THE OLD, ROUND, RED BARN . . .

Posted on April 28, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Round barns became popular for dairy farmers between 1890 and 1920. Their design enabled cows to point their heads to the center and feed from the central trough attached to a silo. The back end of the cow was then in a better position to be milked. They were more expensive to build and the geometry involved in the design didn’t always sit well with the builders. There are still a few of them dotting rural landscapes. We have one near us that’s been restored and reused by local artisans. Paul and his plein air group used it as an outdoor painting location. The painting you see is one that he completed on one of those destinations.

Many of his sketch books are filled with drawings of various barns. Farms played a part in both of our early years. Paul spent summers working on a farm near the family summer home. I traveled by train with my sister to spend the summers with our grandparents in an agricultural setting. I think every child should have that experience.

The old, round barn had seen better days. A paintbrush might light up her face. The outside attracted highest praise, but inside she was a disgrace.

We’re not much different than this old barn. We might cover our sins with our works. Inside hearts falter and cause us harm. Satan moved in there and he still lurks.

Our hope is in Jesus – God’s own Son. He paid the full ransom for our sin. He bought our redemption with His blood. Our hearts are cleansed without and within.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternity, God's promises, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

WAVES . . .

Posted on April 27, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This piece of art was done as part of Paul’s re-enactment presentation as a frontier artist. An example of Northwest Coast Native art, we see a wild bird painted with waves of color, twists and turns, organized design and beauty in motion. There is a comparison here as to the waves we face through each day – especially when we lose someone we love. The emotions come and go like fierce, tumultuous waves. Sometimes it’s a memory. Other times it can be a feeling of anger or frustration. Tears fall at the most inopportune times, but then, when is it the perfect time to weep?

You have been gone from my life for a few months, my love

Yet, in the length of a sixty year marriage, it’s just a small chunk of time.

Those last few months of your life were spent worrying, fretting, planning, fearing and longing for the journey to end.

It wasn’t yet time for you to pass to eternal glory.

We shared time as we had never done before. We discussed things that we wish we had done. We reminisced about our growth as a couple. We visited little out of the way places to refresh us in a small way. We planned for the future, not knowing if there would be one.

You hung on. So did I. We hugged, we cried, we got angry and frustrated. Our love for each other never waivered. Eventually those times were left to oblivion. As you faced your final breath, I deeply exhaled, knowing that you were now with our Savior. I know I will be too when it’s time. The memories of a lifetime have been stored for future reference. Each day I recall one or two or more highlights of our days together.

You were my greatest earthly blessing – the love of my life – my inspiration – my encourager. You will remain in my heart forever.

Thank you, Jesus for loaning this wonderful human being to me for a lifetime, and for giving me the assurance that we will be together again someday.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternal life, grief | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WAVES . . .

THE BEAR SHALL GRAZE . . .

Posted on April 26, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

“The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat,
and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them.
the cow and the bear shall graze; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder’s den. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.”

isaiah 11:6-9 ESV

This painting was not done on site. I pray that Paul wasn’t this close to the animal while he was doing a portrait of his face. Paul shot this bear at close range, but it was a bear that had been shot a couple years prior to this, by one of his best friends. Obviously, it had survived to see another day. I imagine that the bear was photographed in Paul’s memory at one of those two events for future painting. Paul had a few pieces of jewelry that were engraved with the image of a bear paw. He had great respect for these large animals that would fiercely defend their young cubs if they were harassed. I recall a trip to Yellowstone, when we hiked with cowbells to keep the bears aware that we were coming.

The Bible verses in Isaiah are painting a beautiful commentary on what God’s kingdom will be like. It will be a place where everyone gets along with each other. It will be perfect in every way. Through the Gospel, we have been redeemed by God’s perfect Son and reconciled to become members of this amazing place as heirs to the kingdom.

I often wonder what heaven will be like. I don’t expect to be floating around on a cloud. I don’t think there will be a Starbucks where all of those who have passed, gather to tell stories. I believe it is beyond our wildest imagination. I believe this collection of verses from the prophet of old, is intended for us to look forward to a perfect life, where hate and anger do not exist. Where tears and fears no longer occur. Where pain and suffering have been healed by the Son of God through His amazing grace.

