Isaiah 57:2
For those who follow godly paths
will rest in peace when they die.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This week, I attended the funeral of my childhood friend Kenny. At his funeral, the pastor noted that we all know death is inevitable… but we don’t expect the sudden death of someone 55 years young. He shared stories about my friend and told of his earlier life when he was healthy, energetic and enthused… completely engaged in life. In later years, health issues caused Kenny to become reclusive… even paranoid. At the time of his death, Kenny had isolated himself so completely from everyone except his mother, brother and immediate family that his brother said, “He really had no close friends.” Many of his classmates, childhood friends and acquaintances came to his funeral…giving testimony to the person we all knew and loved - the healthy guy who once made us laugh and smile.
There was one more story that the pastor related… the most important story of all, really. He told of how a church member went out on weekly visitation ministry one evening and happened to stop in to visit with Kenny. There, he shared the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ and how He died on the cross for our sins. Kenny invited Jesus to be the LORD of his life. Talk about a “game changer!”
As I thought about my friend and his life - and death - I couldn’t help but feel a tremendous sense of tranquility. I know he is no longer tormented. I know that he is at HOME and has found rest and complete peace at the feet of Jesus. I fully understand that sometimes our healing and reconciliation comes in death.
If you are a young person reading this devotional, death may not be on your radar screen. We all seem to have a sense of immortality in our early years. We don’t want to consider death… and we figure we have lots and lots of years ahead of us before we have to consider it. Then someone we know and love dies… a grandparent or a parent…another family member… a close friend… or even a celebrity we admired. Suddenly, we are distraught, frightened, confused… and totally disheartened. We don’t know what to make of it all… and we start to think about our own lives… and deaths.
Even if you are a Christian, this may be a daunting thought for you. If you have been to more than one funeral, you have probably heard the pastor read from John 14, where Jesus tells us there are “many mansions” in His house… and He is preparing a place for each of us. You may be thinking… “Yeah… but I’m doing just fine right here on earth! I don’t really need a mansion!” Or you may have fear and dread about leaving your family and friends behind.
Please read the words of Isaiah 57:2 again. Those who follow Godly paths will rest in peace. I cannot tell you exactly when I made the switch from thinking of heaven as an intimidating place to one of tremendous peace and joy. It probably began more than 20 years ago, when my grandfather - and then my father-in-law – died suddenly. As I watched other beloved family members and friends suffer with debilitating diseases or the rigors of aging, I began to see what a relief death would be for them. It wasn’t long until I realized that many of us have a large number of loved ones waiting for us in heaven… already enjoying the blessings and rewards God promised them through Jesus Christ.
Yesterday I shared scripture from Isaiah about the hills singing and the trees clapping as we pass by. My mother told me that this is how she pictures heaven. As we arrive, hills will sing, trees will clap… and those who went before us will open their arms widely to embrace us with a “We’re so glad you’re here… you’re gonna love this place!” My sweet childhood friend, Kenny, will be among them.
I feel like someone reading this today needs to hear about the peace of heaven. If you are not that person… you could be in any given moment. I pray you will come to think of Paradise as not only a “friendly place”… but your destination for ultimate peace and joy. As you grieve and mourn the passing of loved ones who you miss dearly, think of them in complete bliss… healthy, whole, abundantly blessed, and continually in the presence of Jesus. Enjoy your earthly life… but look forward to the day you can join them and experience eternal peace.
If you have not yet offered Jesus your heart, as my friend did one evening, I pray that you will do so. Secure your place on the “waiting list” for heaven. Start making preparations for your “move” by living for Jesus every single day you are placed on this earth. Get so comfortable in your relationship with God that you anticipate the moment when the hills will sing for you and the trees will clap… and you will rest forever in His peace.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label heaven. Show all posts
Showing posts with label heaven. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for March 10, 2013
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Thursday morning (March 8th) at 7:00, our phone rang. The nurse at my grandmother’s Assisted Living Facility told my husband that the aides went in to wake Mam-ma Polly for breakfast and found her unresponsive. We quickly dressed and rush to the facility, where she lay with her eyes shut…breathing heavily. I had suspected for a few days she might be developing pneumonia, but upon examination, the Hospice nurse felt certain that she had suffered a stroke. It did not look good.
We sat all day Thursday and through the night… into Friday morning. Many came and went, and all told her how much she was loved. Some told her “Good-bye” … that her heavenly home would be ready soon. Indeed, a group of men and women came to play gospel music for the residents, and they dedicated “Heaven Is My Home” to Mrs. Polly… then followed it with “I’ll Fly Away.”
The Hospice nurses encouraged me to talk to Mam-ma, to gently encourage her to let go and “fly away” to Jesus. During the day on Thursday, I read scripture passages to her from her own Bible… many she had marked in some way, underlined, or noted in the margins. One of the passages I read to her from the King James Version – her personal favorite – was John 14:1-4…
- Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
I told Mam-ma over and again, “We’ll be along after you soon. We’ll see you again. We’re coming, too… just not yet.” I believe that completely. I look forward to the day when my mansion is ready and I can truly see the face of Jesus. Meanwhile, I know I have work to do here. My grandmother gave me an incredible example in 100 years, 123 days of how it’s done…how to live for Jesus and put Him first… how to serve others and love them with grace, mercy and forgiveness… and how to never stop living and fulfilling God’s purpose for your life. As I have prepared for her funeral and read countless messages and memories from those who knew and loved her, I am sure that she found God’s will and purpose for her life and fulfilled it. I pray that I can be a good servant and model her faith. I pray that you are working on your mansion, as well.
I know it’s been a couple of days since I posted a devotional… and now you know why. I pray that God will bless and keep you… and that He will give me strength, courage and wisdom as I resume these writings in the next few days. Love others more than yourself… figure out God’s purpose for your life – and fulfill it… and live well on this earth in preparation for your Heavenly mansion. God bless and keep you…until you fly away Home.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 10, 2012
Psalm 148:5-7
Let all things praise the name of the LORD, because they were created at his command. He made them to last forever, and nothing can change what he has done. All creatures on earth, you obey his commands, so come praise the LORD!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This week, my dear, precious 3rd-grade teacher - Mrs. Ruth Garner - passed away. She was not only my teacher and friend for more than 45 years…she was also a dear friend to my grandmother. In fact, she sat at the same dining table with my grandmother in the assisted living facility where they both resided, and I visited with her often. Two other lifelong friends of my grandmother and Ruth also sit at this table. And these ladies who are left are incredibly sad and upset.
As we talked after Ruth died, my grandmother and I discussed God’s timing. My grandmother so desires to be next to go to heaven. She told me, “I have prayed about this and asked the LORD to take me.” But we agreed that we obey God’s commands - and when He says, “Come home,” we will go… but not a minute sooner. In the meantime, I pointed out to my grandmother that God apparently still has plans for her on this earth, because I believe He creates each of us with a purpose. Her purpose may be to smile at a nurse or a nurse’s aide and encourage her. She may be here to greet those who visit and offer them a word of wisdom or a reason to get up and out of the house. I really don’t know what her purpose is for each day… but God knows. And like each one of us, when she has done all He created her to do, He will call her home to heaven.
I know Mrs. Ruth was ready to go to heaven. Almost all of these ladies have lived past age 95. They are tired and ready to reunite with loved ones who have gone before them… and rest in the arms of Jesus. But as tired as she probably was, I never heard Mrs. Ruth complain about anything - except being served white meat chicken when she preferred dark meat! She was joyful and positive. She remembered dozens of her students by name… and you could tell she was thankful for each one. She appreciated visits from “young people” like me and others… and she always smiled. She praised the LORD for His creation… and she trusted and obeyed His commands.
