PROGRESSIVE GRANDMA

Posted on April 1, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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I never thought it would happen, but it has.  Technology has overtaken our lives and I mean that in a good way.  Today, children are learning their lessons on specialized classes performed by their teachers from thee “comfort” of their own homes.  These teachers are used to a classroom setting. They’re used to order and regimentation.  They are not used to having their own families looking over their shoulders while they’re teaching.

Conference calls have replaced staff meetings.  Zoom has taken the place of informal get togethers. Most social media is at an all time high, because we are people who need people.  We’re the luckiest people in the world ….. whoops, sorry , I got caught up in the moment.  Isolation is not a normal thing.  We feel frustrated when we can’t get into an app or link up to a link.  Some of this is totally new  for most of us.

With the influx of COVID19 our lives have changed significantly.  The theatre where I   work is striving to keep a positive face and make classes available to those who want to jump on board and participate via the internet. The classes are free and available to various age groups.  Yesterday was my first experience teaching a class this way.  Needless to say, I’m going into uncharted areas. It should be the easiest thing in the world and it is for anyone under thirty, but for us old timers, it’s brand new.

The class was designed to last for thirty minutes, was geared for grades K-5 and I was going to teach how to create a believable character.  Four eager students arrived on time, but the teacher was about ten minutes late. This wouldn’t happen in a regular teaching environment.  Of course I was about a minute late for an after school class once and one of the students replied, “We thought you died and went to heaven.”

I had some basic fears about this new technology for me.  I was a bit frightened about the up close and personal aspect.  I mean I’m almost 78 years old. I possess a roadmap of lines upon my face.  I worried they would see every imperfection, every nose hair and the teeth that were missing from my aging mouth.  Fortunately once I got onto the site, I didn’t realize I had to hit a button to show my face.  I didn’t and therefore all they knew about me was my voice.  I was redeemed from all potential ridicule.

I have another class tomorrow and hope to show up on time.  Since this is a class about building a character, my face will also arrive so they can actually see a face doing what I will try to teach them.  Once the class started to roll along, I felt better about the entire experience and I look forward to more.

I do worry about those teachers who are now confined to their homes with their own children hounding them for attention and the perils and frustration of those educators.  It can’t be easy for them.  They’re used to their students.  They aren’t used to being with their kids 24/7.  Teachers need a place to escape to right now, just as everyone else that has been cloistered and will be for a long time. At least they’re tech savvy.  I’m just an old woman trying to stay in the realm of the living.

 

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THE FRONTIER ARTIST

Posted on March 31, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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Instead of featuring one of Paul’s masterpieces, I’m including a few of them today.  What seems like a lifetime ago (about three weeks ago) Paul was reenacting a frontier artist at the Rum River Art Center’s Artathon. The event was cut short because of COVID19, but an article about the event appeared in our local news shortly thereafter.

Paul often claims that he was born in the wrong century.  He would’ve loved being a part of the old west, the exploration, the pioneering and the entrepreneurial spirit.  Instead he was born a hundred years later, which I’m glad of because otherwise I would never have married the guy.

The thing about that older time period was there was no Instagram, no photo shop, no cameras, no selfies and no internet.  People relied on artists to depict the unexplored parts of the country for them. They also commissioned artists to paint portraits of themselves.  The beauty of unexplored landscapes are personified by Bierstadt, Russell and Seth Eastman.  There were many of them who forged their way alongside surveyors, pioneers and explorers to depict what was going on in an unexplored country.

Paul’s character is named, “Hawkeye.”  He dresses in period costume – which suits him well. He gives a short demonstration in the form of an art lesson, and then tells the story of the plein air painters that went along on excursions to discover America.

Fortunately he is still able to go outside to paint, as long as he’s six feet away from anyone else.

 

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ONCE UPON A TIME . . .

Posted on March 31, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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There once was a land filled with prosperity and bounty – a place where the majority of its inhabitants had forgotten how to love one another – an expanse of human life that was creating a network of relationships from the confines of their homes.  There was no need to touch one another.  You could simply send a smiley face or a few hearts to show you cared.  Those who had not experienced the good life – those who lived in the streets – those lost and forgotten souls, were drawn deeper into their own shells.

Suddenly life changed. People retreated to their homes as a pandemic struck the world.  Some said it was a punishment from God, while others considered it a temporary inconvenience.  Through their doors they withdrew.  This was now their safe place.

