My God has healing in His wings,
He covers me with His safety,
He can lift me with His might,
He comforts me in the softness of His wings,
He is my rescue net from the storms of life,
Even when the world assails and all seems lost,
He is there to cuddle and protect me from all outside influences,
I can rest in that knowledge,
Knowing that nothing in this world can harm me,
Even in my darkest hours, He is my armor.
HE IS MY GOD!
ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©
A hydrothermal basin,
Steam rising from painted waters below,
A magical place where bison go,
To shed the dust of yesterday,
And become renewed and restored,
In the hissing, grumbling, belching,
Of the artist’s paint pots,
In Yellowstone,
God takes care of everyone.
Those of us who strive to put out a daily blog may find it difficult to create something new and exciting. We search the internet for trending news, popular topics, current events and many of us go to the manual for life, the Bible. We can often get caught up in the numbers, the ratings, the comments and the followers. It’s at times like that, which I must take a look at the reason I created my blog in the first place.
It’s always nice to be recognized for the work we do. It spurs us on to do even better. It’s a great motivator, but if it gets in the way of why we do it, then we must ask ourselves what our intention is.
I love displaying my husband’s art work. I’m his biggest fan and his work often inspires words of poetry. I imagine it’s like putting words to a piece of music. The work speaks for itself, but sometimes the addition of words can make it come to life.
I enjoy talking about my family and the millions of goofy things that always seem to happen to us. I suppose part of the goofiness comes from the goofy people themselves. There always seems to be a good story there.
I sometimes write about the state of the world, our own country, our moral decline and the things that are wrong with us, but I truly believe in this country and know that the people are not all like those we see in the media. I know there is depravity. It makes me sick, but there is nothing I can do to change that, other than making sure that my own path is straight. Expressing opinions can also be dangerous and invite criticism and I’m not real good with confrontation.
I love writing about God’s grace and acceptance of me, a sinner. This great news is too wonderful to hide under a basket. I realize it also comes with responsibility. We must never be judgmental, yet we must stand up for our beliefs when necessary.
A writer takes risks every day. This is our platform – our voice – our inner thoughts. I pray that I can continue to tell my story until the ending of it – which will be just the beginning.
In the past week we’ve been witness to heroes of all sorts. There’s the average guy from Minnesota, who drives his boat to Texas in order to save displaced victims of Hurricane Harvey. There’s the moms and dads who send their children off to school – an environment that used to be safe. There are the teachers who often use their own money to supply some of their students with equipment for the year. There are the cops that put on an invisible badge of courage each day when they go to work.
Our world, our land, our neighborhoods require heroes. These acts of heroism are necessary for us to continue to have faith in humanity. Each one of us has the ability within us to do things courageous and we never know when we’ll be called upon to use it. Sometimes being a hero can simply being a friend to someone who is going through difficult times – someone who has recently lost a loved one – a stranger, trying to get back on his feet. We all have those opportunities, but often don’t use them.
Our real Super Hero is the Son of God, Jesus. He left His throne in heaven to take our place. He laid down his life willingly so that we would be assured of eternal life. He showed us how to serve others, love, have compassion, to live. What an example! When we think about heroes, let’s remember the greatest role model ever. Jesus!
Do we place upon a pedestal the heroes of our time?
We sometimes make them idols. Do we think they are divine?
When they show that they are human, they quickly tumble down.
They lose that place of honor. They no more wear a crown.
They thought they were invincible – that they could do no wrong.
They took the road most travelled – they sang their own sweet song.
The accolades enticed them. Their greed did overcome.
They tested all the limits. To their pride they would succumb.
The only super hero that fills our every need,
Is Jesus, Christ our Savior. For our souls His wounds did bleed.
He gave His life to save us – from sin to set us free.
He conquered death to give us life for all eternity.
The superstars and champions may give us all a thrill,
But the Son of God won’t let us down. Our every need he’ll fill.
So look to Him for lasting peace. The victory he has won.
He is our true redeemer- role model – Number One!