My 3rd-grade teacher was still teaching me things at nearly 97 years of age… as are all of these dear elderly ladies I visit. I wonder… will we be sharing the example of praising God’s creation and His command when we are older? Do we even do this now? If not… shouldn’t we get started?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Let all things praise the name of the LORD, because they were created at his command. He made them to last forever, and nothing can change what he has done. All creatures on earth, you obey his commands, so come praise the LORD!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This week, my dear, precious 3rd-grade teacher - Mrs. Ruth Garner - passed away. She was not only my teacher and friend for more than 45 years…she was also a dear friend to my grandmother. In fact, she sat at the same dining table with my grandmother in the assisted living facility where they both resided, and I visited with her often. Two other lifelong friends of my grandmother and Ruth also sit at this table. And these ladies who are left are incredibly sad and upset.
As we talked after Ruth died, my grandmother and I discussed God’s timing. My grandmother so desires to be next to go to heaven. She told me, “I have prayed about this and asked the LORD to take me.” But we agreed that we obey God’s commands - and when He says, “Come home,” we will go… but not a minute sooner. In the meantime, I pointed out to my grandmother that God apparently still has plans for her on this earth, because I believe He creates each of us with a purpose. Her purpose may be to smile at a nurse or a nurse’s aide and encourage her. She may be here to greet those who visit and offer them a word of wisdom or a reason to get up and out of the house. I really don’t know what her purpose is for each day… but God knows. And like each one of us, when she has done all He created her to do, He will call her home to heaven.
I know Mrs. Ruth was ready to go to heaven. Almost all of these ladies have lived past age 95. They are tired and ready to reunite with loved ones who have gone before them… and rest in the arms of Jesus. But as tired as she probably was, I never heard Mrs. Ruth complain about anything - except being served white meat chicken when she preferred dark meat! She was joyful and positive. She remembered dozens of her students by name… and you could tell she was thankful for each one. She appreciated visits from “young people” like me and others… and she always smiled. She praised the LORD for His creation… and she trusted and obeyed His commands.
My 3rd-grade teacher was still teaching me things at nearly 97 years of age… as are all of these dear elderly ladies I visit. I wonder… will we be sharing the example of praising God’s creation and His command when we are older? Do we even do this now? If not… shouldn’t we get started?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 21, 2011
John 14:1-7
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me. There are many rooms in my Father's house. I wouldn't tell you this, unless it was true. I am going there to prepare a place for each of you. After I have done this, I will come back and take you with me. Then we will be together. You know the way to where I am going." Thomas said, "Lord, we don't even know where you are going! How can we know the way?"
"I am the way, the truth, and the life!" Jesus answered. "Without me, no one can go to the Father. If you had known me, you would have known the Father. But from now on, you do know him, and you have seen him."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a major shift in my life occurred. It seemed like as many – or more – people in my immediate “circle” were in heaven than here on earth. If I stop and list all of the close family members and friends who died within a span of five years or so, I’m overwhelmed… and it may be much the same for you and your circle of loved ones. When I was in my teens or twenties, this would have probably been incredibly devastating for me. In my mid-to-late thirties and forties, the “shock” was easier to absorb.
What shifted, besides my age – and possibly my maturity level? The answer for me is this… I had gotten to know the Father better. All of my life, I heard others quote the first part of this passage. I knew that Jesus returned to heaven to “get my mansion ready.” But this really didn’t comfort me much. That sounded great – when I was ninety! But I was young, full of life… and not ready to die… and I didn’t want to “lose” anyone dear to me, either.
Now I understand so much more about how God’s plans for us are supposed to work. I didn’t get this by lightning strike or a bump on the head… this understanding came to me through prayer, Bible study, meditation on God’s word, and fellowship with other believers… and lots of all of it! When we become Christians, we don’t instantly “get it” – we have to cultivate our relationship with God – and our understanding of His plans for us. And we must continue to work on this every day!
A few years ago I attended the funeral of a man who had died at a fairly young age after a tortuous battle with cancer. The pastor who conducted his funeral said that people talk about those they have “lost”. We say, “I’m sorry for your loss” when we console those who are grieving. The pastor reminded us that we didn’t truly lose these loved ones – if they are Christians, we know exactly where they are… and quite frankly, they are living the high life!
Do not misunderstand me. This doesn’t give you license to console others with trite phrases like, “It’s God’s will,” or “They are in a better place” … or “He/she is better off than we are!” God wants us to comfort others with His love and peace… but to temper it with grace and mercy. Grieving people are hurting. Yes, we do feel a sense of loss… the person we loved and cared about is no longer with us. But somehow, knowing that they have relocated to Jesus’ heavenly home… and a room is being prepared for us there, also… is incredibly meaningful to me these days.
My grandmother will celebrate her 99th birthday on November 5th. She told me recently that she has been asking God to take her home. She is tired and weary, feeling poorly… and ready for her heavenly mansion and the company of Jesus and those she has missed so dearly. Others have told me that they encourage her to “Keep going!”… “Hang in there!”… “Don’t give up!” I have simply told her that I promise to be happy for her when God has her room ready. I know that she knows the Father… and so do I… and this makes all the difference in my perspective.
My question for you is, “How well do YOU know the Father? Do you have His peace and comfort in all situations? Are you fearful of your ‘next home’ – or excited about the move someday?” I am not asking if you have a death wish… I’m asking if you know the “peace that passes all understanding.” Do YOU know Jesus…The Way to your heavenly home? May I introduce you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me. There are many rooms in my Father's house. I wouldn't tell you this, unless it was true. I am going there to prepare a place for each of you. After I have done this, I will come back and take you with me. Then we will be together. You know the way to where I am going." Thomas said, "Lord, we don't even know where you are going! How can we know the way?"
"I am the way, the truth, and the life!" Jesus answered. "Without me, no one can go to the Father. If you had known me, you would have known the Father. But from now on, you do know him, and you have seen him."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a major shift in my life occurred. It seemed like as many – or more – people in my immediate “circle” were in heaven than here on earth. If I stop and list all of the close family members and friends who died within a span of five years or so, I’m overwhelmed… and it may be much the same for you and your circle of loved ones. When I was in my teens or twenties, this would have probably been incredibly devastating for me. In my mid-to-late thirties and forties, the “shock” was easier to absorb.
What shifted, besides my age – and possibly my maturity level? The answer for me is this… I had gotten to know the Father better. All of my life, I heard others quote the first part of this passage. I knew that Jesus returned to heaven to “get my mansion ready.” But this really didn’t comfort me much. That sounded great – when I was ninety! But I was young, full of life… and not ready to die… and I didn’t want to “lose” anyone dear to me, either.
Now I understand so much more about how God’s plans for us are supposed to work. I didn’t get this by lightning strike or a bump on the head… this understanding came to me through prayer, Bible study, meditation on God’s word, and fellowship with other believers… and lots of all of it! When we become Christians, we don’t instantly “get it” – we have to cultivate our relationship with God – and our understanding of His plans for us. And we must continue to work on this every day!
A few years ago I attended the funeral of a man who had died at a fairly young age after a tortuous battle with cancer. The pastor who conducted his funeral said that people talk about those they have “lost”. We say, “I’m sorry for your loss” when we console those who are grieving. The pastor reminded us that we didn’t truly lose these loved ones – if they are Christians, we know exactly where they are… and quite frankly, they are living the high life!