The land had become empty. Not only were the numbers decreasing, the face to face contact was now done on an electronic device.  Most businesses were selling their wares on the internet, leaving no need for workers to stock shelves or greet you with a smile.  Those who relied on entertaining and teaching others were submitted to a cloistered existence. For those who love people – the extroverts, the compassionate, the friendly – this was devastating.  For those who loved their privacy, it was a boon, but not for long.

All over the world people were cocooning.  Their outer world was now their inner domain. They felt limited, alone, frightened and longed for life the way it once was.

Every day was filled with bad news.  The picture painted for the future was dark indeed.  It was beginning to seem that their former existence would never return again. Out of the darkness, out of desperation, because of loneliness they began to use the one tool available to them.  In order to connect, they emailed, texted, sent emojis, Zoomed and used other electronic means to communicate, to teach, to learn.  Eventually the air waves couldn’t handle it and it all came crashing down.

The world was no longer the same.  Everyone felt the hope being sapped from them.  Even in the confines of their homes, surrounded by family, they felt alone.  The planet had suddenly become dark.

There in the midst of the darkest hour, a small light began to shine in the sky.  It was no bigger than the tiniest star.  It approached the earth with astronomical speed, cutting through the ebony skies and piercing the murkiness which enshrouded the firmament. It was the same light that filled the sky over two thousand years before.  A star like none other.  It glowed with warmth and hope.  As it approached, people began to venture out of their sanctuaries.  They weren’t afraid.  They hugged and embraced.  They talked to each other.  They felt the community of being together once more.

The brilliance of that once tiny star had now illuminated the shadows.  A voice spoke from the light.

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.  By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

And the voice disappeared into the brilliant light and left.  However the darkness was broken and remnants of it remained.  The people heeded the message.  They cared for each other like they had never done before.  Those who had much shared with those who had nothing.  The sick were tended and the hungry were fed. The elderly gave wisdom to the youngers.  The children helped with the physical needs of their elders. Neighbors ate together at their picnic tables.  People talked to each other again, marveling at the sound of a human voice connected to a body.  They were physically connected once more.

The world changed on that day, because the light came back into the world and with it came love which had been hidden for so long.

 

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A NEW MESSAGE

Posted on March 30, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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Jesus grew up with the traditions and teachings of the children of Israel. He made the pilgrimage to Jerusalem each year. He worshipped and studied intensively at the temple. His wisdom seemed to be growing daily and now that He was considered Rabbi, Mary couldn’t help but wonder at his knowledge. His words now resonated with the people and the scriptures were coming alive through Him. It was as if he had written them himself.

He talked about a kingdom not of this world. He spoke as if He had already experienced it. His words about the fulfillment of the law was fascinating to them. When He talked of complete payment for sin – life after death – sharing in God’s inheritance – the audience listened with rapt attention. Many thought he was the Messiah, the King they longed for, the second David, come to rule and make them the powerful nation they once were.

The crowds grew so large, He had to go to the top of a mountain to speak. They waited eagerly and hung on every word. Most of these people were used to the old laws, but Jesus had different things too tell them. He said to them, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” His purpose was finally becoming known to the thousands who hungered for his message. Jesus had come to pay the ransom.

He related to those starving minds and us, that this world is only temporary. He taught us how to pray – not as those who made hypocrites of themselves, but in the quiet moments of our lives, in silent supplication and humility before God. He told us not to worry about things – not to store up treasures on earth – to look forward to our time in eternity – to ask God for what we need and then be confident He would answer. He told us how to love each other – even those who persecuted or hated us.
His message was healing balm for a wounded world – a message Mary needed to hear as well.

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DO NOT BE AFRAID

Posted on March 30, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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Sounds so simple, doesn’t it?  “Don’t be afraid,” is a common phrase to use when you’re a parent trying to make life easier for your child – when you want to encourage someone to try harder or follow their dreams – when you’re trying to convince yourself that everything is going to be all right.

How can that phrase ease our minds and set us free from worry when we’re being inundated with news of thousands losing their lives to a pandemic? How can we draw comfort when we are confined to our homes and our routines have been turned upside down?  Here we are at the beginning of our third week of isolation.  It looks like it could go on for a long time.

