Luke 6:30-35
Give to everyone who asks and
don’t ask people to return what they have taken from you. Treat others
just as you want to be treated.
If you love only someone who
loves you, will God praise you for that? Even sinners love people who
love them. If you are kind only to someone who is kind to you, will God
be pleased with you for that? Even sinners are kind to people who are
kind to them. If you lend money only to someone you think will pay you
back, will God be pleased with you for that? Even sinners lend to
sinners because they think they will get it all back.
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.
It’s
happened more than once. A person I thought was a friend did something
hurtful toward me – or toward another friend or loved one. And then
this person acted as if nothing had happened. There are also a few
people who never respond to my kindnesses…who never say “Thank You” when
I wish them well or do something nice for them. And I continue to do it
anyway. Why? Because decades ago, someone gave me some excellent (and scriptural) advice when another person had treated me poorly…”Kill ‘em with kindness.”
Here’s
the thing…think of all that you have done that broke Jesus’ heart. Did
He turn His back on you? Did Jesus say, “You mistreated Me, so I am not
doing another thing for you!”…or “You are dead to Me!” No, Jesus
continues to love us and bless us even as we disappoint Him on a daily
basis. We are offered unmerited favor, also known as GRACE – God’s
Riches At Christ’s Expense. And we are called to extend this same gift
to others.
At every turn, we must ask ourselves, “How do we wish
to be treated?” We must consider how Jesus treats us – even when we
falter…how He reacts when we “borrow” and don’t repay…how He loves us
even when we break His heart. We have to ask ourselves whether we think
we are better than Jesus…or whether we should be implementing His model
of compassion, grace, mercy and forgiveness in our daily interaction
with others.
The answer is clear to me. I won’t say that I don’t
have to sometimes grit my teeth and bite my tongue while I smile and
say or do nice things for someone else. But because of God’s grace, I
try to treat others as I wish to be treated…whether they reciprocate or
not. At some point, your efforts may be noticed. The “borrower” or
“offender” may acknowledge that you treated him/her better than he/she
deserved. But either way, you will be able to say to yourself – and
most importantly, to Jesus – “I did my best to honor what You commanded.
I treated others as YOU treat me…and as I wish to be treated.”
There
are people who will hurt us...people who will borrow and never
repay…people who will disappoint us – or even break our hearts – and
then act as if nothing ever happened. Bad things will happen to “good”
people…at the hands of other people we thought were inherently “good.” How we react and respond speaks volumes about where we are as a Christian disciple. What - and WHO - are you showing to others these days?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label loving others as Jesus loves us. Show all posts
Showing posts with label loving others as Jesus loves us. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for September 17, 2016
Luke 10:1-6
The Lord now chose seventy other disciples and sent them on ahead in pairs to all the towns and villages he planned to visit later.
These were his instructions to them: “Plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out more laborers to help you, for the harvest is and the workers so few. Go now, and remember that I am sending you out as lambs among wolves. Don’t take any money with you, or a beggar’s bag, or even an extra pair of shoes. And don’t waste time along the way.
“Whenever you enter a home, give it your blessing. If it is worthy of the blessing, the blessing will stand; if not, the blessing will return to you.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If you are not an Arkansas Razorbacks fan, substitute the images of your favorite team and one or two of its biggest rivals in what I am about to tell you. Now, imagine being with a group of rabid Razorbacks fans, dressed from head to toe in your best team garb. The University of Arkansas president says, “I want you to pair off and go down to Texas. Some of you go to Austin…the rest of you go to College Station.” But I want you to knock on doors and convince those folks to start rooting for the Razorbacks. Get them to send their kids to college at the UofA and participate in Razorbacks athletics and other school activities. Encourage them to renounce their allegiance to the Texas Longhorns and the A&M Aggies and support ONLY the Razorbacks in all things.
Would you do it? Even if with every fiber of your being, you believed that the Razorbacks and the university they represent were superior in every way…that being an Arkansas Razorbacks fan would totally change your life – and all for the better – could you approach someone you felt certain did not share your beliefs and try to change their mind? Do you think some folks in Texas would even open the door for you? And would you be worried for your safety around those who did?
I know I’ve gone out on a ridiculous limb here, but think about what Jesus was instructing these 35 pair of disciples to do! He was sending them into “enemy territory” for the most part - and in some ways saying, “Good luck out there!” But here’s the thing…luck was not what these people needed. While Jesus knew that they were taking big risks, He was walking with them every step of the way. For those who listened to Jesus’ voice and trusted Him, their obedient faith made the difference.
If you get right down to it, Jesus is sending us out into the world just as He did those 70 early disciples. He is telling us to interact with others…to spread the Good News to those who may/may not want to hear it…to “put on our Hog hat and knock on a Longhorn’s door” and invite the people inside to have a change of heart.
On a more basic, everyday level, Jesus is calling us to reach out to those who might differ from us in some way and say, “I serve a Savior who died for the sins of ALL of us…Who loves unconditionally and offers forgiveness and Eternal Life to anyone who will give their heart to Him.” We are called to treat others as Jesus treats us…and for some of us, that is a tall order! There is no room for malicious talk, judgment, hateful criticism, discrimination, an air of superiority, or unkindness of any sort. It’s no wonder that some people put up a wall of defense or get downright nasty when we approach, because our attitude comes across as arrogant, unloving – and anything but “Christian.”
So “put on the whole armor of God” – nothing more or less - and get out there and share Jesus with others. Demonstrate His love and compassion to each person you meet. Love them as you wish to be loved – and as He loves you. Carry the Holy Spirit in your heart, and trust that any effort you make with a sincere and obedient faith will make a difference. We’ll never convince many Longhorn and Aggie fans to “convert” to our side…but with the power of Jesus, we might just win a few souls to God’s Kingdom. And that’s worth a Woo…Pig! Sooie!...don’t you think?!
©2016 Debbie Robus
The Lord now chose seventy other disciples and sent them on ahead in pairs to all the towns and villages he planned to visit later.
These were his instructions to them: “Plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out more laborers to help you, for the harvest is and the workers so few. Go now, and remember that I am sending you out as lambs among wolves. Don’t take any money with you, or a beggar’s bag, or even an extra pair of shoes. And don’t waste time along the way.
“Whenever you enter a home, give it your blessing. If it is worthy of the blessing, the blessing will stand; if not, the blessing will return to you.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If you are not an Arkansas Razorbacks fan, substitute the images of your favorite team and one or two of its biggest rivals in what I am about to tell you. Now, imagine being with a group of rabid Razorbacks fans, dressed from head to toe in your best team garb. The University of Arkansas president says, “I want you to pair off and go down to Texas. Some of you go to Austin…the rest of you go to College Station.” But I want you to knock on doors and convince those folks to start rooting for the Razorbacks. Get them to send their kids to college at the UofA and participate in Razorbacks athletics and other school activities. Encourage them to renounce their allegiance to the Texas Longhorns and the A&M Aggies and support ONLY the Razorbacks in all things.
Would you do it? Even if with every fiber of your being, you believed that the Razorbacks and the university they represent were superior in every way…that being an Arkansas Razorbacks fan would totally change your life – and all for the better – could you approach someone you felt certain did not share your beliefs and try to change their mind? Do you think some folks in Texas would even open the door for you? And would you be worried for your safety around those who did?
I know I’ve gone out on a ridiculous limb here, but think about what Jesus was instructing these 35 pair of disciples to do! He was sending them into “enemy territory” for the most part - and in some ways saying, “Good luck out there!” But here’s the thing…luck was not what these people needed. While Jesus knew that they were taking big risks, He was walking with them every step of the way. For those who listened to Jesus’ voice and trusted Him, their obedient faith made the difference.
If you get right down to it, Jesus is sending us out into the world just as He did those 70 early disciples. He is telling us to interact with others…to spread the Good News to those who may/may not want to hear it…to “put on our Hog hat and knock on a Longhorn’s door” and invite the people inside to have a change of heart.
On a more basic, everyday level, Jesus is calling us to reach out to those who might differ from us in some way and say, “I serve a Savior who died for the sins of ALL of us…Who loves unconditionally and offers forgiveness and Eternal Life to anyone who will give their heart to Him.” We are called to treat others as Jesus treats us…and for some of us, that is a tall order! There is no room for malicious talk, judgment, hateful criticism, discrimination, an air of superiority, or unkindness of any sort. It’s no wonder that some people put up a wall of defense or get downright nasty when we approach, because our attitude comes across as arrogant, unloving – and anything but “Christian.”
So “put on the whole armor of God” – nothing more or less - and get out there and share Jesus with others. Demonstrate His love and compassion to each person you meet. Love them as you wish to be loved – and as He loves you. Carry the Holy Spirit in your heart, and trust that any effort you make with a sincere and obedient faith will make a difference. We’ll never convince many Longhorn and Aggie fans to “convert” to our side…but with the power of Jesus, we might just win a few souls to God’s Kingdom. And that’s worth a Woo…Pig! Sooie!...don’t you think?!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 28, 2016
John 15:9-14
“I’ve loved you the way my Father has loved me. Make yourselves at home in my love. If you keep my commands, you’ll remain intimately at home in my love. That’s what I’ve done—kept my Father’s commands and made myself at home in his love.
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends.
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.
Anyone who knows us very well knows that we are huge “homebodies.” As founders and publishers of Workamper News*, a magazine and website that tell people how to find work while traveling…people readily assumed that Greg and I were criss-crossing the country in an RV. In truth, for the 18 years we owned this business – and in the years since – we’ve rarely gone anywhere. Our business was home-based for most of the first 16 years…quite literally in an adjoining room of our house for about a decade. For another six years or so, our office was located a short golf-cart ride away - but still on the same property. We could – and did – work in our pajamas, if we wanted!
Thankfully Greg and I get along quite well, because we have been virtually inseparable since 1987! We are blessed with a special relationship that allows us to live and work together amicably…and to give each other “space” for special interests/hobbies. We revel in our individual joys, as well as common purposes. Like many couples who have been together for a long time, we share experiences…joys and triumphs – and heartaches and concerns. There is nothing that we would not do for each other…no burden OR delight that we would not take on together.
As idyllic as this all sounds, I have to tell you that I firmly believe the only reason such a relationship is possible is because we are “at home” in the love of Christ. We are just as comfortable in our relationship with Jesus as we are with each other. We have made ourselves at home in His love. Jesus shares our joys, triumphs and accomplishments…and our disappointments, burdens and sorrows. He undergirds everything about our lives and creates a safe haven in which to rest and reside.
As I grow in my relationship with Jesus, I have less and less desire or temptation to “travel” to areas that don’t include Him. The “lure” of sin has lost its appeal. I find that I stop in my tracks more often if/when I am tempted to speak or act in a manner that might disrespect or degrade our relationship in any way. I am quite cozy, comfortable, and “at home” in the arms of Jesus.
This does not mean that I am complacent. With any “home,” maintenance and upkeep are required…and it is no different in my relationship with Jesus. We must cultivate and nurture conversation, shared activities and goals…and Christ’s mission. We must make the time and effort to encourage others to settle in with Him, as well…and we must demonstrate His love by loving them just as He does.
Take some time today to think about your home. Is it a place you pass through on your way to something or somewhere else? Are you comfortable there…secure and content? Would you say that this describes your “home” in the love of Christ? Is your relationship with Jesus like a place where you store your clothes and other belongings…but spend little to no time there? Or do you delight in dwelling in His presence and serving as His disciple?
Are you in some ways running from Jesus…and does it show in your daily living? Are you ready to fully embrace your relationship with Christ – and then share the blessings of His love with others? Will this be the day that your joy fully matures and you settle in to “make your home” with Him? Don’t you want it to be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
*http://workamper.com
“I’ve loved you the way my Father has loved me. Make yourselves at home in my love. If you keep my commands, you’ll remain intimately at home in my love. That’s what I’ve done—kept my Father’s commands and made myself at home in his love.
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends.
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.
Anyone who knows us very well knows that we are huge “homebodies.” As founders and publishers of Workamper News*, a magazine and website that tell people how to find work while traveling…people readily assumed that Greg and I were criss-crossing the country in an RV. In truth, for the 18 years we owned this business – and in the years since – we’ve rarely gone anywhere. Our business was home-based for most of the first 16 years…quite literally in an adjoining room of our house for about a decade. For another six years or so, our office was located a short golf-cart ride away - but still on the same property. We could – and did – work in our pajamas, if we wanted!
Thankfully Greg and I get along quite well, because we have been virtually inseparable since 1987! We are blessed with a special relationship that allows us to live and work together amicably…and to give each other “space” for special interests/hobbies. We revel in our individual joys, as well as common purposes. Like many couples who have been together for a long time, we share experiences…joys and triumphs – and heartaches and concerns. There is nothing that we would not do for each other…no burden OR delight that we would not take on together.
As idyllic as this all sounds, I have to tell you that I firmly believe the only reason such a relationship is possible is because we are “at home” in the love of Christ. We are just as comfortable in our relationship with Jesus as we are with each other. We have made ourselves at home in His love. Jesus shares our joys, triumphs and accomplishments…and our disappointments, burdens and sorrows. He undergirds everything about our lives and creates a safe haven in which to rest and reside.
