanding but never conceited.
So help us, O God, to live and not merely to exist, that we may have joy in our work.
In Thy name, who alone can give us moderation and balance and zest for living, we pray.
Amen
by Peter Marshall
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I walked in the park, Friday, I saw lots of baby gators and Mama gator guarding them at the first shelter. The shelter was full of people just looking and taking photos, so it was a little difficult to get to the rail to look down. But it was a beautiful day and I am getting stronger. David, who does the yard, brought me a crooked, walking stick; the kind that the teacher at Sawgrass used to carry. I think it will be helpful in giving me more balance. I am anxious to try it out!
Yesterday, I saw a baby osprey sticking its head out of a nest high atop a light pole at Sawgrass elememtary school. They build nests everywhere! Have you noticed the gorgeoous Florida orchid trees blooming all over the city? This is the time of year when the azaleas and orchid trees bloom at the same time in a riot of color. Also, I noticed that I have an amaryllis bud coming up! God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Liberation from Materialism
Forbid it, Lord, that our roots become too firmly attached to this earth, that we should fall in love with things.
Help us to understand that the pilgrimage of this life is but an introduction, a preface, a training school for what is to come.
Then shall we see all of life in its true perspective. Then shall we not fall in love with the things of time, but come to love the things that endure. Then shall we be saved from the tyranny of possessions which we have no leisure to enjoy, of property whose care becomes a burden. Give us, we pray, the courage to simplify our lives.
So may we be mature in our faith, childlike but never childish, humble but never cringing, understanding but never conceited.
So help us, O God, to live and not merely to exist, that we may have joy in our work.
In Thy name, who alone can give us moderation and balance and zest for living, we pray.
Amen
by Peter Marshall
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, April 9, 2010
LOVE
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! I heard the thunder in the wee hours of the morning, and then the rain falling, and then went back to sleep, because for some reason the falling rain sound is comforting. However, it is still kind of gloomy and the yard was supposed to get mowed this morning. So, I don't know if David C. is still coming. Lots of the tall purple and lavender weeds are growing in the front and back yards and they are really pretty, but they also make the yard look unkempt, which it is!
The fallen tree in the park has been sawed through and taken away, so the tree men must have come yesterday morning. Lots of hydrilla in clumps are still floating in the canal. and I saw the airboat two days ago, and thought they must have been spraying to get rid of the hydrilla, but the clumps still look pretty healthy to me. The road is covered with oak seeds, so much so, it is hard to see where it ends. But it is still a good place to be, to watch the water fowl, the turtles and occasionally, a gator. God is good!
I enjoyed being in the company of dear friends last evening for a supper of portobello mushroom burgers! Yum! Good friends and good food. Life is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 Corinthians 13
If I could speak in any language in heaven or on earth but didn't love others, I would only be making meaningless noise like a loud gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything, but didn't love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would be of no value whatsoever.
Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
Love will last forever, but prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will all disappear. New we know only a little, and even the gift of prophecy reveals little! But when the end comes, these special gifts will all disappear....
There are tree things that will endure--faith hope and love--and the greatest of these is love.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The fallen tree in the park has been sawed through and taken away, so the tree men must have come yesterday morning. Lots of hydrilla in clumps are still floating in the canal. and I saw the airboat two days ago, and thought they must have been spraying to get rid of the hydrilla, but the clumps still look pretty healthy to me. The road is covered with oak seeds, so much so, it is hard to see where it ends. But it is still a good place to be, to watch the water fowl, the turtles and occasionally, a gator. God is good!
I enjoyed being in the company of dear friends last evening for a supper of portobello mushroom burgers! Yum! Good friends and good food. Life is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 Corinthians 13
If I could speak in any language in heaven or on earth but didn't love others, I would only be making meaningless noise like a loud gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything, but didn't love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would be of no value whatsoever.
Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
Love will last forever, but prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will all disappear. New we know only a little, and even the gift of prophecy reveals little! But when the end comes, these special gifts will all disappear....