Fear seems to be one of those emotions that leads to other ones – like anxiety, depression, loneliness, isolation, self-pity, thoughts of suicide and on and on.  So how does one nip it in the bud?  Fear starts at the beginning of life.  When we enter the world, we’re forced through a difficult time pushing our way through a canal much too small for our body. We struggle through the opening and gasp our first breath, our lungs fill and our voice is heard.  That first sound is cry.  That alone should tell you that life is no picnic.

When we take our first steps, we’re risking falling and hurting ourselves.  Once again, we’re facing the unknown and fear sets in. When we learn to drive – experience our first kiss – when we fall in love – when we face financial difficulty, disease or loss of a loved one – when life is filled with negativity – when we can see no hope for the future – when we age and when we die – we’re experiencing fear, whether we believe it or not.

Today our fears are caused by numbers, statistics, financial roller coaster rides and not having enough.  We’re afraid because we’ve never experienced anything like this before in our lifetime.

Today is the beginning of a new week.  We should be able to look forward to it with positive thoughts, but it’s not easy when you’re cloistered, restrained, and fearful.  Still, those of us who are following the guidelines expected of us now are looking for solutions.  We must not let fear overtake us.  God will get us through this.  Maybe it’s a leap of faith to believe that, but God wants us to place our complete trust in Him.  By doing so, we’re allowing Him to do his best work.

Don’t be afraid!

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TAKE ME AWAY

Posted on March 30, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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ORIGINAL ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

As I travel through life’s darkest moments,
When all around me is unfamiliar ground,
When the sound of silence engulfs me and pierces through the lack of noise,
There in the midst of it all,
There with wings unfurled,
With pinions uncut,
With strength and dominion,
He will lift me out of the darkness,
He will protect me from the dangers of life,
He will cover me with His power, strength and love
I will not fear the terror of night,
Or the dangers that lie at every corner,
He will comfort my tangled soul,
He will shield me from all harm,
And I will soar like the eagles.

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THIRSTING FOR CHURCH

Posted on March 29, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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It’s Sunday – a day I would normally be sitting in a church pew alongside my husband, daughter and granddaughter. It’s been a time away from the physical contact we used to enjoy. We’re now confined to our homes.  Yes, we still have access to daily Bible study.  We can see videos of our pastor as he preaches his sermons.  We can even listen to the beautiful hymns and sing along with them.  In fact we have an abundance of those things.  I am receiving Bible studies from old and new churches, my synod organization, fellow Christians with words of encouragement and even had the chance to share time on Zoom with some of our church friends.

Still in this time of social distancing there is so much missing.  We no longer have the ability to hug each other, to share joys and sadness with a physical touch or to encourage each other with face to face contact.  Zoom is nice, but it’s not the same as being there.

Another thing that’s missing is taking part in the Sacrament of Holy Communion.  This beautiful rite is a reminder of our need to confess our sins daily, repent, taste God’s perfect love, His forgiveness and our ultimate salvation.  I really miss the Lord’s Supper.

As we are coming to the end of the Lenten season and soon will ponder on Jesus Passion, it seems impossible to not be worshipping corporately with fellow believers. Sure the church is just a building, but it’s much more. It’s a gathering – a joining – a celebratory time – a time to encourage, enrich and focus on God’s Word.

When I was a little girl, my mom played a game with us.  She’d have us fold our hands with our fingers folding inward.  The two pointer fingers would come together and point up.  She then would recite this little poem – See the church and see the steeple.  Open the doors and see all the people.  You’ve probably played that game too. Now when we fold our hands, we do so normally.  When the doors are open, there are no people, but God is still there.  He’s with us in our isolation also.

This time of aloneness will be over soon. I pray it will be sooner rather than later, but even though we’re apart, we’re joined by a loving God who will get us through this.  Once more we’ll be able to hug.  We’ll be able to laugh and cry together.  We’ll sing together and praise Him through our hymns and prayers. We’ll lift our hands in praise and know that we’re together in all things, even when we’re apart.  Until then, let’s thank God on this Sabbath day, for his consistency in an ever changing world.

 

 

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WHAT, ME WORRY?

Posted on March 29, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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Many years ago, a now familiar character appeared on the cover of Mad Magazine. He was created by a versatile commercial artist named Norman Mingo. This man had worked for many years in the comic book industry. His name isn’t recognizable, but the one image that made him famous is the one you see pictured here. Alfred E. Newman became the mascot for “Mad” for many years. I don’t remember much about the magazine, but who could forget the owner of that face?

