Genesis 1:1-5
When God began creating the heavens
and the earth, the earth was a shapeless, chaotic mass, with the Spirit
of God brooding over the dark vapors.
Then God said, “Let there
be light.” And light appeared. And God was pleased with it and divided
the light from the darkness. He called the light “daytime,” and the
darkness “nighttime.” Together they formed the first day.
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 want to have your
“disciple muscle” tested, try to explain God to a 3½-year-old! I was
reading a children’s Bible story to Nathan a few days ago about Jesus’
last days on earth. Nathan always asks a zillion questions when we read
books. But this time, as he looked at the pictures he asked, “Is THAT
God? Is THAT God? Well…where IS God?”
At first I told him
that “God is in Heaven,” and he would nod and say, “Granny is in Heaven
with God.” “Yes,” I would agree…that’s right.” But then he asked more
insistently, “But where IS God? Can’t we see Him?” I tried to explain
that we cannot see God in the same way that we see each other – or even
that people saw Jesus. But Nathan didn’t seem satisfied with this.
Finally, I said, “God is in your heart.” “God is in my HEART?” “Not IN
your heart,” I tried to explain again…”but we can feel God with us.
His spirit is in our heart and helps us…He loves us and we love HIM.”
This
will have to be revisited often. I have a sneaky feeling that right
now, Nathan thinks that God is like a little battery pack that
physically resides in his heart. But over time, I hope that “the lights
will go on” and he will understand more fully. This was how it
happened for Timothy – and it was a remarkable transformation to
observe. I am not sure how firm a grasp Zola has yet, but I know that
she does have some understanding of who God is.
I cannot put into
words what it means to know that these three little ones know God – at
least as well as their young intellectual minds will allow. More
importantly, they have a HEART for God. They understand that He loves
and cares for them like no other. They are learning about how God
created the heavens and earth…day and night…the land, sea and sky…and
all of the plants and animals that inhabit our world.
It is
humbling to think that God created ALL of this for ALL of us…including
me and my family. I am honored to be able to share the love of Christ –
and His message – with others, especially young children. I am so
privileged to be able to have a front-row seat to observe how these
little ones are transforming in their relationship with God and growing
to know and love Him more each day. I am honored to be able to share the
love of Christ – and His messages for us – with others each and every
day.
It started with darkness…murky, shapeless, vapor. But oh,
what God has done with that abyss! And He’s not finished! We are
called to share His love and light with others…to tell them of the
amazing sacrifices that He made for us in the form of Jesus…and to
encourage them to make a space in their own hearts for His spirit to
permanently reside. Where IS God for you today…and how will you share
Him with others? Isn’t it time you found the answer?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label where is God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label where is God. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for April 15, 2015
Romans 3:21-24
But now God has shown us a different way to heaven — not by “being good enough” and trying to keep his laws, but by a new way (though not new, really, for the Scriptures told about it long ago). Now God says he will accept and acquit us —declare us “not guilty”— if we trust Jesus Christ to take away our sins. And we all can be saved in this same way, by coming to Christ, no matter who we are or what we have been like. Yes, all have sinned; all fall short of God’s glorious ideal; yet now God declares us “not guilty” of offending him if we trust in Jesus Christ, who in his kindness freely takes away our sins.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Timothy is often a serious child…and when things don’t go well, he will sometimes ask, “Are you disappointed in me?” And more than once, he has told me, “Aunt Debbie, I’m so disappointed in you” – usually when I tell him “No” about something!
I’m afraid that God is often “so disappointed” in me…like every day at one point or another. And I’ll let you in on a little secret…He’s disappointed in you, too! Feeling a little “disappointed” now? I know I am…along with embarrassed, frustrated - and a healthy dose of “why can’t I get it right?”!
Hear the words of Romans 3:23…”all have sinned; all fall short of God’s glorious ideal.” Now hear the GREATER news that follows…”yet now God declares us “not guilty” of offending him if we trust in Jesus Christ, who in his kindness freely takes away our sins.” So while we disappoint God often, He still loves us and forgives us. We must strive to get it right…to do better…to please Him. We should want to do this! But the times that we fall short…God is still there.
When children disappoint us or misbehave, we may detach from them for a few minutes. There may be a “time out” involved in which we do not communicate. Or if the child is angry or upset with us, he/she may walk away and ignore us momentarily. But this is usually short lived. And while we may feel like God has left us for a while, the truth is that He never leaves us. He may let us simmer in our misgivings for a bit, but He is right there whenever we are ready to make things right and try again.
So today as you go about your routine, remind yourself often that God is with you…that He loves you more than you can ever imagine – much less deserve. Remember that the only thing you could ever do to disappoint God irreparably is to deny Him completely…and even then, He would fight tooth and nail to remain in your life! Doesn’t that kind of love make you want to do all you can to please Him? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
But now God has shown us a different way to heaven — not by “being good enough” and trying to keep his laws, but by a new way (though not new, really, for the Scriptures told about it long ago). Now God says he will accept and acquit us —declare us “not guilty”— if we trust Jesus Christ to take away our sins. And we all can be saved in this same way, by coming to Christ, no matter who we are or what we have been like. Yes, all have sinned; all fall short of God’s glorious ideal; yet now God declares us “not guilty” of offending him if we trust in Jesus Christ, who in his kindness freely takes away our sins.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Timothy is often a serious child…and when things don’t go well, he will sometimes ask, “Are you disappointed in me?” And more than once, he has told me, “Aunt Debbie, I’m so disappointed in you” – usually when I tell him “No” about something!
I’m afraid that God is often “so disappointed” in me…like every day at one point or another. And I’ll let you in on a little secret…He’s disappointed in you, too! Feeling a little “disappointed” now? I know I am…along with embarrassed, frustrated - and a healthy dose of “why can’t I get it right?”!
Hear the words of Romans 3:23…”all have sinned; all fall short of God’s glorious ideal.” Now hear the GREATER news that follows…”yet now God declares us “not guilty” of offending him if we trust in Jesus Christ, who in his kindness freely takes away our sins.” So while we disappoint God often, He still loves us and forgives us. We must strive to get it right…to do better…to please Him. We should want to do this! But the times that we fall short…God is still there.
When children disappoint us or misbehave, we may detach from them for a few minutes. There may be a “time out” involved in which we do not communicate. Or if the child is angry or upset with us, he/she may walk away and ignore us momentarily. But this is usually short lived. And while we may feel like God has left us for a while, the truth is that He never leaves us. He may let us simmer in our misgivings for a bit, but He is right there whenever we are ready to make things right and try again.
So today as you go about your routine, remind yourself often that God is with you…that He loves you more than you can ever imagine – much less deserve. Remember that the only thing you could ever do to disappoint God irreparably is to deny Him completely…and even then, He would fight tooth and nail to remain in your life! Doesn’t that kind of love make you want to do all you can to please Him? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 11, 2015
Romans 1:16-17
For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is God’s powerful method of bringing all who believe it to heaven. This message was preached first to the Jews alone, but now everyone is invited to come to God in this same way. This Good News tells us that God makes us ready for heaven—makes us right in God’s sight—when we put our faith and trust in Christ to save us. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scripture says it, “The man who finds life will find it through trusting 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.
A dear friend of mined recently posed two questions on Facebook that were intended to spark a conversation…”When it's all said and done...what is the meaning of life? What is the purpose of living?” One person replied…”One of my questions is…why is Jesus delaying his return? This world is a big mess.” This is a valid question. And I believe we find at least part of the answer in this passage from the first chapter of Romans.
In my opinion, our job is not to question why Jesus is taking so long…or even why “bad things happen to good people”. Will the answers really make us feel any better or change what is happening? I believe the more important question to ask is, “What would You have me do with this, LORD?”…and then we must trust His answer.
I know people who have endured unspeakable challenges…and done so without complaining. They have exhibited amazing calm and peace…incredible grace and courage. They have trusted God…and He has sustained them. I’ve even heard others ask of them, “How can you be so calm and collected?” Let me assure you, these people may be crushed on the inside. They may be hurting deeply - and crying out to God for His wisdom and comfort when no one else is around. But they are also trusting God to answer. And they are finding life – and its true meaning – in the process. My answer to my friend’s question would have to be, at least in part, that we are living to love and serve Christ…to further God’s kingdom and fulfill His plans – and this includes any and all “bumps in the road”.
We need look no further than the life of Jesus Christ…His torture, crucifixion, death and resurrection…to see that “bad things happen” to even the most Perfect One. So this cannot be our crutch or excuse. Clearly our faith in God sustains us – and makes us right with Him. I’m ready to go “full in” with God – to trust Him completely. I’ve seen evidence in my own life of how He is always with me…how God handles EVERYTHING when I calm down and let Him have control.
I am learning to find joy, peace and contentment in any situation through my faith and trust in God. I know that He is “making ready” my place in Heaven…and my job is to patiently and faithfully serve Him on this earth until He calls for me. What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is God’s powerful method of bringing all who believe it to heaven. This message was preached first to the Jews alone, but now everyone is invited to come to God in this same way. This Good News tells us that God makes us ready for heaven—makes us right in God’s sight—when we put our faith and trust in Christ to save us. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scripture says it, “The man who finds life will find it through trusting 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.
A dear friend of mined recently posed two questions on Facebook that were intended to spark a conversation…”When it's all said and done...what is the meaning of life? What is the purpose of living?” One person replied…”One of my questions is…why is Jesus delaying his return? This world is a big mess.” This is a valid question. And I believe we find at least part of the answer in this passage from the first chapter of Romans.
In my opinion, our job is not to question why Jesus is taking so long…or even why “bad things happen to good people”. Will the answers really make us feel any better or change what is happening? I believe the more important question to ask is, “What would You have me do with this, LORD?”…and then we must trust His answer.
I know people who have endured unspeakable challenges…and done so without complaining. They have exhibited amazing calm and peace…incredible grace and courage. They have trusted God…and He has sustained them. I’ve even heard others ask of them, “How can you be so calm and collected?” Let me assure you, these people may be crushed on the inside. They may be hurting deeply - and crying out to God for His wisdom and comfort when no one else is around. But they are also trusting God to answer. And they are finding life – and its true meaning – in the process. My answer to my friend’s question would have to be, at least in part, that we are living to love and serve Christ…to further God’s kingdom and fulfill His plans – and this includes any and all “bumps in the road”.
We need look no further than the life of Jesus Christ…His torture, crucifixion, death and resurrection…to see that “bad things happen” to even the most Perfect One. So this cannot be our crutch or excuse. Clearly our faith in God sustains us – and makes us right with Him. I’m ready to go “full in” with God – to trust Him completely. I’ve seen evidence in my own life of how He is always with me…how God handles EVERYTHING when I calm down and let Him have control.
I am learning to find joy, peace and contentment in any situation through my faith and trust in God. I know that He is “making ready” my place in Heaven…and my job is to patiently and faithfully serve Him on this earth until He calls for me. What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 9, 2015
Psalm 119:1-10
Happy are all who perfectly follow the laws of God. Happy are all who search for God and always do his will, rejecting compromise with evil and walking only in his paths. You have given us your laws to obey - oh, how I want to follow them consistently. Then I will not be disgraced, for I will have a clean record.