Do not misunderstand me. This doesn’t give you license to console others with trite phrases like, “It’s God’s will,” or “They are in a better place” … or “He/she is better off than we are!” God wants us to comfort others with His love and peace… but to temper it with grace and mercy. Grieving people are hurting. Yes, we do feel a sense of loss… the person we loved and cared about is no longer with us. But somehow, knowing that they have relocated to Jesus’ heavenly home… and a room is being prepared for us there, also… is incredibly meaningful to me these days.
My grandmother will celebrate her 99th birthday on November 5th. She told me recently that she has been asking God to take her home. She is tired and weary, feeling poorly… and ready for her heavenly mansion and the company of Jesus and those she has missed so dearly. Others have told me that they encourage her to “Keep going!”… “Hang in there!”… “Don’t give up!” I have simply told her that I promise to be happy for her when God has her room ready. I know that she knows the Father… and so do I… and this makes all the difference in my perspective.
My question for you is, “How well do YOU know the Father? Do you have His peace and comfort in all situations? Are you fearful of your ‘next home’ – or excited about the move someday?” I am not asking if you have a death wish… I’m asking if you know the “peace that passes all understanding.” Do YOU know Jesus…The Way to your heavenly home? May I introduce you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 9, 2011
John 11:24-27
Martha answered, "I know that he will be raised to life on the last day, when all the dead are raised." Jesus then said, "I am the one who raises the dead to life! Everyone who has faith in me will live, even if they die. And everyone who lives because of faith in me will never really die. Do you believe this?"
"Yes, Lord!" she replied. "I believe that you are Christ, the Son of God. You are the one we hoped would come into the world."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Twelve years ago today, my dad left this earth for heaven. He was only 63. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss him… and others dear to me who have died and gone to Heaven. But when I think of how sick he was… how miserable his last months on earth were, and how he longed for Heaven and the presence of God, my brother and other loved ones… I wouldn’t wish him back for anything.
I hear people say, “I would give anything for one more day with my loved one.” And I understand this. But I also understand that they probably would not care to have another day with us, because Heaven is so glorious! In his book, 90 Minutes in Heaven, pastor Don Piper tells of asking God over and again, “Why did you send me back?” He “died” in a horrible car wreck and experienced the glory of Heaven… and he badly wanted to stay there. Of course, God used Don Piper in amazing ways to minister to others who had suffered horrendous injuries similar to his. Only he could understand their pain and agony, and he was able to be a great comfort and encouragement to many.
In returning to earth and serving as God desired, Don Piper was the spitting image of someone who lived because of faith in God. And he will never really “die,” because someday he truly will return to Heaven to live in opulence and great comfort with others who have passed before him.
I like to think that our loved ones are not “gone” – they are just “relocated.” We will see them again, if we put our faith in Jesus Christ, as they did. Meanwhile, we have “living” to do on this earth… faith-filled living in Jesus Christ… serving Him, loving Him, and sharing His gospel with everyone we encounter. When I say I “plan to live forever,” I don’t mean that I will never physically die. But I’m with Martha… I believe that Christ is the one we hoped would come into the world… and I plan to relocate to His heavenly home someday. Will you be joining us?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Martha answered, "I know that he will be raised to life on the last day, when all the dead are raised." Jesus then said, "I am the one who raises the dead to life! Everyone who has faith in me will live, even if they die. And everyone who lives because of faith in me will never really die. Do you believe this?"
"Yes, Lord!" she replied. "I believe that you are Christ, the Son of God. You are the one we hoped would come into the world."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Twelve years ago today, my dad left this earth for heaven. He was only 63. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss him… and others dear to me who have died and gone to Heaven. But when I think of how sick he was… how miserable his last months on earth were, and how he longed for Heaven and the presence of God, my brother and other loved ones… I wouldn’t wish him back for anything.
I hear people say, “I would give anything for one more day with my loved one.” And I understand this. But I also understand that they probably would not care to have another day with us, because Heaven is so glorious! In his book, 90 Minutes in Heaven, pastor Don Piper tells of asking God over and again, “Why did you send me back?” He “died” in a horrible car wreck and experienced the glory of Heaven… and he badly wanted to stay there. Of course, God used Don Piper in amazing ways to minister to others who had suffered horrendous injuries similar to his. Only he could understand their pain and agony, and he was able to be a great comfort and encouragement to many.
In returning to earth and serving as God desired, Don Piper was the spitting image of someone who lived because of faith in God. And he will never really “die,” because someday he truly will return to Heaven to live in opulence and great comfort with others who have passed before him.
I like to think that our loved ones are not “gone” – they are just “relocated.” We will see them again, if we put our faith in Jesus Christ, as they did. Meanwhile, we have “living” to do on this earth… faith-filled living in Jesus Christ… serving Him, loving Him, and sharing His gospel with everyone we encounter. When I say I “plan to live forever,” I don’t mean that I will never physically die. But I’m with Martha… I believe that Christ is the one we hoped would come into the world… and I plan to relocate to His heavenly home someday. Will you be joining us?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 30, 2011
Psalm 108:1-5
Our God, I am faithful to you with all my heart, and you can trust me. I will sing and play music for you with all that I am. I will start playing my harps before the sun rises. I will praise you, LORD, for everyone to hear; I will sing hymns to you in every nation. Your love reaches higher than the heavens, and your loyalty extends beyond the clouds. Our God, may you be honored above the heavens; may your glory be seen everywhere on earth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everybody needs a hero, and I’ve had a dandy. For more than fifty-four years, I’ve been encouraged and nurtured by a remarkable lady who shared my birthday. Yesterday, she went to heaven… less than 48 hours after her beloved baby girl died. “MawMac,” as I called her, was really Geraldine McCurry. She took great pride in being the wife of the local Chevrolet dealer, Andrew McCurry… and mother to three girls - Andrea, Marsha, and Mary.
As Andrea wrote in Mary’s obituary, “…a tragic accident at birth caused her to be severely physically handicapped by cerebral palsy. Because of her condition, she was never able to walk, talk, use her hands or be able to care for herself in any way. However, she devised a method of communication when she was about a year and a half old using her eyes. For those who took the time to learn to "talk" with Mary, they found a warm, loving, rather bawdy personality with a little streak of the devil.” Mary would have been 60 this October. Mary’s family and all who knew her loved her dearly. And in a time when many children with cerebral palsy were hidden away in institutions, the McCurrys never treated Mary with such disdain. MawMac and her family were ahead of their time in recognizing that Mary was a bright girl trapped in a body that betrayed her… and they did all they could to make life as “normal” as possible for this precious girl.
As further proof of this, a friend recalled on Facebook the Sunday that Mrs. McCurry wheeled Mary to the front of our church sanctuary, where she said Mary was wishing to make a profession of faith in Jesus Christ and be baptized. MawMac said, “I just couldn’t hold her back any longer… she insisted on coming to the altar.” That was our MawMac… dedicated to her children… and to her God. She was also fiercely patriotic. I like to joke that I am a “Firecracker Baby” because of my July 4th birthday… but MawMac truly was… and she had a collection of red/white/blue memorabilia that defies belief – down to a life-sized “Uncle Sam!” This past July 4th, she wore a new blouse fashioned by her daughters to fit her 4-ft frame… featuring red/white/blue stars, of course! She wore it with red/white/blue shoes, and – what else? – a headband with shooting stars that bobbled along! Did I mention that MawMac was 93 on her last birthday?