We may have days of fear and dread – our hearts may wish that they were dead,

A lifetime filled with pain and loss – we wonder why we bear this cross,

But God’s compassion for His fold – a thing of beauty to behold,

He holds us tightly in His hands = It’s true! He always understands,

So, when my days on earth are done – I’ll be with Him, the victory’s won,

Perfection lays before my feet – I’ll walk upon a golden street,

No harm befalls me on the way – I cannot wait for that sweet day.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Heaven, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

THE WAY . . .

Posted on April 25, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

There are many twists and turns in life. Some reach the epitome of excitement and joy, while others can drag us into a pit of despair. Even in the darkest corners, God is there to show us the way.

You walked the path of life for me – You suffered for my loss.

You sacrificed Your own dear Son, upon an ugly cross.

You did this for a worm like me, You gave to me your best

Now I can walk that road to You and in Your arms find rest.

I don’t deserve this precious gift. I don’t deserve Your love.

I’ve spat upon this Son of Yours who came from Heaven above.

I’ve scorned Him as did men of old. The scourge I laid on Him.

The nails that pinned Him to the tree, were placed there with my sin.

The story didn’t end that day. It just began, you see.

For Jesus, Christ, the Son of God, returned to life for me.

The flesh that once was bruised and scorned and broken now is whole.

He conquered death – He rose again – He saved my dying soul.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Encouragement | Tagged , , , , , , | 8 Comments

ABANDONED . . .

Posted on April 24, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Paul loved anything having to do with water sports. He also enjoyed painting various crafts he saw along the Mississippi River as he searched for just the perfect setting. If this abandoned houseboat could talk, it would have many stories to tell. When we feel abandoned, let’s not forget that God is right there with us through every trial we face.

The old houseboat still maintained a look of elegance even though paint was chipped and faded – the bough battered slightly from constant pushing against a battered shoreline,

She sat quietly moored under the wispy trees which lined the river – softly banging against the disintegrating pier,

How many years had passed since her maiden voyage?

How many months had slipped by since she cut stealthily through the rolling current?

She sits untouched – idle – lonely – forgotten – devoid of life.

Oh that the walls could speak and tell us of the days gone by.

Imagine the parties, the celebrations, the intimate, secret rendezvous.

Imagine the parties, the celebrations, the intimate, secret rendezvous.

Promises made and vows broken.  Lives changed for just a fleeting moment,

As she carried them downstream, washing their troubles away in an instant,

Did her life end when those who lived there did?  We’ll never know.

Only that she kisses the river’s edge now instead of cutting through its current.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Jesus | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

THE SPRING RUSH TO ART . . .

Posted on April 23, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

As most of you know, my husband was an artist. He was trained at the Chicago Art Institute and the Layton School of Art. While he was in elementary school, he failed his art class because he refused to copy the image in the textbook and did his own rendition. He didn’t really dive into outdoor painting until he retired. He was used to sketching in the open air, but to sit at an easel and actually finish a painting throughout the time spent there, wasn’t his cup of tea at first. It’s messy. You can lose the light very quickly. The wind might pick up your painting and carry it away. Your paints may dry out in the sun. There are so many problems that can arise. He kept at it though. When days were on the edge of summer – when the air was fresh and clean – when new life was popping up all over – when the sky was devoid of clouds, it was the perfect time to be in the great outdoors and pushing paint across a canvas. The painting was done outdoors. The creation of different blues by adding a bit of red or green captures the beauty of this lovely boat on a perfect spring day.

ART & POETRY BY PAUL T. & KATHY BOECHER©

A grove of trees, a cloud filled sky, a bridge crossing an enticing path,

All set in the midst of nature,

The call of spring, opens the doors and windows to new opportunities,

Fresh, clean air,

Exciting new shades of blue and green to add to the pallet,

Beautiful sunrises and sunsets,

All provided by the Creator of all of it,

Anywhere the road takes you becomes the perfect destination,

When you’re an artist, your paintbrush,

Your imagination and

Your skill find it,

When you know all about color and light,

Shadows and definition,

Negative space,

Your hand responds to the invitation.