After you have corrected me, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey! Oh, don’t forsake me and let me slip back into sin again.
How can a young man stay pure? By reading your Word and following its rules. I have tried my best to find you—don’t let me wander off from your instructions.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Answer this question honestly…have you ever turned and looked the other way when something was happening that you knew would not please God? Maybe you observed activity at a party that was wrong – or illegal. Maybe you knew that a friend was cheating in some manner, and you did not confront him/her. Perhaps you literally looked away when someone told a joke that was off-color, racist, or derogatory in some manner. Maybe you shared gossip about someone, even though you knew in your heart that it was wrong to do so. Or perhaps you knew that your boss or co-workers were stealing from the company or mistreating other employees…and you kept your mouth shut, because you felt... a) it wasn’t any of your business; and/or 2) confrontation could cost you the job – or your relationship with this person.
In all of these instances…and countless more…we compromise with evil. We may even justify this by saying, “It’s just this once. I’ll do more for God later.” Or we say, “I’m sowing my wild oats. I’ll settle down and live for God someday.” But let me ask you this…how do you feel afterward?
If you truly love God, I’m betting you feel pretty lousy on some level. These types of negotiations with God do not make us happy – at least not in the long run. While it’s not always easy to do the right thing…nothing else will truly make us happy. To some degree, we will operate with a guilty conscience…and this is never really pleasant or fun!
Hear the good news…there is a “way out” of this mess. We can ditch the devil, once and for all - and run as fast as we can back to God. We may think we have tried our best to find Him...but in truth, He’s been here all along. His guidelines are clear…His Word contains every answer we will ever need…if only we will study it. Then we must do what God asks of us…even those things we find difficult – or unpopular.
If you find your life unsettled…if you are often uneasy, worried, or frustrated...open your Bible, sit quietly with God, and let Him speak to you. James 4:8 tells us that “when you draw close to God, God will draw close to you.” God is waiting for you to kick the devil to the curb and draw near to Him – and STAY there! Are you ready to make the move?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Happy are all who perfectly follow the laws of God. Happy are all who search for God and always do his will, rejecting compromise with evil and walking only in his paths. You have given us your laws to obey - oh, how I want to follow them consistently. Then I will not be disgraced, for I will have a clean record.
After you have corrected me, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey! Oh, don’t forsake me and let me slip back into sin again.
How can a young man stay pure? By reading your Word and following its rules. I have tried my best to find you—don’t let me wander off from your instructions.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Answer this question honestly…have you ever turned and looked the other way when something was happening that you knew would not please God? Maybe you observed activity at a party that was wrong – or illegal. Maybe you knew that a friend was cheating in some manner, and you did not confront him/her. Perhaps you literally looked away when someone told a joke that was off-color, racist, or derogatory in some manner. Maybe you shared gossip about someone, even though you knew in your heart that it was wrong to do so. Or perhaps you knew that your boss or co-workers were stealing from the company or mistreating other employees…and you kept your mouth shut, because you felt... a) it wasn’t any of your business; and/or 2) confrontation could cost you the job – or your relationship with this person.
In all of these instances…and countless more…we compromise with evil. We may even justify this by saying, “It’s just this once. I’ll do more for God later.” Or we say, “I’m sowing my wild oats. I’ll settle down and live for God someday.” But let me ask you this…how do you feel afterward?
If you truly love God, I’m betting you feel pretty lousy on some level. These types of negotiations with God do not make us happy – at least not in the long run. While it’s not always easy to do the right thing…nothing else will truly make us happy. To some degree, we will operate with a guilty conscience…and this is never really pleasant or fun!
Hear the good news…there is a “way out” of this mess. We can ditch the devil, once and for all - and run as fast as we can back to God. We may think we have tried our best to find Him...but in truth, He’s been here all along. His guidelines are clear…His Word contains every answer we will ever need…if only we will study it. Then we must do what God asks of us…even those things we find difficult – or unpopular.
If you find your life unsettled…if you are often uneasy, worried, or frustrated...open your Bible, sit quietly with God, and let Him speak to you. James 4:8 tells us that “when you draw close to God, God will draw close to you.” God is waiting for you to kick the devil to the curb and draw near to Him – and STAY there! Are you ready to make the move?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 8, 2015
Psalm 119:20-24
What I want most of all
and at all times
is to honor your laws.
You punish those boastful,
worthless nobodies
who turn
from your commands.
Don’t let them sneer
and insult me
for following you.
I keep thinking about
your teachings, Lord,
even if rulers plot
against me.
Your laws are my greatest joy!
I follow their advice.
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.
Two of my favorite television shows are "MasterChef"…and especially "MasterChef Junior". This program has featured “future chefs” as young as age eight who can cook gourmet dishes that would rival those prepared in a 5-star restaurant.
Now here’s the thing…I consider myself to be an okay cook. And there are dishes that I know how to make without a recipe. But this program puts cooks in a kitchen and says, “Make XYZ”. They have no recipe…sometimes they don’t even have a basic collection of ingredients…and they have to gather their items “from scratch” in the “Master Chef Pantry”. So obviously, before this program aired, these home cooks spent hours/days/weeks/months – or even YEARS – studying cookbooks and recipes, practicing in their home kitchens, and memorizing the ingredients and steps in a vast array of culinary creations.
On each season of these programs, there always tends to be at least one cook who thinks he/she knows more than the others. This person is sometimes a “renegade” of sorts who feels that the regular rules don’t apply to him/her. The instructions call for a dish to be done a certain way, but “I’m going to give it my own twist,” the cook will announce. This person seems to almost sneer at the others for being so literal…or he/she will make fun of the way another cook performs tasks...and/or call out the competitor’s apparent lack of knowledge or ability in a certain area. But almost to a person, this sort of behavior has backfired.
The old adage that “slow and steady wins the race” applies in many situations. And slow and steady faithfulness to God’s word and the teachings of Jesus will take you places as a Christian! Don’t get bogged down by those who want to tell you that their way is better – or that your ideas and opinions are wrong, just because they are different from the other guy’s. Listen to God and follow what He sows into your heart. Trust His teachings…make sure your words and actions line up with scripture, and let the others make a mess of things if they choose.
I could never be a Master Chef…probably not even with my cookbooks and recipes. Certainly nobody would want to eat what I prepared! And I can’t be the Christian disciple that God has called me to be without His word and teachings. I trust Him to walk with me every day and guide my steps…and I’m doing all I can to listen for His voice – often above the din and distraction of others’. What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
What I want most of all
and at all times
is to honor your laws.
You punish those boastful,
worthless nobodies
who turn
from your commands.
Don’t let them sneer
and insult me
for following you.
I keep thinking about
your teachings, Lord,
even if rulers plot
against me.
Your laws are my greatest joy!
I follow their advice.
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.
Two of my favorite television shows are "MasterChef"…and especially "MasterChef Junior". This program has featured “future chefs” as young as age eight who can cook gourmet dishes that would rival those prepared in a 5-star restaurant.
Now here’s the thing…I consider myself to be an okay cook. And there are dishes that I know how to make without a recipe. But this program puts cooks in a kitchen and says, “Make XYZ”. They have no recipe…sometimes they don’t even have a basic collection of ingredients…and they have to gather their items “from scratch” in the “Master Chef Pantry”. So obviously, before this program aired, these home cooks spent hours/days/weeks/months – or even YEARS – studying cookbooks and recipes, practicing in their home kitchens, and memorizing the ingredients and steps in a vast array of culinary creations.
On each season of these programs, there always tends to be at least one cook who thinks he/she knows more than the others. This person is sometimes a “renegade” of sorts who feels that the regular rules don’t apply to him/her. The instructions call for a dish to be done a certain way, but “I’m going to give it my own twist,” the cook will announce. This person seems to almost sneer at the others for being so literal…or he/she will make fun of the way another cook performs tasks...and/or call out the competitor’s apparent lack of knowledge or ability in a certain area. But almost to a person, this sort of behavior has backfired.
The old adage that “slow and steady wins the race” applies in many situations. And slow and steady faithfulness to God’s word and the teachings of Jesus will take you places as a Christian! Don’t get bogged down by those who want to tell you that their way is better – or that your ideas and opinions are wrong, just because they are different from the other guy’s. Listen to God and follow what He sows into your heart. Trust His teachings…make sure your words and actions line up with scripture, and let the others make a mess of things if they choose.
I could never be a Master Chef…probably not even with my cookbooks and recipes. Certainly nobody would want to eat what I prepared! And I can’t be the Christian disciple that God has called me to be without His word and teachings. I trust Him to walk with me every day and guide my steps…and I’m doing all I can to listen for His voice – often above the din and distraction of others’. What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 7, 2015
Psalm 119:18
Open my eyes to see wonderful things in your Word.
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 verse from Psalm 119 became the inspiration for a treasured hymn, Open My Eyes, That I May See, written by Clara H. Scott, and published in 1895. The first verse and chorus (refrain) say:
Open my eyes, that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Refrain 1:
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready my God, Thy will to see,
Open my eyes, illumine me,
Spirit divine!
Google this hymn and read the other verses. The language may seem a little “stiff” and unfamiliar to you today…but the message is crystal clear. If we will only open our eyes and ears, God will speak to us. He will “illumine” and enlighten us and give us the key to unlock His will for our lives!
Recently, I’ve been struggling (again) with a dilemma for which I could see no solution. I’ll admit…I am so stubborn that I have to practically beat a situation to death like an old dirty rug before I somewhat collapse and surrender it fully to God. And every time, He reveals His answer. It’s almost like He is saying to me…”I was wondering when you were going to stop wrestling this and let me handle it for you!” Yes, I am a work in progress…and I suspect you are, as well.
So let’s agree to stop this nonsense…to open our eyes that we may see…to open our ears that we may hear…to allow God to illumine us – His will to see! God has been with us all along – we just haven’t always recognized Him. Isn’t it time we did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Open my eyes to see wonderful things in your Word.
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 verse from Psalm 119 became the inspiration for a treasured hymn, Open My Eyes, That I May See, written by Clara H. Scott, and published in 1895. The first verse and chorus (refrain) say:
Open my eyes, that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Refrain 1:
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready my God, Thy will to see,
Open my eyes, illumine me,
Spirit divine!
Google this hymn and read the other verses. The language may seem a little “stiff” and unfamiliar to you today…but the message is crystal clear. If we will only open our eyes and ears, God will speak to us. He will “illumine” and enlighten us and give us the key to unlock His will for our lives!
Recently, I’ve been struggling (again) with a dilemma for which I could see no solution. I’ll admit…I am so stubborn that I have to practically beat a situation to death like an old dirty rug before I somewhat collapse and surrender it fully to God. And every time, He reveals His answer. It’s almost like He is saying to me…”I was wondering when you were going to stop wrestling this and let me handle it for you!” Yes, I am a work in progress…and I suspect you are, as well.
So let’s agree to stop this nonsense…to open our eyes that we may see…to open our ears that we may hear…to allow God to illumine us – His will to see! God has been with us all along – we just haven’t always recognized Him. Isn’t it time we did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 6, 2015
Psalm 119:105-112
By your words I can see where I’m going;
they throw a beam of light on my dark path.