As I grow in my relationship with Jesus, I have less and less desire or temptation to “travel” to areas that don’t include Him. The “lure” of sin has lost its appeal. I find that I stop in my tracks more often if/when I am tempted to speak or act in a manner that might disrespect or degrade our relationship in any way. I am quite cozy, comfortable, and “at home” in the arms of Jesus.
This does not mean that I am complacent. With any “home,” maintenance and upkeep are required…and it is no different in my relationship with Jesus. We must cultivate and nurture conversation, shared activities and goals…and Christ’s mission. We must make the time and effort to encourage others to settle in with Him, as well…and we must demonstrate His love by loving them just as He does.
Take some time today to think about your home. Is it a place you pass through on your way to something or somewhere else? Are you comfortable there…secure and content? Would you say that this describes your “home” in the love of Christ? Is your relationship with Jesus like a place where you store your clothes and other belongings…but spend little to no time there? Or do you delight in dwelling in His presence and serving as His disciple?
Are you in some ways running from Jesus…and does it show in your daily living? Are you ready to fully embrace your relationship with Christ – and then share the blessings of His love with others? Will this be the day that your joy fully matures and you settle in to “make your home” with Him? Don’t you want it to be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
*http://workamper.com
Daily Devotional for July 17, 2016
1 John 4:18-21
We need have no fear of someone who loves us perfectly; his perfect love for us eliminates all dread of what he might do to us. If we are afraid, it is for fear of what he might do to us and shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us. So you see, our love for him comes as a result of his loving us first.
If anyone says “I love God,” but keeps on hating his brother, he is a liar; for if he doesn’t love his brother who is right there in front of him, how can he love God whom he has never seen? And God himself has said that one must love not only God but his brother too.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning as we left church, Timothy’s Sunday school teacher, Mrs. Glenda, said to him…”Remember, God loves you!” Timothy got in the car telling me that God loves us the MOST! I said, “Yes! Imagine…as much as I love you – God loves you MORE! How can that even be possible?!” We marveled the rest of the way home about how much God loves us and how we wish we could see Him…but we know that He is with us. Someday, we will see God face-to-face in Heaven – and it will be glorious. (We have some pretty deep conversations in the short few blocks from church to home!)
In the pre-K class, we studied Joseph, and how he trusted God even as one bad thing after another happened to him. Through all of this, Joseph trusted God. Our scripture memory verse has been Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart” (NIV). We have talked for at least four weeks now about how Joseph trusted God…even when bad things happened – and how we must do the same. We must believe that God loves us the MOST…that He will take care of us, hear our prayers, and meet our needs.
Greg and I spent the afternoon with family, and when we returned home, we learned that once again, police officers have been shot and killed – this time in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As I caught up on reading e-mail messages and social media posts, I was heartsick to see that countless people have already begun a barrage of comments and attacks on certain groups – and a particular individual.
Honestly, I don’t know how I am supposed to teach our children that God loves us and wants us to love others when so many who claim the name of Jesus are spewing such hatred and have such unloving attitudes. I know that as heartbroken as God is about all of the violence that is occurring in our world…He must be equally devastated by the hatefulness being expressed by some of His children toward others.
I hope we will all take a collective breath and search our hearts – and prayerfully ask God to work to bring about some serious attitude adjustments in many of us. We cannot be part of the solution until we stop being part of the problem…and hating others and assigning blame based on our own agendas or personal preferences is a problem. I don’t know your heart…what might have caused you to be so angry, fearful, or disapproving of a particular person, race, ethnic group, sexual orientation, socio-economic group, gender, religious belief – or whatever. I know that sometimes people just don’t like someone else because of the way that he/she looks, walks or talks. We humans are terribly judgmental! But hear this…God is not pleased with our judgments!
If you are bound and determined to continue judging someone else, then quit saying you love God. Because scripture plainly states that we cannot love God and hate our brother. If this offends you, take it up with God. I cannot sugarcoat this. I plan to meet God face-to-face someday…and I intend to be able to stand before Him and say with 100% assurance that I loved my brothers and sisters…all of them.
This is a tall order, because I must love not only those who are easy to love…but those who want to hate – and hurt. I have to love the guy with the weird hair and that dirty person who smells funny - and the person who hurt my feelings. I have to love my “friends” who post ugly things on social media and the people in the public spotlight who call each other horrible names! I’ll tell you, I’m gonna have to spend some time on my knees to accomplish this! But I am fully committed to doing it, because I love God, and I know that He loves me even more. And this is what He requires of me in return. What about you?©2016 Debbie Robus
We need have no fear of someone who loves us perfectly; his perfect love for us eliminates all dread of what he might do to us. If we are afraid, it is for fear of what he might do to us and shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us. So you see, our love for him comes as a result of his loving us first.
If anyone says “I love God,” but keeps on hating his brother, he is a liar; for if he doesn’t love his brother who is right there in front of him, how can he love God whom he has never seen? And God himself has said that one must love not only God but his brother too.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning as we left church, Timothy’s Sunday school teacher, Mrs. Glenda, said to him…”Remember, God loves you!” Timothy got in the car telling me that God loves us the MOST! I said, “Yes! Imagine…as much as I love you – God loves you MORE! How can that even be possible?!” We marveled the rest of the way home about how much God loves us and how we wish we could see Him…but we know that He is with us. Someday, we will see God face-to-face in Heaven – and it will be glorious. (We have some pretty deep conversations in the short few blocks from church to home!)
In the pre-K class, we studied Joseph, and how he trusted God even as one bad thing after another happened to him. Through all of this, Joseph trusted God. Our scripture memory verse has been Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart” (NIV). We have talked for at least four weeks now about how Joseph trusted God…even when bad things happened – and how we must do the same. We must believe that God loves us the MOST…that He will take care of us, hear our prayers, and meet our needs.
Greg and I spent the afternoon with family, and when we returned home, we learned that once again, police officers have been shot and killed – this time in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As I caught up on reading e-mail messages and social media posts, I was heartsick to see that countless people have already begun a barrage of comments and attacks on certain groups – and a particular individual.
Honestly, I don’t know how I am supposed to teach our children that God loves us and wants us to love others when so many who claim the name of Jesus are spewing such hatred and have such unloving attitudes. I know that as heartbroken as God is about all of the violence that is occurring in our world…He must be equally devastated by the hatefulness being expressed by some of His children toward others.
I hope we will all take a collective breath and search our hearts – and prayerfully ask God to work to bring about some serious attitude adjustments in many of us. We cannot be part of the solution until we stop being part of the problem…and hating others and assigning blame based on our own agendas or personal preferences is a problem. I don’t know your heart…what might have caused you to be so angry, fearful, or disapproving of a particular person, race, ethnic group, sexual orientation, socio-economic group, gender, religious belief – or whatever. I know that sometimes people just don’t like someone else because of the way that he/she looks, walks or talks. We humans are terribly judgmental! But hear this…God is not pleased with our judgments!
If you are bound and determined to continue judging someone else, then quit saying you love God. Because scripture plainly states that we cannot love God and hate our brother. If this offends you, take it up with God. I cannot sugarcoat this. I plan to meet God face-to-face someday…and I intend to be able to stand before Him and say with 100% assurance that I loved my brothers and sisters…all of them.
This is a tall order, because I must love not only those who are easy to love…but those who want to hate – and hurt. I have to love the guy with the weird hair and that dirty person who smells funny - and the person who hurt my feelings. I have to love my “friends” who post ugly things on social media and the people in the public spotlight who call each other horrible names! I’ll tell you, I’m gonna have to spend some time on my knees to accomplish this! But I am fully committed to doing it, because I love God, and I know that He loves me even more. And this is what He requires of me in return. What about you?©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 16, 2016
1 John 4:12-15
For though we have never yet seen God, when we love each other God lives in us, and his love within us grows ever stronger. And he has put his own Holy Spirit into our hearts as a proof to us that we are living with him and he with us. And furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now tell all the world that God sent his Son to be their Savior. Anyone who believes and says that Jesus is the Son of God has God living in him, and he is living with God.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When my niece, Jasmine, was expecting Timothy, our excitement and anticipation grew with every month of her pregnancy. We loved that baby before he was ever born! But as he grew and we spent time him, that love grew exponentially. And despite our declarations that we would not become so attached to the subsequent babies, we couldn’t help ourselves. These children have our hearts!
With no disrespect intended for our own nieces, nephews, and little cousins…I never fully understood this deep and profound love until these three children came into our lives. I can only surmise that God has used these precious little ones to give us a firsthand glimpse at how much He loves us. I believe it is no accident that as I look at the world through this new “lens,” my views have changed dramatically.
When I see a human tragedy unfold on the news, I put myself in the shoes of the parents. Their child is our little one. The son who went to war and didn’t return is our Timothy or Nathan. The daughter who is abducted is our Zola. The child who took his/her own life because of bullying is ours. The person who is called ugly names and spoken of with hate and disdain is our own child…and the pain of it is profound. I look at militant terrorists and think, “This was once a child loved by a mother just as much as we love our little ones.” Or I will remind myself, “This person used to be an innocent child who played, laughed and sang just like ours.”
I am constantly reminded that we were all once precious, innocent children…and that as our Heavenly Father, this is how God sees us. I’ve been substitute teaching in the pre-K Sunday school class for about a month now, and as I look at those little 3, 4 and 5-year-olds, I see tiny vessels that God wants to fill with His Holy Spirit. I see “open books” that God wants to fill with the hope and promise of His holy word…disciples in the making…hearts waiting to be filled with His abundant love.
Just because we are “grownups” doesn’t mean that God doesn’t still see us as His little ones. He wants to fill us with His love…and to see that love grow exponentially as we share it with others. Wherever we are in our “faith walk,” we can go further. Whatever we think we know about God, we can learn more. However strong our relationship with God seems today, it can be stronger. As much empathy and concern as we may think we have for our fellow man, we can cultivate more. These are the things that God desires for us…that we continually strive to go deeper in our efforts to live with Him – and to make room for Him to live within us.
As you look around today, think about others (yes, ALL of them!) with this “God lens.” Consider each and every person as God’s precious little one…and include yourself. See how this changes your relationship with Him – and with the rest of the world. Make a point to really LIVE with God…and to share Him with others. If we will allow God to fill our hearts with His love and power, the results might just amaze us. It’s certainly worth a shot…isn’t it?!
©2016 Debbie Robus
For though we have never yet seen God, when we love each other God lives in us, and his love within us grows ever stronger. And he has put his own Holy Spirit into our hearts as a proof to us that we are living with him and he with us. And furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now tell all the world that God sent his Son to be their Savior. Anyone who believes and says that Jesus is the Son of God has God living in him, and he is living with God.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When my niece, Jasmine, was expecting Timothy, our excitement and anticipation grew with every month of her pregnancy. We loved that baby before he was ever born! But as he grew and we spent time him, that love grew exponentially. And despite our declarations that we would not become so attached to the subsequent babies, we couldn’t help ourselves. These children have our hearts!
With no disrespect intended for our own nieces, nephews, and little cousins…I never fully understood this deep and profound love until these three children came into our lives. I can only surmise that God has used these precious little ones to give us a firsthand glimpse at how much He loves us. I believe it is no accident that as I look at the world through this new “lens,” my views have changed dramatically.
When I see a human tragedy unfold on the news, I put myself in the shoes of the parents. Their child is our little one. The son who went to war and didn’t return is our Timothy or Nathan. The daughter who is abducted is our Zola. The child who took his/her own life because of bullying is ours. The person who is called ugly names and spoken of with hate and disdain is our own child…and the pain of it is profound. I look at militant terrorists and think, “This was once a child loved by a mother just as much as we love our little ones.” Or I will remind myself, “This person used to be an innocent child who played, laughed and sang just like ours.”
I am constantly reminded that we were all once precious, innocent children…and that as our Heavenly Father, this is how God sees us. I’ve been substitute teaching in the pre-K Sunday school class for about a month now, and as I look at those little 3, 4 and 5-year-olds, I see tiny vessels that God wants to fill with His Holy Spirit. I see “open books” that God wants to fill with the hope and promise of His holy word…disciples in the making…hearts waiting to be filled with His abundant love.
Just because we are “grownups” doesn’t mean that God doesn’t still see us as His little ones. He wants to fill us with His love…and to see that love grow exponentially as we share it with others. Wherever we are in our “faith walk,” we can go further. Whatever we think we know about God, we can learn more. However strong our relationship with God seems today, it can be stronger. As much empathy and concern as we may think we have for our fellow man, we can cultivate more. These are the things that God desires for us…that we continually strive to go deeper in our efforts to live with Him – and to make room for Him to live within us.
As you look around today, think about others (yes, ALL of them!) with this “God lens.” Consider each and every person as God’s precious little one…and include yourself. See how this changes your relationship with Him – and with the rest of the world. Make a point to really LIVE with God…and to share Him with others. If we will allow God to fill our hearts with His love and power, the results might just amaze us. It’s certainly worth a shot…isn’t it?!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 17, 2015
James 4:11-12
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the first day of public school for children in our state. I have every confidence that there were more than a few children who entered the doors of their classrooms with at least a little trepidation…and probably even MORE mothers who tearfully left them. I still remember one mother who stood at the door to my classroom…tears pouring down her face…and said, “This is SO hard!” I knew that her child would be perfectly fine…and so would she. I could see a part of the “story” that she could not…I knew that within five minutes of her departure, her child would probably be playing with the other children – as happy as a clam. But it was hard to convince this mom…and there may have been a little “eye-rolling” on my part!