You find beauty in all things,

Because you take the time to enjoy,

To see the details of life,

The important things,

Not the clutter,

You sort through the garbage,

You sift through the darkness,

You unleash your inner beast,

You find the beauty,

When you’re an artist.

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EASTER HOPE

Posted on April 22, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

As Easter’s brilliance begins to wear off, we’re left with an afterglow. The promise that our lives don’t end with our last breath. This is the confidence I have for myself, for my dear Paul, for my family and friends and all who come to know the blessing of Easter’s message. He has arisen, and because of that, we will be raised from death to spend eternity in paradise.

An empty chair – a quiet house,

With you not there – the tears arouse.

I think of you – there is no doubt,

What can I do? What’s this about?

A lifetime spent in loving you,

My own last cent just would not do.

Our Lord said “Wait, I paid the cost.”

An open gate led from the cross.

He conquered death. The debt He paid.

With His last breath His life He gave.

My tears go on until I die. When it does come I will not cry.

As we shall face our Savior there.

And in that place new life we’ll share.

HAPPY FOREVER AFTER . . .

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternity, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 14 Comments

MY FIRST EASTER WITHOUT YOU . . .

Posted on April 21, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

To realize that I am now a widow, is a hard pill to swallow. I was a wife for 60 + years. Now I am entering another phase of my journey on this planet. I guess I could sit around and feel sorry for myself. I could waste away and stop living. I could on the other hand use my time to help someone else or to leave a path of words along the way that might encourage them.

When death comes, it can consume our lives with sadness. Sometimes it can lead to great depression. These past few months have been filled with the busyness of living, preparations and the loss of a few other lives along the way. I’m 82 now. I guess I should expect life to come to an end at this point, but somehow, I have missed the grieving process. Maybe it happened prior to your death, my love. You suffered for such a long time. I watched as your energy was sapped from your body. I witnessed a change from a once vibrant, energetic and enthusiastic human being into someone else. There were so many instances throughout our long marriage when something would happen with your health. There were so many of those occasions when we thought your end was imminent, but you always bounced back.

I know your concern for your family was keeping you alive and giving me extra time and memories to hang onto in these times. I knew you were ready for heaven. I wanted that for you too. As memories pop into my mind, I can’t help but shed a tear or two, but we shed many as you suffered for so long.

The Easter message was about how the sting of death was healed with the balm of Christ’s ransom – the giving of His own life so that we could inherit God’s kingdom and dwell in His house forever. The sting remains for those of us left behind. I will never stop loving you. You helped me realize that life doesn’t end when we die. It’s just an amazing beginning. I see you in so many facets of my day. I awake being surrounded by the beauty of your art. I hear your laughter. I remember our road trips – our trials and afflictions – the three lives we produced. I recall your boldness for the Lord and I miss our times holding hands and crying together.

As Easter came and went again, the final song of our church service was “I Know That My
Redeemer Lives.” I couldn’t help but shed a few tears when singing that beautiful hymn.
The promise of a Messiah has been fulfilled. He took on human flesh and lived among mankind. He taught, encouraged, healed, blessed and gave His life for us. He rose from death and ascended to the house of His Father. Because He lives, you are now reaping the benefits of that same inheritance. I love you, Paul. I may be a widow, but I know where you are and I’m coming to join you again someday. In the meantime, I know you’re in the best hands possible.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, grief, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 15 Comments

HE HAS RISEN INDEED

Posted on April 20, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

He died that I could live. He suffered pain and loss.

He gave all He could give, upon that rugged cross.

But on that awesome day, so many years ago,

He for my sins did pay, so freedom I would know.

The story didn’t end there. He came to life once more.

To show me that I too will live within His heavenly door.

Alleluia, He is Risen indeed! May the gift God so freely gave

us over 2000 years ago live within our hearts until we meet

Him again face to face. Happy Easter. He is risen indeed!