Kathy Boecher©
ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©
Painted yesterday at the Round Barn in Andover, MN
When I grow weary from the weight of life,
When every step becomes a heavy strife,
There’s no relief, no respite for my load,
The path is full of obstacles untold,
Each pothole, crag and deep embedded crack,
Becomes too much for this old, weary back,
But God is there at every twist and turn,
To raise me up when troubles churn,
To take the weight and soften every sting,
To wash away my tears and make me sing,
He’s with me everywhere I go,
Since Jesus loved me, this I know!
It has come to my attention that I no longer possess the ability to multi-task. Gone are the days when I could sew up to 50 costumes in a week, write a play or two, teach a class, plan meals for the week, attend to the daily mundane chores like ironing, laundry and housekeeping. Now I’m lucky if I can pat my head and rub my tummy at the same time.
The truth that I once was known as Super Woman, a saint, and amazing is no longer applicable. At first I noticed little things, like not watching a boiling pot and having it boil over. Then it turned into more serious things, like going to the store and forgetting why. Or driving somewhere and almost forgetting where I was going.
It became blatantly apparent the other day when I was trying to accomplish two things at once. I entered the grocery store and made a bee line to the pharmacy to have a prescription filled while I shopped. I then proceeded to do my shopping. I don’t shop with a list, which is dangerous, because I always buy more than I need. This particular day, I was on a mission to get everything done in record time. I went to the check out and was reminded by the glaring pharmacy sign that I needed to pick up my prescription. I wasn’t going to forget this time.
My groceries were added up and I inserted my cash card to pay for them. I raced to the pharmacy to get my prescription, which was actually ready! Then, as I was about to go to my car and pack the trunk, I realized I didn’t have my groceries. Fortunately, the cashier had bagged them and set them aside for me. Apparently this wasn’t her first rodeo. She just smiled and continued with the next elderly person. It was really funny when you think about it, but I’m sure the cashier was anxious to get to her break by then.
It has me thinking that we elder folks might need a buddy system to keep each other on an even keel. Maybe we should have support groups too – like old agers anonymous. “Hi, my name is Kathy and I’m old.” In any event, I am beginning to see that when I was extremely busy, I didn’t have problems like this. This alone is good reason not to retire.
This was the view out my living room window on this day last year at our old, old house.
The air is fresh and crisp today. Skies are clear and brilliant blue. Usually we don’t have much change in color until mid-September, but the maple tree in our old neighborhood was always the first to show off. I heard somewhere, that the brilliant colors of autumn were the original colors in paradise. Even if it isn’t true, there is something Godly about the magnificent hues that invade our environment in the fall. God’s palette is much more vivid than any amount of paint applied to a canvas. This year has been an early year for color change at our new old house too. Way back in mid-August, the trees were showing signs of alteration.
Much like us, and our seasons of life, it seems that we start out fresh and green in spring – not knowing much, but still open to everything the world has to offer. As the summer sun heats up, so do we. Hormones rage, life is fun and exciting, we want to have it all. Then in Autumn, all of our brilliance is displayed. We’ve reached the peak of our existence. We’ve accomplished many things. When Winter’s cold enfolds us in its cape of white, we feel the chill of old age – the stinging joints, the aches and pains, the loss of agility and memory. It’s a heartless time of life, yet beautiful. The brilliance of the first snow will eventually wear thin and life will end.
When we have made this journey with God beside us, the changes are more than bearable. They are a gift of time for us to share His love with others. A wonderful time of grace. Because of God’s sweet gift of salvation, life goes on.
So goodbye to summer and hello to autumn. Let your colors shine!
ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©
The image of the cross stands firm, in every Christian’s mind,
The blessings that it gives to us, we nowhere else will find,
Though bloodied by the Son of God, with his own precious life,
Removed the guilt of sin from us, and takes away our strife,
The symbol of death and torture, becomes a badge of love,
From God our most holy Father, in Heaven up above,
He loves us as His own children, He wants us there with Him,
So in His love He sent His Son, salvation for to win,
Though life may seem impossible, though burdens line our path,
We’re sure of God’s forgiveness, and freedom from His wrath,
He paid the price to set us free, though crosses we will bear,
Life doesn’t’ end at death for us, great news for us to share.