I’ve committed myself and I’ll never turn back
from living by your righteous order.
Everything’s falling apart on me, God;
put me together again with your Word.
Festoon me with your finest sayings, God;
teach me your holy rules.
My life is as close as my own hands,
but I don’t forget what you have revealed.
The wicked do their best to throw me off track,
but I don’t swerve an inch from your course.
I inherited your book on living; it’s mine forever—
what a gift! And how happy it makes me!
I concentrate on doing exactly what you say—
I always have and always will.
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.
If you have spent any time at all with little kids, you know that a favorite question is “What’s next?” “What are we going to do when we finish this?” they will often ask…or “Where are we going next?” And these are really good questions for us to ask ourselves this day after Easter Sunday. What IS next for us? The candy has been eaten, the Easter finery has been worn, the eggs have all been hunted, and many of us have shared a family dinner and/or get-together. In spiritual terms, we have studied and celebrated Jesus’ birth, life, death by crucifixion, and resurrection. So the logical next question to ask is, “Where do we go from here?”
Jesus - the Light of the World - is illuminating our way along the path of righteousness. He has given us the instructions…and a “map” for staying on course. Now all we have to do is follow Him…walk in His light…listen for His voice…and carry His Holy Spirit in our heart. Will there be times of hardship, struggle, sadness and disappointment? Probably. Will we be tempted to go another direction…to venture down other paths? Most likely! Will the devil and his agents try to throw us off track? Definitely! Can we withstand these trials and temptations and remain faithful to Jesus? Absolutely!
Easter Sunday may be over, but life in Christ is just revving up! It’s time to apply all we have been taught…to be the hands and feet of Jesus each and every day…to walk in faith and stand on His promises. We have been told that Jesus is preparing a place for us for all Eternity…that Heaven is our real home – not this earth. We have been given His Holy Spirit to guide us every step of the way until we are called to our eternal Home, once and for all. And by the power and grace of God Almighty through Jesus Christ…we.can.do.this!
Are you ready to walk in the Light?
©2015 Debbie Robus
By your words I can see where I’m going;
they throw a beam of light on my dark path.
I’ve committed myself and I’ll never turn back
from living by your righteous order.
Everything’s falling apart on me, God;
put me together again with your Word.
Festoon me with your finest sayings, God;
teach me your holy rules.
My life is as close as my own hands,
but I don’t forget what you have revealed.
The wicked do their best to throw me off track,
but I don’t swerve an inch from your course.
I inherited your book on living; it’s mine forever—
what a gift! And how happy it makes me!
I concentrate on doing exactly what you say—
I always have and always will.
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.
If you have spent any time at all with little kids, you know that a favorite question is “What’s next?” “What are we going to do when we finish this?” they will often ask…or “Where are we going next?” And these are really good questions for us to ask ourselves this day after Easter Sunday. What IS next for us? The candy has been eaten, the Easter finery has been worn, the eggs have all been hunted, and many of us have shared a family dinner and/or get-together. In spiritual terms, we have studied and celebrated Jesus’ birth, life, death by crucifixion, and resurrection. So the logical next question to ask is, “Where do we go from here?”
Jesus - the Light of the World - is illuminating our way along the path of righteousness. He has given us the instructions…and a “map” for staying on course. Now all we have to do is follow Him…walk in His light…listen for His voice…and carry His Holy Spirit in our heart. Will there be times of hardship, struggle, sadness and disappointment? Probably. Will we be tempted to go another direction…to venture down other paths? Most likely! Will the devil and his agents try to throw us off track? Definitely! Can we withstand these trials and temptations and remain faithful to Jesus? Absolutely!
Easter Sunday may be over, but life in Christ is just revving up! It’s time to apply all we have been taught…to be the hands and feet of Jesus each and every day…to walk in faith and stand on His promises. We have been told that Jesus is preparing a place for us for all Eternity…that Heaven is our real home – not this earth. We have been given His Holy Spirit to guide us every step of the way until we are called to our eternal Home, once and for all. And by the power and grace of God Almighty through Jesus Christ…we.can.do.this!
Are you ready to walk in the Light?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 5, 2015
John 14:2-3
There are many homes up there where my Father lives, and I am going to prepare them for your coming. When everything is ready, then I will come and get you, so that you can always be with me where I am. If this weren’t so, I would tell you plainly.
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, I substituted for the teacher in the pre-K Sunday school class at our church. Eleven three- and 4-year-olds arrived in their Easter finery to hear this weeks’ Bible lesson. Our scripture verse was part of John 14:2…”I go to prepare a home for you.”[paraphrased for the little ones] The teacher’s guide instructed us to discuss the crucifixion and the resurrection and burial of Jesus. Our art project was to color a picture of a tomb/cave…and attach a “stone” with a little brass “brad”, so that the stone could be “rolled away.”
The hole in the cave – or “portal”, as one 4-year-old described it – contained the words, “He is risen.” This was a fairly heavy lesson for this age group, but some of the older children had a decent grasp of the story and helped to guide the conversation. And as I talked with Timothy, Zola and Nathan at lunch and thought about what they gleaned from their morning Sunday school classes, I asked myself…”What is the “take-away” for ALL of us on this Easter Sunday?”
The people who developed our church’s Sunday school curriculum seemed to want us to remember two things: 1)“Jesus Christ is risen”; and 2) He has gone to prepare a home for us – with Him – in Heaven. The children and I talked about how glorious heaven with Jesus will be. During our lunch, Timothy expressed concern about dying and going to heaven, and I assured him that it will be wonderful – that we will have a mansion to live in with Jesus, and all sorts of amazing things await us.
I told Timothy that we don’t know what all will be in heaven, but we might even have swimming pools, trampolines and skating rinks. He instantly replied, “Man, I bet those dogs and Mam-ma are having a GOOD time!” He was referring to my mom and sister’s dogs who both died within the last year…and my grandmother who left this earth two years ago. In his five-year-old thinking, Timothy instantly connected with the only breathing beings he knew who had died. And he pictured them in heaven with Jesus…”having a GOOD time.” He had trouble understanding why we cannot see Jesus if He is indeed alive. I told him that Jesus lives in our hearts, and we can feel Him with us each and every day…and he clutched his heart and said, “He’s right here!”
So today, as we celebrate how Christ rose from the grave…how He lives in our hearts and is preparing amazing rooms and mansions for us where we will live with Him for all eternity…let us be joyful. We should each picture Jesus and those loved ones who gave their hearts to Him and have gone to heaven ahead of us “having a GOOD time.” We must desire to live in such a way that we will be ready to join them when our “room” is ready!
The tomb was empty…the “portal” was open and angels had rolled away a stone so heavy that even Superman or Iron Man could not have moved it singlehandedly! Only Jesus – or one of God’s angels – could do such a thing! He suffered and died because He loves us…He rose because a mere grave for mortal men cannot hold Him…and He rose to heaven to live with God and prepare a place for us. It’s a lot to take in…almost too much to consider…but such an incredible message for each of us.
I’ve heard other people say this, but the longer I live, the sweeter the thoughts of heaven become…and the more I appreciate what Jesus did so that I can live there someday. Easter Sunday is a time to celebrate…and shout…and praise God for His amazing gift of Jesus. He is risen! Jesus is preparing a permanent home for those who give their hearts to Him and invite Him into their hearts. I am one of them…are you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
There are many homes up there where my Father lives, and I am going to prepare them for your coming. When everything is ready, then I will come and get you, so that you can always be with me where I am. If this weren’t so, I would tell you plainly.
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, I substituted for the teacher in the pre-K Sunday school class at our church. Eleven three- and 4-year-olds arrived in their Easter finery to hear this weeks’ Bible lesson. Our scripture verse was part of John 14:2…”I go to prepare a home for you.”[paraphrased for the little ones] The teacher’s guide instructed us to discuss the crucifixion and the resurrection and burial of Jesus. Our art project was to color a picture of a tomb/cave…and attach a “stone” with a little brass “brad”, so that the stone could be “rolled away.”
The hole in the cave – or “portal”, as one 4-year-old described it – contained the words, “He is risen.” This was a fairly heavy lesson for this age group, but some of the older children had a decent grasp of the story and helped to guide the conversation. And as I talked with Timothy, Zola and Nathan at lunch and thought about what they gleaned from their morning Sunday school classes, I asked myself…”What is the “take-away” for ALL of us on this Easter Sunday?”
The people who developed our church’s Sunday school curriculum seemed to want us to remember two things: 1)“Jesus Christ is risen”; and 2) He has gone to prepare a home for us – with Him – in Heaven. The children and I talked about how glorious heaven with Jesus will be. During our lunch, Timothy expressed concern about dying and going to heaven, and I assured him that it will be wonderful – that we will have a mansion to live in with Jesus, and all sorts of amazing things await us.
I told Timothy that we don’t know what all will be in heaven, but we might even have swimming pools, trampolines and skating rinks. He instantly replied, “Man, I bet those dogs and Mam-ma are having a GOOD time!” He was referring to my mom and sister’s dogs who both died within the last year…and my grandmother who left this earth two years ago. In his five-year-old thinking, Timothy instantly connected with the only breathing beings he knew who had died. And he pictured them in heaven with Jesus…”having a GOOD time.” He had trouble understanding why we cannot see Jesus if He is indeed alive. I told him that Jesus lives in our hearts, and we can feel Him with us each and every day…and he clutched his heart and said, “He’s right here!”
So today, as we celebrate how Christ rose from the grave…how He lives in our hearts and is preparing amazing rooms and mansions for us where we will live with Him for all eternity…let us be joyful. We should each picture Jesus and those loved ones who gave their hearts to Him and have gone to heaven ahead of us “having a GOOD time.” We must desire to live in such a way that we will be ready to join them when our “room” is ready!
The tomb was empty…the “portal” was open and angels had rolled away a stone so heavy that even Superman or Iron Man could not have moved it singlehandedly! Only Jesus – or one of God’s angels – could do such a thing! He suffered and died because He loves us…He rose because a mere grave for mortal men cannot hold Him…and He rose to heaven to live with God and prepare a place for us. It’s a lot to take in…almost too much to consider…but such an incredible message for each of us.
I’ve heard other people say this, but the longer I live, the sweeter the thoughts of heaven become…and the more I appreciate what Jesus did so that I can live there someday. Easter Sunday is a time to celebrate…and shout…and praise God for His amazing gift of Jesus. He is risen! Jesus is preparing a permanent home for those who give their hearts to Him and invite Him into their hearts. I am one of them…are you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 3, 2015
John 19:1-7, 16-22, 31-37
Then Pilate laid open Jesus’ back with a leaded whip, and the soldiers made a crown of thorns and placed it on his head and robed him in royal purple. “Hail, ‘King of the Jews’!” they mocked, and struck him with their fists.
Pilate went outside again and said to the Jews, “I am going to bring him out to you now, but understand clearly that I find him not guilty.”
Then Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. And Pilate said, “Behold the man!”
At sight of him the chief priests and Jewish officials began yelling, “Crucify! Crucify!”