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Easter, resurrection | Tagged , , , , , , | 5 Comments

EMPTY TOMB – HEARTS REJOICE

Posted on April 19, 2025 by atimetoshare.me
ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The alleluias have been sung to the point of raising the church roof. The sound of the timpani drum resonates in our hearts. Trumpets, harps, French horns and flutes add to the beauty of our worship. The voices, the prayers, the rejoicing, the celebration has replaced a long season of repentance and sadness over our sinful condition. Christ is arisen and, because of that, we no longer need fear the power of death. We too shall rise.

So the week continues. Does that same feeling of excitement remain? Within a few days, life returns to normal. We’re faced with tough decisions, mounting debt, worry over health issues. We face road blocks and detours along the way and the message of salvation slowly sinks into the past. How can we keep that same energy alive throughout our days? Jesus could have ascended into heaven right after His resurrection, but he remained on earth for 40 more days. He did this for a reason. He wanted to prove to His followers that He was really alive. He also still had things to teach them.

  • The prophesies that were fulfilled through His suffering and death.
  • The promise that we will never die.
  • To turn their sadness into joy and enthusiasm for spreading the truth.
  • To teach and prepare them for His great commission.

The number forty in the Bible often refers to a time of testing or being put on probation for a while.. The Israelites spent forty years in the desert. Jesus was tempted by the devil in the wilderness for forty days. The rains that fell during the Great Flood of Noah lasted forty days and forty nights. Jesus was lashed 40 times during His trial. So Jesus used these forty days after His resurrection to put His followers to another test. He taught, rebuked, demonstrated, encouraged and loved them through this difficult time. We have that same assurance with the Easter message. Because of the great power of that event, we should be stirred to action. We should have no fear of telling others the good news. We should be bold and courageous in our zeal. This is news that must be shared today. It is the hope of all the nations. Life goes on, but it can be filled with great joy, even during times of discouragement, if we place our hope in the love of our Holy God – who loved us so much, He gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we would inherit His kingdom. This is what He had planned from the beginning.

THANK YOU, JESUS FOR THIS WONDROUS DAY!

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THE DAY BETWEEN DEATH & LIFE

Posted on April 19, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

It was the Sabbath day – a day dedicated to rest and meditation. Jesus’ body had been interred in the tomb of a rich man. Time would not allow for preparing the body for burial, because the Sabbath required no work of any kind.

It was a fact that Jesus lay dead in that grave, but the leaders of the Sanhedrin wanted to make sure that the body wasn’t stolen by His followers – which would create even more of an uproar. They remembered that Jesus spoke of rising from the dead. If His body disappeared, it would open a whole new can of worms. They went to Pilate and asked that extra security be placed at the tomb so this wouldn’t happen.

Where were Jesus’ followers? His mother, Mary had emptied every tear from her eyes. Her Son was dead at 33 years of age. We know that John took Mary to his home, but what about the rest of them. Peter, after his denial of Jesus, must’ve felt great remorse and went into hiding fearing for his own life. Judas, the betrayer had already committed suicide. What about the rest of them? Surely, they must’ve recalled the words of the Messiah as they sat at the last supper together.

“Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world.  So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” John 15:20-22

Those words were spoken only two days before. They were uttered by Jesus to give his disciples hope and peace of mind for the events that would follow. I imagine all they had in mind was grief at the loss of the One they called, Messiah. They were confused, frightened, anxious, depressed, really afraid for their own lives. Aren’t we much like them in that way? When our faith is challenged – when ugly things happen in our lives – when there seems to be no future – our first inclination is to run away. Our God is omniscient, which means “all knowing.” We can’t hide from Him. We cannot run away from Him.

As we ponder the happenings of Holy Week, let’s remember that our fears and anxieties will soon come to an end. As Jesus foretold – “I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” A new day is coming. The day of Resurrection. Don’t let anything take away the wonderful joy of that message.

Posted in grief, Holy Week, Jesus, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED . . .

Posted on April 18, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The cross in the photo was done several years ago as a prototype for a much larger one that would appear at the front of a church. It is a simple cross with a difference in appearance than most we see. Upon the face of it, there has been chiseled the marks of suffering and pain that was endured by the Messiah who had come to save the world. When it was presented to the committee, it was decided it might be offensive to some as too graphic. The commission was declined by Paul. He knew the price that had to be paid for the sins of the world to be forgiven. It required pain, suffering, blood, humiliation, love beyond measure. That is why I know my husband is now in heaven enjoying the blessing of being face to face with Jesus. Paul helped me to realize that even though the guilt of this world can be overwhelming, we are apparently worth the price that God gave for our salvation. I know I will join him and my Savior in heaven one day,

There doesn’t seem to be anything good about Good Friday.  The streets were lined with an angry mob demanding the death of three men.  Two deserved to die, the other didn’t. Hidden in that crowd were a few of Jesus’ followers, anguishing over their failure to defend their Messiah. Tears flowed as the King of the Jews was led to the slaughter.

They beat Him mercilessly, cutting into His flesh, exposing muscle and sinew to the elements.  His hair was matted with the spit of the condescending mockers who lined the street.  Birds of prey circled above.  He was nothing but a bloody mass – unrecognizable – a disgusting sight to say the least.  The smell of death permeated the air.

As they reached the site of the crucifixion, very few remained – some women, the Roman soldiers in charge of carrying out the job and one of His disciples.  Some of those who demanded His death stayed to make sure the deed was done.  A few interested bystanders continued to watch as they nailed the three to their crosses, but soon their fascination faded and they left.

He complained not – yet His twisted, brutalized body gasped for air as He suffered the torturous cross – designed to cause asphyxiation and eventual death.  His words carried power, even though His frame had suffered continuous beatings and humiliation.  Until the moment that He commended His body into the hands of His Father and died,  He remained faithful to His earthly mission.

The sinless lamb of God died on the cross at the hour of the evening sacrifice.  The final Passover lamb had paid the ultimate price.  Our sins are forgiven through Him. That’s what makes this Friday good.

It is finished!

Posted in Good Friday, Passion Week, Salvation, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

HOW MANY FEET HAVE YOU WASHED?

Posted on April 17, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

Bath time for little ones is a time of great enjoyment, because it means undivided attention from a parent who needs to be on hand to make sure the child is safe. It works that way when an elderly parent needs help bathing too. This very personal time is a way to show compassion for those we care about.

One of the highlights of Maundy Thursday was the love Jesus demonstrated for His disciples when He washed their feet. He placed Himself in a position reserved for servants. Can you imagine how much grime a person would pick up walking in sandals through all kinds of filth each day? Streets weren’t paved – they were littered with garbage – cluttered with dirt and animal dung – a breeding place for disease. It was a necessary daily task to clean them thoroughly – getting deep into every nook and cranny.

We are exposed to similar dirt in our lives, but it goes much deeper than a need for surface washing. The only way our sin can be eliminated is through the cleansing that comes from Christ alone. When He washed His disciples’ feet He was demonstrating the internal cleansing He would provide for the entire human race.

Maybe since families are now isolated and confined to their homes, it might be a good time to establish the practice of washing feet on this day.  We could read the Bible scripture, John 13:1-10 first.  Talk about all the reasons Jesus did this to show his servant attitude.  Then the parents can wash their children’s feet, followed by the children washing their parents’ feet. This extremely intimate act can be handed down as an Easter tradition from here on.

When Jesus died for us, the ugliness of sin was washed away. Through this ever so personal act, He also established His bond with us. We now have that perfect relationship with the Father – the one He always intended for us.

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HOLY WEDNESDAY . . .

Posted on April 16, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

John 12:3 ESV “Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume,”

I’ve already given Judas his time in print, but many consider Wednesday of Holy Week as “Spy Wednesday,” because Iscariot betrayed Jesus on that day for 30 pieces of silver. It’s possible that this occurred midweek, but this disciple had betrayal on his mind for a while. Maybe it occurred when Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with an expensive oil called Nard. Maybe it was before that, as he dipped his hands into the ministry’s treasury. We know Judas wasn’t the only disciple who was outraged at this act of love. But Jesus rebuked them and acknowledged the fact that she was doing this not only to indicate respect for Jesus, but to prepare Him for His coming burial.