We all worry. It’s part of our makeup. I think women probably worry more than men – especially mothers.

It’s easy to tell someone not to worry, but not so easy to actually do it. When we’re faced with mounting bills or difficult decisions our natural tendency is to fret about it. When we have children, we worry about their welfare and safety. Some folks worry about getting married and fear they might become a growing statistic. Some fear failure. Others seem to have no fear. We get anxious when we face difficult health issues. We get nervous about a lot of things. Most of us have experienced it at some point in our lives.

Right now we’re all more than a little worried.  How long will this pandemic go on?  Will we ever be able to hug our family and friends?  Will our workplace reopen?  Will we have enough food and supplies to get us through?  What if we go into another depression? Fear is at the top of our list these days, but we have a prescription for that.

Jesus told His followers not to worry.  He said to cast all our care on Him.  He reminds us that God has a plan, even when things appear hopeless. When God tells us not to worry, we should listen.  We know we can count on Him, because He always keeps His promises. The greatest one being fulfilled on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Lord, it’s hard not to be afraid at times. Life is difficult. Sometimes things get harder as I trudge through it, but I know that you are always faithful to your word. You talk about my anxieties in the Bible and assure me that you will be with me no matter what. I trust in your unchanging commitment and protection.  Amen!

“Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
ISAIAH 41:10

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METAMORPHOUS

Posted on March 28, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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Spring is emerging at a much slower pace this year.  Something has caused all the humans to become cocooned for a while.  When the veil is lifted, there will be a glorious vision waiting for us.  To be together, to enjoy each other’s company, to laugh, hug and touch.  Our short existence in that shell will open soon and we will be free to fly.
ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Trees turn into blazing colors, leaves weave tightly on the ground.
Tapestry of gold and crimson, clearing way for sight and sound,
Soon the barren trees stand empty, lifeless, worn and spent of life,
Skeletal they stand before us, facing winter’s call to strife,

Branches reach to touch the heavens, empty now yet full of hope,
They’ll return in springtime glory, with persistence in their scope,
Life is merely a transition, it returns to life again,
When we trust the Great Physician, broken hearts and souls will mend.

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GOOD HAIR DAY

Posted on March 27, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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I love unusual holidays.  March 26th is known as “Good Hair Day,” which is nearly impossible when we’re cooped up for over three weeks and can’t get to a salon or barber shop because they’re all closed.  We could resort to doing our own haircuts or dye jobs, but who knows how they may turn out.

I remember cutting my children’s hair to save the expense of a professional, but they all wound up looking alike.  I never used a bowl to get the right shape, but it looked that way.  They all resembled the Beatles.

I also did a lot of experimenting with my own hair.  Actually, I used hydrogen peroxide to lighten my hair in high school.  Eventually I looked like a Q tip.  When I got married, I turned to boxed coloring kits.  In one week, I went from blond to green, to red, to brunette and back to blond.  My husband could brag that he had gone to bed with a blond, brunette and redhead all in one week.  The truth is, I made a mistake on the first color which resulted in many trips to the drugstore to rescue my many colored tresses.  I learned then not to trust those over the counter hair colors.

Now that we’ve been sequestered, things are proceeding as usual for us.  My husband cuts his own hair (what’s left of it,) and I make sure he hasn’t missed any.  I don’t color my hair anymore so that isn’t an issue.  Fortunately I had a haircut before all this began so I should be good for a while.  Then I wonder what people will look like after this whole thing blows over.  Men who were prematurely going bald will now have ample comb overs.  Women will be braiding, ratting, teasing instead of combing in some gel and their done.  I’m sure there will be a run on salons and barber shops.  Additional hair stylists will be called into battle to remove all unwanted hair and make people look well groomed again.  Or we might become a civilization of abominable snowmen.

Today, we can raise our glasses or a pair of dull shears and celebrate Good Hair Day.  There may not be many of them left.

 

 

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FRIDAY PRAYER

Posted on March 27, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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Dear, Heavenly Father,

I know that you will hear my voice as well as those who are currently suffering with CoVid19 in one way or another.  I want to thank you for carrying me through a peaceful night of sleep – for giving me another day to enjoy –  for giving me hope to look forward instead of back.