I have to admit…as I’ve watched our little ones begin their school “career” one-by-one, I have better understood the tug at a parent’s heartstrings when these “babies” step out into the big world. I see their side of the “story.” I know what it’s like as a teacher for parents to say, “You just don’t understand”…and I know how that feels for the parents. I also know what it’s like for a child to have some natural apprehension about an unfamiliar setting and new people. I “get” all sides. And this has been a good lesson for me in why criticism and condemnation is a bad idea.
So often, we only see our “side” of things. And that’s where we get into trouble. Whether we operate out of fear, misinformation, or just a judgmental spirit, we are sometimes condescending and hypercritical of other people and situations...and often, we don’t have a complete picture that includes all of the information. More importantly, we fail to realize that when we do this to others, we are doing the same to God. So when we criticize the person who we think is “lazy, different, or worthless,” we are essentially saying that God does not have the power or desire to make changes in these people…that He intentionally creates “junk”…and this is simply not the case.
When we are judgmental of another person for their choices…or because of their size and appearance, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, struggles of some kind, socio-economic status, or even their spiritual beliefs…we are declaring that God created divisions among us and surely must love us more than the other guy. And we should know better!
As the late Maya Angelou said (and I’m paraphrasing)…“When we know better, we must do better.” If we trust God and believe that He has created us and loves each of us equally, we must act like it. This doesn’t leave any room for criticism and condemnation. Just as surely as the first day of school will come and go and all will settle into their roles and routines, we must trust God to show each of us our “role” and routine…and leave the “fixing” to Him. We.can.do.this! Are you with me?
©2015 Debbie Robus
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the first day of public school for children in our state. I have every confidence that there were more than a few children who entered the doors of their classrooms with at least a little trepidation…and probably even MORE mothers who tearfully left them. I still remember one mother who stood at the door to my classroom…tears pouring down her face…and said, “This is SO hard!” I knew that her child would be perfectly fine…and so would she. I could see a part of the “story” that she could not…I knew that within five minutes of her departure, her child would probably be playing with the other children – as happy as a clam. But it was hard to convince this mom…and there may have been a little “eye-rolling” on my part!
I have to admit…as I’ve watched our little ones begin their school “career” one-by-one, I have better understood the tug at a parent’s heartstrings when these “babies” step out into the big world. I see their side of the “story.” I know what it’s like as a teacher for parents to say, “You just don’t understand”…and I know how that feels for the parents. I also know what it’s like for a child to have some natural apprehension about an unfamiliar setting and new people. I “get” all sides. And this has been a good lesson for me in why criticism and condemnation is a bad idea.
So often, we only see our “side” of things. And that’s where we get into trouble. Whether we operate out of fear, misinformation, or just a judgmental spirit, we are sometimes condescending and hypercritical of other people and situations...and often, we don’t have a complete picture that includes all of the information. More importantly, we fail to realize that when we do this to others, we are doing the same to God. So when we criticize the person who we think is “lazy, different, or worthless,” we are essentially saying that God does not have the power or desire to make changes in these people…that He intentionally creates “junk”…and this is simply not the case.
When we are judgmental of another person for their choices…or because of their size and appearance, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, struggles of some kind, socio-economic status, or even their spiritual beliefs…we are declaring that God created divisions among us and surely must love us more than the other guy. And we should know better!
As the late Maya Angelou said (and I’m paraphrasing)…“When we know better, we must do better.” If we trust God and believe that He has created us and loves each of us equally, we must act like it. This doesn’t leave any room for criticism and condemnation. Just as surely as the first day of school will come and go and all will settle into their roles and routines, we must trust God to show each of us our “role” and routine…and leave the “fixing” to Him. We.can.do.this! Are you with me?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 7, 2015
Hebrews 13:1-3
Keep being concerned about each other as the Lord’s followers should. Be sure to welcome strangers into your home. By doing this, some people have welcomed angels as guests, without even knowing it. Remember the Lord’s people who are in jail and be concerned for them. Don’t forget those who are suffering, but imagine that you are there with them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On December 20, 1981, my grandparents’ farm house burned to the ground. They got out with their clothing, vehicles, and a few personal belongings that they grabbed as they ran out the door. The fire burned so hot that even cast iron skillets and their claw-footed bath tub were reduced to ashes. This would be devastating for anyone, but my grandparents were in their early 70s and newly retired - and my grandfather’s health was declining - so it was particularly stressful for them.
My dad rushed to arrange for a new house to be constructed on the property…and it was finished in a record 3+ months. Meanwhile, dear friends who wintered in a southern state graciously insisted that my grandmother and grandfather stay in their house. This was a tremendously generous offer, and we never forgot it!
After several run-ins with the law over the use and sale of drugs, my cousin J.D. was sent to prison for several years. I felt God calling me to write to J.D. – to offer encouragement and remind him how much Jesus did for him…how much he was loved - even in prison. A mutual friend went to the prison with me one Saturday for a visit. This was a life-changing experience for me. For three hours, we sat in this big “common room” with countless prisoners and their families…guards positioned around the perimeter alongside dozens of vending machines that offered everything from ice cream to sodas and candy bars. We had been told to bring plenty of change…and J.D. and the other prisoners shopped at those machines virtually non-stop for the entire visit.
One of the things that struck me was that we were really not supposed to touch the prisoners…although we were allowed a brief “hello” and “good-bye” hug. I looked at the people in that room…husbands/boyfriends with wives/girlfriends and children…mothers and siblings visiting sons…cousins like me…friends…and the prisoners themselves. I had no clue what crimes any of these men had committed (other than my cousin)…although J.D. pointed to a few and enlightened us. But in general, everyone in the room was on equal footing – at least in our eyes. And honestly, they held the same position in the eyes of Jesus. He didn’t see their crimes in degrees of severity…He saw broken people who needed restitution.
My grandparents and the couple who ministered to them so sweetly are all in heaven now. And J.D. has become a completely new creature in Christ Jesus and now serves as an evangelist throughout the mid-South. But my association with all of these people forever changed my perspective about the directives of this passage in Hebrews… and my experiences with Timothy, Zola and Nathan have solidified my resolve to view others as Jesus does – and to serve as He commands.
When I see someone in need, I think…”that could be Timothy or Zola someday.” When I hear people shouting for the execution of someone who has committed a heinous crime, I ask myself, “What if that were Nathan?” When I discover that “uncontrollable” children are being handcuffed in public schools… teenagers who made a senseless mistake are being labeled lifelong sex offenders…and returning veterans who cannot find work are filling homeless shelters…I remind myself that these are the precious children of SOMEBODY. And more importantly, I try to remember that they are all beloved and invaluable to Jesus.
So the next time you start to judge or condemn someone…to call them an ugly name…or to look down your nose at a person who has disappointed in some way or is “less fortunate,” ask yourself, “How would Jesus feel?” Consider what He thinks of this person…and remember that in His eyes, you are their equal - no worse, but certainly no better.
I am saddened that it took such tragic events to grab my attention, in some cases…but I am thankful that God used these experiences to mold my attitude and bring me to a better understanding of the commandment to “love one another.” My prayer is that you might learn from my encounters…and be spared the heartache and frustration of similar hard lessons. I pray that we would all begin to look around for opportunities to minister to others in Jesus’ name…to let them know how precious they are to Him…and to genuinely let them know how deeply we care. Are you ready to show others concern as Jesus would? Don’t you think you should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Keep being concerned about each other as the Lord’s followers should. Be sure to welcome strangers into your home. By doing this, some people have welcomed angels as guests, without even knowing it. Remember the Lord’s people who are in jail and be concerned for them. Don’t forget those who are suffering, but imagine that you are there with them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On December 20, 1981, my grandparents’ farm house burned to the ground. They got out with their clothing, vehicles, and a few personal belongings that they grabbed as they ran out the door. The fire burned so hot that even cast iron skillets and their claw-footed bath tub were reduced to ashes. This would be devastating for anyone, but my grandparents were in their early 70s and newly retired - and my grandfather’s health was declining - so it was particularly stressful for them.
My dad rushed to arrange for a new house to be constructed on the property…and it was finished in a record 3+ months. Meanwhile, dear friends who wintered in a southern state graciously insisted that my grandmother and grandfather stay in their house. This was a tremendously generous offer, and we never forgot it!
After several run-ins with the law over the use and sale of drugs, my cousin J.D. was sent to prison for several years. I felt God calling me to write to J.D. – to offer encouragement and remind him how much Jesus did for him…how much he was loved - even in prison. A mutual friend went to the prison with me one Saturday for a visit. This was a life-changing experience for me. For three hours, we sat in this big “common room” with countless prisoners and their families…guards positioned around the perimeter alongside dozens of vending machines that offered everything from ice cream to sodas and candy bars. We had been told to bring plenty of change…and J.D. and the other prisoners shopped at those machines virtually non-stop for the entire visit.
One of the things that struck me was that we were really not supposed to touch the prisoners…although we were allowed a brief “hello” and “good-bye” hug. I looked at the people in that room…husbands/boyfriends with wives/girlfriends and children…mothers and siblings visiting sons…cousins like me…friends…and the prisoners themselves. I had no clue what crimes any of these men had committed (other than my cousin)…although J.D. pointed to a few and enlightened us. But in general, everyone in the room was on equal footing – at least in our eyes. And honestly, they held the same position in the eyes of Jesus. He didn’t see their crimes in degrees of severity…He saw broken people who needed restitution.
My grandparents and the couple who ministered to them so sweetly are all in heaven now. And J.D. has become a completely new creature in Christ Jesus and now serves as an evangelist throughout the mid-South. But my association with all of these people forever changed my perspective about the directives of this passage in Hebrews… and my experiences with Timothy, Zola and Nathan have solidified my resolve to view others as Jesus does – and to serve as He commands.
When I see someone in need, I think…”that could be Timothy or Zola someday.” When I hear people shouting for the execution of someone who has committed a heinous crime, I ask myself, “What if that were Nathan?” When I discover that “uncontrollable” children are being handcuffed in public schools… teenagers who made a senseless mistake are being labeled lifelong sex offenders…and returning veterans who cannot find work are filling homeless shelters…I remind myself that these are the precious children of SOMEBODY. And more importantly, I try to remember that they are all beloved and invaluable to Jesus.
So the next time you start to judge or condemn someone…to call them an ugly name…or to look down your nose at a person who has disappointed in some way or is “less fortunate,” ask yourself, “How would Jesus feel?” Consider what He thinks of this person…and remember that in His eyes, you are their equal - no worse, but certainly no better.
I am saddened that it took such tragic events to grab my attention, in some cases…but I am thankful that God used these experiences to mold my attitude and bring me to a better understanding of the commandment to “love one another.” My prayer is that you might learn from my encounters…and be spared the heartache and frustration of similar hard lessons. I pray that we would all begin to look around for opportunities to minister to others in Jesus’ name…to let them know how precious they are to Him…and to genuinely let them know how deeply we care. Are you ready to show others concern as Jesus would? Don’t you think you should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 10, 2015
John 3:16-18
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
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.
Our nephew Nathan will be three in August, and we recently started taking him to church with us. To be honest, we didn’t feel we could manage all three children by ourselves when Nathan was younger…particularly if we ate out after church. But after a lot of prayer and consideration, I recently felt God suggest that we make adjustments and come home after church with the children – and maybe do a “take-out” lunch. So far, this has worked very well for us.
Nowadays, I cannot imagine not including Nathan…in any activity! So when Timothy and Zola take swim lessons next week, Nathan will go along, and I will work with him on some swimming basics in something of a “mini-lesson.” There are still a few things that one child gets to do without the others, for a variety of reasons, but the bottom line is that each child is loved equally. Each child has feelings and needs…thoughts, ideas and opinions…and each child is important and deserves to be included and acknowledged.
This is not only my opinion…it is scriptural! God sent Jesus for all of us…and Jesus taught us to love others as He loves us, which means we must include everyone! The Bible tells us in John 3:16-18 that God sent His Only Son to live as a man and die on the cross for the sins of everyone. Jesus’ love is for all people. Let me say that again in case it didn’t soak into your soul…the love of Jesus Christ is for everyone…each of us…ALL people!
We don’t get to pick and choose. We can’t say, “Oh, he’s a Jew or a Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist or atheist, so Jesus surely doesn’t love him – and neither should I!” or “There is no way that Jesus loves sexual predators, those who abuse children and animals, murderers, and those who would behead others in the name of their Christian faith! Surely we don’t have to pray for these people and treat them with love and grace!” The truth is that we cannot pick people who are “like us” to love and care about…and decide either that all others are wrong, terribly flawed, or so deeply sinful that there is no hope for them – so we are right to dismiss or disrespect them.
I keep thinking about the young man who claims to have shot those nine Christians in South Carolina. Why were there no bullets left in the guns when he turned them on himself? Why was he unable to take his own life? Could it be that God wants him to have another opportunity to give his heart to Jesus? Wouldn’t this be the some semblance of vindication and victory for the nine lives he cut short? Who will step up to minister to him? I am praying that someone does!