There are tree things that will endure--faith hope and love--and the greatest of these is love.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, April 8, 2010
More Roamin' thru Romans
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is another beautiful day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I have heard lots of morning doves around the house lately, cooing their mournful songs, but not in the winter. As far as I know they do not migrate, but anyway, it is another sign spring is here. Yesterday, I heard the cardinal chirping very loudly in the oak tree. It would be really cool if they nested around here.
I enjoyed a delightful time with two dear friends who took me to lunch. We caught up on goings on and old times. They are both very committed prayer warriors. As one said, her pastor told her "Praying is a calling, not a spiritual gift." I never thought of it that way!
After our lunch at Olive Garden and they had brought me home, I went to the Park and saw people on the bridge looking down at the fish in the water. The tree is still in the canal, so, sometimes I guess a gator could use it for shelter. Maintenance does not get things done very fast these days. Lots of parks to cover for the trim crew. But God is good!
Thoughts from Romans 15 from the Promise Bible NLT:
We should please others. IF we do what helps them, we will build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn't please himself. As the Scriptures say, "Those who insult you are also insulting me." Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. They give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises.
May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other-each with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
So accept each other just as Christ has accepted you; then God will be glorified. ...
So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in Him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I enjoyed a delightful time with two dear friends who took me to lunch. We caught up on goings on and old times. They are both very committed prayer warriors. As one said, her pastor told her "Praying is a calling, not a spiritual gift." I never thought of it that way!
After our lunch at Olive Garden and they had brought me home, I went to the Park and saw people on the bridge looking down at the fish in the water. The tree is still in the canal, so, sometimes I guess a gator could use it for shelter. Maintenance does not get things done very fast these days. Lots of parks to cover for the trim crew. But God is good!
Thoughts from Romans 15 from the Promise Bible NLT:
We should please others. IF we do what helps them, we will build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn't please himself. As the Scriptures say, "Those who insult you are also insulting me." Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. They give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises.
May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other-each with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
So accept each other just as Christ has accepted you; then God will be glorified. ...
So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in Him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Roamin thru Romans 12
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! Another beautiful day filled with the scent of orange blossoms and citrus! My frost-bitten hibiscus is now budding on the tips of the limbs that lost their leaves, and the beauty berry bush has new green leaves all over. I hope soon the seeds will be off the oak tree so the shedding will be over with. They put a fine blanket over the whole yard.
Yesterday, I did some shopping, then went to the park. Not too many people there in the early afternoon, but the trees were giving heavy shade, the squirrels were scampering everywhere and a great gray heron was standing very still looking into the canal. I did not see the gator. I am interested in a roofing job going on at a two story house on the way into the park, The man who owns it used to walk very early about twenty years ago, when I was going on early morning walks, after taking Louis to work. The man always had his cat, Tigger, and dog, Samantha with him. He usually was carrying the cat on his shoulder, but the dog would walk beside him. Anyway, the man started taking the shingles off himself, and just before the hard rain last week. He got the black tar paper on and secured before the rain, and now is working on the cover over the front door. It is a very hard job for one person and dangerous, but he has long boards secured all over for a foot hold. I just like to watch his progress.
But, as always, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 12:1-13
And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice-the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask? Don't copy the behavior and customs of the world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.
As God's messenger I give each of you this warning; be honest in your estimate of yourselves, measuring your value by how much faith God has given you. Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.
God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out when you have faith that God is speaking through you. If your gift is that of serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching. If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
Don;t just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful ....