If you didn’t get a chance to know Geraldine “MawMac” McCurry in this lifetime, you will hopefully meet her in heaven. She will be the one standing with Jesus, tall and stately, healed from the osteoporosis that shrunk her tiny frame by almost 5 inches… and she will be talking and greeting everyone who enters the Pearly Gates! MawMac taught me a lot about life and overcoming challenges and obstacles… but she taught me more about faith and devotion. She hardly ever missed a church service (or anything else in our community, for that matter!), and she was one of the most devoted Christians I ever knew. She wasn’t preachy or one of those who spouted scripture and lectured about sinful behaviors. She merely modeled the teachings of Jesus… every single day of her life.
I know MawMac wasn’t perfect. I’m sure she had her moments. But I never saw them. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that she and Mary are dancing with Jesus… two faithful women who were loyal to Him without fail. This scripture passage is so fitting for Geraldine and Mary. I know they are having a celebration to end all celebrations… and because of this, I feel like singing and dancing, too – in spite of my sadness.
The more of my loved ones who pass on and go to heaven, the more real heaven becomes to me. It’s a glorious resting place for those who have chosen to follow Jesus, and I am so looking forward to joining the party there. Will you be along? Do you know Jesus in the way MawMac and Mary know Him? Do you live for Him each day – and will you dance and sing His praises even into Eternity? You can! Who – or what – is holding you back? Isn’t it time you raced down the altar, so to speak, like Mary did… and secured your place at the party?
I ask you to please stop and thank God today for heroes like MawMac… for Godly women who are devoted to their Heavenly Father, their family, church and community. Pray for those who will miss her… and thank God for welcoming her and Mary to His banquet table. I’m sure they’ve saved a seat nearby for me… and I am looking forward to seeing them again someday. Won’t you join us?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Our God, I am faithful to you with all my heart, and you can trust me. I will sing and play music for you with all that I am. I will start playing my harps before the sun rises. I will praise you, LORD, for everyone to hear; I will sing hymns to you in every nation. Your love reaches higher than the heavens, and your loyalty extends beyond the clouds. Our God, may you be honored above the heavens; may your glory be seen everywhere on earth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everybody needs a hero, and I’ve had a dandy. For more than fifty-four years, I’ve been encouraged and nurtured by a remarkable lady who shared my birthday. Yesterday, she went to heaven… less than 48 hours after her beloved baby girl died. “MawMac,” as I called her, was really Geraldine McCurry. She took great pride in being the wife of the local Chevrolet dealer, Andrew McCurry… and mother to three girls - Andrea, Marsha, and Mary.
As Andrea wrote in Mary’s obituary, “…a tragic accident at birth caused her to be severely physically handicapped by cerebral palsy. Because of her condition, she was never able to walk, talk, use her hands or be able to care for herself in any way. However, she devised a method of communication when she was about a year and a half old using her eyes. For those who took the time to learn to "talk" with Mary, they found a warm, loving, rather bawdy personality with a little streak of the devil.” Mary would have been 60 this October. Mary’s family and all who knew her loved her dearly. And in a time when many children with cerebral palsy were hidden away in institutions, the McCurrys never treated Mary with such disdain. MawMac and her family were ahead of their time in recognizing that Mary was a bright girl trapped in a body that betrayed her… and they did all they could to make life as “normal” as possible for this precious girl.
As further proof of this, a friend recalled on Facebook the Sunday that Mrs. McCurry wheeled Mary to the front of our church sanctuary, where she said Mary was wishing to make a profession of faith in Jesus Christ and be baptized. MawMac said, “I just couldn’t hold her back any longer… she insisted on coming to the altar.” That was our MawMac… dedicated to her children… and to her God. She was also fiercely patriotic. I like to joke that I am a “Firecracker Baby” because of my July 4th birthday… but MawMac truly was… and she had a collection of red/white/blue memorabilia that defies belief – down to a life-sized “Uncle Sam!” This past July 4th, she wore a new blouse fashioned by her daughters to fit her 4-ft frame… featuring red/white/blue stars, of course! She wore it with red/white/blue shoes, and – what else? – a headband with shooting stars that bobbled along! Did I mention that MawMac was 93 on her last birthday?
If you didn’t get a chance to know Geraldine “MawMac” McCurry in this lifetime, you will hopefully meet her in heaven. She will be the one standing with Jesus, tall and stately, healed from the osteoporosis that shrunk her tiny frame by almost 5 inches… and she will be talking and greeting everyone who enters the Pearly Gates! MawMac taught me a lot about life and overcoming challenges and obstacles… but she taught me more about faith and devotion. She hardly ever missed a church service (or anything else in our community, for that matter!), and she was one of the most devoted Christians I ever knew. She wasn’t preachy or one of those who spouted scripture and lectured about sinful behaviors. She merely modeled the teachings of Jesus… every single day of her life.
I know MawMac wasn’t perfect. I’m sure she had her moments. But I never saw them. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that she and Mary are dancing with Jesus… two faithful women who were loyal to Him without fail. This scripture passage is so fitting for Geraldine and Mary. I know they are having a celebration to end all celebrations… and because of this, I feel like singing and dancing, too – in spite of my sadness.
The more of my loved ones who pass on and go to heaven, the more real heaven becomes to me. It’s a glorious resting place for those who have chosen to follow Jesus, and I am so looking forward to joining the party there. Will you be along? Do you know Jesus in the way MawMac and Mary know Him? Do you live for Him each day – and will you dance and sing His praises even into Eternity? You can! Who – or what – is holding you back? Isn’t it time you raced down the altar, so to speak, like Mary did… and secured your place at the party?
I ask you to please stop and thank God today for heroes like MawMac… for Godly women who are devoted to their Heavenly Father, their family, church and community. Pray for those who will miss her… and thank God for welcoming her and Mary to His banquet table. I’m sure they’ve saved a seat nearby for me… and I am looking forward to seeing them again someday. Won’t you join us?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 13, 2011
John 3:11-12
I tell you for certain that we know what we are talking about because we have seen it ourselves. But none of you will accept what we say. If you don't believe when I talk to you about things on earth, how can you possibly believe if I talk to you about things in heaven?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
How many times have you tried to tell someone something, and they simply refused to believe you? I bet I’ve shown our little Timothy several dozen times that his square block doesn’t go in the hole for the one with the triangular shape. Yet he still seems to try to force the wrong blocks in the wrong openings. I don’t get upset with him – he will learn. But for now, it can be somewhat frustrating… especially when I just showed him the correct place for each block shape.
As we grow, we are still told things that we don’t believe. Sometimes we have to make mistakes for ourselves in order to truly learn the lesson involved… and some of those lessons are really difficult ones! If we never mature to a level where we can accept certain truths – much less believe what others tell us – how will we ever believe in something as nebulous as heaven?
A lot of us have been reading the book Heaven is for Real lately. This is the story of a four-year-old boy who had a near-death experience and “went to heaven.” He tells in vivid detail of his encounter with Jesus and loved ones – and how glorious everything was. As my mother-in-law said, “I surely hope he’s right!” We won’t know for sure until we get there. But I have to admit, I’ve been greatly encouraged by this little boy’s account.
Why is it that I am more willing to believe after hearing a “firsthand” account than I was by merely reading the accounts in the Bible? Does this truly make heaven any more real because a four-year-old child supposedly saw it and can speak from experience about what he observed there? Do we have to wait until Jesus stands right in front of us and shows us his hands and feet before we believe He truly died on the cross for our sins? What does this say about our faith? Do we even have any?
I am not ashamed to say that I was encouraged by the account of heaven given in the book Heaven is for Real. But I am not dependent on such “physical proof” in order to believe that heaven exists… or that Jesus lived and died for me and waits there to welcome each of us home. I cannot see the Holy Spirit, but I know that He is with me every second of the day.