I know I am starting to sound like a broken record, but lately, I have heard so many “Christians” make comments that were filled with judgment, fear, and downright hatred for this person/group or that one. I am so disheartened by this…and I know that God must be totally disgusted. This is NOT what Jesus taught. Nowhere in scripture will you find where God says that it is okay for us to be selective with regard to whom we minister, which persons are deserving of our love and respect, or which sinners merit a “pass” – and which ones should be condemned.
This is dangerous territory…and God is not pleased when we take matters into our own hands. We are all guilty of being judgmental and discriminatory at one time and in one way or another. Each of us should fall to our knees and ask God to forgive us. We all need to be asking God daily to show us a “work-around,” if you will…a new way to look at things and a new perspective on how we are treating each other. Just as He showed me a way to include little Nathan in our family activities, God will give each of us insights into how to be more loving – and inclusive – in our daily living.
God loved us so much that He sent Jesus. Does your treatment of others reflect your gratitude and respect? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
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.
Our nephew Nathan will be three in August, and we recently started taking him to church with us. To be honest, we didn’t feel we could manage all three children by ourselves when Nathan was younger…particularly if we ate out after church. But after a lot of prayer and consideration, I recently felt God suggest that we make adjustments and come home after church with the children – and maybe do a “take-out” lunch. So far, this has worked very well for us.
Nowadays, I cannot imagine not including Nathan…in any activity! So when Timothy and Zola take swim lessons next week, Nathan will go along, and I will work with him on some swimming basics in something of a “mini-lesson.” There are still a few things that one child gets to do without the others, for a variety of reasons, but the bottom line is that each child is loved equally. Each child has feelings and needs…thoughts, ideas and opinions…and each child is important and deserves to be included and acknowledged.
This is not only my opinion…it is scriptural! God sent Jesus for all of us…and Jesus taught us to love others as He loves us, which means we must include everyone! The Bible tells us in John 3:16-18 that God sent His Only Son to live as a man and die on the cross for the sins of everyone. Jesus’ love is for all people. Let me say that again in case it didn’t soak into your soul…the love of Jesus Christ is for everyone…each of us…ALL people!
We don’t get to pick and choose. We can’t say, “Oh, he’s a Jew or a Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist or atheist, so Jesus surely doesn’t love him – and neither should I!” or “There is no way that Jesus loves sexual predators, those who abuse children and animals, murderers, and those who would behead others in the name of their Christian faith! Surely we don’t have to pray for these people and treat them with love and grace!” The truth is that we cannot pick people who are “like us” to love and care about…and decide either that all others are wrong, terribly flawed, or so deeply sinful that there is no hope for them – so we are right to dismiss or disrespect them.
I keep thinking about the young man who claims to have shot those nine Christians in South Carolina. Why were there no bullets left in the guns when he turned them on himself? Why was he unable to take his own life? Could it be that God wants him to have another opportunity to give his heart to Jesus? Wouldn’t this be the some semblance of vindication and victory for the nine lives he cut short? Who will step up to minister to him? I am praying that someone does!
I know I am starting to sound like a broken record, but lately, I have heard so many “Christians” make comments that were filled with judgment, fear, and downright hatred for this person/group or that one. I am so disheartened by this…and I know that God must be totally disgusted. This is NOT what Jesus taught. Nowhere in scripture will you find where God says that it is okay for us to be selective with regard to whom we minister, which persons are deserving of our love and respect, or which sinners merit a “pass” – and which ones should be condemned.
This is dangerous territory…and God is not pleased when we take matters into our own hands. We are all guilty of being judgmental and discriminatory at one time and in one way or another. Each of us should fall to our knees and ask God to forgive us. We all need to be asking God daily to show us a “work-around,” if you will…a new way to look at things and a new perspective on how we are treating each other. Just as He showed me a way to include little Nathan in our family activities, God will give each of us insights into how to be more loving – and inclusive – in our daily living.
God loved us so much that He sent Jesus. Does your treatment of others reflect your gratitude and respect? Don’t you think it’s time you did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 9, 2015
John 1:11-12
Even in his own land and among his own people, the Jews, he was not accepted. Only a few would welcome and receive him. But to all who received him, he gave the right to become children of God. All they needed to do was to trust him to save them.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If one of your relatives or friends showed up on your doorstep, you would surely open the door and invite them inside. If you saw a child who appeared to be lost or unattended, you would stay with them until the adult in charge could be located…or other arrangements could be made. If you saw an injured animal, I know that many of you would do everything in your power to rescue this creature – and maybe rehabilitate it. If you visited with a newcomer to your town, I would hope that you would invite them to attend your church’s worship services…and that you would welcome them into your community.
But what if some of these people knocked on your door (and I know that the answer will possibly be different for each of you)…
Jared “the Subway guy”
Do you really get it? Do you understand just how much Jesus loves us…how much He offers each and every one of us who have never, ever seen Him in the flesh? Many of Jesus’ own people rejected Him, and yet He loved them and died anyway – potentially for their sins. What does this tell us about how we are to treat others…even those whose thoughts, ideas and actions differ from ours – or may even repulse us in some way? The Jesus who died for us died for them, too – if they repent of their sins and accept His gift of salvation. And He commanded us to love others as He loved us.
So the way I see it, we cannot be saying ugly, hateful things about these people – or anyone else. We cannot be calling them names, judging them…and treating them as “less than.” Do not misunderstand me…I’ve listed some people who have been accused of horrific things. I do not support abuse of any kind…or torture or persecution. I do not agree with the views of some of these people on many subjects. But I am no better than them in God’s eyes, because we have ALL sinned and fallen short. NONE of us deserves Jesus’ salvation…but He offers it to us anyway.
If we want to “walk the walk,” we have to be willing to not only “talk the talk”…we must also be ready to love others as Jesus loves them…and as He loves us. How well are you doing?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Even in his own land and among his own people, the Jews, he was not accepted. Only a few would welcome and receive him. But to all who received him, he gave the right to become children of God. All they needed to do was to trust him to save them.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If one of your relatives or friends showed up on your doorstep, you would surely open the door and invite them inside. If you saw a child who appeared to be lost or unattended, you would stay with them until the adult in charge could be located…or other arrangements could be made. If you saw an injured animal, I know that many of you would do everything in your power to rescue this creature – and maybe rehabilitate it. If you visited with a newcomer to your town, I would hope that you would invite them to attend your church’s worship services…and that you would welcome them into your community.
But what if some of these people knocked on your door (and I know that the answer will possibly be different for each of you)…
Jared “the Subway guy”
- Caitlyn Jenner
- Kanye West
- Ted Cruze
- Presidents George Bush – Sr. AND Jr.
- President Jimmy Carter
- Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of ISIS
- Prince William and Kate Middleton
- Billy Graham
- Robin Roberts
- Anderson Cooper
- Paula Deen
- Bill Cosby
- Miley Cyrus
- Ray Rice
- Jerry Jones
- Former Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice
- Donald Trump
- President Obama
- Former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton
- the disheveled homeless guy you notice frequently on street corners in your town
- the single mother everyone seems to be talking about who lost her kids because of a drug problem
- the pastor who “fell from grace”
- the teacher who had sex with an underage student
- the kid who was arrested for DUI, sexting or bullying
Do you really get it? Do you understand just how much Jesus loves us…how much He offers each and every one of us who have never, ever seen Him in the flesh? Many of Jesus’ own people rejected Him, and yet He loved them and died anyway – potentially for their sins. What does this tell us about how we are to treat others…even those whose thoughts, ideas and actions differ from ours – or may even repulse us in some way? The Jesus who died for us died for them, too – if they repent of their sins and accept His gift of salvation. And He commanded us to love others as He loved us.
So the way I see it, we cannot be saying ugly, hateful things about these people – or anyone else. We cannot be calling them names, judging them…and treating them as “less than.” Do not misunderstand me…I’ve listed some people who have been accused of horrific things. I do not support abuse of any kind…or torture or persecution. I do not agree with the views of some of these people on many subjects. But I am no better than them in God’s eyes, because we have ALL sinned and fallen short. NONE of us deserves Jesus’ salvation…but He offers it to us anyway.
If we want to “walk the walk,” we have to be willing to not only “talk the talk”…we must also be ready to love others as Jesus loves them…and as He loves us. How well are you doing?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 3, 2015
1 Timothy 1:14-15
Oh, how kind our Lord was, for he showed me how to trust him and become full of the love of Christ Jesus. How true it is, and how I long that everyone should know it, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—and I was the greatest of them all.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Nearly thirty years ago, I was tutoring my cousin in math and reading, and there was a Presidential election on the horizon. This then-seven-year-old boy informed me one day that he was supporting George Bush for President…and he added…”No new taxes!” I had to laugh out loud. I knew that he had been listening to the talk of adults. This child didn’t even know what taxes were…much less whether they were or weren’t a good thing! But he formed an opinion early, as all children do. And sometimes these opinions color our thinking well into adulthood.
I know that this is true for me. There were certain people I did not care for – and issues that were totally “black and white” for me – because of what I had heard and observed from others who were older and (I thought) wiser. It took me YEARS to form my own opinions about certain people and situations…and a lot of this shift was definitely a “God thing.”
As I began to understand how sinful we all are…and that Jesus, the Savior who came to rescue me and cover my sins also does that for every other sinner who will accept Him…I had to drop a lot of my judgments and exclusions. I had to look at people as God sees them…imperfect, flawed, and in need of a redemption – just like me! It’s not easy, even today. When someone is being snarky or getting on my last nerve, I have to sometimes even chant to myself, “He/she is a child of God!” When people do “bad things,” I have to understand that I cannot possibly comprehend all that contributed to these actions…and it’s not for me to judge. I have to get over MY irritations and frustrations and see these folks in the same manner that God sees me.
Sometimes I am still aggravated – and at times, even a little critical. But with prayer and conviction, my heart softens…and I find that I am generally more forgiving, tolerant and accepting. I’m not a doormat…and I do guard myself against the caustic nature of certain people or situations…but hopefully, I am perceived as neither arrogant or condescending toward others, either.
My point is that we need to get over ourselves. We’re not “all that and a bag of chips” – at least not any more than the next person. God loves each and every one of us and wants us to turn from our sins and accept salvation through Jesus. We cannot possibly convey this to other people if we are busy judging and discriminating - and tooting our own horns!
So think about your circle of friends and acquaintances today. Consider the people and situations where you have passed judgment and “thrown a stone or two.” Then think about what God has done for you, and remember that He offers this grace, mercy and forgiveness to ALL of us.
If you have not surrendered your sins to the cleansing blood of Jesus, there is no better day than this one. We do not have to cling to the ignorance and innocence of our youth. Jesus offers a better way – even to sinners like you and me. Are you ready to experience the kindness of Jesus and be filled with His love? When others look at you, will they see a forgiven and loving sinner…or someone who feels superior? Are you making a point – or making a difference in Jesus’ name?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Oh, how kind our Lord was, for he showed me how to trust him and become full of the love of Christ Jesus. How true it is, and how I long that everyone should know it, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—and I was the greatest of them all.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Nearly thirty years ago, I was tutoring my cousin in math and reading, and there was a Presidential election on the horizon. This then-seven-year-old boy informed me one day that he was supporting George Bush for President…and he added…”No new taxes!” I had to laugh out loud. I knew that he had been listening to the talk of adults. This child didn’t even know what taxes were…much less whether they were or weren’t a good thing! But he formed an opinion early, as all children do. And sometimes these opinions color our thinking well into adulthood.
I know that this is true for me. There were certain people I did not care for – and issues that were totally “black and white” for me – because of what I had heard and observed from others who were older and (I thought) wiser. It took me YEARS to form my own opinions about certain people and situations…and a lot of this shift was definitely a “God thing.”
As I began to understand how sinful we all are…and that Jesus, the Savior who came to rescue me and cover my sins also does that for every other sinner who will accept Him…I had to drop a lot of my judgments and exclusions. I had to look at people as God sees them…imperfect, flawed, and in need of a redemption – just like me! It’s not easy, even today. When someone is being snarky or getting on my last nerve, I have to sometimes even chant to myself, “He/she is a child of God!” When people do “bad things,” I have to understand that I cannot possibly comprehend all that contributed to these actions…and it’s not for me to judge. I have to get over MY irritations and frustrations and see these folks in the same manner that God sees me.
Sometimes I am still aggravated – and at times, even a little critical. But with prayer and conviction, my heart softens…and I find that I am generally more forgiving, tolerant and accepting. I’m not a doormat…and I do guard myself against the caustic nature of certain people or situations…but hopefully, I am perceived as neither arrogant or condescending toward others, either.
My point is that we need to get over ourselves. We’re not “all that and a bag of chips” – at least not any more than the next person. God loves each and every one of us and wants us to turn from our sins and accept salvation through Jesus. We cannot possibly convey this to other people if we are busy judging and discriminating - and tooting our own horns!
So think about your circle of friends and acquaintances today. Consider the people and situations where you have passed judgment and “thrown a stone or two.” Then think about what God has done for you, and remember that He offers this grace, mercy and forgiveness to ALL of us.