A complete and perfect timeline for Holy Week has been attempted for centuries, but the point is that it was unnecessary for our salvation. Jesus knew what His mission was. He would teach, heal, encourage, inspire, train and lead His followers to the true Kingdom of God. He also knew that this would be His final week to complete this mission. He became angry. He would be accused. He would suffer. He would be found guilty. He would make His way to His death, carrying the cross that would hold Him. He would die an excruciating death. He would lay in the grave for three days and then be resurrected to life. That truth has managed to survive for many years. Jesus is still known as the Savior of the world and the true Son of God

Throughout this week, Jesus obviously knew what the outcome would be. He would go to the Mt. of Olives at the end of each day, to refresh and renew for the next day, when the crowds would return to listen to His words. They would meet at the temple or return to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. During one of those visits, Mary, lovingly anointed Jesus’ feet with oil.    The use of such oil was reserved for those deserving special honor.  It was also used for burial. She then dried His feet with her hair – an act of total submission and servanthood. One of those with Him at the house was the disciple who had already sold his soul to the devil.

Every prophesy regarding the Messiah was being fulfilled, from His conception to His death and resurrection. The sinless Son of God was about to lay down His life for the benefit of all those who believed in Him. He was the perfect sacrifice. He was God’s only Son. It was ordained way back in the Garden of Eden as God’s amazing plan for salvation. What a wonderful name is Jesus!

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HOW COULD HE?

Posted on April 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me
The statue sculpted by Ignazio Jacometti (1854) represents Judas kissing Jesus Christ as a sign of betrayal.

It was Tuesday of Holy Week. Just like any other day, but plans were being put into place to capture Jesus and kill Him. In order for the plan to succeed, the Sanhedrin would collaborate with one of Jesus’ own disciples to make it happen. Even one who seemed pretty much in good standing with the man who was about to be arrested.

What was going on in his mind? A follower of Jesus for three years – keeper of the treasury – trusted disciple – led by the devil himself to betray the One and only Son of God. How could he? Why would he betray the man he had come to know as brother? Was the lure of thirty pieces of silver so strong that he couldn’t resist – even though He had God’s richest treasure within his midst? I can’t begin to imagine what Judas was thinking just before he entered the Garden of Gethsemane on that night.  How could anyone possibly explain what he was about to do?  In that moment he would walk up to his friend and betray him with a brotherly show of affection.  It was as if the devil crept into his soul and took up residence, but it was still part of the overall plan woven together by the King of Creation.  It had to be this way.

Judas Iscariot is mentioned a few times in God’s Word, but we don’t have a lot of background information. He was likely an educated man. He was put in charge of the money collected or donated as Jesus spread His message.

“But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, ‘Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?‘  He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it.“ John 12:4-7 ESV

This same disciple would be lured in by the leaders of Sanhedrin to turn Jesus over to them for trial. The cost was thirty pieces of silver – the average cost for a slave in Egypt during the time of the Exodus. They paid their blood money to Judas prior to obtaining Jesus’ arrest. Judas sold out his Savior not only because of his greed, but because Satan had already taken up residence in his heart.

The Bible states that Judas was a thief when he helped himself to the money designated for the poor, he wasn’t considered trustworthy. In a dark corner somewhere, I can imagine Judas lurking about in the shadows, waiting to be bribed into betraying a man he was supposed to follow and revere. The second those pieces of silver fell into his hands, he was lost. He would go on to hang himself in a gruesome death because of his shame – his conscience – his inability to deliver himself from temptation – or because it was a greater plan.

God knew what would occur. It was all predestined before Judas was even born. We could sit in judgement of this man and his weakness, but we are all guilty of betraying our Lord at one time or another in our own lives. How could we?

Posted in Holy Week, Jesus, sin, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

TURNING THE TABLES . . .

Posted on April 14, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

The day before had been a day of excitement and glory for Jesus. He was hailed, the King of the Jews. Though honored as a king, Jesus entered the city in humility on the back of a donkey. One day, they were laying palm branches at His feet and praising Him with loud songs of Hosanna to the King. The next day things started to change. As He entered the temple, a new side of this normally quiet, gentle and peaceful man erupted.

