OLD HOLIDAY TRADITIONS . . .

Posted on November 17, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Holiday traditions come and go, but there seem to be some that hang on for a lifetime if not longer. With Thanksgiving just a short time off, food preparations are already being made or shopped for. We can almost envision grandma rolling out pie dough or making fresh baked goods. The old potbellied stove in her kitchen had seen better days and so had she, but she continued until she could no longer make her way from her chair to the kitchen. An oversized roasting pan would be prepared for the Thanksgiving turkey, usually shot by one of the boys in her large family. Or she might kill a couple chickens the day before to fill with mouthwatering stuffing. Vegetables canned in August would be brought up from the fruit cellar. Mountains of potatoes would be peeled by hand the night before. Efficiency would have to be maintained, or Grandma would spend the entire holiday in the kitchen. She would ask for side dishes and desserts to be provided by extended family. Then the fine China would be inspected, washed and set on a formal dining room table which has been covered with a linen tablecloth. Forks on the left and knife and spoons on the right. Her mother’s lovely somewhat chipped crystal glassware would accompany each place setting.

Today, most of that is forgotten. Maybe it came during the women’s rights movement. Who wants to spend half of the holiday preparing the humongous meal, setting a gorgeous table, timing everything so that it’s all hot when everyone sits down; and the other half of the day requires putting leftovers into containers for future meals and washing a mountain of dirty dishes. Maybe it was a rebellion of sorts on the part of those already overworked women. Whatever the case, the revolution turned into a completely downsized version of what once was.

Today you can order your entire meal and have it delivered to your home. Many grocery chains are offering this. Or you can order from a fancy restaurant and have Door Dash show up with everything necessary to impress your family and friends. Forget about the China and crystal. Plastic plates, eating utensils and paper cups will suffice. When it comes to doing the dishes, all you need is a large plastic garbage bag. You don’t even have to make a huge meal. Personally, I like the idea of simplicity and more conversation, rather than trying to figure out which fork to use or having a heated political debate at the dinner table. Anyway, those old traditions become unnecessary until the next generation decides they would like to entertain like they did in the old days.

Football seems to be the fare beyond the meal. While men are watching fifteen college games simultaneously on TV, the women are searching the newspaper ads for Black Friday bargains. In the old days, they would be doing the dishes. Now they don’t have to. Instead, they have the ability to go out the next day and spend hundreds of dollars on items that no one really wants or needs, just to say they got an amazing deal. Do I sound facetious or sarcastic? Good, because that’s my intention,

When we get together to celebrate a holiday like Thanksgiving, our first thought should be being grateful. Every day is one to celebrate when you’re in your 80s. It’s also a time to honor family, relationships, marriage, all of God’s exceptional blessings in addition to the everyday blessing of provision. Maybe it’s time to start some new traditions. Like filling a jar with comments on what you’re thankful for. At the end of the celebration or even at the beginning, read those comments and talk about them before reaching for your cell phone or remote. You might be surprised what a great conversation you can start. We really need to work on that. We might even discover that we like each other -a lot.

Posted in aging, holidays, Thanksgiving | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

SATURDAY WORDS OF WISDOM

Posted on November 16, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“THE OLD WISE ONE,” Colored pencil drawing by Paul T. Boecher

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

The eyes are riveting,

Piercing the space they inhabit,

Thoughtfully,

Mechanically,

Driven by hunger,

He surveys his domain,

Do we take time to look,

To expand our horizons,

To explore what is right before our eyes,

All of God’s creatures are endowed with instinct,

but only man can claim wisdom,

And many never find it.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, wisdom | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on SATURDAY WORDS OF WISDOM

ROD AND REPROOF

Posted on November 15, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Dr. Benjamin Spock was a bestselling author of the 1960s with his book on childrearing.  My copy looked like a ransacked Bible after my first child reached her first birthday. His ideas were mind blowing to most grandparents.  He suggested allowing a child to cry a while before picking him up and holding him.  He advocated permissiveness over hard discipline such as spankings and scolding. 

Up until that time, a spanking was not considered child abuse. This new decade of permissiveness may have contributed greatly to what’s happened to parenting over time.  It was a time of protest over race, wars, feminism, sex and independent thinking.  However, children haven’t learned about respecting themselves and others – many have an entitlement attitude – they’ve become inactive physically and overstimulated mentally.  Everything you need to know about sex is in their face before they enter middle school.  Violent behavior seems to be the norm. Families split, marriage has taken on a new meaning and moms and dads come and go like thieves in the night.

The Bible is very clear about discipline. The Old Testament refers to the rod of reproof and the staff of correction, which are referring to a shepherd’s tool. The rod is designed to get the attention of the sheep, and the staff represents the guidance which the sheep require. Psalm 23 refers to these tools as a form of discipline applied to our everyday lives. We need direction. We require discipline. Our Good Shepherd, Jesus, is that rod and staff. He is the One who gives those things to us.

Another passage in Proverbs 29:15 we’re told, “The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” This passage is not advocating beating your child but gives them guidance for their future. Discipline creates wisdom. When we give our kids everything they want, they become spoiled. When left alone to their own choices, they run wild or choose a path that can be harmful to them.