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I did some shopping, then went to the park. Not too many people there in the early afternoon, but the trees were giving heavy shade, the squirrels were scampering everywhere and a great gray heron was standing very still looking into the canal. I did not see the gator. I am interested in a roofing job going on at a two story house on the way into the park, The man who owns it used to walk very early about twenty years ago, when I was going on early morning walks, after taking Louis to work. The man always had his cat, Tigger, and dog, Samantha with him. He usually was carrying the cat on his shoulder, but the dog would walk beside him. Anyway, the man started taking the shingles off himself, and just before the hard rain last week. He got the black tar paper on and secured before the rain, and now is working on the cover over the front door. It is a very hard job for one person and dangerous, but he has long boards secured all over for a foot hold. I just like to watch his progress.
But, as always, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 12:1-13
And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice-the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask? Don't copy the behavior and customs of the world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.
As God's messenger I give each of you this warning; be honest in your estimate of yourselves, measuring your value by how much faith God has given you. Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.
God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out when you have faith that God is speaking through you. If your gift is that of serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching. If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
Don;t just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful ....
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
JOY
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! The sun is shining and the air is full of the scent of orange blossoms. My north bedroom window lets in all the fragrance of the blossoms from my neighbors fruit trees..gets really strong in the afternoon, but that is one sign of spring!
While I was sweeping windrows of oak tree seeds off our front porch yesterday, I happened to pause to watch two squirrels sitting on the ground eating acorns and noticed a fluttering of leaves up above. I looked up and saw a bird upside down pecking at leaves. When it turned right side up, I could see the red head. A red headed woodpecker! I had no idea they could hang upside down! Fascinating! That was a whole lot more interesting than sweeping, so I watched until it was out of sight.
I went to the park yesterday and enjoyed the wild look of the brush and water. Saw an immature ibis by itself for a change, but did not see the gator. However, I saw the peacock once again on the way in. Beautiful, as usual. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where does joy come from?
Nehemiah 3:17 Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of choice foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!"
Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a happy song.
Our joy springs from God's love, which is not dependent on circumstances nor on our performance. When we trust in his love for us, we are far less vulnerable to the depression and despair that could come from our problems and disappointments.
Revelation 21:4 He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever.
Our joy is rooted in the certainty of heaven, where we will be fully and finally liberated from the trials and troubles of this life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis ( Happy Birthday, Daryl!)
While I was sweeping windrows of oak tree seeds off our front porch yesterday, I happened to pause to watch two squirrels sitting on the ground eating acorns and noticed a fluttering of leaves up above. I looked up and saw a bird upside down pecking at leaves. When it turned right side up, I could see the red head. A red headed woodpecker! I had no idea they could hang upside down! Fascinating! That was a whole lot more interesting than sweeping, so I watched until it was out of sight.
I went to the park yesterday and enjoyed the wild look of the brush and water. Saw an immature ibis by itself for a change, but did not see the gator. However, I saw the peacock once again on the way in. Beautiful, as usual. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where does joy come from?
Nehemiah 3:17 Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of choice foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!"
Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a happy song.
Our joy springs from God's love, which is not dependent on circumstances nor on our performance. When we trust in his love for us, we are far less vulnerable to the depression and despair that could come from our problems and disappointments.
Revelation 21:4 He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever.
Our joy is rooted in the certainty of heaven, where we will be fully and finally liberated from the trials and troubles of this life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis ( Happy Birthday, Daryl!)
Monday, April 5, 2010
A Time for Everything
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! After a glorious Easter day, it looks like another warm, sunshiny day, full of pollen from the oak trees. My van stayed in the church parking lot for several hours, when I was taken to the hospital on Friday and it got covered with yellow dust from all the shedding oak trees there. I have seen cars on the road covered with the stuff. Guess I will have it washed again after the air clears!
I drove through the park after church yesterday and saw a gorgeous peacock in a spot of sunshine that was highlighting the "eyes" on his folded tail. The shimmering blues and greens were just beautiful...would love to have a dress with those colors! :o) I didn't see the gator in his usual spot but did see the ibis, and egrets going about their business, not knowing that it was Resurrection Day! God's Creation is beautiful and He is Good!
Thoughts from Ecclesiastes NLT:
Ecc. 3:1-8
There is a time for everything,
a season for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to lose.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.