If you have not surrendered your sins to the cleansing blood of Jesus, there is no better day than this one. We do not have to cling to the ignorance and innocence of our youth. Jesus offers a better way – even to sinners like you and me. Are you ready to experience the kindness of Jesus and be filled with His love? When others look at you, will they see a forgiven and loving sinner…or someone who feels superior? Are you making a point – or making a difference in Jesus’ name?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 19, 2015
Matthew 7:12
“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.”
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.
Today, we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a well-known and respected civil rights activist, pastor, and humanitarian who led the fight for justice and fair treatment of all people – but especially African-Americans – in the 1960s. In many cities across the country, there will be parades, speeches, rallies, and other gatherings to remember Dr. King and his efforts…where we’ve been…and how far we still have to go.
This morning, I watched an interview with Eric Braeden - a soap opera star from CBS’s The Young and the Restless, of all things – who was the keynote speaker at a Martin Luther King, Jr. celebratory breakfast in Little Rock, Arkansas. Braeden, who is white, explained that he emigrated to the United States from Germany in 1959, with empty pockets and a heart filled with hope. He remembers firsthand the famous “I Have a Dream” speech delivered by Dr. King at the Lincoln Memorial. He recalls all of the challenges and struggles that were meted toward him as a post-WWII German trying to “make it” in America. And he noted that his discriminations and difficulties paled in comparison to those of African-Americans.
When asked how he would address the group on this day, Braeden said that he would…“reflect on the process of blacks, whites, Christians, Jews, Protestants, Catholics, and Muslims all getting along with each other. We are all one, you know…all children of God. And as such, we should behave kindly toward each other.”
The interviewer asked Braeden why he accepted the invitation to make this speech, and he explained that it appealed to him as someone who had seen discrimination firsthand – and also growth and improvement in the area of human relations. But he pointed out that there is still much work to be done. And indeed, this is the case. God is calling us to “grab the initiative”…to be the first in line to “behave kindly toward each other”…to obey God’s law and treat ALL others as we wish to be treated.
Dr. King was shot and killed on March 29, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. While speaking at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, on February 4th of that year, he was asked how he would like to be remembered. In part, King answered…” I'd like somebody to mention that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to give his life serving others. I'd like for somebody to say that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to love somebody.”
A component of many celebrations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., will be some form of service activity to honor his legacy – and God’s call on our lives as Christians. I cannot think of a better day for all of us to begin to serve others and “love somebody” in Jesus’ name…can you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.”
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.
Today, we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a well-known and respected civil rights activist, pastor, and humanitarian who led the fight for justice and fair treatment of all people – but especially African-Americans – in the 1960s. In many cities across the country, there will be parades, speeches, rallies, and other gatherings to remember Dr. King and his efforts…where we’ve been…and how far we still have to go.
This morning, I watched an interview with Eric Braeden - a soap opera star from CBS’s The Young and the Restless, of all things – who was the keynote speaker at a Martin Luther King, Jr. celebratory breakfast in Little Rock, Arkansas. Braeden, who is white, explained that he emigrated to the United States from Germany in 1959, with empty pockets and a heart filled with hope. He remembers firsthand the famous “I Have a Dream” speech delivered by Dr. King at the Lincoln Memorial. He recalls all of the challenges and struggles that were meted toward him as a post-WWII German trying to “make it” in America. And he noted that his discriminations and difficulties paled in comparison to those of African-Americans.
When asked how he would address the group on this day, Braeden said that he would…“reflect on the process of blacks, whites, Christians, Jews, Protestants, Catholics, and Muslims all getting along with each other. We are all one, you know…all children of God. And as such, we should behave kindly toward each other.”
The interviewer asked Braeden why he accepted the invitation to make this speech, and he explained that it appealed to him as someone who had seen discrimination firsthand – and also growth and improvement in the area of human relations. But he pointed out that there is still much work to be done. And indeed, this is the case. God is calling us to “grab the initiative”…to be the first in line to “behave kindly toward each other”…to obey God’s law and treat ALL others as we wish to be treated.
Dr. King was shot and killed on March 29, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. While speaking at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, on February 4th of that year, he was asked how he would like to be remembered. In part, King answered…” I'd like somebody to mention that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to give his life serving others. I'd like for somebody to say that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to love somebody.”
A component of many celebrations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., will be some form of service activity to honor his legacy – and God’s call on our lives as Christians. I cannot think of a better day for all of us to begin to serve others and “love somebody” in Jesus’ name…can you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 29, 2014
Philippians 2:1-4
If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
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.
Greg and I have two cats...litter mates we rescued 15 years ago from the local Humane Society animal shelter. Mabel is a calico – mostly white with splotches of black and orange, and even a spot of orange and white stripes! Lucy is a “tuxedo”, which means that her long black and white fur make her look like she is wearing a formal evening suit. “The girls” - as we lovingly refer to them - were both our office mates when they were kittens. Over time, they have each somewhat “chosen sides”. Mabel is never very far from Greg...Lucy is almost always within at least earshot of me and spends much of her day in my office sleeping in a chair. In recent months, both of our cats have begun to slow down and show their age somewhat...especially Lucy. But she still wants to sit in my lap from time to time...especially in the morning right after breakfast.
Lucy will lead me to my office and stand by my desk and cry. That is my cue to sit down and pick her up...and RUB HER! She doesn’t like for me to look at e-mail – or worse yet, type on my keyboard. She wants ALL of my attention...and my hands are to be busy about her face, rubbing and scratching as I softly coo to her and tell her what a good girl she is. This can last anywhere from a minute to almost a half an hour, depending on her mood.
There are days when I truly am too busy for “lap time”...times when I have something pressing that MUST be attended to – an appointment, a house guest, or some household chore. This doesn’t happen often...and usually I find time at some point every day to hold Lucy and “love on her” in this manner. Here’s the thing I’ve learned...we won’t have these precious four-legged companions forever. All too soon, there will come a day when I would give anything for just 30 more minutes to hold my beloved pet and scratch her face and ears. The time to share my attention and affection with her is NOW!
I know some of you are thinking, “She’s just a CAT, for goodness sake!” And I would say to you...this same thing applies to others. The little children who demand so much of your time and attention will be teenagers and/or adults tomorrow. The friend or neighbor...or even your family member or elderly loved one who seems so needy at times...might not always be around. Often, opportunities that present themselves over and again - and go untended - cease to exist. The person you meant to visit...the card you intended to send...the care you thought you should show to another but never got around to doing so has an expiration date in many cases...both figuratively and quite literally.
Everyone is busy. We all “have a life”...and many of us have an inordinate amount of things to do and places to be – often all at the same time! But more than a few of us have made life all about ourselves and our own agendas...and others strictly get the leftovers. I know, because I’ve done it. I’ve looked at my little “tuxedoed” Lucy at the end of a busy day and realized that we never had our “quiet time” together...that I barely looked in her direction other than to plunk some food into her bowl or brush hurriedly past her. And I know I have essentially done this in countless other situations with people who truly are important to me – but I did not act in the least as if that were the case.
I am so thankful that God doesn’t do this! He always has time for us...always has our best interest at heart, even though HE is truly superior in every way – and far more important than we could ever hope to be. God always has a lap for us...an ear to bend...time to hear our every word...and the right support and answers for our every need. In Him, we find comfort AND the model of perfect grace, mercy, forgiveness, kindness, and compassion toward others. The question is...are we paying attention? Are we honoring Jesus by serving others in His name...and in a like manner?
Has his love has made any difference in your life? Does being in a community of the Spirit mean anything to you? Do you have a heart...and do you really care? What kind of Christian disciple are you...or are you truly His disciple in the first place? Your answers to these questions matter...to others, and more importantly – to GOD! How are you representing the love, grace and mercy of Jesus in your own life? Is it time for a change of heart, attitude and actions? Wouldn’t today be a great day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
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.
Greg and I have two cats...litter mates we rescued 15 years ago from the local Humane Society animal shelter. Mabel is a calico – mostly white with splotches of black and orange, and even a spot of orange and white stripes! Lucy is a “tuxedo”, which means that her long black and white fur make her look like she is wearing a formal evening suit. “The girls” - as we lovingly refer to them - were both our office mates when they were kittens. Over time, they have each somewhat “chosen sides”. Mabel is never very far from Greg...Lucy is almost always within at least earshot of me and spends much of her day in my office sleeping in a chair. In recent months, both of our cats have begun to slow down and show their age somewhat...especially Lucy. But she still wants to sit in my lap from time to time...especially in the morning right after breakfast.
Lucy will lead me to my office and stand by my desk and cry. That is my cue to sit down and pick her up...and RUB HER! She doesn’t like for me to look at e-mail – or worse yet, type on my keyboard. She wants ALL of my attention...and my hands are to be busy about her face, rubbing and scratching as I softly coo to her and tell her what a good girl she is. This can last anywhere from a minute to almost a half an hour, depending on her mood.
There are days when I truly am too busy for “lap time”...times when I have something pressing that MUST be attended to – an appointment, a house guest, or some household chore. This doesn’t happen often...and usually I find time at some point every day to hold Lucy and “love on her” in this manner. Here’s the thing I’ve learned...we won’t have these precious four-legged companions forever. All too soon, there will come a day when I would give anything for just 30 more minutes to hold my beloved pet and scratch her face and ears. The time to share my attention and affection with her is NOW!
I know some of you are thinking, “She’s just a CAT, for goodness sake!” And I would say to you...this same thing applies to others. The little children who demand so much of your time and attention will be teenagers and/or adults tomorrow. The friend or neighbor...or even your family member or elderly loved one who seems so needy at times...might not always be around. Often, opportunities that present themselves over and again - and go untended - cease to exist. The person you meant to visit...the card you intended to send...the care you thought you should show to another but never got around to doing so has an expiration date in many cases...both figuratively and quite literally.
Everyone is busy. We all “have a life”...and many of us have an inordinate amount of things to do and places to be – often all at the same time! But more than a few of us have made life all about ourselves and our own agendas...and others strictly get the leftovers. I know, because I’ve done it. I’ve looked at my little “tuxedoed” Lucy at the end of a busy day and realized that we never had our “quiet time” together...that I barely looked in her direction other than to plunk some food into her bowl or brush hurriedly past her. And I know I have essentially done this in countless other situations with people who truly are important to me – but I did not act in the least as if that were the case.
I am so thankful that God doesn’t do this! He always has time for us...always has our best interest at heart, even though HE is truly superior in every way – and far more important than we could ever hope to be. God always has a lap for us...an ear to bend...time to hear our every word...and the right support and answers for our every need. In Him, we find comfort AND the model of perfect grace, mercy, forgiveness, kindness, and compassion toward others. The question is...are we paying attention? Are we honoring Jesus by serving others in His name...and in a like manner?
Has his love has made any difference in your life? Does being in a community of the Spirit mean anything to you? Do you have a heart...and do you really care? What kind of Christian disciple are you...or are you truly His disciple in the first place? Your answers to these questions matter...to others, and more importantly – to GOD! How are you representing the love, grace and mercy of Jesus in your own life? Is it time for a change of heart, attitude and actions? Wouldn’t today be a great day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 10, 2014
James 2:12-13
You will be judged on whether or not you are doing what Christ wants you to. So watch what you do and what you think; for there will be no mercy to those who have shown no mercy. But if you have been merciful, then God’s mercy toward you will win out over his judgment against you.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We let Timothy choose the restaurant for our lunch after church services, and he chose Burger King! No surprise there...we have really not gone to Burger King for Sunday lunch all summer (although we have eaten enough Kids’ Meals to exhaust their gamut of “toys” for one promotional and start on another!). Timothy wanted chicken strips... Zola said she wanted a cheeseburger. But when the food came, Zola would not eat her burger. Instead, she helped herself to one of the chicken strips that Greg and I were sharing. So Greg ate half of her burger...and I ate the other half. Rather than get upset with her, we “cut her some slack” and let her eat what she would eat, which was chicken strips!
The children had enjoyed a cupcake treat at Sunday school today and were each given a Blow Pop sucker as we walked out the door, so we were not surprised that they picked at their lunch a little. But they ate well enough that we allowed them to share a small dish of ice cream afterward. Yes, aunts and uncles indulge 3-and-5-year-olds...and we are no exception, on occasion. We could have been inflexible and said, “You eat what YOU chose,” and “You didn’t finish every bite, so no ice cream today!” But we were “merciful” and considered all of the factors as we made our decisions and reacted without over-reacting.
It may be a stretch to see how this relates to our everyday lives as Christians, but let’s break this down:
Ask yourself how you would feel if you thought someone was judging YOU...because someone probably is! Will they see a person who operates in grace and mercy toward others...a person who is kind and compassionate and loves others as Jesus did? Or will they see someone who is quick to accuse and react...someone who refuses to consider the possibility that others might have extenuating circumstances or situations that cause them to behave in a certain manner. Figure out how you want God to treat you...and treat others the same way. Sometimes, all it takes is the offer of “a small dish of ice cream” to share God’s healing mercy with others. What flavor will you be serving?