The miracles, signs and wonders of God are all around us… and some are more readily recognizable than others - though not necessarily more significant. Until we “believe in unseen things” with God, we are not fully enjoying a deep, abundant relationship with Him based on unabashed faith. This is where He delights… this is what pleases God… when we unconditionally trust Him – especially for that which we have not seen. What is your level of faith these days? Do you need physical proof before you can truly believe… or is God’s word and promise good enough?
©2011 Debbie Robus
I tell you for certain that we know what we are talking about because we have seen it ourselves. But none of you will accept what we say. If you don't believe when I talk to you about things on earth, how can you possibly believe if I talk to you about things in heaven?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
How many times have you tried to tell someone something, and they simply refused to believe you? I bet I’ve shown our little Timothy several dozen times that his square block doesn’t go in the hole for the one with the triangular shape. Yet he still seems to try to force the wrong blocks in the wrong openings. I don’t get upset with him – he will learn. But for now, it can be somewhat frustrating… especially when I just showed him the correct place for each block shape.
As we grow, we are still told things that we don’t believe. Sometimes we have to make mistakes for ourselves in order to truly learn the lesson involved… and some of those lessons are really difficult ones! If we never mature to a level where we can accept certain truths – much less believe what others tell us – how will we ever believe in something as nebulous as heaven?
A lot of us have been reading the book Heaven is for Real lately. This is the story of a four-year-old boy who had a near-death experience and “went to heaven.” He tells in vivid detail of his encounter with Jesus and loved ones – and how glorious everything was. As my mother-in-law said, “I surely hope he’s right!” We won’t know for sure until we get there. But I have to admit, I’ve been greatly encouraged by this little boy’s account.
Why is it that I am more willing to believe after hearing a “firsthand” account than I was by merely reading the accounts in the Bible? Does this truly make heaven any more real because a four-year-old child supposedly saw it and can speak from experience about what he observed there? Do we have to wait until Jesus stands right in front of us and shows us his hands and feet before we believe He truly died on the cross for our sins? What does this say about our faith? Do we even have any?
I am not ashamed to say that I was encouraged by the account of heaven given in the book Heaven is for Real. But I am not dependent on such “physical proof” in order to believe that heaven exists… or that Jesus lived and died for me and waits there to welcome each of us home. I cannot see the Holy Spirit, but I know that He is with me every second of the day.
The miracles, signs and wonders of God are all around us… and some are more readily recognizable than others - though not necessarily more significant. Until we “believe in unseen things” with God, we are not fully enjoying a deep, abundant relationship with Him based on unabashed faith. This is where He delights… this is what pleases God… when we unconditionally trust Him – especially for that which we have not seen. What is your level of faith these days? Do you need physical proof before you can truly believe… or is God’s word and promise good enough?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 22, 2011
Luke 22:41-44
He pulled away from them about a stone's throw, knelt down, and prayed, "Father, remove this cup from me. But please, not what I want. What do you want?" At once an angel from heaven was at his side, strengthening him. He prayed on all the harder. Sweat, wrung from him like drops of blood, poured off his face.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In his book, 90 Minutes in Heaven, Baptist minister Don Piper tells his real-life experience of being involved in a head-on collision in January 1989, near Livingston, Texas. The crash was so bad - and Piper’s injuries were so severe - that paramedics covered his car with a tarp and left him for 90 minutes while they waited on a coroner to arrive and pronounce him legally dead. And Piper tells of traveling to heaven…the people and things he saw there… and how glorious it was. Truly, he did not want to ever leave… he was perfectly content to be dead!
But another minister passed by the site of the wreck and felt God telling him to go to the car and pray for the person inside. This man felt this so strongly that he insisted to paramedics that he needed to crawl inside what was left of the back end of this mangled car and pray for the victim. The paramedic relented, and the pastor did exactly this, placing his hand on Don’s shoulder and praying – then singing, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” Much to the pastor’s surprise, Don began to sing along with him!
I won’t give away any more of the book… I hope you will read it for yourself. But I will tell you that for a long time, Don Piper was incredibly angry that God had made him return to earth. Heaven was everything Don had been told it would be… and so much more. It was truly glorious… happy… amazing… wonderful… far beyond any words Don could find to describe it. Yet he returned to earth to endure horrendous suffering, depression, pain and sadness. And for a long time, he didn’t understand why God could do this to him.
Again, I don’t want to give away the story, but let’s just say it took Don a long time to come to a point where he could truly say… “Not what I want, Father… what do You want?” And when he began to ask the right question… and to really seek – and follow – God’s will, he saw things clearly. He discovered the amazing plans that God had for him on this earth… the ways in which he could serve and bless in the name of Jesus.
Recently my 98-year-old grandmother said, “Some days, I just don’t know why I’m still here.” I began to share with her about this book… and to remind her of all of the people she blesses every day with her presence. I pointed out the young nurses’ aides that she “grandmothers” and the maintenance man she is teaching to “garden.” I mentioned the other residents that she visits with and checks up on each day, and a young mother she has befriended and to whom she has become a confidante.
I could have pointed out the husband of her friend who resides across the street in the nursing home – a man she visits and prays with often… or the hairdresser and manicurist she no doubt witnesses to each week… or the ladies from the community who visit and get the “sales pitch” from her to “C’mon down and live here with us… you’ll like it!”
God isn’t done with her… His will – not hers. And God isn’t done with us, either. The question is… are we seeking His will? Are we asking, “What is Your will, not mine?” Do we listen for God’s direction in our lives… and follow it? Or do we say, “Yeah…but NO! I think I’ll do this instead. That seems a little too hard, scary, or painful… and it certainly doesn’t look like much fun. No, LORD, I think I’ll do this instead.”? It’s time for us to humble ourselves… to follow the lead of Jesus Himself and to submit to God’s will for our lives.
I told my grandmother, “Heaven will come soon enough… and it will be even better than you could ever have imagined. Meanwhile, you’ve still got work to do!” And so do we! Have you gotten your assignment? Are you doing the work God planned for you until He calls you home? Isn’t it time you got started?
©2011 Debbie Robus
He pulled away from them about a stone's throw, knelt down, and prayed, "Father, remove this cup from me. But please, not what I want. What do you want?" At once an angel from heaven was at his side, strengthening him. He prayed on all the harder. Sweat, wrung from him like drops of blood, poured off his face.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
In his book, 90 Minutes in Heaven, Baptist minister Don Piper tells his real-life experience of being involved in a head-on collision in January 1989, near Livingston, Texas. The crash was so bad - and Piper’s injuries were so severe - that paramedics covered his car with a tarp and left him for 90 minutes while they waited on a coroner to arrive and pronounce him legally dead. And Piper tells of traveling to heaven…the people and things he saw there… and how glorious it was. Truly, he did not want to ever leave… he was perfectly content to be dead!
But another minister passed by the site of the wreck and felt God telling him to go to the car and pray for the person inside. This man felt this so strongly that he insisted to paramedics that he needed to crawl inside what was left of the back end of this mangled car and pray for the victim. The paramedic relented, and the pastor did exactly this, placing his hand on Don’s shoulder and praying – then singing, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” Much to the pastor’s surprise, Don began to sing along with him!
I won’t give away any more of the book… I hope you will read it for yourself. But I will tell you that for a long time, Don Piper was incredibly angry that God had made him return to earth. Heaven was everything Don had been told it would be… and so much more. It was truly glorious… happy… amazing… wonderful… far beyond any words Don could find to describe it. Yet he returned to earth to endure horrendous suffering, depression, pain and sadness. And for a long time, he didn’t understand why God could do this to him.