A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
What do people really get for all their hard work? I have thought about this in connection with the various kinds of work God has given people to do. God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. So I concluded that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to enjoy themselves as long as they can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I drove through the park after church yesterday and saw a gorgeous peacock in a spot of sunshine that was highlighting the "eyes" on his folded tail. The shimmering blues and greens were just beautiful...would love to have a dress with those colors! :o) I didn't see the gator in his usual spot but did see the ibis, and egrets going about their business, not knowing that it was Resurrection Day! God's Creation is beautiful and He is Good!
Thoughts from Ecclesiastes NLT:
Ecc. 3:1-8
There is a time for everything,
a season for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to lose.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.
A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
What do people really get for all their hard work? I have thought about this in connection with the various kinds of work God has given people to do. God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. So I concluded that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to enjoy themselves as long as they can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Adventures in the ER at St. Anthony's
Dear Friends and Prayer Partners,
After nearly fainting at a memorial service at church Friday, I was taken to the ER and spent an interesting 3-4 hours there. One of the episodes involved a very drunk man who was Shouting obscenities at the top of his voice, then singing "On a clear day..." then Climb every Mountain" and shouting that he needed to go to the bathroom, until someone finally took him He would not get back in bed and kicked one nurse then tried to hit a male nurse. After an hour of this and me wishing for duct tape for his mouth, a big, husky nurse came and took him off to the psych floor.
I was finally admitted for dehydration and renal failure due to the dehydration, The doctor said it could be corrected easily with IV's which I had all night. No sleep because of beeps from the breathing equipment used by the patient in the next bed and my IV every time I bent my arm.
It was discovered after tests today that I have a kidney infection, so I start an antibiotic for that tonight. I hope to be at church tomorrow, but it depends on how I feel. But God is good and he looks after us all!
Have a blessed Easter!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
After nearly fainting at a memorial service at church Friday, I was taken to the ER and spent an interesting 3-4 hours there. One of the episodes involved a very drunk man who was Shouting obscenities at the top of his voice, then singing "On a clear day..." then Climb every Mountain" and shouting that he needed to go to the bathroom, until someone finally took him He would not get back in bed and kicked one nurse then tried to hit a male nurse. After an hour of this and me wishing for duct tape for his mouth, a big, husky nurse came and took him off to the psych floor.
I was finally admitted for dehydration and renal failure due to the dehydration, The doctor said it could be corrected easily with IV's which I had all night. No sleep because of beeps from the breathing equipment used by the patient in the next bed and my IV every time I bent my arm.
It was discovered after tests today that I have a kidney infection, so I start an antibiotic for that tonight. I hope to be at church tomorrow, but it depends on how I feel. But God is good and he looks after us all!
Have a blessed Easter!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Friday, April 2, 2010
Then Came Sunday!
Good morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the Good Friday that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Our beautiful weather continues with fresh blooms on azaleas, amaryllis, and now the hedge plants are blooming bringing lots of bees. Seems like the birds are enjoying this weather, too, with lots of mockers flying around, even more than usual.
Yesterday, I got brave and decided to take a walk on the boardwalk...the long way. I took Louis' cane and started off on the hammock trail. I wanted lots of shade, because the anti-biotic I just finished warns about staying in the sun--not good. Well, I kept walking, stopping to look in the water, and to enjoy the real Florida. Swampy, smelling of green shrubs and moisture.. Lots of water everywhere, and fresh, light green leaves on all the trees. I just kept going and walked to the entrance of the dirt trail, then back and on to the third bridge. I did not sit down to rest, but did pause and enjoy the breeze on my face.
A pair of ducks were serenely paddling along the canal toward the third bridge, leaving a wake behind them. I was getting a little tired by the time I started back to the second bridge, but made it down the sidewalk and was glad to get in the car and rest!