All of us are more than a little fearful right now, because of the spreading of this disease and the lives that are being taken.  We grieve for our friends and those we don’t know.  We think about death now more than we did yesterday.  We wonder if we will succumb to the virus.  Our thoughts turn to our families and extended families even though we aren’t able to touch them or be near them.  The entire world is being affected by this cloud of darkness and the unknown.

Our leaders are doing the best they can, but this is something that really is out of their hands.  We would like to think we have control in a situation like this, but we find ourselves helpless.  There is no cure – no vaccine – no amount of distancing that will provide an end.  It’s natural for us to feel this way.  Anxiety and depression are at an all time high.

Still, in spite of our fears, we know that in a changing world – where nothing is constant – only You remain the same today as you were yesterday and will be tomorrow.  We can depend on that.  We can’t depend on hoards of food or material things.  We can’t put our trust in anything outside the walls of our own homes.  We can put our faith in only One thing right now and that’s You.

You are the Great Physician.  Your knowledge and wisdom will be used to turn this chaotic situation into something good that will change hearts and minds and put life into perspective.  Because of that, we can be sure that our world will continue.  Things will return to normal, but they will be ever changed because of this.

Please give those who are trying desperately to find a cure and hold this virus at bay, the strength and brain power to solve the problem.  I pray that we will learn to love each other more – care for each other’s needs – hold each other in prayer – learn to serve you more.  We can and will beat this thing only with your intervention.  We pray for that and all things through your dear Son, Jesus. Amen!

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JULIE’S FRIDAY FUNNY

Posted on March 27, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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WORLD WIDE TIME OUT

Posted on March 26, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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So how has your world changed in the past few weeks?  Are you enjoying the new horizons within the confines of your home?  Is your time filled with surprises?  How’s that stress level? Are you enjoying the freedom of not having to get dressed each day and fight the traffic to get to work?  What’s it like to be with your family 24/7?

We’re coming to the end of our second week of social distancing and have been ordered  to hang in there for another two weeks.  Maybe taking this in two week increments will make it more tolerable. For me, things haven’t changed much.  I’m retired.  I work mostly from home.  I am one of the chosen who matches the criteria for dying from the Corona Virus. I’m finally getting used to being in the same house with my spouse.  I’m also one who loves being with other people. I enjoy talking to them and hearing their laughter and their voices.

For those with children, this has got to be quite a challenge.  Not only are they now their providers and caregivers, but they’re required to counsel them, make them feel safe, teach them from home, get to know them in a whole new way.

So it is a whole new world we’re living in.  We’re being called upon to make changes to our lives and to battle an invisible enemy which seems to appear stronger than any we’ve ever fought before.

No matter how dark times may seem, we must remember that we are not alone in this battle. We are in it together.  This literal world “time out” has caused some really great benefits.

  • Families are getting reacquainted.  We’re dining together at the kitchen table. The thing it was actually designed for is being used for that purpose rather than being a catchall for everything we choose to drop there.
  • We’re discovering why we love our families all over again.
  • We’re beginning to realize that nothing should be taken for granted.
  • We’re becoming frugal.
  • We’re caring for those who can’t care for themselves.
  • Love is a word that means something.
  • Us old timers are beginning to see the advantages of technology as we venture into the world of Zoom and video conferencing.
  • Those of us who miss going to church and the fellowship we receive there are now able to receive daily devotions and sermons by email or online.  A group; of us met yesterday on Zoom.
  • We’re seeing a surge in innovation as necessity for masks and ventilators are being created in new ways.
  • We’re consciously washing our hands.
  • Even though we miss the physical contact we’re virtually hugging each other with positive thoughts.

These are just a few of the positive outcomes of this horrid pandemic.  More will come to be as people realize how important we are to each other.  Jesus said it best when He gave the greatest commandment to love one another.  We will get through this.

 

 

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WAS IT WORTH THE COST?

Posted on March 26, 2020 by atimetoshare.me


A large crowd had gathered in the little town of Bethany. Only a few days earlier the man named Lazarus had been returned to life by the Rabbi, Jesus. Everyone was talking about it and wanted to see the man who had done the deed and witness for themselves that Lazarus was actually alive.

A dinner in Jesus’ honor was being held for Him . Lazarus was among those reclining at the table as his sister, Martha served dinner. Lazarus’ other sister, Mary came to Jesus with a pint of a very expensive nard – a costly, fragrant oil – often used in burial. Mary let down her hair, which was something any respectable woman would not do. She took the oil and poured it on Jesus’ feet – an act of servitude. She then wiped the oil with her hair. This simple display of devotion was not only significant because of the humility with which Mary completed it, but the cost of the oil indicated that she knew that Jesus had come to die for everyone and was worthy of such an act.