Again, I don’t want to give away the story, but let’s just say it took Don a long time to come to a point where he could truly say… “Not what I want, Father… what do You want?” And when he began to ask the right question… and to really seek – and follow – God’s will, he saw things clearly. He discovered the amazing plans that God had for him on this earth… the ways in which he could serve and bless in the name of Jesus.
Recently my 98-year-old grandmother said, “Some days, I just don’t know why I’m still here.” I began to share with her about this book… and to remind her of all of the people she blesses every day with her presence. I pointed out the young nurses’ aides that she “grandmothers” and the maintenance man she is teaching to “garden.” I mentioned the other residents that she visits with and checks up on each day, and a young mother she has befriended and to whom she has become a confidante.
I could have pointed out the husband of her friend who resides across the street in the nursing home – a man she visits and prays with often… or the hairdresser and manicurist she no doubt witnesses to each week… or the ladies from the community who visit and get the “sales pitch” from her to “C’mon down and live here with us… you’ll like it!”
God isn’t done with her… His will – not hers. And God isn’t done with us, either. The question is… are we seeking His will? Are we asking, “What is Your will, not mine?” Do we listen for God’s direction in our lives… and follow it? Or do we say, “Yeah…but NO! I think I’ll do this instead. That seems a little too hard, scary, or painful… and it certainly doesn’t look like much fun. No, LORD, I think I’ll do this instead.”? It’s time for us to humble ourselves… to follow the lead of Jesus Himself and to submit to God’s will for our lives.
I told my grandmother, “Heaven will come soon enough… and it will be even better than you could ever have imagined. Meanwhile, you’ve still got work to do!” And so do we! Have you gotten your assignment? Are you doing the work God planned for you until He calls you home? Isn’t it time you got started?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 27, 2011
1 Peter 1:3-5
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is so good, and by raising Jesus from death, he has given us new life and a hope that lives on. God has something stored up for you in heaven, where it will never decay or be ruined or disappear.
You have faith in God, whose power will protect you until the last day. Then he will save you, just as he has always planned to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever moved… or even taken a trip… you know that you have to make decisions about what to take and what to leave at home. Some moves/trips are easier than others. Sometimes we are actually moving into a bigger space, where storage is not an issue… and sometimes we are downsizing, perhaps drastically. We are moving my grandmother into an assisted living facility, so this is one of those “monumental” moves. On the surface, it would seem easy – you take your best things – just what will fit into the space – and leave the rest to be dispersed among family members and/or sold or donated.
But when you get down to it, we are all attached to our things, and 98-year-old grandmothers are no exception. My grandmother has an “edge” on some, because she and my grandfather lost virtually everything in a house fire 30 years ago. However, in the last 30 years, a lot of “stuff” has been accumulated… and there is sentimental attachment for much of it. So jewelry that belonged to my grandmother’s sisters is important. The little wind chime that hung in my great-aunt’s window has meaning for my grandmother (her older sister). She remembers the kindness of those who gave her things – and the “back-story” behind many of these items.
My grandmother is going on a journey of sorts. She is moving into what will most likely be her final earthly home. What do you take? What do you leave behind? If we study 1 Peter and other scriptures throughout the Bible, we see that there will come a day when, quite literally, we can’t take it with us! The things we store up on this earth and place such value on will not matter when we depart this earth and make the move to Heaven. But the treasures we store for Eternity will be waiting on us… and then some.
I love my home and my “things” as much as the next guy. But I’m starting to question some of my choices a little more closely. Do I need to buy this gadget or that knick-knack… or do I need to contribute more to world hunger relief? Do I really need to spend this hour shopping online, or should I spend it visiting a shut-in or calling a friend I haven’t spoken with in a long time? Should I tip the car hop an extra dollar for delivering my burger or save that money for something I want at a later date? Is it better to concentrate on myself for awhile and do some things for myself (because let’s face it, it’s all about us!) or look around and see who needs my help, prayers, encouragement, and more?
When my great-aunt passed away, the pastor reminded us that her 89-year life was a long, rich one. But by the same token, 89 years was a blip on the screen compared to Eternity. The “stuff” we store up here on earth pales in comparison to what God is storing for us in Heaven. In fact, much of what we think is so fantastic now, we would pile on the junk heap in Heaven. So we have some big choices to make.
As we sort our lives and decide what to keep and what to pitch, we need to take a long hard look at every single area. We need to ask ourselves, “Does this really matter? Would we want to take this to Heaven?” It’s a daunting task – and a challenging question. But the last verse of our passage for today says it all… God will save us. He will protect us to the last day. And He will meet ALL of our needs, and then some… now - and most surely in Heaven. For me, this is worth any “tough choices” I have to make now. Wouldn’t you agree?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is so good, and by raising Jesus from death, he has given us new life and a hope that lives on. God has something stored up for you in heaven, where it will never decay or be ruined or disappear.
You have faith in God, whose power will protect you until the last day. Then he will save you, just as he has always planned to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever moved… or even taken a trip… you know that you have to make decisions about what to take and what to leave at home. Some moves/trips are easier than others. Sometimes we are actually moving into a bigger space, where storage is not an issue… and sometimes we are downsizing, perhaps drastically. We are moving my grandmother into an assisted living facility, so this is one of those “monumental” moves. On the surface, it would seem easy – you take your best things – just what will fit into the space – and leave the rest to be dispersed among family members and/or sold or donated.
But when you get down to it, we are all attached to our things, and 98-year-old grandmothers are no exception. My grandmother has an “edge” on some, because she and my grandfather lost virtually everything in a house fire 30 years ago. However, in the last 30 years, a lot of “stuff” has been accumulated… and there is sentimental attachment for much of it. So jewelry that belonged to my grandmother’s sisters is important. The little wind chime that hung in my great-aunt’s window has meaning for my grandmother (her older sister). She remembers the kindness of those who gave her things – and the “back-story” behind many of these items.
My grandmother is going on a journey of sorts. She is moving into what will most likely be her final earthly home. What do you take? What do you leave behind? If we study 1 Peter and other scriptures throughout the Bible, we see that there will come a day when, quite literally, we can’t take it with us! The things we store up on this earth and place such value on will not matter when we depart this earth and make the move to Heaven. But the treasures we store for Eternity will be waiting on us… and then some.
I love my home and my “things” as much as the next guy. But I’m starting to question some of my choices a little more closely. Do I need to buy this gadget or that knick-knack… or do I need to contribute more to world hunger relief? Do I really need to spend this hour shopping online, or should I spend it visiting a shut-in or calling a friend I haven’t spoken with in a long time? Should I tip the car hop an extra dollar for delivering my burger or save that money for something I want at a later date? Is it better to concentrate on myself for awhile and do some things for myself (because let’s face it, it’s all about us!) or look around and see who needs my help, prayers, encouragement, and more?
When my great-aunt passed away, the pastor reminded us that her 89-year life was a long, rich one. But by the same token, 89 years was a blip on the screen compared to Eternity. The “stuff” we store up here on earth pales in comparison to what God is storing for us in Heaven. In fact, much of what we think is so fantastic now, we would pile on the junk heap in Heaven. So we have some big choices to make.