“You crucify him,” Pilate said. “I find him not guilty.”
They replied, “By our laws he ought to die because he called himself the Son of God.”
Then Pilate gave Jesus to them to be crucified.
So they had him at last, and he was taken out of the city, carrying his cross to the place known as “The Skull,” in Hebrew, “Golgotha.” There they crucified him and two others with him, one on either side, with Jesus between them. And Pilate posted a sign over him reading, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” The place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and the signboard was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek, so that many people read it.
Then the chief priests said to Pilate, “Change it from ‘The King of the Jews’ to ‘He said, I am King of the Jews.’”
Pilate replied, “What I have written, I have written. It stays exactly as it is.”
The Jewish leaders didn’t want the victims hanging there the next day, which was the Sabbath (and a very special Sabbath at that, for it was the Passover), so they asked Pilate to order the legs of the men broken to hasten death; then their bodies could be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the two men crucified with Jesus; but when they came to him, they saw that he was dead already, so they didn’t break his. However, one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and blood and water flowed out. I saw all this myself and have given an accurate report so that you also can believe. The soldiers did this in fulfillment of the Scripture that says, “Not one of his bones shall be broken,” and, “They shall look on him whom they pierced.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
It is a somber day…Good Friday…the day we remember what Jesus did for us – for you, and me, and even that person you don’t particularly like for whatever reason. We remember how Jesus suffered…physically…mentally…emotionally. We remember how, despite his initial protests, Pilate ultimately bowed to “the will of the people” – and Jesus accepted the verdict.
Remember, Jesus could have stopped any or all of this in the blink of an eye. He could have said, “That’s going too far…I will not do this!” Any one of us would probably have done so. But we’re not Jesus, thankfully.
We cannot get to Easter Sunday without going through this day. What is “good” about “Good Friday?” Certainly, this day signals Jesus’ death for our wrongdoings…His exchange of flesh and blood for the sins of each and every one of us. We are also given the ultimate example of suffering for our faith in God. Jesus died that we might live...He chose to allow the brutality that was inflicted upon Him because He knew that it was part of God’s plan. And sometimes, we have to endure some things that seem pretty hard in order to get where God wants us to be.
We may have to walk away from “friendships” or bear some sort of loss…the death of a loved one, termination of our employment, a debilitating injury or illness, bankruptcy…or the rejection – and even ridicule – of those who disagree with our viewpoints. It may take weeks, months or years to see what God was accomplishing in this. And we might not ever understand it all in our earthly lifetime! But if we stay focused on the Jesus…and remember what He did for us on the cross…we can do this thing we call “life” – and all that it entails.
Humbly focus on the cross today. God is with us…even on this dark, somber day. Easter IS coming…but for this day, “look on Him whom they pierced”…Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.
“Amazing love…how can it be…that you my King would die for me.”*
©2015 Debbie Robus
*You Are My King (Amazing Love), written by Billy James Foote, released by Newsboys – Adoration: Worship Album 2003
Then Pilate laid open Jesus’ back with a leaded whip, and the soldiers made a crown of thorns and placed it on his head and robed him in royal purple. “Hail, ‘King of the Jews’!” they mocked, and struck him with their fists.
Pilate went outside again and said to the Jews, “I am going to bring him out to you now, but understand clearly that I find him not guilty.”
Then Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. And Pilate said, “Behold the man!”
At sight of him the chief priests and Jewish officials began yelling, “Crucify! Crucify!”
“You crucify him,” Pilate said. “I find him not guilty.”
They replied, “By our laws he ought to die because he called himself the Son of God.”
Then Pilate gave Jesus to them to be crucified.
So they had him at last, and he was taken out of the city, carrying his cross to the place known as “The Skull,” in Hebrew, “Golgotha.” There they crucified him and two others with him, one on either side, with Jesus between them. And Pilate posted a sign over him reading, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” The place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and the signboard was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek, so that many people read it.
Then the chief priests said to Pilate, “Change it from ‘The King of the Jews’ to ‘He said, I am King of the Jews.’”
Pilate replied, “What I have written, I have written. It stays exactly as it is.”
The Jewish leaders didn’t want the victims hanging there the next day, which was the Sabbath (and a very special Sabbath at that, for it was the Passover), so they asked Pilate to order the legs of the men broken to hasten death; then their bodies could be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the two men crucified with Jesus; but when they came to him, they saw that he was dead already, so they didn’t break his. However, one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and blood and water flowed out. I saw all this myself and have given an accurate report so that you also can believe. The soldiers did this in fulfillment of the Scripture that says, “Not one of his bones shall be broken,” and, “They shall look on him whom they pierced.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
It is a somber day…Good Friday…the day we remember what Jesus did for us – for you, and me, and even that person you don’t particularly like for whatever reason. We remember how Jesus suffered…physically…mentally…emotionally. We remember how, despite his initial protests, Pilate ultimately bowed to “the will of the people” – and Jesus accepted the verdict.
Remember, Jesus could have stopped any or all of this in the blink of an eye. He could have said, “That’s going too far…I will not do this!” Any one of us would probably have done so. But we’re not Jesus, thankfully.
We cannot get to Easter Sunday without going through this day. What is “good” about “Good Friday?” Certainly, this day signals Jesus’ death for our wrongdoings…His exchange of flesh and blood for the sins of each and every one of us. We are also given the ultimate example of suffering for our faith in God. Jesus died that we might live...He chose to allow the brutality that was inflicted upon Him because He knew that it was part of God’s plan. And sometimes, we have to endure some things that seem pretty hard in order to get where God wants us to be.
We may have to walk away from “friendships” or bear some sort of loss…the death of a loved one, termination of our employment, a debilitating injury or illness, bankruptcy…or the rejection – and even ridicule – of those who disagree with our viewpoints. It may take weeks, months or years to see what God was accomplishing in this. And we might not ever understand it all in our earthly lifetime! But if we stay focused on the Jesus…and remember what He did for us on the cross…we can do this thing we call “life” – and all that it entails.
Humbly focus on the cross today. God is with us…even on this dark, somber day. Easter IS coming…but for this day, “look on Him whom they pierced”…Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.
“Amazing love…how can it be…that you my King would die for me.”*
©2015 Debbie Robus
*You Are My King (Amazing Love), written by Billy James Foote, released by Newsboys – Adoration: Worship Album 2003
Daily Devotional for April 1, 2015
Luke 22:24-30
And they began to argue among themselves as to who would have the highest rank in the coming Kingdom.
Jesus told them, “In this world the kings and great men order their slaves around, and the slaves have no choice but to like it! But among you, the one who serves you best will be your leader. Out in the world the master sits at the table and is served by his servants. But not here! For I am your servant. Nevertheless, because you have stood true to me in these terrible days, and because my Father has granted me a Kingdom, I, here and now, grant you the right to eat and drink at my table in that Kingdom; and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I cannot tell you how many times I visited my Mam-ma Polly when she was sitting down at her table to a plate of food that would barely feed her, and she would say, “Sit down and eat with me.” And when I did, we’d both walk away from the table stuffed to the gills. Somehow those “little piddlin’ amounts” multiplied into a feast that sustained us…and filled our bellies AND our souls. Even now as I remember this…or especially when I cook one of grandmother’s signature dishes, I get that same warm feeling. I sense her presence…her love…her generosity and servant’s heart.
Like all of us, my Mam-ma Polly was not perfect. But for the most part, she always thought of others first. She found someone to serve virtually every day of her life, and did not discriminate in the least. And while she might have told you that she was “a poor ‘widder’ woman” she was one of the “richest” women I ever knew.
When we eat and drink at the Holy Communion table, we should all be reminded of Jesus and how He served us…how He taught us to love and serve ALL others…and how He took OUR sins upon himself. When we eat the bread and drink the wine that Jesus told the disciples were his “body and blood,” we are in reminded of our sins…because His body and blood of were exchanged for them.
We cannot physically share a meal with Jesus until we enter into His presence in Heaven. But this rite of Holy Communion serves as a reminder of Him…of what and who Jesus died for…and warms our heart and soul with His presence. This particular practice of the church is truly one of the most holy and precious demonstrations that we make as Christians.
At some point this week, many of us will likely share Holy Communion. As you do so, think of Jesus…the “Servant” who became last so that He could be first…our King of Kings. Remember that He gave His body and blood so that we can once again dine with him someday in His Kingdom. Remember that Jesus promised His disciples a place at His table. Remember how a “little piddlin’ amount” of bread and wine have come to symbolize the greatest gift we will ever receive…salvation through Jesus Christ – and a heart and soul that are brimming full!
Humble yourself as His servant…become “last” on this earth in order to be one of the first in line for a seat at His table in Heaven. In Jesus, we will never go hungry. He is inviting each of us to…”Sit down and eat with me.” Won’t you take Him up on His offer?
©2015 Debbie Robus
And they began to argue among themselves as to who would have the highest rank in the coming Kingdom.
Jesus told them, “In this world the kings and great men order their slaves around, and the slaves have no choice but to like it! But among you, the one who serves you best will be your leader. Out in the world the master sits at the table and is served by his servants. But not here! For I am your servant. Nevertheless, because you have stood true to me in these terrible days, and because my Father has granted me a Kingdom, I, here and now, grant you the right to eat and drink at my table in that Kingdom; and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I cannot tell you how many times I visited my Mam-ma Polly when she was sitting down at her table to a plate of food that would barely feed her, and she would say, “Sit down and eat with me.” And when I did, we’d both walk away from the table stuffed to the gills. Somehow those “little piddlin’ amounts” multiplied into a feast that sustained us…and filled our bellies AND our souls. Even now as I remember this…or especially when I cook one of grandmother’s signature dishes, I get that same warm feeling. I sense her presence…her love…her generosity and servant’s heart.
Like all of us, my Mam-ma Polly was not perfect. But for the most part, she always thought of others first. She found someone to serve virtually every day of her life, and did not discriminate in the least. And while she might have told you that she was “a poor ‘widder’ woman” she was one of the “richest” women I ever knew.
When we eat and drink at the Holy Communion table, we should all be reminded of Jesus and how He served us…how He taught us to love and serve ALL others…and how He took OUR sins upon himself. When we eat the bread and drink the wine that Jesus told the disciples were his “body and blood,” we are in reminded of our sins…because His body and blood of were exchanged for them.
We cannot physically share a meal with Jesus until we enter into His presence in Heaven. But this rite of Holy Communion serves as a reminder of Him…of what and who Jesus died for…and warms our heart and soul with His presence. This particular practice of the church is truly one of the most holy and precious demonstrations that we make as Christians.
At some point this week, many of us will likely share Holy Communion. As you do so, think of Jesus…the “Servant” who became last so that He could be first…our King of Kings. Remember that He gave His body and blood so that we can once again dine with him someday in His Kingdom. Remember that Jesus promised His disciples a place at His table. Remember how a “little piddlin’ amount” of bread and wine have come to symbolize the greatest gift we will ever receive…salvation through Jesus Christ – and a heart and soul that are brimming full!