©2014 Debbie Robus
You will be judged on whether or not you are doing what Christ wants you to. So watch what you do and what you think; for there will be no mercy to those who have shown no mercy. But if you have been merciful, then God’s mercy toward you will win out over his judgment against you.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We let Timothy choose the restaurant for our lunch after church services, and he chose Burger King! No surprise there...we have really not gone to Burger King for Sunday lunch all summer (although we have eaten enough Kids’ Meals to exhaust their gamut of “toys” for one promotional and start on another!). Timothy wanted chicken strips... Zola said she wanted a cheeseburger. But when the food came, Zola would not eat her burger. Instead, she helped herself to one of the chicken strips that Greg and I were sharing. So Greg ate half of her burger...and I ate the other half. Rather than get upset with her, we “cut her some slack” and let her eat what she would eat, which was chicken strips!
The children had enjoyed a cupcake treat at Sunday school today and were each given a Blow Pop sucker as we walked out the door, so we were not surprised that they picked at their lunch a little. But they ate well enough that we allowed them to share a small dish of ice cream afterward. Yes, aunts and uncles indulge 3-and-5-year-olds...and we are no exception, on occasion. We could have been inflexible and said, “You eat what YOU chose,” and “You didn’t finish every bite, so no ice cream today!” But we were “merciful” and considered all of the factors as we made our decisions and reacted without over-reacting.
It may be a stretch to see how this relates to our everyday lives as Christians, but let’s break this down:
- We don’t always know all of the circumstances in another person’s life. The woman who snapped at you as she rang up your purchases in the grocery check-out line may have been up all night with a sick or fussy baby. A friend may not return calls because his car broke down, and the tow and repairs were more than expected – or easily afforded – and answering a message about last night’s game or next week’s poker party may be the furthest thing on the radar!
- The person who repeatedly declines your invitations to go out to eat or get together may be strapped for cash and embarrassed to admit it. The friend who never reciprocates and invites you to her house may be ashamed of its condition and how little she has (materially) in comparison to others.
- The person who acts all nervous and flustered at church may be dealing with marital problems, an aging parent, or children who can’t seem to stay out of trouble. The co-worker who says she can help you with a project, then changes her mind mid-stream and “bugs out” on you may genuinely be “flaky” – or she may be dealing with health issues, family troubles, or bills that she has no clue how she will pay and a boss who is harassing her to work harder and faster.
Ask yourself how you would feel if you thought someone was judging YOU...because someone probably is! Will they see a person who operates in grace and mercy toward others...a person who is kind and compassionate and loves others as Jesus did? Or will they see someone who is quick to accuse and react...someone who refuses to consider the possibility that others might have extenuating circumstances or situations that cause them to behave in a certain manner. Figure out how you want God to treat you...and treat others the same way. Sometimes, all it takes is the offer of “a small dish of ice cream” to share God’s healing mercy with others. What flavor will you be serving?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 6, 2014
Isaiah 1:18
Come, let’s talk this over, says the Lord; no matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can take it out and make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make you white as wool!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My niece, Jasmine, has referred to me as something of the “Queen of Stain Removal”. I’ll admit...I have had some pretty major success at removing stubborn stains on everything from vintage linens to baby clothing to vintage glassware and silver. There have been a few stubborn spots that just would not bow...but often, I find a way to camouflage these and still use the item. Sometimes the stains have to be cut away...but rarely do I have to totally give up on a piece because of such blemishes.
Honestly, I enjoy the challenge. I get a kick out of restoring a tarnished item to its former glory – or at least something that is more than passable. I get immense satisfaction from the “rescue”. So it is easy for me to see what pleasure it gives Jesus to be able to restore us. Trust me, His methods of stain removal are failsafe. There is absolutely NO stain of sin that He cannot remove...EVER! When I think about how delighted I am when a garment comes out of the wash clean and “fresh as the fallen snow,” I totally “get” how thrilled Jesus is when He makes us “white as wool”.
More importantly, I am humbled and grateful for the tremendous price that Jesus paid for my “stain removal”. I know that I often spend a lot of time and energy on removing a mark or blemish from something. But I know that Jesus spent much more to remove my sins...He shed His very blood on the cross for me. He suffered agony and anguish, brutality and horrific insults, just to take out my sinful stains and restore me. There is no way I can compare to this...no way I would ever even want to try. I am incredibly grateful and humbled that He did this for me.
I love how this translation portrays Jesus as a trusted friend who says, “Come...let’s talk this over...I can fix that for you...I can get that stain out and make you good as new again!” That’s an offer I cannot refuse...what about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Come, let’s talk this over, says the Lord; no matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can take it out and make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make you white as wool!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My niece, Jasmine, has referred to me as something of the “Queen of Stain Removal”. I’ll admit...I have had some pretty major success at removing stubborn stains on everything from vintage linens to baby clothing to vintage glassware and silver. There have been a few stubborn spots that just would not bow...but often, I find a way to camouflage these and still use the item. Sometimes the stains have to be cut away...but rarely do I have to totally give up on a piece because of such blemishes.
Honestly, I enjoy the challenge. I get a kick out of restoring a tarnished item to its former glory – or at least something that is more than passable. I get immense satisfaction from the “rescue”. So it is easy for me to see what pleasure it gives Jesus to be able to restore us. Trust me, His methods of stain removal are failsafe. There is absolutely NO stain of sin that He cannot remove...EVER! When I think about how delighted I am when a garment comes out of the wash clean and “fresh as the fallen snow,” I totally “get” how thrilled Jesus is when He makes us “white as wool”.
More importantly, I am humbled and grateful for the tremendous price that Jesus paid for my “stain removal”. I know that I often spend a lot of time and energy on removing a mark or blemish from something. But I know that Jesus spent much more to remove my sins...He shed His very blood on the cross for me. He suffered agony and anguish, brutality and horrific insults, just to take out my sinful stains and restore me. There is no way I can compare to this...no way I would ever even want to try. I am incredibly grateful and humbled that He did this for me.
I love how this translation portrays Jesus as a trusted friend who says, “Come...let’s talk this over...I can fix that for you...I can get that stain out and make you good as new again!” That’s an offer I cannot refuse...what about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 5, 2014
1 Peter 4:7-11
Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!
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.
This morning, Timothy and I went to the local library for their daily program for school-age children. We discovered this program rather late in the summer, but we’ve been several times in the last few weeks. Timothy and Zola both enjoy the library, but Timothy especially loves the programs...the books...the computer games...all of it! And his enthusiasm shows. He is always very excited...so eager...and quite appreciative, for a five-year-old. As we left today, he hugged Mrs. Pat, the librarian, and said, “Thank you, Mrs. Pat! See you in three sleeps for the Dragon program!”
Timothy has an extraordinarily tender heart for a child his age. He is sensitive to the feelings of others...and quick to offer a “Hello!” or a “Thank you!” without prompting from anyone else. He thanks us for taking him places and doing things with him...for gifts and meals and much more. He has his moments, like any child, but overall, he is truly a compassionate, loving child. And he often spontaneously expresses his affection for us and others. One morning, Greg showed up at the library to surprise the kids. As I was fastening Timothy into his car seat later, he sighed and said, “I so love Uncle Greg.” He will tell complete strangers how nice they look or how pretty they are. And one Sunday as we drove home after church, he unexpectedly told my mother-in-law, “Grandma E...I love you!”
I have to tell you, this kid’s enthusiasm and sweet disposition are contagious! People of all ages enjoy his company, because he is generous with the kind spirit that God has given him. He seems to innately sense that love and kindheartedness make up for practically anything. I learn so much as I view the world through His eyes. I see the joy and beauty of simple things...and how to view others in a different (and more compassionate) light.
Oh, Timothy notices things and asks questions...like why my elbows are wrinkled and why did I paint my toenails... or why does a bald-headed man at the swimming pool have such a wrinkled head (he’s a little concerned with wrinkles!). He notices that people come in all sizes, shapes and colors...that some are neater and cleaner, happier or sadder than others. But he doesn’t discriminate. These differences do not represent anything to him other than God’s penchant to paint with a brush of diversity!
I pray that Timothy never changes...that he never grows out of his penchant for compassion. I hope he is forever sensitive to the needs and feelings of others...and that he is always eager to be the bright, positive light of Jesus to others. Because you see, in his five-year-old way, this is what he is doing. He is sharing the love of Jesus...God’s “hearty help”...as best he can.
My question for us is... what are we doing? Are we operating in the love of Christ and treating others as if our very lives depended on it? Are we sharing God’s “hearty help” in word and deed? Or have we grown up – and out – of this simple mode of discipleship? What can God teach us from the unpretentious, unadulterated tenderheartedness of a five-year-old? Will we live in such a manner that we “light up a room” with the love of Jesus? Don’t you think we should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!
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.
This morning, Timothy and I went to the local library for their daily program for school-age children. We discovered this program rather late in the summer, but we’ve been several times in the last few weeks. Timothy and Zola both enjoy the library, but Timothy especially loves the programs...the books...the computer games...all of it! And his enthusiasm shows. He is always very excited...so eager...and quite appreciative, for a five-year-old. As we left today, he hugged Mrs. Pat, the librarian, and said, “Thank you, Mrs. Pat! See you in three sleeps for the Dragon program!”
Timothy has an extraordinarily tender heart for a child his age. He is sensitive to the feelings of others...and quick to offer a “Hello!” or a “Thank you!” without prompting from anyone else. He thanks us for taking him places and doing things with him...for gifts and meals and much more. He has his moments, like any child, but overall, he is truly a compassionate, loving child. And he often spontaneously expresses his affection for us and others. One morning, Greg showed up at the library to surprise the kids. As I was fastening Timothy into his car seat later, he sighed and said, “I so love Uncle Greg.” He will tell complete strangers how nice they look or how pretty they are. And one Sunday as we drove home after church, he unexpectedly told my mother-in-law, “Grandma E...I love you!”
I have to tell you, this kid’s enthusiasm and sweet disposition are contagious! People of all ages enjoy his company, because he is generous with the kind spirit that God has given him. He seems to innately sense that love and kindheartedness make up for practically anything. I learn so much as I view the world through His eyes. I see the joy and beauty of simple things...and how to view others in a different (and more compassionate) light.
Oh, Timothy notices things and asks questions...like why my elbows are wrinkled and why did I paint my toenails... or why does a bald-headed man at the swimming pool have such a wrinkled head (he’s a little concerned with wrinkles!). He notices that people come in all sizes, shapes and colors...that some are neater and cleaner, happier or sadder than others. But he doesn’t discriminate. These differences do not represent anything to him other than God’s penchant to paint with a brush of diversity!
I pray that Timothy never changes...that he never grows out of his penchant for compassion. I hope he is forever sensitive to the needs and feelings of others...and that he is always eager to be the bright, positive light of Jesus to others. Because you see, in his five-year-old way, this is what he is doing. He is sharing the love of Jesus...God’s “hearty help”...as best he can.
My question for us is... what are we doing? Are we operating in the love of Christ and treating others as if our very lives depended on it? Are we sharing God’s “hearty help” in word and deed? Or have we grown up – and out – of this simple mode of discipleship? What can God teach us from the unpretentious, unadulterated tenderheartedness of a five-year-old? Will we live in such a manner that we “light up a room” with the love of Jesus? Don’t you think we should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 10, 2014
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is kind and patient,
never jealous, boastful,
proud, or rude.
Love isn’t selfish
or quick tempered.
It doesn’t keep a record
of wrongs that others do.
Love rejoices in the truth,
but not in evil.
Love is always supportive,
loyal, hopeful,
and trusting.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve heard this passage so many times. The pastor read it during our wedding ceremony when Greg and I married. Many people know at least some of the verses by heart.
“Love is kind and patient”…or is it? We say we love one another…but if love is patient and kind, how many of us can honestly claim these traits? Love is “never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude”…you still there? “Love isn’t selfish or quick tempered”…wanna jump off the bandwagon?
“Love “doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that others do.” How many of you did I just lose? How many of us aren’t just a little bit pleased when something bad happens to someone we’re not particularly fond of…who among us “is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting”?
And yet, what if Jesus failed to do any one of these things for us? Many of us would turn our backs on Him in a heartbeat! We expect Him to love us…always and in all ways. But when it’s time for us to do the same as His disciples, we simply cannot…or will not.
We really should stop giving lip service to this passage. We should quit framing copies of it to hang on our walls, posting beautiful photographs with portions of the verse superimposed across the bottom…and using it to express our affection toward our beloveds…until we can fully embrace and enact what it says. I can tell you that I, for one, have a lot of work to do in this area!
There are people who rub me the wrong way…those whom I find “hard to love”…some who irritate, anger or upset me with everything from their treatment of others to what I consider to be their ridiculous political and social ideas and opinions. I judge. I keep score. I am so disgusted with some that I can barely be in their presence…much less show them support or loyalty. And trust them? Forget it!
But here’s this passage in God’s word…clearly outlining what love is…and I’m not always all of these things toward all of God’s children. But I’m working on it…and with God’s help (and by His grace), I can do better. I am not foolish enough to think I will ever master this completely and love everyone unconditionally – or without judgments and hesitation. I most certainly will remain guarded toward certain people who have demonstrated a poor track record for trustworthiness. But I can do better…I must love better. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Love is kind and patient,
never jealous, boastful,
proud, or rude.
Love isn’t selfish
or quick tempered.
It doesn’t keep a record
of wrongs that others do.
Love rejoices in the truth,
but not in evil.
Love is always supportive,
loyal, hopeful,
and trusting.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve heard this passage so many times. The pastor read it during our wedding ceremony when Greg and I married. Many people know at least some of the verses by heart.