Judas, Iscariot, being the keeper of the treasury, was appalled by this extravagant display. “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor?” he asked. “It was worth a year’s wages.”

Judas was not really concerned for the poor. This man would betray Jesus in just a few days, by selling Him out to His enemies for the price of thirty pieces of silver. Judas had walked with Jesus, learned from Him, wondered about Him, but wasn’t sure about Him. Now he would turn Him over to the authorities for what the average Roman soldier earned in four months.

The cost of Mary’s anointment of her Savior and Judas’ act of betrayal – both came at a great price. Jesus’ suffering and ultimate death, came at a far greater cost. He carried the weight of our sin upon His back as he trudged up the hill to Golgotha. He was totally abandoned by His holy Father. As He cried, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me,” God could not bear to look upon him because He was covered with the sin of the world. The price He paid for our ransom is insurmountable.

His mother, Mary heard of this event and began to wonder about her own future and that of her Son. What did it all mean? All those early thoughts and words were being fulfilled as Jesus continued to minister to the world, but the hierarchy of the Sanhedrin was even now plotting His death as well as that of Lazarus.

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I DARED TO SHOP

Posted on March 25, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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We were down to the last leaf of lettuce, no juice, and getting low on canned goods and meat.  The stores in my neck of the woods have been open for seniors from 6-7AM each day, so we ventured out into the dark, world of CoVid19.  Paul waited in the car while I made my way into the zone – the twilight zone.  My gloved hands consisted of mittens which still did the job, but by the time I was done, my hands were sweating. I know they’d be sliding out of latex gloves if I’d been wearing them.

I grabbed a cart and proceeding through the aisles.  I was pleasantly surprised to see an abundance of fresh produce. I thanked one of the stock boys for what he was doing for the rest of us.  He thanked me for my patience.  Now I knew I was in the twilight zone.  People were actually smiling and nice to each other – something I haven’t witnessed in some time.

I wove through the maize of cardboard boxes, being unpacked by healthy young men.  Shelves were being restocked, but there were shortages of things you wouldn’t imagine to be in short supply.  There were no bags of sugar or flour. Cake mixes were pretty much wiped out. Eggs, butter and milk were not to be found. I can understand the lack of chips, pretzels, cheese puffs, etc., because of all the kids being confined to their homes.  I wonder what we’ll all look like when this is all over.  We’ll undoubtedly have extra chubby bodies and eyes that can’t focus on anything other than a computer screen.

Many of the customers (of which there weren’t many) were garbed in gloves and masks, while others walked brazenly pushing their carts with bare hands and uncovered faces.  We were all old, but for a change we weren’t being push aside by someone in a hurry. We all seemed to be going at the same pace – slow.

I got the things I needed, but immediately thought of something I’d forgotten when I got home.  After spending $120 I wondered how that happened.  Well at least I shouldn’t need to go out again for another week or two.  Hopefully I won’t be quarantined by then.

Our lives have all been changed by this.  Since my husband and I are relying only on social security to get us through, and our part time jobs are out of the picture right now, we’re going to have to see how this all plays out.  We’ve been poor before.  Actually I guess you could say we still are, but we are rich in blessings.  We’re still alive and healthy and have the ability to go shopping.  We have family nearby.  Our work doesn’t stop, even though there isn’t a paycheck.  Paul continues to paint daily and I write.  These are not hobbies for us.  It’s what we do to survive.

I thank God for our church family too. We receive daily devotions and sermons via the internet. Our friends check on us frequently.  We stay connected through Facebook and my blogging family too.

We need to lean on each other in crisis situations.  We need to turn to our God and ask for His protection.  We need to pray for our governing officials and those who put their lives on the line each day so we can lead almost normal lives.  We also need to trust that God is still in control of our lives.  We will get through this, because we must.  We’ll hopefully learn from it too.

The younger generation, those who would be graduating this year, were born at the time of the terrorist attacks of 9/11.  They are now facing another terror of sorts.  They’ve been witness to school shootings, violence everywhere and yet they are strong.  They’re the future of our country and they will be the heroes of tomorrow.

 

 

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DID HE COME TOO LATE?