Humble yourself as His servant…become “last” on this earth in order to be one of the first in line for a seat at His table in Heaven. In Jesus, we will never go hungry. He is inviting each of us to…”Sit down and eat with me.” Won’t you take Him up on His offer?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 31, 2015
Luke 22:8-13
So Jesus said to Peter and John, “Go and prepare the Passover meal for us to eat.”
But they asked, “Where do you want us to prepare it?”
Jesus told them, “As you go into the city, you will meet a man carrying a jar of water. Follow him into the house and say to the owner, ‘Our teacher wants to know where he can eat the Passover meal with his disciples.’ The owner will take you upstairs and show you a large room ready for you to use. Prepare the meal there.”
Peter and John left. They found everything just as Jesus had told them, and they prepared the Passover meal.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My idea of a “perfect vacation” is to go somewhere for a few days and be totally pampered…no meals to cook, no dishes to wash, nothing to clean… just do as I please ALL.DAY.LONG! It has been suggested that I can do this at home – and those of you who know what a huge homebody I am may figure that this would be a good fit! But there would still be dishes (if only carry-out containers to dispose) and little things to be done…or reminders of tasks that I need to do.
Think about times you have gone on vacation – or even to a friend’s house for dinner – and EVERYTHING was done for you. All you had to do was show up and enjoy the meal and fellowship. Someone else took care of all of the details. Isn’t that a good feeling? Don’t you feel just a little bit special?
Now think about this scripture passage and how Jesus had taken care of everything. All the disciples had to do was to go to the specific house and prepare the Passover meal. Everything was there for them…it was all arranged. The disciples simply had to follow Jesus’ directions, and they would find the right place. And every detail of our lives is arranged by God in just this manner. All we have to do is communicate with Him…listen for His directions…and follow them…and everything is planned and prepared.
Today, I am grateful for preparation.
I know that there is really no such thing on this earth as the “perfect vacation.” But I also know that this - and so much more - awaits me in heaven, thanks to God’s incredible preparation. I plan to enjoy every single minute of it! Meanwhile, I will pay close attention to the daily “preparations” that God makes in my life and relish each and every one. What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
So Jesus said to Peter and John, “Go and prepare the Passover meal for us to eat.”
But they asked, “Where do you want us to prepare it?”
Jesus told them, “As you go into the city, you will meet a man carrying a jar of water. Follow him into the house and say to the owner, ‘Our teacher wants to know where he can eat the Passover meal with his disciples.’ The owner will take you upstairs and show you a large room ready for you to use. Prepare the meal there.”
Peter and John left. They found everything just as Jesus had told them, and they prepared the Passover meal.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My idea of a “perfect vacation” is to go somewhere for a few days and be totally pampered…no meals to cook, no dishes to wash, nothing to clean… just do as I please ALL.DAY.LONG! It has been suggested that I can do this at home – and those of you who know what a huge homebody I am may figure that this would be a good fit! But there would still be dishes (if only carry-out containers to dispose) and little things to be done…or reminders of tasks that I need to do.
Think about times you have gone on vacation – or even to a friend’s house for dinner – and EVERYTHING was done for you. All you had to do was show up and enjoy the meal and fellowship. Someone else took care of all of the details. Isn’t that a good feeling? Don’t you feel just a little bit special?
Now think about this scripture passage and how Jesus had taken care of everything. All the disciples had to do was to go to the specific house and prepare the Passover meal. Everything was there for them…it was all arranged. The disciples simply had to follow Jesus’ directions, and they would find the right place. And every detail of our lives is arranged by God in just this manner. All we have to do is communicate with Him…listen for His directions…and follow them…and everything is planned and prepared.
Today, I am grateful for preparation.
- I am grateful that God loves me…that He planned and prepared for my life eons ago!
- I am grateful that God sent Jesus to prepare us to live according to His teachings.
- I am grateful that Jesus died on the cross for my sins – that He prepared for my salvation long before I was even born.
- I am grateful that Jesus has gone to prepare an Eternal place for me…and you…and all who seek Him and give their hearts to Him.
I know that there is really no such thing on this earth as the “perfect vacation.” But I also know that this - and so much more - awaits me in heaven, thanks to God’s incredible preparation. I plan to enjoy every single minute of it! Meanwhile, I will pay close attention to the daily “preparations” that God makes in my life and relish each and every one. What about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 28, 2015
Psalm 119:103-105
Your teachings are sweeter
than honey.
They give me understanding
and make me hate all lies.
Your word is a lamp
that gives light
wherever I walk.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’ve been sewing for the kids for Easter…a dress and matching pants for Zola, t-shirts with pockets in a coordinating fabric for the boys. Everywhere I turn in my sewing room, there are lights. There is bright fluorescent light overhead…a bright LED light on my sewing machine, and another bright bulb on my serger. Even my iron has a light that tells me when the device is turned on – and blinks when the iron has been left unattended for more than a few minutes! I cannot imagine trying to sew without these lights. Well, okay…I guess I could do without the light on the iron – or could I?!
Without a strong light source, many daily tasks would be virtually impossible. And so it is with God. If we do not have His “Light source” – Jesus Christ – there are a lot of things that will always loom just beyond our grasp…like true joy, peace, comfort, wisdom, and courage. If our hearts are not illuminated with the “Light” of the Holy Spirit, we will never experience an understanding of what it means to belong fully to God.
Someone told me recently that there are those who teach and preach God’s grace and love…but really do not feed us the scriptures. They do not give us doctrine and Biblical instruction. My reply was that until one understands the love, grace, mercy and forgiveness of Jesus Christ…until the LIGHT of His passion – and compassion – for each of us fills our hearts and minds, we will not hear the teachings of the scriptures. They will hold no meaning for us – at least not to the extent that God intends.
My message to you today is that God loves you…far beyond what you could ever imagine and in spite of anything you might have ever thought, said, or done. GOD LOVES YOU…so much that He sent Jesus to light the way for you to find Him. GOD LOVES YOU…so much that He allowed Jesus to die for your sins - and then gave you His Holy Spirit to illuminate your heart. God wants His word and will for your life to be sweeter than honey…He wants you to understand how perfect His plans and promises are for each of us.
I cannot imagine what my sewing projects would look like if I created them in the dark…and I don’t even want to think about what my life would look like without the Light of Christ! Won’t you fully embrace His Light for yourself and walk in His ways? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Your teachings are sweeter
than honey.
They give me understanding
and make me hate all lies.
Your word is a lamp
that gives light
wherever I walk.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’ve been sewing for the kids for Easter…a dress and matching pants for Zola, t-shirts with pockets in a coordinating fabric for the boys. Everywhere I turn in my sewing room, there are lights. There is bright fluorescent light overhead…a bright LED light on my sewing machine, and another bright bulb on my serger. Even my iron has a light that tells me when the device is turned on – and blinks when the iron has been left unattended for more than a few minutes! I cannot imagine trying to sew without these lights. Well, okay…I guess I could do without the light on the iron – or could I?!
Without a strong light source, many daily tasks would be virtually impossible. And so it is with God. If we do not have His “Light source” – Jesus Christ – there are a lot of things that will always loom just beyond our grasp…like true joy, peace, comfort, wisdom, and courage. If our hearts are not illuminated with the “Light” of the Holy Spirit, we will never experience an understanding of what it means to belong fully to God.
Someone told me recently that there are those who teach and preach God’s grace and love…but really do not feed us the scriptures. They do not give us doctrine and Biblical instruction. My reply was that until one understands the love, grace, mercy and forgiveness of Jesus Christ…until the LIGHT of His passion – and compassion – for each of us fills our hearts and minds, we will not hear the teachings of the scriptures. They will hold no meaning for us – at least not to the extent that God intends.
My message to you today is that God loves you…far beyond what you could ever imagine and in spite of anything you might have ever thought, said, or done. GOD LOVES YOU…so much that He sent Jesus to light the way for you to find Him. GOD LOVES YOU…so much that He allowed Jesus to die for your sins - and then gave you His Holy Spirit to illuminate your heart. God wants His word and will for your life to be sweeter than honey…He wants you to understand how perfect His plans and promises are for each of us.
I cannot imagine what my sewing projects would look like if I created them in the dark…and I don’t even want to think about what my life would look like without the Light of Christ! Won’t you fully embrace His Light for yourself and walk in His ways? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 27, 2015
Psalm 119:10-11
I have tried my best to find you—don’t let me wander off from your instructions. I have thought much about your words and stored them in my heart so that they would hold me back from sin.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Have you ever misplaced something and “hunted high and low” for it? When you finally DID locate whatever it was you were looking for, did you vow to put it in a safe place so that you would remember that it was there? Have you ever said, “Someday, when I least expect it, XYZ will show up”…and stopped looking for whatever you lost?
This is exactly what a lot of us do with God. I’m not talking about misplacing our Bible…although I’m sure that happens! I’m talking about getting so caught up in our own desires and agendas and pushing God to the “back burner” to the point that He ultimately ends up under a pile of “stuff”, shoved to the corner. And the first thing you know it, we wonder, “Where did God go?” Sadly, some of us leave Him there and assume that we’ll “find Him when we really need Him”!
The truth is that God didn’t go anywhere. We wandered off! And a lot of us have found our way back to God and said, “I’m ever going to let You go again!” But then things happen, “life” gets in the way, and we slip back into old habits.
We are reminded in this verse from Psalm 119 that we must make every effort to see that this doesn’t happen! We must stay in constant fellowship with God…seek His word and wisdom…rest in His peace and comfort…and diligently pursue His will for our lives. We must keep God in a place where we always know that He is there – and we must make sure that we never “lose” Him again.
Unlike some of our things that get “buried” or “lost”, God is not hard to find. He is only a whisper away. Will this be the day that you call to Him and give Him a place of permanent prominence in your life, once and for all?
©2015 Debbie Robus
I have tried my best to find you—don’t let me wander off from your instructions. I have thought much about your words and stored them in my heart so that they would hold me back from sin.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Have you ever misplaced something and “hunted high and low” for it? When you finally DID locate whatever it was you were looking for, did you vow to put it in a safe place so that you would remember that it was there? Have you ever said, “Someday, when I least expect it, XYZ will show up”…and stopped looking for whatever you lost?
This is exactly what a lot of us do with God. I’m not talking about misplacing our Bible…although I’m sure that happens! I’m talking about getting so caught up in our own desires and agendas and pushing God to the “back burner” to the point that He ultimately ends up under a pile of “stuff”, shoved to the corner. And the first thing you know it, we wonder, “Where did God go?” Sadly, some of us leave Him there and assume that we’ll “find Him when we really need Him”!
The truth is that God didn’t go anywhere. We wandered off! And a lot of us have found our way back to God and said, “I’m ever going to let You go again!” But then things happen, “life” gets in the way, and we slip back into old habits.
We are reminded in this verse from Psalm 119 that we must make every effort to see that this doesn’t happen! We must stay in constant fellowship with God…seek His word and wisdom…rest in His peace and comfort…and diligently pursue His will for our lives. We must keep God in a place where we always know that He is there – and we must make sure that we never “lose” Him again.