There were thousands of citizens present that day, along with many from outlying areas of the city to celebrate the Passover – the time of remembrance of the Jewish deliverance from their oppressors in Egypt. Every year pilgrims would make the journey to the Holy City to make their sacrifices. The streets were lined with animals, money changers and vendors. It had become a time not only of sacrifice, but one in which to make huge profits.  Jesus had seen this the last time He was in Jerusalem.

Merchants of all kinds were within the temple gates – those who sold animals and birds – food vendors – and purveyors of memories for the people to take home with them. When Jesus saw it, He became enraged. The holy house of God was no longer a place to worship, but a huge market place. His face became reddened with anger as He began to turn over the tables. He said to them,

“It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.”

His anger turned into rage as he dismantled every evil activity from the place. God is definitely a jealous God. He wants our full attention and Jesus was showing those folks that what they were doing was nothing short of idolatry.  The leaders of the church weren’t happy about this either, since they would receive a percentage of what the merchants made.

Jesus displayed His anger to show the power of God – to show His humanity – to show His disappointment – to cleanse the temple of all wrongdoing. By so doing, He was opening Himself up for all kinds of questions. Many asked who this man was. What authority did He have to do such a thing? He even referred to His Father as God.

He awoke the next day and was hungry. Yes, the Son of the most high hungered. He was not only God, but God in human flesh – with the same nature of man, but without sin.
He approached a fig tree to gather some fruit for His breakfast, but there was none.  He then cursed the tree and it withered before their eyes. The disciples wondered how this could be and Jesus informed them that even they would be able to move mountains with prayer and faith.

The next few days, the Sanhedrin would be a busy place. The power behind the Jewish religion would now begin plans on how to get rid of this heretic. To them Jesus had become a threat to the church and its teachings and He needed to be done away with.

Our Heavenly Father doesn’t like to see corruption in His dwelling place, but as with all things in a sinful world, evil exists and over time that which was pure and true becomes tainted and smothered. This is why the world needs Jesus. He is the only perfect sacrifice for our sins. Without Him we are condemned to live in a darkened life. With Him all things are made clean again. This is the perfect time to thank God for the price He paid for our redemption. Then, with grateful hearts we’re capable of turning away from those sinful ways into the Light of the world.

Posted in Holy Week, inspiration., Jesus, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

KING OF KINGS . . .

Posted on April 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

A few years ago, I wrote a series called, “MARY’S JOURNEY©.” This section describes Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The Hebrew word for Hosanna is Save Us. Most of His followers looked on Jesus as the Messiah – the one who had come to save them from Roman oppression – another King David. Jesus proved to be a King, but His kingdom is not of this world.

He had an air of royalty about Him, even though he was not arrayed in purple or crowned with gold.  His mighty steed was a donkey – not what you’d expect for the King of Creation. The donkey is a beast of burden. The animal was carrying the One who would soon bear the burden of all sin on His own back. Still in the warmth of that arid, Spring Day, Jesus was praised by His throng of admirers as the Messiah – the One promised from the lineage of King David.  They were convinced that this king would relieve them of all their problems, give them back control of their city and allow them to rule again in their promised land.

Their cries of “Hosanna” rang through the dusty streets, drowning the sounds of sacrificial lambs, goats and other offerings for the Feast of the Passover.  Palm branches were laid at His feet.  The sky was a clear, azure blue – not a cloud to be seen.  The warm sun shone brightly on the scene as the crowd’s enthusiasm swelled.

These adoring fans had followed Jesus for the past few months. They listened to His words of peace and love.  They watched as He fed 5000 men with only a handful of fishes and loaves.  They saw Him heal the sick and dying and even heard that He had brought some back from the grave. They could see there was something different about this man – something extraordinary.

Mary watched as her Son paraded through the rugged streets.  Her heart pounding with emotion – thoughts of excitement and pride at His current popularity.  She remembered as three distant Kings came to visit her new child with unbelievably expensive gifts. It all confused her at the time, but as she thought about it now, the truth was being made clearer by the minute.

She thought of the words of the angel, Gabriel, “ He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to Him the throne of His father David and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”   Could it be?  Were these words at last being fulfilled?

She knew that it was just a matter of time when all of her fears and doubts would be addressed.  This time of Passover was the perfect setting for the true Lamb of God to make His entrance.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, PALM SUNDAY, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments

CELEBRATING PAUL . . .