Posted on March 25, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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Mary and Martha were Lazarus’ sisters and all of them called Jesus their friend. He’d been a guest in their home. Mary couldn’t get enough of His words and Martha was more concerned that the house was in order and food prepared for the Master.  Their house was always open to their friend.  As Jesus passed through the little town of Bethany He knew that His friends would always be there to welcome Him.

As time went on and Jesus was moving from place to place, Lazarus became ill. The sisters sent word to Jesus to come and do something to restore his health, but Jesus didn’t come immediately. He waited for two days. He then told the disciples that Lazarus was asleep and He needed to return to waken him. His men didn’t understand. It was much too dangerous to return. Jesus was a marked man in Judaea.

Now it was Martha’s turn to do the right thing. She ran to greet Jesus, when she heard He was on the way, and said to Him , “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. She expressed her faith in what she knew God could do through His Son.

When they arrived at the tomb, Lazarus’ body had already begun to decompose. Can you imagine the stench? Here lay a man, dead for four days and Jesus went in and rose him from death. Every time I hear that part of the story, it makes my heart wonder how Lazarus felt. He had experienced paradise and now Jesus was restoring him to life. What mixed emotions he must have had.  Certainly he would eventually die again, but he was more confident than ever that he would see his Savior again in paradise.

Jesus spoke in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.” The crowd was silent, but within seconds Lazarus walked out of the tomb, alive and well, still cloaked in his burial cloths. No one had ever been raised from death to life, except for the prophet Elijah. His body was restored and alive!

You could hear the crowd come to life as well. They couldn’t stop talking about the events of the day. Many believed that Jesus indeed was the Son of God. Some returned to tell the Pharisees what Jesus had done. Word spread all over the country and undoubtedly Mary, the mother of Jesus also heard about this astounding miracle.

It had started.  From that day on, a plot was set in motion to get rid of this man who claimed to be the Messiah.  The final days were coming to pass.

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ARE WE THERE YET?

Posted on March 24, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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How many times have we heard that question?  Are we there yet? I recall many family vacations in which that phrase wore on my brain.  The constant gnawing of, “are we there yet,” was like the swingng pendulum from Edgar Allen Poe’s gruesome story.

We’re an impatient people.  We want everything right now. We want instant food, instant internet access, immediate response to questions, rapid fire cures to disease, expeditious answers and we want them faster than they can be answered.

Are we living under that pendulum right now?  It sways slowly back and forth, bringing anticipation for the worst case scenario.  As it gets closer our demise is cinched and we eventually succumb to the blade.

Well, enough of Edgar. I never really liked his work anyway.  I choose to turn my thoughts to someone I can count on for the right answer and reassurance.  This is a time of peril. Every day the danger gets closer and we feel more and more hopeless, but Jesus reminds us that we must remain under His protection and it will be over in just a little while.

I love those words of assurance.  In John 16:16-24, Jesus comforts His disciples by using those lovely words to provide instant comfort.  He tells them that He will be leaving them in a little while, but that He will return again.  He speaks of this “little while” in terms of God’s timeline – not ours.  Answers to our prayers are not always instant or immediate.  Sometimes we’re called upon to wait.  That isn’t always easy.  Patience isn’t referred to as a virtue for nothing.  It takes courage to wait, but the results are worth it.

As we near Palm Sunday and Jesus triumphal entry in to Jerusalem, we may have to celebrate the Messiah from our homes rather than our houses of worship.  Still, He will be there with us.  Social distancing is going to make this Passion season different than any we’ve ever had in our lifetime.  We may go through Holy Week watching church on our electronic devices, but He will be in the midst of us.  On Good Friday, when we somberly remember the suffering our Lamb of God went through for our benefit, He will be at our sides inviting us to be with Him.  On Easter Sunday, we may all be worshipping together again, but if we aren’t, we can be sure that the Lord of Heaven and Earth will be holding our hands and offering us eternal life.

Are we there yet?  No, but Jesus will return in just a little while.

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NECESSITY IS THE MOTHER OF INVENTION

Posted on March 23, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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We’re now in week two of social distancing and already ideas are flying on how to interact with each other.  It seems we are at our best when we have nothing to do.  So, creative juices are flying.  Minds are stirring.  Inventions are being made.  The things we have available to us are being used – kind of a MacGyver mentality.