As we sort our lives and decide what to keep and what to pitch, we need to take a long hard look at every single area. We need to ask ourselves, “Does this really matter? Would we want to take this to Heaven?” It’s a daunting task – and a challenging question. But the last verse of our passage for today says it all… God will save us. He will protect us to the last day. And He will meet ALL of our needs, and then some… now - and most surely in Heaven. For me, this is worth any “tough choices” I have to make now. Wouldn’t you agree?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 16, 2011
John 16:22
You are now very sad. But later I will see you, and you will be so happy that no one will be able to change the way you feel.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A dear sweet lady who attended my church passed away this week. Ms. Gene was 93 years young. I mentioned her passing to my cousin, who knew her even better than I, and she said, “It’s sad, but she’s missed her husband, Leo, long enough. Every time she spoke it seemed she had something to say about Leo… 'Leo Gray always said…' or some other reference to him." My cousin said, “It's time she was with him again.” And truly, I was not sad that Ms. Gene has gone to heaven as much as I was sad that we will miss this spunky little lady here on earth. I know that Ms. Gene and others who have gone to heaven would not change things and return to this earth for anything. As much as I miss my loved ones who have passed, I wouldn’t begin to ask them to return… and they would not oblige anyway! And nothing I could say or do would change their minds.
Here’s the lesson in today’s passage… and it’s not about heaven, really. Or maybe it is, to some degree. See, I think we should be living in such a way now that we don’t have to get to heaven to know the glory that awaits us there. I know that my thoughts about this earth will change when I am finally at the feet of Jesus. But I think the real change ought to take place NOW! I ought to live on this earth like I’m already at Jesus’ feet.
Oh, sure… heaven will be much more wonderful. Things will be different there. But so much of what God offers us, we put on a shelf and “save” for when we get to heaven. There is so much that we could be enjoying and experiencing now, if we would only open our hearts and minds to the possibilities.
There will be moments of sadness in all of our lives… but they don’t have to last. We don’t have to wait until we get to heaven to see Jesus… at least not totally. He is evident everywhere we look. His Holy Spirit can dwell in our hearts and everything we say and do can be permeated by His influence. We can change the way we feel today and experience all the joy He desires for us on this earth. It may not be as good as heaven (and most assuredly, it’s not!), but it can be pretty great if we’ll let Him have control.
This is sort of like the person who saves their good pajamas “in case I have to go to the hospital,” or someone who puts away nicer clothes for a special occasion… and that occasion rarely, if ever, happens. Nice clothes don’t do you any good in the closet or drawers… and saving your joy in Christ for heaven won’t help you in this lifetime. Start living fully – change your heart and mind and let the Holy Spirit fill you from the inside out… and be so happy that no one will be able to change the way you feel today. Heaven will be better… but with God in control, life on this earth can be pretty good, too!
©2011 Debbie Robus
You are now very sad. But later I will see you, and you will be so happy that no one will be able to change the way you feel.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A dear sweet lady who attended my church passed away this week. Ms. Gene was 93 years young. I mentioned her passing to my cousin, who knew her even better than I, and she said, “It’s sad, but she’s missed her husband, Leo, long enough. Every time she spoke it seemed she had something to say about Leo… 'Leo Gray always said…' or some other reference to him." My cousin said, “It's time she was with him again.” And truly, I was not sad that Ms. Gene has gone to heaven as much as I was sad that we will miss this spunky little lady here on earth. I know that Ms. Gene and others who have gone to heaven would not change things and return to this earth for anything. As much as I miss my loved ones who have passed, I wouldn’t begin to ask them to return… and they would not oblige anyway! And nothing I could say or do would change their minds.
Here’s the lesson in today’s passage… and it’s not about heaven, really. Or maybe it is, to some degree. See, I think we should be living in such a way now that we don’t have to get to heaven to know the glory that awaits us there. I know that my thoughts about this earth will change when I am finally at the feet of Jesus. But I think the real change ought to take place NOW! I ought to live on this earth like I’m already at Jesus’ feet.
Oh, sure… heaven will be much more wonderful. Things will be different there. But so much of what God offers us, we put on a shelf and “save” for when we get to heaven. There is so much that we could be enjoying and experiencing now, if we would only open our hearts and minds to the possibilities.
There will be moments of sadness in all of our lives… but they don’t have to last. We don’t have to wait until we get to heaven to see Jesus… at least not totally. He is evident everywhere we look. His Holy Spirit can dwell in our hearts and everything we say and do can be permeated by His influence. We can change the way we feel today and experience all the joy He desires for us on this earth. It may not be as good as heaven (and most assuredly, it’s not!), but it can be pretty great if we’ll let Him have control.
This is sort of like the person who saves their good pajamas “in case I have to go to the hospital,” or someone who puts away nicer clothes for a special occasion… and that occasion rarely, if ever, happens. Nice clothes don’t do you any good in the closet or drawers… and saving your joy in Christ for heaven won’t help you in this lifetime. Start living fully – change your heart and mind and let the Holy Spirit fill you from the inside out… and be so happy that no one will be able to change the way you feel today. Heaven will be better… but with God in control, life on this earth can be pretty good, too!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 23, 2010
Luke 6:35
But love your enemies and be good to them. Lend without expecting to be paid back. Then you will get a great reward, and you will be the true children of God in heaven. He is good even to people who are unthankful and cruel.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I can’t let this day pass without acknowledging two influential women in my life… my cousin, Betty Rhea – whom we later called Granny Betty – and my great-Aunt Zula. Both of these ladies loved with big hearts and had generosity to spare. Granny Betty was a “character” – larger than life with a boisterous, bubbly personality. She never met a stranger, and everyone adored her. Family was top priority with Granny Betty, and she doted on everyone, especially her grandchildren. Aunt Zula was a quiet, orderly school teacher. She devoted her time to her students, her family, and her church… and not necessarily in that order. She was a hard-working Ozark woman with Southern grace and genteel beauty.
While Granny Betty had a quick wit and snappy comebacks that left you laughing and smiling, Aunt Zula had the patience of Job and a low-key – but no less fun - personality. Only once did I ever see her halfway irritated… she felt a cousin had tried to take advantage of her… something that totally ran counter to her moral fortitude.
So what do these two ladies have in common, aside from their love of family, their connection to me, and their Christian faith? In the mid-1990s, Granny Betty suffered a stroke. After her husband died and she could no longer live at home, she lived in a nursing home for nine years, slowly declining until her death on December 21, 2005. Her funeral was held on December 23rd. Aunt Zula’s adult home was in Quitman, Arkansas, and she lived minutes from the school where she taught fourth grade for decades. Old age took its toll on her in recent years, claiming her eyesight, her hearing, and generally wearing out her 91-year-old body. And on December 23, 2009, she became seriously ill. She was rushed to the emergency room at our hospital, where my mom visited with her briefly. Doctors determined there was nothing left to do but keep her comfortable, so she was transported to her home a few hours later. My mom phoned to tell me that Aunt Zula barely got back into her own bed before she passed into Heaven.
If you have ever lost a loved one at Christmas time, you understand that it is almost surreal. People are hurrying and bustling here and there. Most are jolly and upbeat. Many don’t know how to respond to you in your grief… especially at what is supposed to be such a celebratory time. Truthfully, you don’t know what you are supposed to feel, either.
But I have my own theory…
This is the "Season of Giving." And honestly, what greater gift could any of us receive than to get to sit at the feet of Jesus in Heaven?! So my thinking is that Granny Betty and Aunt Zula… and others who have gone before them in the Christmas season… got an extra special Christmas gift! I know they wouldn’t come back for a thousand trees with a zillion gifts piled underneath. I know that they were good to the people around them – they lived big and loved big – and they earned their reward in heaven.
I am not sad as I think of my loved ones who have passed during the holidays… or any of my loved ones who have passed. I know that EVERY day is Christmas for them, because they spend their days with Jesus. My prayer is that we would live in such a way that we are pleasing to God… that we would ove our enemies and be good to all people. We can’t earn the reward of heaven with good deeds, but I would much rather sit at the feet of Jesus knowing I served Him well, wouldn’t you?