I don’t remember being on the receiving end of a spanking, except the time my mother chased me with a hairbrush that eventually landed on my backside and broke. I didn’t need psychoanalyzing for it. I don’t believe my childhood was filled with abuse. I do remember being made keenly aware that when you do something wrong, we should feel a little uncomfortable – enough so that we regret doing the wrong in the first place.

Dr. Spock’s words created a parenting revolution, but was it for the better?

Posted in generations, parenting, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

HAVE YOU MET JESUS?

Posted on November 14, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 19:14

Along with a change in the numbers of church going people today are the youngsters who are missing out on one of God’s greatest blessings to His people – the ability to share in His message of forgiveness of our sins and eternal life along with others in corporate praise and thanksgiving.

Christ used children as an example, because of the kind of childlike faith they exhibit.  What a perfect description.  We are all to become as little children, with minds open and willing to believe, because we trust Him.  It’s a tremendous responsibility for parents.  It isn’t about pushing them into a pew on Sunday morning or struggling to get them ready.  It’s about making sure they ‘re grounded in God’s Word from the beginning.

As I look back at the days when my children were toddlers – the memory of getting them out of bed on Sunday morning isn’t a pretty one.  They would much rather have stayed in bed.  As they grew into teenagers, this became even more of a struggle, but by then, they knew that crawling back under the covers wasn’t an option.  They were crabby, didn’t want to go, had incurable ailments, nothing to wear, every excuse in the book, but they went to church. Once there, it was another story.  Distractions were everywhere.  Cheerios in a plastic container would keep them quiet for a while, but the inevitable walk out in the middle of the sermon, became natural for us and them.  Soon the walks stopped and so did the wiggling.  As they grew older, in spite of the teenaged child occasionally falling asleep, the Holy Spirit was doing His work in their hearts.

OK, we were ramming it down their throats – some might say.  Aren’t we all like that at times?  Aren’t we all like kids when it comes to being told how we shouldn’t be doing something wrong?  We don’t like discipline, but if we’re to become responsible parents it’s vital.  Isn’t the word “sin” offensive?  Why would any caring parent want to instill that kind of fear into their precious child’s mind?

Well, God demands it of us.  We’re told in scripture to teach God’s Word to our children.  We’re required to start when they’re young.  It’s an admonishment from God Himself and a responsibility that many parents don’t want to do, for fear that it will scar their children.

What’s wrong with that kind of thinking?  Let’s take a look at children today.  Many of them are suffering from depression before they reach middle school.  Bullying is at an all-time high.  Children are committing suicide at an alarming rate.  Self-mutilation/cutting is not unusual.  Some have become reliant on drugs or alcohol to soothe the inner pain. They’re unhappy with their lives because something is missing from them.  They don’t have that fail/safe message that, even though we’re sinners, God loves us and has solved the problem.

Kids need to know they have a champion. So do the rest of us. We long for someone who will be with them throughout their lives, even when others fail them.  They’re longing for the safety and protection of a superhero.  They want to know that they have merit, that they’re loved, that a wonderful future is already laid out for them, both here and in eternity. 

So why is it important for parents to bring their children to church?  As children of God, we need a safe haven – a refuge from the horrors of the world.  Church is a place where we can share our love for God and thank Him for His grace. We can support, encourage and help each other.  We can prepare ourselves and them for the week ahead and for the rest of our lives.

Our children are on loan to us really.  They belong first to God.  He’s placed them in our care for a short time and it’s our duty to make sure they know about their true Father. Ask your kids ro take you to church this week to get reacquainted with Him. Your lives will never be the same.

Posted in aging, Jesus, parenting, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on HAVE YOU MET JESUS?

IS THERE A GOAT GENERATION?

Posted on November 13, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The chart unfortunately doesn’t go back far enough, but most of those living today, will fit into one of these categories. Yesterday I posed a question and would still love to hear from you regarding the generation gap. The years from 1925 to 2024 have been witness to many great inventions, new ideas, unusual changes and a whole lot of question marks.

I am part of the Silent Generation. This doesn’t mean that our generation didn’t speak out. For the most part, we were the product of our predecessor, the Greatest Generation. Our parents struggled through many trials, disappointments and wars. They believed in God, country and the American dream. My generation was beginning to question the validity of wars. Protests were commonplace in regard to that. Race discrimination was still a big issue, boiling in a pot of hatred and separation. As an idealistic young college girl, I was aware of what was happening in my country, but for the most part, I spent hours in the public library, reading books and listening to classical music. I didn’t feel I could change the world around me. Over the next generations, I would witness a huge alteration in that opinion. More and more young people were rising up against various issues which would eventually lead to protests, riots and even incarceration. I didn’t have the courage to do so.