Today I saw a recipe for beer bread – made with no yeast and one can of beer.  I have seen evidence of people making their own surgical masks.  There are tons of new uses for the internet.  When we’re bored we get creative. There are just so many board games.

My theatre group is working on serving our community with acting classes.  Soon the center of arts where Paul teaches will do the same.  Without this option, we are out of jobs.  It seems to me that America has always been a country of innovation.  It’s how we grew into such a strong nation.  Not only are we a collection of brilliant, creative, dynamic thinkers, but we also have the talents and positive thinking necessary to use what we’ve got and make it fit what we’re currently dealing with.

It’s only one week into this thing.  Last week I spent feeling sad, worrying some, trying to understand it all.  I even sent out a picture on social media showing the fact that I was still n my jammies and hadn’t bothered to put on makeup or comb my hair.  That was my state of being for the week.

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I went to bed at eight o’clock last night and rose at eight o’clock this morning.  I have plans for the day.  A project that I’ve been putting off because I haven’t had time – a revisit to my novel which I don’t think will ever get done – trying a new recipe for bread – cleaning out the junk drawer – planning a class for my seniors via the internet (let’s see how me and technology work together.)  I’m energized.  I feel I can take on the world, but first I have to get dressed.

 

 

 

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PETER’S MOTHER-IN-LAW

Posted on March 23, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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“And when Jesus entered Peter’s house, he saw his mother-in-law lying sick with a fever.” Matthew 8:14

Jesus had chosen Peter to be His first disciple and obviously had a special connection with him – so much so, that He often ate with Peter and his family. Yes, Peter was a married man and still he followed Christ. His mother in law lived with them.

In our world, you don’t hear much about parents living with their married children. Often that responsibility is turned over to the experts who care for the senior generation. Knowing what it’s like having both of our mothers living with us in their elder years, I can understand this too. In Peter’s case, it was expected behavior. Not only did it show respect for aging parents, but a genuine love for family. Now that we’re been subjected to social distancing, this act of family love is going to become even less available.

Jesus was often a guest at this home and undoubtedly had come to know Peter’s wife and mother in law well. As they arrived that particular day, the mom was very sick with a fever. Jesus was a compassionate Son himself and went to her and held her hand. Within a breath of time, the fever left the woman and she got up and began to serve Him. We don’t know how long she was sick or what her illness was caused by, but Jesus’ touch was enough to relieve her.

He is still “on call” as the greatest physician and healer of all time.  No matter how great or small, we have a open line to Him.  He not only heals bodies and minds, He will heal our troubled hearts and weary minds.

This is a story that isn’t often talked about in the Passion history, but I believe it has some really great significance. First of all, it shows Jesus’ power over sickness. It demonstrates through that simple act of touch, just how much strength was in His hands. He had the power of God and was able to do this miracle and many more because of that.
It also shows how much Jesus cares for those He loves, but He isn’t limited. His love extends to all humanity suffering the effects of sin – which eventually lead to death. His love reaches out to everyone along with His healing power.

The story also shows that Jesus approved of marriage. Peter had been blessed with a wife and family to care for and, even though his new career would take him away from them for days and months, he still had time for them.

The name of the mother-in-law is not mentioned, but it wasn’t a necessary part of the story.  The act of healing relied on no action by her. It was all Jesus, His touch, His love and His power. In gratitude, the woman’s first thought was to serve the man who healed her.  May we mirror her actions and be more than willing to serve God for healing us from all our iniquities.

Dear, Sweet, Jesus, you showed your power over sickness and death while you walked the earth, so I know that what lies beyond the grave is going to be amazing. While I wait for that day, strengthen me through your Word and continue to give me confidence to serve You alone. Amen!

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DARKNESS AND LIGHT

Posted on March 23, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

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ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

God’s light shines in the most miraculous ways. When we see the sun rise in the morning, there is the promise of a new day. At day’s end, the shadows of the light glows and shimmers in a totally different way. When your in the city, golden reflections of the sun bounce off the glass buildings and when in the country, the shadow of an old barn falls gently on giant hay stacks.

When you’re married to a gifted artist, who knows light and shadows and how to apply them, you are blessed even more. God gives us these talents for the enjoyment of others. He gives us light for comfort, so we know that He is there. I can’t imagine what it would be like in total darkness. You must feel totally helpless and alone. Having the Lord as the source of light is comforting and gives us peace. Even in a dark world we have the assurance that His light shines all the time.

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