“Love is kind and patient”…or is it? We say we love one another…but if love is patient and kind, how many of us can honestly claim these traits? Love is “never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude”…you still there? “Love isn’t selfish or quick tempered”…wanna jump off the bandwagon?
“Love “doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that others do.” How many of you did I just lose? How many of us aren’t just a little bit pleased when something bad happens to someone we’re not particularly fond of…who among us “is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting”?
And yet, what if Jesus failed to do any one of these things for us? Many of us would turn our backs on Him in a heartbeat! We expect Him to love us…always and in all ways. But when it’s time for us to do the same as His disciples, we simply cannot…or will not.
We really should stop giving lip service to this passage. We should quit framing copies of it to hang on our walls, posting beautiful photographs with portions of the verse superimposed across the bottom…and using it to express our affection toward our beloveds…until we can fully embrace and enact what it says. I can tell you that I, for one, have a lot of work to do in this area!
There are people who rub me the wrong way…those whom I find “hard to love”…some who irritate, anger or upset me with everything from their treatment of others to what I consider to be their ridiculous political and social ideas and opinions. I judge. I keep score. I am so disgusted with some that I can barely be in their presence…much less show them support or loyalty. And trust them? Forget it!
But here’s this passage in God’s word…clearly outlining what love is…and I’m not always all of these things toward all of God’s children. But I’m working on it…and with God’s help (and by His grace), I can do better. I am not foolish enough to think I will ever master this completely and love everyone unconditionally – or without judgments and hesitation. I most certainly will remain guarded toward certain people who have demonstrated a poor track record for trustworthiness. But I can do better…I must love better. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 15, 2014
Matthew 22:37-40
Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.”
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.
Today, the National September 11 Memorial Museum was dedicated at Ground Zero in New York City. I sat down with Greg to watch the televised ceremony, and it wasn’t long before tears filled my eyes as the stories of that horrific day began to unfold. In particular, the account of 24-year-old Welles Remy Crowther touched me deeply. Dubbed “the man in the red bandana,” Crowther’s story of heroism was shared by President Obama in his remarks to the attendees. He told how Welles, a former volunteer fireman who worked in finance in the south tower, covered his face with a red handkerchief/bandana and guided more than a dozen people to safety before he perished. Crowther’s body was found some six months later in the South Tower Lobby, alongside the bodies of firefighters and emergency workers.
Many of those Welles Crowther rescued knew him only as “the man with the red bandana”, but as his story was shared, Allison Crowther realized that this was her son. Welles had carried a red bandana with him ever since he was a young boy. She knew that this hero who showed such courage, love and compassion was her Welles. A red bandana is displayed in the “9/11 Museum” to remind others of Welles Crowther’s heroism.
Today, Allison Crowther spoke to the crowd in attendance at the memorial, along with Ling Young, one of the women who Welles rescued. In her brief remarks, Crowther noted…”This is life's most precious meaning. It is our greatest hope that when people come here and see Welles' red bandanna, they will remember how people helped each other that day, and we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
I don’t know much else about Welles Crowther. Aside from a mention on a Wikipedia* page that Welles’ penchant for handkerchiefs came from observing his father, Jefferson, dress for church, we really don’t have a clue about the Crowthers and their faith. But I have to believe that somewhere along the way, they found God…that He strengthened them and guided them through this horrific day and the ones to follow…that they embraced the teachings of Jesus and truly internalized His commands to love God AND to love others. And I believe that Allison and Jefferson Crowther instilled these teachings in their precious son, Welles.
Some will say, “People are innately good. It would be human nature for many of them to have done what this young man did, regardless of whether they knew God or not.” Maybe so. But a whole lot of people would also have rushed to save themselves and adopted the “every man for himself” mentality. The point I wish to emphasize is contained in Allison Crowther’s statement that we will remember how people rushed to help each other that day, and…”we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
God will not call all of us to save people from a crumbling, burning building. He will not make us heroes…at least not to this magnitude. Few if any of us will not be immortalized for our acts of love and compassion…or have a lasting tribute created on Wikipedia or in a national museum. But our acts of love and care for others…our demonstration of our devotion to God… are no less significant. Their impact is just as powerful and lasting. And the “recognition” we are afforded in the form of eternity at the feet of Almighty God will be the ultimate reward.
Those of us who have truly found God and keep His Holy Spirit in our hearts have the capacity to be “heroes” for Jesus in ways great and small each and every day…to demonstrate the powerful presence of His love, grace, mercy, compassion, healing and forgiveness. We can be the face of God to others. This is our privilege…and our purpose.
I am humbled today by the stories that were shared at the dedication of the National September 11 Memorial Museum. I am reminded of the tremendous sacrifices and sufferings of that day…the tests of faith that are beyond what I can comprehend. But I am also reminded of the power of God’s love for His children…and the effectiveness of believers who share that love with one another. I am challenged to harness God’s gifts of strength, power, love and courage in my own situations and circumstances…I am determined to trust Him and walk in His love and care more surely each day.
I am encouraged to know that in ways great and small, I can be one of God’s servants…a “rescuer” of sorts who faithfully “dons a red bandana” and rushes in to help others Jesus’ name. What about you? Will you join me in the mission? Will you answer Jesus’ call to love others as you love yourself…and God? Isn’t it time we focused more on service to Him and less on service of self? Is this the day that you will pry your “red bandana” of God’s love and care from your pocket and put it on as you serve others in Jesus’ name? Don’t you think you should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welles_Crowther
Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.”
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.
Today, the National September 11 Memorial Museum was dedicated at Ground Zero in New York City. I sat down with Greg to watch the televised ceremony, and it wasn’t long before tears filled my eyes as the stories of that horrific day began to unfold. In particular, the account of 24-year-old Welles Remy Crowther touched me deeply. Dubbed “the man in the red bandana,” Crowther’s story of heroism was shared by President Obama in his remarks to the attendees. He told how Welles, a former volunteer fireman who worked in finance in the south tower, covered his face with a red handkerchief/bandana and guided more than a dozen people to safety before he perished. Crowther’s body was found some six months later in the South Tower Lobby, alongside the bodies of firefighters and emergency workers.
Many of those Welles Crowther rescued knew him only as “the man with the red bandana”, but as his story was shared, Allison Crowther realized that this was her son. Welles had carried a red bandana with him ever since he was a young boy. She knew that this hero who showed such courage, love and compassion was her Welles. A red bandana is displayed in the “9/11 Museum” to remind others of Welles Crowther’s heroism.
Today, Allison Crowther spoke to the crowd in attendance at the memorial, along with Ling Young, one of the women who Welles rescued. In her brief remarks, Crowther noted…”This is life's most precious meaning. It is our greatest hope that when people come here and see Welles' red bandanna, they will remember how people helped each other that day, and we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
I don’t know much else about Welles Crowther. Aside from a mention on a Wikipedia* page that Welles’ penchant for handkerchiefs came from observing his father, Jefferson, dress for church, we really don’t have a clue about the Crowthers and their faith. But I have to believe that somewhere along the way, they found God…that He strengthened them and guided them through this horrific day and the ones to follow…that they embraced the teachings of Jesus and truly internalized His commands to love God AND to love others. And I believe that Allison and Jefferson Crowther instilled these teachings in their precious son, Welles.
Some will say, “People are innately good. It would be human nature for many of them to have done what this young man did, regardless of whether they knew God or not.” Maybe so. But a whole lot of people would also have rushed to save themselves and adopted the “every man for himself” mentality. The point I wish to emphasize is contained in Allison Crowther’s statement that we will remember how people rushed to help each other that day, and…”we hope they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small.”
God will not call all of us to save people from a crumbling, burning building. He will not make us heroes…at least not to this magnitude. Few if any of us will not be immortalized for our acts of love and compassion…or have a lasting tribute created on Wikipedia or in a national museum. But our acts of love and care for others…our demonstration of our devotion to God… are no less significant. Their impact is just as powerful and lasting. And the “recognition” we are afforded in the form of eternity at the feet of Almighty God will be the ultimate reward.
Those of us who have truly found God and keep His Holy Spirit in our hearts have the capacity to be “heroes” for Jesus in ways great and small each and every day…to demonstrate the powerful presence of His love, grace, mercy, compassion, healing and forgiveness. We can be the face of God to others. This is our privilege…and our purpose.
I am humbled today by the stories that were shared at the dedication of the National September 11 Memorial Museum. I am reminded of the tremendous sacrifices and sufferings of that day…the tests of faith that are beyond what I can comprehend. But I am also reminded of the power of God’s love for His children…and the effectiveness of believers who share that love with one another. I am challenged to harness God’s gifts of strength, power, love and courage in my own situations and circumstances…I am determined to trust Him and walk in His love and care more surely each day.
I am encouraged to know that in ways great and small, I can be one of God’s servants…a “rescuer” of sorts who faithfully “dons a red bandana” and rushes in to help others Jesus’ name. What about you? Will you join me in the mission? Will you answer Jesus’ call to love others as you love yourself…and God? Isn’t it time we focused more on service to Him and less on service of self? Is this the day that you will pry your “red bandana” of God’s love and care from your pocket and put it on as you serve others in Jesus’ name? Don’t you think you should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welles_Crowther
Daily Devotional for March 9, 2014
Psalm 103:8-18
The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever. He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.
The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust. Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die.
The wind blows, and we are gone - as though we had never been here. But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children’s children of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments!
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.
When we went to lunch today after church, Zola got upset with me because I would not let her hold her milk bottle by herself. The milk at Burger King® comes in a plastic bottle, and we add a straw…and she usually ends up with more milk ON her than IN her! So I insisted on holding the bottle today while she got her drink. That did not go over well. She clammed up and stared straight ahead and would not speak or eat or move…for probably close to 15 minutes. We went on with our meal and virtually ignored her. She began to get upset when Timothy ate an apple slice from her plate…and then a French fry. I told her since she was not eating, that food was “fair game”…and soon, she was eating her lunch.
We are by no means experts when it comes to managing children and their “tantrums,” but we have learned that often, the more things you can ignore and overlook, the better. It would have served no purpose (other than to ruin lunch for everyone) if we had gotten upset today. There was no need for threats to punish...or a knee-jerk reaction. We chalked this up to the moodiness of an almost-three-year-old…maybe a lack of sleep…and Zola just being “Zola”!
As I read these scripture verses – which happen to be some of my favorites – I thought about how often we behave like a sullen or insolent child. We are stubborn… we disobey and disrupt…and God loves us anyway. He continues about His business while we sit and pout, wring our hands, or lie down on the floor and kick and scream in a temper tantrum. And then He picks us up and snuggles us as if to say, “Feel better now?”
We need to take a long hard look at these verses and the lessons they contain. We need to apply this same compassion and mercy to those we encounter in our daily living. We need to offer forgiveness…and to blow many offenses to the four winds – as though they had never been here. And with Jesus’ help, we can do exactly that! We do not have the power to forgive sins…but we can – and must – forgive offenses against us. We must look past hurts, irritations, and mistreatment and see what God sees…His precious children…and we must love them, as He loves us!
I pulled Zola into my lap as she began to eat, and I snuggled her. When I tried to return her to the chair beside me, she protested…”I want to sit with you!” She felt happy with me…and loved. It was as if we had experienced a mutual understanding that everything was forgiven…the pouting was over…and I still loved her just as much as ever. And that’s how it is with God. He loves us so much…even when we are so very unlovable. And He wants us to share that love with others in His name.
This is not always an easy thing to do…but it is so necessary. As God loves and forgives you…as He offers you compassion and mercy…won’t you do the same for others? Who do you need to figuratively “snuggle on your lap” today and let them know that all is forgiven? What grudges are you still holding? Isn’t this a great time to release them? Don’t you feel God calling you to do just that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever. He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.
The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust. Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die.
The wind blows, and we are gone - as though we had never been here. But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children’s children of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments!
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.
When we went to lunch today after church, Zola got upset with me because I would not let her hold her milk bottle by herself. The milk at Burger King® comes in a plastic bottle, and we add a straw…and she usually ends up with more milk ON her than IN her! So I insisted on holding the bottle today while she got her drink. That did not go over well. She clammed up and stared straight ahead and would not speak or eat or move…for probably close to 15 minutes. We went on with our meal and virtually ignored her. She began to get upset when Timothy ate an apple slice from her plate…and then a French fry. I told her since she was not eating, that food was “fair game”…and soon, she was eating her lunch.
We are by no means experts when it comes to managing children and their “tantrums,” but we have learned that often, the more things you can ignore and overlook, the better. It would have served no purpose (other than to ruin lunch for everyone) if we had gotten upset today. There was no need for threats to punish...or a knee-jerk reaction. We chalked this up to the moodiness of an almost-three-year-old…maybe a lack of sleep…and Zola just being “Zola”!
As I read these scripture verses – which happen to be some of my favorites – I thought about how often we behave like a sullen or insolent child. We are stubborn… we disobey and disrupt…and God loves us anyway. He continues about His business while we sit and pout, wring our hands, or lie down on the floor and kick and scream in a temper tantrum. And then He picks us up and snuggles us as if to say, “Feel better now?”