Today, thank God for the “Granny Bettys” and “Aunt Zulas” in your life. Thank Him for the love and influence of those who have shown you the example of being good to everyone and “loving big”. Thank Him for the gift of Heaven. And say a prayer for those who are saying a final “Goodbye” to loved ones this holiday season. Ask God to give them His comfort and peace … and to fill their hearts with happy memories of their loved one for Christmases to come.
©2010 Debbie Robus
But love your enemies and be good to them. Lend without expecting to be paid back. Then you will get a great reward, and you will be the true children of God in heaven. He is good even to people who are unthankful and cruel.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I can’t let this day pass without acknowledging two influential women in my life… my cousin, Betty Rhea – whom we later called Granny Betty – and my great-Aunt Zula. Both of these ladies loved with big hearts and had generosity to spare. Granny Betty was a “character” – larger than life with a boisterous, bubbly personality. She never met a stranger, and everyone adored her. Family was top priority with Granny Betty, and she doted on everyone, especially her grandchildren. Aunt Zula was a quiet, orderly school teacher. She devoted her time to her students, her family, and her church… and not necessarily in that order. She was a hard-working Ozark woman with Southern grace and genteel beauty.
While Granny Betty had a quick wit and snappy comebacks that left you laughing and smiling, Aunt Zula had the patience of Job and a low-key – but no less fun - personality. Only once did I ever see her halfway irritated… she felt a cousin had tried to take advantage of her… something that totally ran counter to her moral fortitude.
So what do these two ladies have in common, aside from their love of family, their connection to me, and their Christian faith? In the mid-1990s, Granny Betty suffered a stroke. After her husband died and she could no longer live at home, she lived in a nursing home for nine years, slowly declining until her death on December 21, 2005. Her funeral was held on December 23rd. Aunt Zula’s adult home was in Quitman, Arkansas, and she lived minutes from the school where she taught fourth grade for decades. Old age took its toll on her in recent years, claiming her eyesight, her hearing, and generally wearing out her 91-year-old body. And on December 23, 2009, she became seriously ill. She was rushed to the emergency room at our hospital, where my mom visited with her briefly. Doctors determined there was nothing left to do but keep her comfortable, so she was transported to her home a few hours later. My mom phoned to tell me that Aunt Zula barely got back into her own bed before she passed into Heaven.
If you have ever lost a loved one at Christmas time, you understand that it is almost surreal. People are hurrying and bustling here and there. Most are jolly and upbeat. Many don’t know how to respond to you in your grief… especially at what is supposed to be such a celebratory time. Truthfully, you don’t know what you are supposed to feel, either.
But I have my own theory…
This is the "Season of Giving." And honestly, what greater gift could any of us receive than to get to sit at the feet of Jesus in Heaven?! So my thinking is that Granny Betty and Aunt Zula… and others who have gone before them in the Christmas season… got an extra special Christmas gift! I know they wouldn’t come back for a thousand trees with a zillion gifts piled underneath. I know that they were good to the people around them – they lived big and loved big – and they earned their reward in heaven.
I am not sad as I think of my loved ones who have passed during the holidays… or any of my loved ones who have passed. I know that EVERY day is Christmas for them, because they spend their days with Jesus. My prayer is that we would live in such a way that we are pleasing to God… that we would ove our enemies and be good to all people. We can’t earn the reward of heaven with good deeds, but I would much rather sit at the feet of Jesus knowing I served Him well, wouldn’t you?
Today, thank God for the “Granny Bettys” and “Aunt Zulas” in your life. Thank Him for the love and influence of those who have shown you the example of being good to everyone and “loving big”. Thank Him for the gift of Heaven. And say a prayer for those who are saying a final “Goodbye” to loved ones this holiday season. Ask God to give them His comfort and peace … and to fill their hearts with happy memories of their loved one for Christmases to come.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 19, 2010
Matthew 12:36-37
I promise you that on the day of judgment, everyone will have to account for every careless word they have spoken. On that day they will be told that they are either innocent or guilty because of the things they have said.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Each month, as I go to sales and auctions, I make notes of what I purchase and how much the items cost. As I sell things online and in my booth at a store downtown, I make a note on my “inventory list” of the date the item sold and the sale price. I do this for tax purposes, and also because it’s fun to see how much I made or lost on each item. Thankfully, there have been very few losses.
Somehow, I have a feeling that there are more “losses” to report when I stand before God some day. Even though I know that my name is written in The Lamb’s Book of Life … and I have every confidence that Jesus is preparing my “mansion” as we speak … I will still have to answer for what I did on this earth. God is going to want me to account for the careless words I said … the judgments I made about others … the times I was supposed to serve and didn’t.
I hope that there will be at least a few things in the “plus” column for God to recognize. And I am doing all I can to add to that column. But it is very easy for us to slip into old habits … and to say and do things that displease God. I believe when we realize that God really is making note of these – and some day, He will say “What do you have to say for yourself?” - we will try to do better. I believe that at the end of my “heavenly review,” God will take His giant eraser – or more aptly, a cup of Jesus’ precious blood” - and wash away any evidence of my wrongdoing. But I don’t want there to be much for Him to erase, do you?
Today, I pray you will remind yourself that God is making notes. He is holding us accountable for everything we say and do … and someday we will have to answer for our careless words and our ruthless judgments of others. I pray you will ask Him to give you strength and wisdom to conquer these demons in your life and to focus more on serving and making marks in God’s “plus” column.
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you have a minute, please view this video by Beth Moore, a well-known teacher of God’s word. She speaks to the issue of judging others – and listening to God. You’ll laugh, think – and maybe even cry … but she will give you a great illustration of how God works – and the many ways we can serve Him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xtk5WgzZcYA
I promise you that on the day of judgment, everyone will have to account for every careless word they have spoken. On that day they will be told that they are either innocent or guilty because of the things they have said.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Each month, as I go to sales and auctions, I make notes of what I purchase and how much the items cost. As I sell things online and in my booth at a store downtown, I make a note on my “inventory list” of the date the item sold and the sale price. I do this for tax purposes, and also because it’s fun to see how much I made or lost on each item. Thankfully, there have been very few losses.
Somehow, I have a feeling that there are more “losses” to report when I stand before God some day. Even though I know that my name is written in The Lamb’s Book of Life … and I have every confidence that Jesus is preparing my “mansion” as we speak … I will still have to answer for what I did on this earth. God is going to want me to account for the careless words I said … the judgments I made about others … the times I was supposed to serve and didn’t.
I hope that there will be at least a few things in the “plus” column for God to recognize. And I am doing all I can to add to that column. But it is very easy for us to slip into old habits … and to say and do things that displease God. I believe when we realize that God really is making note of these – and some day, He will say “What do you have to say for yourself?” - we will try to do better. I believe that at the end of my “heavenly review,” God will take His giant eraser – or more aptly, a cup of Jesus’ precious blood” - and wash away any evidence of my wrongdoing. But I don’t want there to be much for Him to erase, do you?
Today, I pray you will remind yourself that God is making notes. He is holding us accountable for everything we say and do … and someday we will have to answer for our careless words and our ruthless judgments of others. I pray you will ask Him to give you strength and wisdom to conquer these demons in your life and to focus more on serving and making marks in God’s “plus” column.
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you have a minute, please view this video by Beth Moore, a well-known teacher of God’s word. She speaks to the issue of judging others – and listening to God. You’ll laugh, think – and maybe even cry … but she will give you a great illustration of how God works – and the many ways we can serve Him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xtk5WgzZcYA
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