Our television screens have been filled with images of heroes this week. What a change. Only a short time ago, demonstrators filled the streets – violence was the fare of the day – hatred and bigotry scarred young minds and old. Now we see fearless men and women, taking risks to save lost pets, the elderly and disabled and those who have simply lost everything.
Why does it take a natural disaster or tragedy for this to happen?
We see it time and again, when the nation rallies for the good of their fellow man during times of acts of God or terrorism. It seems that when we are at our lowest, God throws another brick our way, not to crush us, but to build us up again. When I see what’s happening down south, it gives me hope that all is not lost with my country.
All the foolishness over statues – the political climate – the rhetoric flying around – means nothing when the God of Creation can erase every trace with one hurricane. All the differences of opinion seem to melt in the storms of loss. We turn to helping each other. It’s part of who we are.
We’ve seen our president take immediate action. We’ve watched as neighbor helps neighbor – as nursing home residents are rescued from imminent death – as Americans come together to show what we are truly made of.
On August 29, 2005, a gal named Katrina ravaged the gulf coast and brought out the ugly side of humanity. Looting and savage behavior ripped through New Orleans. Now this area is being threatened again. What do we learn from these disasters? Are we a nation of sick, selfish, uncaring individuals who are concerned only with our own needs, or are we willing to pitch in and give something of ourselves to help others?
God doesn’t create natural disasters to punish us. He doesn’t work that way. If we were to get what we deserve, we’d have all been eliminated long ago. God tests our strength, our heroism, our love for others through these events and gives us the ability to grow through them.
I’m still proud to be an American and especially now that my fellow Americans doing what they do best – putting others first and working together.
When I visited Greenville, S.C. last November, I was surprised to see the number of cars with tiger tails hanging out of the trunks. The first one I saw was funny, but when more and more of them appeared, I had to ask what was with all the tiger tails. I soon learned that Clemson University’s mascot was a tiger so it all began to make sense.
I was born and bred in the Midwest, but have always had the heart of a Southern belle. That was not to be, so instead up here in Minnesota we have a gopher for the University’s mascot. When living in Wisconsin, our mascot was a badger. I guess our definition of strong and mighty is slightly different than in the south. I probably would have a different opinion if I ran into a badger or gopher who was threatened by my appearance.
This fall, my Grandson #2 is beginning his college career at Clemson. In his high school years, he had a penchant for all things Batman. In fact I even referred to myself as Batman’s grandma. The tiger paw has taken the place of Batman’s spotlight image, but the same inner spirit of this young man continues to grow. To all those entering college this year, may God be with you on this amazing journey. You’ll be learning many new things, hearing lots of different opinions than you’ve heard before, and learning how to manage on your own independently.
To those who are in your final year of college – Grandson #1 – may God give you confidence to finish this work you’ve begun and reach for the stars. You will make some lasting friendships this year. The changes that come, will allow you to make an imprint on our world. With God’s help, you will bring your many talents to it.
If you’re just entering high school – Granddaughter #1 – Things will start getting serious now. You are on your way to becoming an adult. It’s tough to give up childhood ways, but I know you can do it. I hope you never lose your youthful enthusiasm. God has blessed you with loving parents and grandparents who are anxious for you to succeed. May these be the best years of your life.
To all those attending school for the first time, this is your first chance to spread your wings. Do so with God as the wind beneath them. He will guide your ways and give you courage to do all things in His name.
So here’s to another school year. Prayers for all involved – students, teachers, parents, tutors, coaches. Let this be the best year ever.
ORIGINAL ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©
READ GENESIS 9 FOR GOD’S COVENANT WITH NOAH
The current devastation in Texas and the Gulf region has been said to be of historic proportions. Never before has there been such destruction. The cost of this disaster will be immense. In spite of the cost, something even more outstanding to me, is the coming together of people from all over our country to help in any way they can. The National Guard has been called on and the president acted swiftly to assure the people that the United States would come to the aid of this area. People are coming from all states to aid these victims. The response shows that we are a country that can still work together when necessary.
This may be the most horrific flood in our lifetime, but there was a flood which overtook the entire world and wiped out the entire human population along with all living things. Many consider this a myth, because the story has passed on to almost every culture and civilization on the face of the earth. I believe it is truth, because of that fact – and that God tells us so in His holy Word.