Unlike some of our things that get “buried” or “lost”, God is not hard to find. He is only a whisper away. Will this be the day that you call to Him and give Him a place of permanent prominence in your life, once and for all?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 22, 2015
Philippians 3:12-14
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.
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.
On January 15, 2015, climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson reached the summit of The Dawn Wall of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. At an elevation of 3,000 feet, this smooth sheer granite mountainside is considered to be the most difficult free climb in the world. Somewhere around 70 people greeted the climbers atop the summit and celebrated with champagne.
This was not the first time these two had attempted the climb. In 2010, Jorgeson broke his ankle early in an ascent and could not continue...while Caldwell got to the most difficult pitch and could not finish. The two climbers subsequently worked on the areas of the mountain that gave them the most trouble…before attempting the full climb again in December 2014.
I watched footage of the climb on television news reports...and even from the safety of my own home, I sometimes felt like I could not “look down”. There was coverage of the men lounging in "tents" that were somehow tethered to the side of the mountain. I marveled at how calmly they lay reading, texting, eating...as if they were perfectly secure on level ground.
Our journey as Christians is something like the free climb of El Capitan's Dawn Wall...fraught with potential for danger and disaster, yet so worth the struggle. It is reported that these climbers…Caldwell in particular…were focused on accomplishing this ascent with something akin to single-minded obsession. They “kept their eye on the goal” and trusted in the safety measures they had set in place – and the coaching and encouragement from each other, family members and friends – and they forged onward and upward. And this is what we are called to do with Christ.
There will be days when we will be tempted to “look down”…there will be “injuries” and setbacks along the way. But if we stay focused…if we keep on looking toward heaven and working toward the goal of standing before Jesus someday in celebration of a “good climb”…we will get there. God will make it so.
Don’t throw in the towel. Don’t let “life” beat you down and discourage you to the point that you cannot continue the “climb” with Christ. Hear God’s voice encouraging you to reach higher…to dig deeper…to stick with Him for the long haul. Feel His hands supporting you in safety…His arms surrounding you in love…His spirit filling your heart. Know that you can do this…that with God, all things truly are possible. Keep looking upward toward Heaven and working toward the goal that God has set for you in Jesus. Now…don’t you have some climbing to do?
©2015 Debbie Robus
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.
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.
On January 15, 2015, climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson reached the summit of The Dawn Wall of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. At an elevation of 3,000 feet, this smooth sheer granite mountainside is considered to be the most difficult free climb in the world. Somewhere around 70 people greeted the climbers atop the summit and celebrated with champagne.
This was not the first time these two had attempted the climb. In 2010, Jorgeson broke his ankle early in an ascent and could not continue...while Caldwell got to the most difficult pitch and could not finish. The two climbers subsequently worked on the areas of the mountain that gave them the most trouble…before attempting the full climb again in December 2014.
I watched footage of the climb on television news reports...and even from the safety of my own home, I sometimes felt like I could not “look down”. There was coverage of the men lounging in "tents" that were somehow tethered to the side of the mountain. I marveled at how calmly they lay reading, texting, eating...as if they were perfectly secure on level ground.
Our journey as Christians is something like the free climb of El Capitan's Dawn Wall...fraught with potential for danger and disaster, yet so worth the struggle. It is reported that these climbers…Caldwell in particular…were focused on accomplishing this ascent with something akin to single-minded obsession. They “kept their eye on the goal” and trusted in the safety measures they had set in place – and the coaching and encouragement from each other, family members and friends – and they forged onward and upward. And this is what we are called to do with Christ.
There will be days when we will be tempted to “look down”…there will be “injuries” and setbacks along the way. But if we stay focused…if we keep on looking toward heaven and working toward the goal of standing before Jesus someday in celebration of a “good climb”…we will get there. God will make it so.
Don’t throw in the towel. Don’t let “life” beat you down and discourage you to the point that you cannot continue the “climb” with Christ. Hear God’s voice encouraging you to reach higher…to dig deeper…to stick with Him for the long haul. Feel His hands supporting you in safety…His arms surrounding you in love…His spirit filling your heart. Know that you can do this…that with God, all things truly are possible. Keep looking upward toward Heaven and working toward the goal that God has set for you in Jesus. Now…don’t you have some climbing to do?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 20, 2015
Philippians 3:1
Whatever happens, dear friends, be glad in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you this, and it is good for you to hear it again and again.
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 I was teaching, my school district participated in something called PET…Program for Effective Teaching. PET training was intense, and consisted of actual classroom instruction in this method for all teachers…followed by exercises where we taught lessons using this method while we were observed and critiqued by those trained to determine if we were implementing the concepts correctly. So there was a lot of repetition…and some “trial and error” involved.
In PET, the concept is that each lesson has three components…the “set” – or quite literally, the set-up for the lesson…the lesson itself…and closure. In the “set”, the teacher provides an activity, a relatable analogy, plays a game, or does something to engage the students and provide relevance…and then he/she explains what the students will be learning. In the lesson, obviously the instruction and practice occur until the teacher is sure that the student understands the concept. Finally, the closure reviews what was learned. The objective is repeated during the closure to ensure that students remember it.
Studies have shown that people best remember the first and last things they are told, so in order to remember that middle “lesson”, repetition on the front and back end is necessary. Personally, I LOVED the PET method of teaching and have applied it to other areas of my life…from teaching a Sunday school lesson to writing these devotionals!
If you are still reading, you may be wondering what this has to do with the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians – and feeling God’s presence in your life. TV celebrity Dr. Phil and others like to say that “People don’t care what you know…until they know that you care!” And this is what I want you to remember today…that God loves you! He sent Jesus to die on the cross for you!
God cares about every single thing that is happening in your life…from that test you struggled to pass to your relationship breakup to how the waiter mixed up your order at the restaurant! He cares about your wayward child, your disagreeable spouse or aging parent(s), your health, your daily ups and downs – and even your struggle to lose a few pounds. God numbers the hairs on your head…whether they are blond, brunette, red, grey or purple…long, short – or fairy sparse!
Until we understand how much God loves us – how much He cares for us – we will never fully understand how much He is involved with each and every detail of our lives. We will miss out on blessings, comfort, wisdom, and peace, because we do not trust that God really IS with us…listening and loving us through every single experience of our lives. But we can change that! We can remind ourselves continually that “I am a child of God. He loves me as I am. God is always available to me…He is only a whisper away!” And we can begin today!
Are you ready to fully recognize God’s presence…to understand how much He cares for you? Will this be the day that you begin to operate differently…more completely in His wisdom and peace? Don’t you think it should be? Have you said “Hello” to God today? Isn’t it time you did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Whatever happens, dear friends, be glad in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you this, and it is good for you to hear it again and again.
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 I was teaching, my school district participated in something called PET…Program for Effective Teaching. PET training was intense, and consisted of actual classroom instruction in this method for all teachers…followed by exercises where we taught lessons using this method while we were observed and critiqued by those trained to determine if we were implementing the concepts correctly. So there was a lot of repetition…and some “trial and error” involved.
In PET, the concept is that each lesson has three components…the “set” – or quite literally, the set-up for the lesson…the lesson itself…and closure. In the “set”, the teacher provides an activity, a relatable analogy, plays a game, or does something to engage the students and provide relevance…and then he/she explains what the students will be learning. In the lesson, obviously the instruction and practice occur until the teacher is sure that the student understands the concept. Finally, the closure reviews what was learned. The objective is repeated during the closure to ensure that students remember it.
Studies have shown that people best remember the first and last things they are told, so in order to remember that middle “lesson”, repetition on the front and back end is necessary. Personally, I LOVED the PET method of teaching and have applied it to other areas of my life…from teaching a Sunday school lesson to writing these devotionals!
If you are still reading, you may be wondering what this has to do with the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians – and feeling God’s presence in your life. TV celebrity Dr. Phil and others like to say that “People don’t care what you know…until they know that you care!” And this is what I want you to remember today…that God loves you! He sent Jesus to die on the cross for you!
God cares about every single thing that is happening in your life…from that test you struggled to pass to your relationship breakup to how the waiter mixed up your order at the restaurant! He cares about your wayward child, your disagreeable spouse or aging parent(s), your health, your daily ups and downs – and even your struggle to lose a few pounds. God numbers the hairs on your head…whether they are blond, brunette, red, grey or purple…long, short – or fairy sparse!
Until we understand how much God loves us – how much He cares for us – we will never fully understand how much He is involved with each and every detail of our lives. We will miss out on blessings, comfort, wisdom, and peace, because we do not trust that God really IS with us…listening and loving us through every single experience of our lives. But we can change that! We can remind ourselves continually that “I am a child of God. He loves me as I am. God is always available to me…He is only a whisper away!” And we can begin today!
Are you ready to fully recognize God’s presence…to understand how much He cares for you? Will this be the day that you begin to operate differently…more completely in His wisdom and peace? Don’t you think it should be? Have you said “Hello” to God today? Isn’t it time you did?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 19, 2015
Philippians 2:5-11
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.
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.
I saw this quote Facebook…”Don't worry about what I'm doing. Worry about why you're worried about what I'm doing.” The author was un-cited. As I read this scripture passage, I was struck by a couple of thoughts. I’m reading Marjorie Holmes’ book, Three From Galilee*, a fictional novel based on the lives of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Through this account, the reader is able to see Jesus as a real person…a little boy very much like our nephews Timothy and Nathan…or a precocious pre-teen like our nephew Chase.
I am still reading the book, so I do not know whether this story concludes before Jesus becomes a man. But the point is that even in this fictional depiction, Jesus took on the very ordinary life of a young boy. He played and worked alongside Joseph, did chores for His mother, and was very much an “ordinary” boy. Jesus set aside His “position” and became 100% human!
Okay, so what does this mean for us? It means that Jesus KNOWS what it’s like to be us…I mean, He really knows! He understands what we have gone through – and what is ahead for us, because He lived much of it! He endured things that – hopefully – none of us will ever have to experience…torture, unimaginable ridicule, and the most heinous of deaths. Jesus gets us!
Again I thought about this quote…and how we are often consumed with what others are thinking and/or how they are acting. We are so worried about what he did or she said – and WHY – and in doing so, we elevate ourselves to a level of superiority that is unmerited. If Jesus Christ humbled Himself and didn’t “play the Son of God card” as a general rule…what right do we have to judge others and act all high and mighty? The bottom line is that we do not know what is in another person’s heart…we have no clue what demons they battle, how well they slept last night, or what is going on behind the closed doors of their abode. But God does.
So we must trust God to judge…to rule…to “fix people”…and we must concentrate on our own relationship with Him and doing what WE are supposed to do. We must look at Jesus’ model and learn His ways. We must humbly interact with others and serve God with faithful obedience…and He will bless us in ways we cannot begin to imagine.
Where is God in these everyday situations? Sometimes, it is hard to see His presence in many people and circumstances of our everyday living. But I assure you…God is with us! Just as surely as He operated through the human Jesus, God is with us, each and every minute of the day. We can allow Him room to work…or we can muddy the waters with our meddling. Which will you choose?
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://www.amazon.com/Three-From-Galilee-Young-Nazareth/dp/0425205509
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.
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.