The gator was in his usual spot on the bank as I came in but was gone when I left about thirty minutes later. I only passed about six people in my venture, while the other walk to the tower was full. I am thankful for returning strength! God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Easter
-Raymond Lindquist
Some years ago, a newspaper editor telephoned and asked me to tell in a few words what Easter means to me. My testimony was this: Easter means Christ to me. It means Christ in His kingly splendor, Christ in His serene glory, Christ in His gracious condescension. This is because Easter is the return of Christ from inflicted violence, from induced death, from imprisonment in a tomb. Easter is Christ triumphant over all that sin and death and man could do to Him. Easter means Christ.
And where Christ goes, drama goes. For it is impossible to look anywhere in the Gospels and fail to find something powerful happening. This is because Christ is Himself the Gospel and He is life, abundant life, and His life means action, pilgrimage, arrival.
Easter means life. Christ defeated death in order that life in Him might always live. And it is life that we want, life in Christ. Whether we put it in words or not, our constant thought is "Life, more life, always more and more life." We want life in ourselves, in our loved ones, in our friends, the kind of life that cannot be diminished, the kind of life that always expands. Easter is Christ's victory over all that would restrict, deny and strangle life. "For to me to live is Christ." That is Easter.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis He Is Risen!!
Yesterday, I got brave and decided to take a walk on the boardwalk...the long way. I took Louis' cane and started off on the hammock trail. I wanted lots of shade, because the anti-biotic I just finished warns about staying in the sun--not good. Well, I kept walking, stopping to look in the water, and to enjoy the real Florida. Swampy, smelling of green shrubs and moisture.. Lots of water everywhere, and fresh, light green leaves on all the trees. I just kept going and walked to the entrance of the dirt trail, then back and on to the third bridge. I did not sit down to rest, but did pause and enjoy the breeze on my face.
A pair of ducks were serenely paddling along the canal toward the third bridge, leaving a wake behind them. I was getting a little tired by the time I started back to the second bridge, but made it down the sidewalk and was glad to get in the car and rest!
The gator was in his usual spot on the bank as I came in but was gone when I left about thirty minutes later. I only passed about six people in my venture, while the other walk to the tower was full. I am thankful for returning strength! God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Easter
-Raymond Lindquist
Some years ago, a newspaper editor telephoned and asked me to tell in a few words what Easter means to me. My testimony was this: Easter means Christ to me. It means Christ in His kingly splendor, Christ in His serene glory, Christ in His gracious condescension. This is because Easter is the return of Christ from inflicted violence, from induced death, from imprisonment in a tomb. Easter is Christ triumphant over all that sin and death and man could do to Him. Easter means Christ.
And where Christ goes, drama goes. For it is impossible to look anywhere in the Gospels and fail to find something powerful happening. This is because Christ is Himself the Gospel and He is life, abundant life, and His life means action, pilgrimage, arrival.
Easter means life. Christ defeated death in order that life in Him might always live. And it is life that we want, life in Christ. Whether we put it in words or not, our constant thought is "Life, more life, always more and more life." We want life in ourselves, in our loved ones, in our friends, the kind of life that cannot be diminished, the kind of life that always expands. Easter is Christ's victory over all that would restrict, deny and strangle life. "For to me to live is Christ." That is Easter.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis He Is Risen!!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Prayer of Concern for Others
Good morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! Happy April first and Maundy Thursday! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Our weather has been so perfect the past few days, it is an incentive to get outdoors and enjoy it! Cool in the morning, warm in the afternoon..doesn't get any better than this!
Well, the gator was in his usual spot yesterday, curled up on the bank of the borrow pit. Two cyclers were ahead of me on the road and when they spied the gator, decided to ride over and look at him up close and personal. I was glad because they were taking up the road and I hate to blow the horn at people for fear of startling them. Anyway, I continued on and saw that the big maple tree is still in the canal. Back in the old days, before budget cuts, the tree would have already have been sawed up and disposed of back in the mulch pile.