Posted on April 12, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today we celebrate the life of Paul Boecher – Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Grandpa, Great Grandpa – Entrepreneur – Business Man – Idea Man – Problem Solver – Art Teacher – Artist – Air Force Mechanic – Encourager – child and servant of God – Friend – Man of Many hats and interests – and more. He changed lives with his inner humility a nd strong relationship with His Savior.

We will start with a traditional memorial service at our church, followed by food and celebrating at the theatre I’m associated with. I am hoping there will be many stories to share about how this man affected so many in his almost 83 years. He left a legacy of art, but more importantly he never waivered in his faith, even when all seemed hopeless. I know he has already been welcomed into heaven and God has greeted him with His loving arms. I can’t wait to be reunited someday, but I will miss this wonderful man until that day.

We’ve traveled many miles along this thing that we call life,

At first two friends we came to be, and then a man and wife,

We’ve had our share of ups and downs and sometimes insides out,

We’ve argued and made up again so often I can’t count.

We entered into marriage thinking we could conquer all,

We never gave a second thought that we might sometimes fall,

Our hearts were filled with hope and love. God was at the center,

He led us through the best of times, He was the perfect mentor.

As we approach our final years, I’m sure of just one thing,

That God is in the midst of us, He’s caused our hearts to sing,

And even when our souls were crushed, when trouble entered in,

We knew He was surrounding us, we knew with Him we’d win.

The world continues to battle as wars are fiercely fought,

It seems like Satan is winning, his snares invade our thought,

But God has won the victory and sin has lost its hold,

We’ll die with that one conviction; His love has made us bold.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternal life, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , | 10 Comments

OUR ROAD – TOGETHER . . .

Posted on April 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

“OUR ROAD, TOGETHER,” By Kathy Boecher ART By Paul Boecher©

A journey through a lifetime of ups and downs over a period of sixty or more years, doesn’t happen much anymore. Maybe it’s because the easy way out is to simply walk away. When you make the commitment to love each other forever, it isn’t a temporary promise. When differences occur, you work them out. When problems arise, you talk them through. You share, compromise, adjust your way of thinking and if you have a shared relationship with God, you go to Him for answers and advice. Start by praying and going to His Word, the Bible, from the start. Marriage is an amazing journey when you follow through on your original promise to love one another. Then it becomes easy to do the same with others.

The sun slowly sets, leaving glistening rays upon still water,

We hold hands and think about tomorrow,

We plan,

We dream,

We hope for answers,

For wisdom, discernment, dependence on our God,

Some days we seem to approach a wilderness,

No plans,

Shattered dreams

Unanswered prayers,

It seems at times that God is no where to be found,

But then the glow of His presence is felt in the skies,

The water,

The trees,

The reflections,

We can be still and know,

That He is there,

That He is God,

That He has this!

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, marriage, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

BEAUTY IN SIMPLICITY . . .

Posted on April 10, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This painting depicts a simpler lifestyle. There’s something about growing up on a farm that puts a certain balance in life. Competition isn’t an option. Hard work and integrity are. Putting in a twelve-hour day is a necessity not a means to gaining more wealth. Families are bonded by their working together, eating together, having fun together and living life together. God is usually at the center of a farm family, because they know the power of prayer. As we wind down this last week of Lent, repentance has been heavy my mind. Our sins requires a Savior, because we are incapable of getting rid of them on our own. Again, God came to the rescue. He took our sin and placed it on the back of His Only begotten Son. The perfect sacrifice. The Lamb without blemish. God with us, who took on human flesh to experience our condition yet without sin. The hoards of people who sang praises to Jesus when he entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, would quickly change their tune a week later. They were looking for a worldly king, but God had a better idea as He usually does. He put His creatures first. There are so many ways we can imitate Christ and his humble servant attitude. I believe that if we each do a random act of kindness each day, we’re following His lead. Not doing those acts because it’s being added to our list of good deeds, but because He loved us first and this is our way of thanking Him for His gift of salvation.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, compassion, peace, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on BEAUTY IN SIMPLICITY . . .