As the Bible reveals God’s dissatisfaction with His creation, He gives Noah an assignment to build a huge sailing vessel. The specifications were precise. The size was large enough to house Noah’s family and two of each species of living creatures. Then God told Noah to tell the people to repent of their sinful ways. For 100 years, Noah and his kids built that ark and tried to convince the people to change their ways. 100 YEARS! God certainly is patient.
God promised never to curse the world with a flood of this magnitude. His loving heart even provided for the rebuilding of his creation through His surviving creatures. Today we’re living in a corrupt world. I often wonder how much more God will tolerate before His patience runs out.
Creator of the Universe, You are in control of everything that affects our world. You are in charge of the winds, the rain and all weather We pray that the people of Texas and other areas in the path of the storm, will be safe and eventually will heal from this disaster. Your covenant with Noah, assures us that the world will no longer be destroyed by flooding. Open hearts to your presence and bring them back to you. Amen!
The first and last time I was in New York City was on a Labor Day weekend several years ago. My sister had purchased my ticket and met me there. It was the perfect time to visit, since the usual crowds were on vacation elsewhere. The skyline still included the Twin Towers. The sights were just what I expected and the Broadway shows outstanding. Today those towers are gone – destroyed by terrorists – erased like the many lives that were eliminated in the attack. I’m glad I was able to see that skyline before 9/11, because the memory is engrained in my mind as complete.
The trip was filled with so many laughs, as usually is the case when my sister and I get together. We made friends instantly with our tour guide/bus driver. It wasn’t hard to do, because we were the only ones on the bus, other than a small group of travelers from Sweden, who sat in the very back. As my sister and I started singing, “Start Spreading the News,” we were greeted with looks of bewilderment and astonishment by the group in the back. I’m quite certain I would never have broken into song on a bus in Minnesota, but I was with my sister – my partner in crime – my forever friend.
I took a million pictures on that trip, but left my camera, film and camera case in the cab. I remember taking pictures of cow statues dressed in various costumes or painted in outlandish colors. I filmed the marquee of all the theaters on Broadway. I snapped pictures of the skyline, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and all the usual places, but by leaving them behind, I had lost a bit of that trip. Treasures that cannot be replaced, but still the memories remain.
When I hear the song, “New York, New York.” I think back to that crystal clear morning when flying missiles destroyed buildings and lives in an act of blatant hostility. Soon the memory of that day will be honored once more. We will hear the names of the victims read as a bell rings after each one. A new monument stands in the place of those buildings to remind us of what happened that day. I pray that our society will not someday tear it down, because it offends someone.
We need to be reminded of our history, no matter how ugly, how disgusting, how pointless. The Indian Wars, the slaughter of the Civil War, the battles of WWI & II, Korea, the monuments to the war in Viet Nam, is just a small smattering of the cost that freedom represents. We need to remember these things so that we can move forward with new vigor to preserve those freedoms.
Erasing our history is like erasing us. It’s like those Twin Towers being obliterated from our view as if they never existed. Our country is ripe for an awakening – a renewal and revival of the Word of God. Those of us who have the treasure of the Gospel, must get out there and start spreading that wonderful news again.
Start spreading the news
I’m leaving today
I want to be a part of it
New York, New York
These vagabond shoes are longing to stray
Right through the very heart of it
New York, New York
I wanna wake up in a city that doesn’t sleep
And find I’m king of the hill, top of the heap
These little town blues are melting away
I’ll make a brand new start of it in old New York
If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere
It’s up to you, New York, New York
New York, New York, New York
I want to wake up in a city that never sleeps
And find I’m a number one, top of the list
These little town blues are melting away
I’ll make a brand new start of it in old New York
If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere
It’s up to you, New York, New York, New York
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Stories, features, articles of writer and author David Ettinger.
Life is a patchwork of moments — laughter, solitude, everyday joys, and quiet aches. Through scribbled stories, I explore travels both far and inward, from sunrise over unfamiliar streets to the comfort of home. This is life as I see it, captured in ink and memory. Stick around; let's wander together.
God's amazing grace removes walls and replaces those barriers with Jesus, freedom from sin's consequences, freedom to forgive, and freedom to love unconditionally.
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