The big turtle was still in his favorite sunning spot across the canal on the point and a beautiful white egret was letting its feathers blow in the breeze while waiting for a fish to come along.
After Sonnie and Sam had raked up and bagged my leaves yesterday, apparently something attractive to birds was uncovered, because several mockingbirds were hopping across the yard enjoying treats. Also, while the guys were working, a gorgeous cardinal was overhead just twittering his little heart out. First I have seen this spring. A tiny wren was also in the tree last night nervously flitting from branch to branch. In contrast, huge black crows have been coming around with their raucous caws. God's creation is marvelous and He is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Father, help me to talk like a Christian:
to speak in such a way that I build up another person's confidence in himself,
instead of tearing down his reputation.
Father, help me to drive like a Cristian:
to be watchful and careful lest I cause harm to someone else
on the highways.
Father help me to give like a Christian:
without thought of return, without anyone knowing what I do,
and with Your approval as sufficient reward.
Father, help me to dres like a Christian:
by not attracting attention to myself for being too fashionable
or too casual; and help me to show by my appearance
that I want people to know me for what I am inside myself.
Father, help me to sleep like a Christian:
at peace with myself because sin is forgiven; and at peace
with others because I do not allow my anger to last through a day.
Father, help me to eat like a Christian:
to eat healthily, to eat moderately, to eat gratefully, giving thanks
to you who provide my food, and for the one who prepares my food.
Father, keep me from being so pious that I keep You out of the practical
areas of life. Be with me when I am alone, and when I shed my inhibitions.
lest in those moments I cancel out all that I seem to be when I'm on my best
behavior.
Father, I ask this because I follow a Master who was never guilty of the
slightest wrong-doing, and who always showed His love in the small
details of living.
Amen
Bryan Jeffery Leech
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, the gator was in his usual spot yesterday, curled up on the bank of the borrow pit. Two cyclers were ahead of me on the road and when they spied the gator, decided to ride over and look at him up close and personal. I was glad because they were taking up the road and I hate to blow the horn at people for fear of startling them. Anyway, I continued on and saw that the big maple tree is still in the canal. Back in the old days, before budget cuts, the tree would have already have been sawed up and disposed of back in the mulch pile.
The big turtle was still in his favorite sunning spot across the canal on the point and a beautiful white egret was letting its feathers blow in the breeze while waiting for a fish to come along.
After Sonnie and Sam had raked up and bagged my leaves yesterday, apparently something attractive to birds was uncovered, because several mockingbirds were hopping across the yard enjoying treats. Also, while the guys were working, a gorgeous cardinal was overhead just twittering his little heart out. First I have seen this spring. A tiny wren was also in the tree last night nervously flitting from branch to branch. In contrast, huge black crows have been coming around with their raucous caws. God's creation is marvelous and He is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Father, help me to talk like a Christian:
to speak in such a way that I build up another person's confidence in himself,
instead of tearing down his reputation.
Father, help me to drive like a Cristian:
to be watchful and careful lest I cause harm to someone else
on the highways.
Father help me to give like a Christian:
without thought of return, without anyone knowing what I do,
and with Your approval as sufficient reward.
Father, help me to dres like a Christian:
by not attracting attention to myself for being too fashionable
or too casual; and help me to show by my appearance
that I want people to know me for what I am inside myself.
Father, help me to sleep like a Christian:
at peace with myself because sin is forgiven; and at peace
with others because I do not allow my anger to last through a day.
Father, help me to eat like a Christian:
to eat healthily, to eat moderately, to eat gratefully, giving thanks
to you who provide my food, and for the one who prepares my food.
Father, keep me from being so pious that I keep You out of the practical
areas of life. Be with me when I am alone, and when I shed my inhibitions.
lest in those moments I cancel out all that I seem to be when I'm on my best
behavior.
Father, I ask this because I follow a Master who was never guilty of the
slightest wrong-doing, and who always showed His love in the small
details of living.
Amen
Bryan Jeffery Leech
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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