I saw this quote Facebook…”Don't worry about what I'm doing. Worry about why you're worried about what I'm doing.” The author was un-cited. As I read this scripture passage, I was struck by a couple of thoughts. I’m reading Marjorie Holmes’ book, Three From Galilee*, a fictional novel based on the lives of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Through this account, the reader is able to see Jesus as a real person…a little boy very much like our nephews Timothy and Nathan…or a precocious pre-teen like our nephew Chase.
I am still reading the book, so I do not know whether this story concludes before Jesus becomes a man. But the point is that even in this fictional depiction, Jesus took on the very ordinary life of a young boy. He played and worked alongside Joseph, did chores for His mother, and was very much an “ordinary” boy. Jesus set aside His “position” and became 100% human!
Okay, so what does this mean for us? It means that Jesus KNOWS what it’s like to be us…I mean, He really knows! He understands what we have gone through – and what is ahead for us, because He lived much of it! He endured things that – hopefully – none of us will ever have to experience…torture, unimaginable ridicule, and the most heinous of deaths. Jesus gets us!
Again I thought about this quote…and how we are often consumed with what others are thinking and/or how they are acting. We are so worried about what he did or she said – and WHY – and in doing so, we elevate ourselves to a level of superiority that is unmerited. If Jesus Christ humbled Himself and didn’t “play the Son of God card” as a general rule…what right do we have to judge others and act all high and mighty? The bottom line is that we do not know what is in another person’s heart…we have no clue what demons they battle, how well they slept last night, or what is going on behind the closed doors of their abode. But God does.
So we must trust God to judge…to rule…to “fix people”…and we must concentrate on our own relationship with Him and doing what WE are supposed to do. We must look at Jesus’ model and learn His ways. We must humbly interact with others and serve God with faithful obedience…and He will bless us in ways we cannot begin to imagine.
Where is God in these everyday situations? Sometimes, it is hard to see His presence in many people and circumstances of our everyday living. But I assure you…God is with us! Just as surely as He operated through the human Jesus, God is with us, each and every minute of the day. We can allow Him room to work…or we can muddy the waters with our meddling. Which will you choose?
©2015 Debbie Robus
*http://www.amazon.com/Three-From-Galilee-Young-Nazareth/dp/0425205509
Daily Devotional for March 16, 2015
John 9:28-33
Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know God has spoken to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don’t know anything about him.”
“Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He can heal blind men, and yet you don’t know anything about him! Well, God doesn’t listen to evil men, but he has open ears to those who worship him and do his will. Since the world began there has never been anyone who could open the eyes of someone born blind. If this man were not from God, he couldn’t do it.”
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.
Someone posted a comment on a Facebook group I belong to about the history of my home town. They asked, “Where was the first hospital?” Comments began to pour in…many adding, “I’ve lived here all my life…I know this is right!” The trouble is…many of them were not right. Erroneous information flooded the comments to this post.
Then someone posted a photo of a page from a historical book written several years ago about our town. The page clearly described the two hospitals in our town…which came first…who owned them…who sold them…and who bought them! The facts were there in black and white - yet comments continued to pour in that contradicted this documentation.
Why does this matter? Because people will soon skew the “facts” so badly that no one will know what to believe…even though the real information is right in front of them. What has been a fun and informative page of local history will lose followers and become a watered-down source of half-truths and fuzzy recollections.
In the spiritual world, when we fail to look at the facts and recognize Jesus, it’s as if God stops listening. Now hear me on this…God will always hear you when you call on Him. But when you continually skew the facts and act in half-truths…when you attempt to “have it your way” and operate under your own power…when you turn away and ignore His presence…God is not going to be so eager to rush to your rescue at the first sign of trouble! It’s like when a toddler throws a tantrum and expects to get his/her own way. Often the parent will simply ignore this outburst…at least for a while…and let the child figure out that what he/she is doing is not working!
So what’s the point of all of this? In order to truly hear from God, we have to recognize – and acknowledge – Him. He is all around us…we can find evidence of His handiwork in every activity of our day. But too many of us are not looking - or don’t see what is right in front of us. We most certainly have not sought the facts…dug out our Bibles and discovered how the scriptures apply to our daily living…or spent some time just sitting and “listening” for God’s voice. We’ve walked right past the “page with the facts” about God and Jesus…and declared our lives to be in shambles. And then we have wondered why this is!
We can change all of this…and we should…now…here…today! Won’t you spend some time with God and seek His presence in your life? Won’t you sit and listen for His voice…open your eyes and “see” Him at work all around you? What do you really know about God? Isn’t it time you learned more? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know God has spoken to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don’t know anything about him.”
“Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He can heal blind men, and yet you don’t know anything about him! Well, God doesn’t listen to evil men, but he has open ears to those who worship him and do his will. Since the world began there has never been anyone who could open the eyes of someone born blind. If this man were not from God, he couldn’t do it.”
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.
Someone posted a comment on a Facebook group I belong to about the history of my home town. They asked, “Where was the first hospital?” Comments began to pour in…many adding, “I’ve lived here all my life…I know this is right!” The trouble is…many of them were not right. Erroneous information flooded the comments to this post.
Then someone posted a photo of a page from a historical book written several years ago about our town. The page clearly described the two hospitals in our town…which came first…who owned them…who sold them…and who bought them! The facts were there in black and white - yet comments continued to pour in that contradicted this documentation.
Why does this matter? Because people will soon skew the “facts” so badly that no one will know what to believe…even though the real information is right in front of them. What has been a fun and informative page of local history will lose followers and become a watered-down source of half-truths and fuzzy recollections.
In the spiritual world, when we fail to look at the facts and recognize Jesus, it’s as if God stops listening. Now hear me on this…God will always hear you when you call on Him. But when you continually skew the facts and act in half-truths…when you attempt to “have it your way” and operate under your own power…when you turn away and ignore His presence…God is not going to be so eager to rush to your rescue at the first sign of trouble! It’s like when a toddler throws a tantrum and expects to get his/her own way. Often the parent will simply ignore this outburst…at least for a while…and let the child figure out that what he/she is doing is not working!
So what’s the point of all of this? In order to truly hear from God, we have to recognize – and acknowledge – Him. He is all around us…we can find evidence of His handiwork in every activity of our day. But too many of us are not looking - or don’t see what is right in front of us. We most certainly have not sought the facts…dug out our Bibles and discovered how the scriptures apply to our daily living…or spent some time just sitting and “listening” for God’s voice. We’ve walked right past the “page with the facts” about God and Jesus…and declared our lives to be in shambles. And then we have wondered why this is!
We can change all of this…and we should…now…here…today! Won’t you spend some time with God and seek His presence in your life? Won’t you sit and listen for His voice…open your eyes and “see” Him at work all around you? What do you really know about God? Isn’t it time you learned more? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 15, 2015
John 7:25-29
Some of the people who lived there in Jerusalem said among themselves, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill? But here he is preaching in public, and they say nothing to him. Can it be that our leaders have learned, after all, that he really is the Messiah? But how could he be? For we know where this man was born; when Christ comes, he will just appear and no one will know where he comes from.”
So Jesus, in a sermon in the Temple, called out, “Yes, you know me and where I was born and raised, but I am the representative of one you don’t know, and he is Truth. I know him because I was with him, and he sent me 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.
Another one of my high school teachers died this week. Mr. Stark taught my 8th grade science class and my 10th grade biology class. He also taught chemistry…a class I did not take! Mr. Stark taught in my hometown school system for decades. He taught my mother’s sister…my husband and me…and my siblings. I felt like I knew Mr. Stark well…and yet, there was a lot I did not know about him.
As I read this man’s obituary, I learned that he was born in a neighboring county…that he had served in the U.S. Army…and that he had a great love for Mexico and traveled there often. I knew that he had studied our county’s history intensively and was something of an expert on Native Americans who lived in this area, and that he had collected many Native American artifacts as he scoured the countryside for evidence and information. But I didn’t know that he was the “family historian” among his own clan.
In essence, I knew enough about this educator to call him an acquaintance…maybe even a friend. But I didn’t really know him! And in a nutshell, this is how it is for many of us in our relationship with Jesus. We know just enough about Jesus to call Him a friend…to want to say that we belong to Him…to claim salvation and forgiveness for our sins through His blood on the cross. But we don’t really know him! Deep down, we don’t fully embrace Jesus…we don’t trust Him completely and believe totally in His God-given power and authority over every facet of our lives.
We know Jesus enough to call on Him when “the chips are down” – to utter a quick prayer when the mood strikes us. But we have never taken the time to stop and fully consider the impact of His sacrifices on our behalf. We have never given a lot of thought to the suffering He endured in atonement for our sins – the ones we are committing today…now…long after He was crucified, died, was buried, and ascended into Heaven. We have not stopped to let the incredible, inexplicable, unending love of Jesus soak into every pore of our being. We don’t really, truly know Jesus!
But we can change this! We can stop and listen for His voice. We can crack open our Bibles and read what Jesus has to tell us. We can study the Gospels and examine the teachings of Jesus…and we can apply them to our daily living in a new and profound way. We can talk to Jesus…often…and ask Him to show us how to live in a way that pleases Him. We can share our deepest fears with Him…our hopes and dreams…our frustrations and disappointments. We can learn to trust that He hears us…that because of Jesus, GOD meets our every need – perfectly.
We.can.know.Jesus…in a way that really matters. Don’t you want this? Are you ready to get started? Is today the day that you will begin to truly know your Savior? Don’t’ you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Some of the people who lived there in Jerusalem said among themselves, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill? But here he is preaching in public, and they say nothing to him. Can it be that our leaders have learned, after all, that he really is the Messiah? But how could he be? For we know where this man was born; when Christ comes, he will just appear and no one will know where he comes from.”
So Jesus, in a sermon in the Temple, called out, “Yes, you know me and where I was born and raised, but I am the representative of one you don’t know, and he is Truth. I know him because I was with him, and he sent me 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.
Another one of my high school teachers died this week. Mr. Stark taught my 8th grade science class and my 10th grade biology class. He also taught chemistry…a class I did not take! Mr. Stark taught in my hometown school system for decades. He taught my mother’s sister…my husband and me…and my siblings. I felt like I knew Mr. Stark well…and yet, there was a lot I did not know about him.
As I read this man’s obituary, I learned that he was born in a neighboring county…that he had served in the U.S. Army…and that he had a great love for Mexico and traveled there often. I knew that he had studied our county’s history intensively and was something of an expert on Native Americans who lived in this area, and that he had collected many Native American artifacts as he scoured the countryside for evidence and information. But I didn’t know that he was the “family historian” among his own clan.
In essence, I knew enough about this educator to call him an acquaintance…maybe even a friend. But I didn’t really know him! And in a nutshell, this is how it is for many of us in our relationship with Jesus. We know just enough about Jesus to call Him a friend…to want to say that we belong to Him…to claim salvation and forgiveness for our sins through His blood on the cross. But we don’t really know him! Deep down, we don’t fully embrace Jesus…we don’t trust Him completely and believe totally in His God-given power and authority over every facet of our lives.