We need to take a long hard look at these verses and the lessons they contain. We need to apply this same compassion and mercy to those we encounter in our daily living. We need to offer forgiveness…and to blow many offenses to the four winds – as though they had never been here. And with Jesus’ help, we can do exactly that! We do not have the power to forgive sins…but we can – and must – forgive offenses against us. We must look past hurts, irritations, and mistreatment and see what God sees…His precious children…and we must love them, as He loves us!
I pulled Zola into my lap as she began to eat, and I snuggled her. When I tried to return her to the chair beside me, she protested…”I want to sit with you!” She felt happy with me…and loved. It was as if we had experienced a mutual understanding that everything was forgiven…the pouting was over…and I still loved her just as much as ever. And that’s how it is with God. He loves us so much…even when we are so very unlovable. And He wants us to share that love with others in His name.
This is not always an easy thing to do…but it is so necessary. As God loves and forgives you…as He offers you compassion and mercy…won’t you do the same for others? Who do you need to figuratively “snuggle on your lap” today and let them know that all is forgiven? What grudges are you still holding? Isn’t this a great time to release them? Don’t you feel God calling you to do just that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 7, 2014
Philippians 4:10-17
I’m glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess—happy that you’re again showing such strong concern for me. Not that you ever quit praying and thinking about me. You just had no chance to show it. Actually, I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. I don’t mean that your help didn’t mean a lot to me—it did. It was a beautiful thing that you came alongside me in my troubles.
You Philippians well know, and you can be sure I’ll never forget it, that when I first left Macedonia province, venturing out with the Message, not one church helped out in the give-and-take of this work except you. You were the only one. Even while I was in Thessalonica, you helped out—and not only once, but twice. Not that I’m looking for handouts, but I do want you to experience the blessing that issues from generosity.
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.
My Mam-ma Polly lived alone in her own home until a few months past her 98th birthday. When I would talk to her or visit, she would often say, “I haven’t seen a soul”…or “I haven’t heard from anybody in days.” In truth, her house should have had a revolving door to accommodate all of her visitors…and if you were able to get through to her on the telephone, congratulations! But even if a single soul had never visited my grandmother…if she had never spoken to anyone on the phone…she would have been rich in love and care.
For all of the tangible calls and visits my grandmother received, she did not fully grasp how many people were working on her behalf “behind the scenes”. She didn’t see the countless hours that others spent charting her health, managing her finances, running her errands, maintaining her home…and most importantly – praying for her. Like many of us, she dealt in concrete examples. I know that Mam-ma knew in her heart that others cared deeply for her…and were doing all sorts of things on her behalf. But it was somewhat that “out-of-sight-out-of-mind” mentality. And we are all like this, to some degree.
Trust me when I tell you that others are praying for you. I believe that wholeheartedly. A parent…relative…church member…friend…co-worker…teacher/coach…neighbor…SOMEONE is praying for you! More importantly, we all need to fully understand that we are not defined by other people! We are not the measure of who prays for us…who does nice things for us…or even who loves us. We will never be fully whole in Jesus until we grasp how totally complete we are in Jesus Christ! As long as we have Jesus, we have everything – and everyone – we need!
I get it. This is a tough concept to completely internalize. We are wired to be dependent on love and nurture from others. But until we embrace the love of Christ and make Him all that truly matters in our lives, we will be somewhat crippled in our faith walk. There is nothing wrong with desiring the company and care of other people. I know that deep in her heart, Mam-ma Polly knew that Jesus loved her immeasurably…and this was all she truly needed. She just liked playing the “poor old widow woman” card! And we are no different. A lot of us know that we are complete in Jesus…we just enjoy a little "pity party" once in a while.
We need to get up and get going…to look around us and see who needs our love, prayers, concern – and even tangible “good deeds”. We need to earnestly turn to Jesus…to recognize that He is with us - and He really is all that we need. We need to be grateful for those whom Jesus has sent to love and nurture us in an earthly form…the “angels among us” who pray for us and lift us up in ways we cannot physically ascertain. And we need to be very busy sharing Jesus with others.
The time has come for the “Poor-Me Pity Party” to end…and the “Complete and Content in Jesus” celebration to begin. We have open invitations to both…which one will you choose to attend?
©2014 Debbie Robus
I’m glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess—happy that you’re again showing such strong concern for me. Not that you ever quit praying and thinking about me. You just had no chance to show it. Actually, I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. I don’t mean that your help didn’t mean a lot to me—it did. It was a beautiful thing that you came alongside me in my troubles.
You Philippians well know, and you can be sure I’ll never forget it, that when I first left Macedonia province, venturing out with the Message, not one church helped out in the give-and-take of this work except you. You were the only one. Even while I was in Thessalonica, you helped out—and not only once, but twice. Not that I’m looking for handouts, but I do want you to experience the blessing that issues from generosity.
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.
My Mam-ma Polly lived alone in her own home until a few months past her 98th birthday. When I would talk to her or visit, she would often say, “I haven’t seen a soul”…or “I haven’t heard from anybody in days.” In truth, her house should have had a revolving door to accommodate all of her visitors…and if you were able to get through to her on the telephone, congratulations! But even if a single soul had never visited my grandmother…if she had never spoken to anyone on the phone…she would have been rich in love and care.
For all of the tangible calls and visits my grandmother received, she did not fully grasp how many people were working on her behalf “behind the scenes”. She didn’t see the countless hours that others spent charting her health, managing her finances, running her errands, maintaining her home…and most importantly – praying for her. Like many of us, she dealt in concrete examples. I know that Mam-ma knew in her heart that others cared deeply for her…and were doing all sorts of things on her behalf. But it was somewhat that “out-of-sight-out-of-mind” mentality. And we are all like this, to some degree.
Trust me when I tell you that others are praying for you. I believe that wholeheartedly. A parent…relative…church member…friend…co-worker…teacher/coach…neighbor…SOMEONE is praying for you! More importantly, we all need to fully understand that we are not defined by other people! We are not the measure of who prays for us…who does nice things for us…or even who loves us. We will never be fully whole in Jesus until we grasp how totally complete we are in Jesus Christ! As long as we have Jesus, we have everything – and everyone – we need!
I get it. This is a tough concept to completely internalize. We are wired to be dependent on love and nurture from others. But until we embrace the love of Christ and make Him all that truly matters in our lives, we will be somewhat crippled in our faith walk. There is nothing wrong with desiring the company and care of other people. I know that deep in her heart, Mam-ma Polly knew that Jesus loved her immeasurably…and this was all she truly needed. She just liked playing the “poor old widow woman” card! And we are no different. A lot of us know that we are complete in Jesus…we just enjoy a little "pity party" once in a while.
We need to get up and get going…to look around us and see who needs our love, prayers, concern – and even tangible “good deeds”. We need to earnestly turn to Jesus…to recognize that He is with us - and He really is all that we need. We need to be grateful for those whom Jesus has sent to love and nurture us in an earthly form…the “angels among us” who pray for us and lift us up in ways we cannot physically ascertain. And we need to be very busy sharing Jesus with others.
The time has come for the “Poor-Me Pity Party” to end…and the “Complete and Content in Jesus” celebration to begin. We have open invitations to both…which one will you choose to attend?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 29, 2014
2 Corinthians 5:16-20
Because of this decision we don’t evaluate people by what they have or how they look. We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know. We certainly don’t look at him that way anymore. Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life burgeons! Look at it! All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other.
God put the world square with himself through the Messiah, giving the world a fresh start by offering forgiveness of sins. God has given us the task of telling everyone what he is doing. We’re Christ’s representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God’s work of making things right between them. We’re speaking for Christ himself now: Become friends with God; he’s already a friend with you.
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.
My friend Tiger “lamented” (tongue-in-cheek) the “leisurely driver” in a recent Facebook post. He said in part…”Today we salute you, mister leisurely driver…ye who could drive anytime…however choose to trek at rush hour and lunch time!! Go, you warrior of intersection indecision! We bow and pause for you…after all, what choice do we have - you're blocking the street! We know each stop sign is a major decision!”
I suggested to Tiger that he and I may very likely be that “leisurely driver” soon enough! But I was also reminded of how we used to plead with my grandmother and great-aunt to run their errands at an earlier hour, when traffic wasn’t as heavy. Instead, they chose to go to the grocery store at the busiest hour of the day…usually on Friday afternoon around 3:30, just as school closed for the weekend! In truth, they did this so that they could see more people…and get in a good visit with a few of them. Their “mission” was more about socializing than shopping! They were not interested in hearing about traffic. It never bothered them that others had to be extra watchful for their “senior driving” or poke along behind them at intersections. They had a right to shop whenever they pleased… and they exercised it! And all of the talking in the world could not change their minds.
I still remember taking my Mam-ma Polly home from the beauty shop on Friday afternoons and unpacking the groceries that I had purchased for her while she got her hair done. Then she and her best friend, Ruby, would practically beat me back to the store, where I had returned to purchase my own groceries! Mam-ma would sometimes make up some excuse about picking up some item she forgot to put on the list when I shopped for her…but I knew the real reason these ladies were there at that hour!
My point in sharing this is two-fold …1) as I pointed out to Tiger, we very well may be this “leisurely driver” someday; and 2) we can encourage others to come around to our way of thinking… but the ultimate decision is theirs. And it’s the same with our Christian faith. As we share the love of Christ with others and demonstrate Christian discipleship and service, we must do so without judgment. We must recognize that on any given day, we are all stubborn and rebellious – and maybe a “leisurely driver”…and none of us are perfect. Still, God loves us! And if we are new creatures in Christ, we are called to find a way to reconcile differences, overcome our desires to be critical and judgmental…and learn to get along.
Moreover, we must understand that our job is not to force Jesus on others…but to share His GOOD NEWS and love with others… then let Him do the heavy lifting of changing hearts and minds. If you really study this scripture passage, you will find that the message is loud and clear to “move over and let God run the show!” So the next time you encounter a “leisurely driver” on the streets – or in the aisles at Wal-Mart – remember the words of Paul to the Corinthians. Remind yourself that “we’re Christ’s representatives”…and we share His love by offering forgiveness, compassion and understanding to the other guy.
Try to “look inside” others’ hearts and see what God sees. You are blessed to enjoy His friendship…offer the same to others. Set the stage for God to work…then move over and “give Him the wheel”!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Because of this decision we don’t evaluate people by what they have or how they look. We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know. We certainly don’t look at him that way anymore. Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life burgeons! Look at it! All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other.
God put the world square with himself through the Messiah, giving the world a fresh start by offering forgiveness of sins. God has given us the task of telling everyone what he is doing. We’re Christ’s representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God’s work of making things right between them. We’re speaking for Christ himself now: Become friends with God; he’s already a friend with you.
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.
My friend Tiger “lamented” (tongue-in-cheek) the “leisurely driver” in a recent Facebook post. He said in part…”Today we salute you, mister leisurely driver…ye who could drive anytime…however choose to trek at rush hour and lunch time!! Go, you warrior of intersection indecision! We bow and pause for you…after all, what choice do we have - you're blocking the street! We know each stop sign is a major decision!”
I suggested to Tiger that he and I may very likely be that “leisurely driver” soon enough! But I was also reminded of how we used to plead with my grandmother and great-aunt to run their errands at an earlier hour, when traffic wasn’t as heavy. Instead, they chose to go to the grocery store at the busiest hour of the day…usually on Friday afternoon around 3:30, just as school closed for the weekend! In truth, they did this so that they could see more people…and get in a good visit with a few of them. Their “mission” was more about socializing than shopping! They were not interested in hearing about traffic. It never bothered them that others had to be extra watchful for their “senior driving” or poke along behind them at intersections. They had a right to shop whenever they pleased… and they exercised it! And all of the talking in the world could not change their minds.
I still remember taking my Mam-ma Polly home from the beauty shop on Friday afternoons and unpacking the groceries that I had purchased for her while she got her hair done. Then she and her best friend, Ruby, would practically beat me back to the store, where I had returned to purchase my own groceries! Mam-ma would sometimes make up some excuse about picking up some item she forgot to put on the list when I shopped for her…but I knew the real reason these ladies were there at that hour!
My point in sharing this is two-fold …1) as I pointed out to Tiger, we very well may be this “leisurely driver” someday; and 2) we can encourage others to come around to our way of thinking… but the ultimate decision is theirs. And it’s the same with our Christian faith. As we share the love of Christ with others and demonstrate Christian discipleship and service, we must do so without judgment. We must recognize that on any given day, we are all stubborn and rebellious – and maybe a “leisurely driver”…and none of us are perfect. Still, God loves us! And if we are new creatures in Christ, we are called to find a way to reconcile differences, overcome our desires to be critical and judgmental…and learn to get along.
Moreover, we must understand that our job is not to force Jesus on others…but to share His GOOD NEWS and love with others… then let Him do the heavy lifting of changing hearts and minds. If you really study this scripture passage, you will find that the message is loud and clear to “move over and let God run the show!” So the next time you encounter a “leisurely driver” on the streets – or in the aisles at Wal-Mart – remember the words of Paul to the Corinthians. Remind yourself that “we’re Christ’s representatives”…and we share His love by offering forgiveness, compassion and understanding to the other guy.
Try to “look inside” others’ hearts and see what God sees. You are blessed to enjoy His friendship…offer the same to others. Set the stage for God to work…then move over and “give Him the wheel”!
©2014 Debbie Robus
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