We know Jesus enough to call on Him when “the chips are down” – to utter a quick prayer when the mood strikes us. But we have never taken the time to stop and fully consider the impact of His sacrifices on our behalf. We have never given a lot of thought to the suffering He endured in atonement for our sins – the ones we are committing today…now…long after He was crucified, died, was buried, and ascended into Heaven. We have not stopped to let the incredible, inexplicable, unending love of Jesus soak into every pore of our being. We don’t really, truly know Jesus!
But we can change this! We can stop and listen for His voice. We can crack open our Bibles and read what Jesus has to tell us. We can study the Gospels and examine the teachings of Jesus…and we can apply them to our daily living in a new and profound way. We can talk to Jesus…often…and ask Him to show us how to live in a way that pleases Him. We can share our deepest fears with Him…our hopes and dreams…our frustrations and disappointments. We can learn to trust that He hears us…that because of Jesus, GOD meets our every need – perfectly.
We.can.know.Jesus…in a way that really matters. Don’t you want this? Are you ready to get started? Is today the day that you will begin to truly know your Savior? Don’t’ you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 14, 2015
John 5:22-24, 30
And the Father leaves all judgment of sin to his Son, so that everyone will honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. But if you refuse to honor God’s Son, whom he sent to you, then you are certainly not honoring the Father.
“I say emphatically that anyone who listens to my message and believes in God who sent me has eternal life, and will never be damned for his sins, but has already passed out of death into life.
“But I pass no judgment without consulting the Father. I judge as I am told. And my judgment is absolutely fair and just, for it is according to the will of God who sent me and is not merely my own.
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 Mam-ma Polly got older, I was given her Durable Power of Attorney. This meant that I could make major decisions for her in matters of pertaining to her personal business and her health. I could sign papers on her behalf, make decisions such as engaging Hospice care, and choose her primary care physician. My grandmother had entrusted me with the authority to make these decisions. But as long as she was able to communicate with me, I still consulted her before giving my final answer. So even a couple of weeks before she died, I asked her if she wanted to go to the ER after she fell in her room and hit her head. She adamantly told me, “NO!” And after I carefully assessed the situation and consulted Hospice nurses and other family members, we did not go.
Before she lost her ability to speak, Mam-ma would often wave off a major decision (literally with a wave of the hand) and say, “Whatever y’all decide is okay with me.” Now, I will admit that sometimes she said this with all of the pitiful sarcasm her voice could muster…but in her heart of hearts, she knew that I would never disrespect her – or make a decision that I felt would be harmful in any way. My Mam-ma Polly knew that I had her back!
God gave Jesus authority over each of us and decisions with regard to our care – and our eternal destiny. As the One who suffered, bled and died for our sins, it seems only right that Jesus would have the say over whether our petition to belong to Him is granted or not. But notice that even Jesus still consults the Heavenly Father…that there is a deference and respect for Almighty God – even at this “level”.
What does this mean for us? This passage reminds us of God’s authority and power…and also of His love, grace, mercy and compassion. Even Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and has the complete and final say over whether we are forgiven of them for all eternity, still listens for His Father’s voice. He still respects God’s “place” as the ultimate and final word on all matters. And we must value this, also. We must trust that in the end, it’s all up to God…and He has our back!
We must also remind ourselves to respect the earthly “chain of command”. We must honor the “position” of those in power and authority, even when we might not agree with their decisions. We must always offer them respect and behave toward them as would honor and please God. This may often mean biting our tongue and keeping our opinions – and ugly thoughts – to ourselves.
Sometimes in our earthly judgments, we have to make hard decisions that go against the preference of an elder or someone in authority. I am not telling you to lie for your boss…or to allow your ailing or aging parent or loved one to make a choice that will be harmful to them or someone else. This is where we must turn to God and ask, “What do I do now?” And He will answer!
I am so glad to know that Jesus chose me…that He deemed me worth saving. And I am grateful to know that He has my back…each and every minute of the day. I am doing all I can to honor this gift...to ensure that MY decisions mirror His will in each and every situation. I am constantly listening for His voice and seeking His opinion…what about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
And the Father leaves all judgment of sin to his Son, so that everyone will honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. But if you refuse to honor God’s Son, whom he sent to you, then you are certainly not honoring the Father.
“I say emphatically that anyone who listens to my message and believes in God who sent me has eternal life, and will never be damned for his sins, but has already passed out of death into life.
“But I pass no judgment without consulting the Father. I judge as I am told. And my judgment is absolutely fair and just, for it is according to the will of God who sent me and is not merely my own.
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 Mam-ma Polly got older, I was given her Durable Power of Attorney. This meant that I could make major decisions for her in matters of pertaining to her personal business and her health. I could sign papers on her behalf, make decisions such as engaging Hospice care, and choose her primary care physician. My grandmother had entrusted me with the authority to make these decisions. But as long as she was able to communicate with me, I still consulted her before giving my final answer. So even a couple of weeks before she died, I asked her if she wanted to go to the ER after she fell in her room and hit her head. She adamantly told me, “NO!” And after I carefully assessed the situation and consulted Hospice nurses and other family members, we did not go.
Before she lost her ability to speak, Mam-ma would often wave off a major decision (literally with a wave of the hand) and say, “Whatever y’all decide is okay with me.” Now, I will admit that sometimes she said this with all of the pitiful sarcasm her voice could muster…but in her heart of hearts, she knew that I would never disrespect her – or make a decision that I felt would be harmful in any way. My Mam-ma Polly knew that I had her back!
God gave Jesus authority over each of us and decisions with regard to our care – and our eternal destiny. As the One who suffered, bled and died for our sins, it seems only right that Jesus would have the say over whether our petition to belong to Him is granted or not. But notice that even Jesus still consults the Heavenly Father…that there is a deference and respect for Almighty God – even at this “level”.
What does this mean for us? This passage reminds us of God’s authority and power…and also of His love, grace, mercy and compassion. Even Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and has the complete and final say over whether we are forgiven of them for all eternity, still listens for His Father’s voice. He still respects God’s “place” as the ultimate and final word on all matters. And we must value this, also. We must trust that in the end, it’s all up to God…and He has our back!
We must also remind ourselves to respect the earthly “chain of command”. We must honor the “position” of those in power and authority, even when we might not agree with their decisions. We must always offer them respect and behave toward them as would honor and please God. This may often mean biting our tongue and keeping our opinions – and ugly thoughts – to ourselves.
Sometimes in our earthly judgments, we have to make hard decisions that go against the preference of an elder or someone in authority. I am not telling you to lie for your boss…or to allow your ailing or aging parent or loved one to make a choice that will be harmful to them or someone else. This is where we must turn to God and ask, “What do I do now?” And He will answer!
I am so glad to know that Jesus chose me…that He deemed me worth saving. And I am grateful to know that He has my back…each and every minute of the day. I am doing all I can to honor this gift...to ensure that MY decisions mirror His will in each and every situation. I am constantly listening for His voice and seeking His opinion…what about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 10, 2015
John 3:5-8
Jesus said, “You’re not listening. Let me say it again. Unless a person submits to this original creation—the ‘wind-hovering-over-the-water’ creation, the invisible moving the visible, a baptism into a new life—it’s not possible to enter God’s kingdom. When you look at a baby, it’s just that: a body you can look at and touch. But the person who takes shape within is formed by something you can’t see and touch—the Spirit—and becomes a living spirit.
“So don’t be so surprised when I tell you that you have to be ‘born from above’—out of this world, so to speak. You know well enough how the wind blows this way and that. You hear it rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or where it’s headed next. That’s the way it is with everyone ‘born from above’ by the wind of God, the Spirit of God.”
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.
I love Jesus’ analogy of the wind, because this physical phenomenon is something we all accept and “understand”…yet none of us can explain the origin of its force. And if you think about wind…sometimes it is like a gentle whisper…and sometimes it blows with a rage and impact so profound that the results are devastating…almost beyond belief!
This is how we experience the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Some moments, the voice of God is just a whisper…a gentle breeze that brushes over us. Other times, He nearly knocks us off our feet with an experience or event that says, “HEY! Wake up! I’m talking to you!” Just as we readily accept and acknowledge physical “wind”…some of us need to learn to transfer this understanding to the Holy Spirit and how He operates in our hearts and minds.
Timothy sings a song from the movie “Pocahontas” about the “Colors of the Wind”. One of the lines asks, “Can you paint with all the colors of the wind?” Jesus “paints with all the colors of the ‘wind’” of His Holy Spirit. Do you see them in your life? Have you embraced Him and experienced this “born-from-above” breath from God? Do you recognize His presence and the many “colors of the wind” in your daily living? Don’t you want to?
Stop what you are doing and spend some time calling on the Holy Spirit to fill you. Say three simple words…”Come, Holy Spirit!” Listen for the “wind” of God…and learn to recognize it as readily as you do the earthy breezes. Let His love and care blow across your heart like a gentle whisper of wind across your face. Get ready to see God’s kingdom come into focus…maybe for the first time ever. Get ready to fully embrace your “new life in Christ”…and to see all of the “colors of the Wind” in every minute of your day!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Jesus said, “You’re not listening. Let me say it again. Unless a person submits to this original creation—the ‘wind-hovering-over-the-water’ creation, the invisible moving the visible, a baptism into a new life—it’s not possible to enter God’s kingdom. When you look at a baby, it’s just that: a body you can look at and touch. But the person who takes shape within is formed by something you can’t see and touch—the Spirit—and becomes a living spirit.
“So don’t be so surprised when I tell you that you have to be ‘born from above’—out of this world, so to speak. You know well enough how the wind blows this way and that. You hear it rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or where it’s headed next. That’s the way it is with everyone ‘born from above’ by the wind of God, the Spirit of God.”
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.
I love Jesus’ analogy of the wind, because this physical phenomenon is something we all accept and “understand”…yet none of us can explain the origin of its force. And if you think about wind…sometimes it is like a gentle whisper…and sometimes it blows with a rage and impact so profound that the results are devastating…almost beyond belief!
This is how we experience the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Some moments, the voice of God is just a whisper…a gentle breeze that brushes over us. Other times, He nearly knocks us off our feet with an experience or event that says, “HEY! Wake up! I’m talking to you!” Just as we readily accept and acknowledge physical “wind”…some of us need to learn to transfer this understanding to the Holy Spirit and how He operates in our hearts and minds.
Timothy sings a song from the movie “Pocahontas” about the “Colors of the Wind”. One of the lines asks, “Can you paint with all the colors of the wind?” Jesus “paints with all the colors of the ‘wind’” of His Holy Spirit. Do you see them in your life? Have you embraced Him and experienced this “born-from-above” breath from God? Do you recognize His presence and the many “colors of the wind” in your daily living? Don’t you want to?
Stop what you are doing and spend some time calling on the Holy Spirit to fill you. Say three simple words…”Come, Holy Spirit!” Listen for the “wind” of God…and learn to recognize it as readily as you do the earthy breezes. Let His love and care blow across your heart like a gentle whisper of wind across your face. Get ready to see God’s kingdom come into focus…maybe for the first time ever. Get ready to fully embrace your “new life in Christ”…and to see all of the “colors of the Wind” in every minute of your day!
©2015 Debbie Robus
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