What do you think were the highs and lows of these generations? Finding out will maybe help us relate to each other, which is the beginning of understanding. So, my question for you to ponder today, has to do with this very thought. What is it that makes/made your generation good, bad or ugly? I am now a great grandmother, and the future is important to me as I wonder what this little man will face as he grows up. What will he become twenty years from now? Will he experience the pangs of war? Will he be responsible for great changes in society? We’ll he become the president of the United States or the leader of some corporation? OK, I’m reaching. Will he be happy or depressed by the condition of his world. Will he learn to rely on God to get him through the good and bad times? All I can do is pray that he will find his place and know that he is greatly loved. He will also learn that he has a God who is in control of everything.

Each generation has their faults, but they also have accomplished greatness. If we focus on the good rather than the bad, we will realize hope for the future. Those who hope in the Lord, will find peace in the future. He is the Greatest of all Time. GOAT!

Psalm 100:5: “For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.”

Posted in aging, generations, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

GENERATIONAL DIFFERENCES . . .

Posted on November 12, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I’m on a quest in search of opinions regarding generation gaps. My reason for this is that I’m involved in a program that is looking for ways to bridge the gap which exists between them. I know that when a child becomes a teenager, they don’t think their parents know much of anything. When that same child becomes an adult with children of his own, he wonders how his parents got so smart during those passing years. Having started out as part of the “Silent Generation,” I’ve seen the development of several different types over the years. I’m not an expert on any of them really, but I do know that what goes around, tends to come around again. Or as Solomon said, “There is nothing new under the sun.” This may make us wonder, but often what happened in the past will surface again at another time in history. It will just be packaged differently. For example, a lot of what is going on in 2024 was happening a hundred years ago.

The generation before me was the “Greatest Generation.” My parents were alive during the time of the Dust Bowl of 1930. They witnessed the Great Depression. The saw the ending of WWI and the beginning of WW2. They were involved in a worldwide epidemic in 1919 which was like the COVID disaster which rocked our world only a few years ago. This generation learned about manners, respect for those in authority, following God and His commands for life. The family unit was important too. Games were played at a table, not on a device. Most of them didn’t lock their doors – not because they felt safe in them, but because they had nothing of worth to steal. They knew the value of a dollar and worked very hard for every one of them. The recycled everything including diapers. Their name aptly describes them.

It seems like every generation has something going for it. We all endure hardships from time to time. Wealth can go away in an instant. Success is fleeting. Relationships fall apart or come together again. Marriage meant committing to another person for life. Live are cut short in many ways. In an instant life can be altered. Change is all around us and now in this era of technology, us old fogies are struggling with it. Maybe this is the place to start bridging the gap. Certainly, those youngsters with all their computer savvy, could help the older generation figure things out. We elders can help the youngers know the value of communication on a different level. We have a plethora of wisdom which has been gathered over so many years of learning and experience. Most of it has been forgotten along the way, but if our memories are still sharp, we can teach through them.

It seems that the gap is impossible to breach, but with God’s help, I believe we can. Since I’m beginning to research this subject, I would love some feedback – not only from the golden agers, but those just starting their journey. Understanding comes from talking to each other. Problems can be solved by that very thing. So please feel free to express your opinions on this topic. Thanks in advance.

Posted in aging, America, history, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 11 Comments

THE 11th HOUR, 11th DAY, 11th MONTH . . .

Posted on November 11, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Over time, the thought of going to war has been argued, protested and many times been placed on a level of disagreement, yet without our military, where would we be? In the last year alone, our National Guard has been called on to control crowds of protestors and rioters across our very own country. In a way, that’s kind of ironic, isn’t it. We often need protection from within, more than the enemies we battle on foreign soil. The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of the year has been dedicated as Veterans Day in the United States. This one day we set aside to honor those who have and continue to serve in the armed forces.

Today, we give honor to those who have served in the military and those who continue to do so. Every time a young man or woman enlists in the service of their country, they’re making the ultimate sacrifice – to lay down their life for another. This is the servant attitude Jesus asked of His followers. Maybe if we all made this same oath to our fellow man, the world would not have to face wars ever again. I believe that day will come when the ultimate soldier of the cross returns to us.

The following is a letter written by Union soldier, Maj. Sullivan Ballou, to his wife before his death on the battlefield. It was never sent, but found in the soldier’s belongings when his remains were returned to their burial site. His young wife of 24 never remarried. She was buried next to her husband at the age of 80. Sometimes the best reasons for war are stated in the pens of those who fight them.

July 14, 1861
Camp Clark, Washington

My very dear Sarah: The indications are very strong that we shall move in a few days — perhaps tomorrow. Lest I should not be able to write again, I feel impelled to write a few lines that may fall under your eye when I shall be no more …

I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how strongly American Civilization now leans on the triumph of the Government and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and sufferings of the Revolution. And I am willing — perfectly willing — to lay down all my joys in this life, to help maintain this Government, and to pay that debt …

Sarah my love for you is deathless, it seems to bind me with mighty cables that nothing but Omnipotence could break; and yet my love of Country comes over me like a strong wind and bears me unresistibly on with all these chains to the battle field.

The memories of the blissful moments I have spent with you come creeping over me, and I feel most gratified to God and to you that I have enjoyed them for so long. And hard it is for me to give them up and burn to ashes the hopes of future years, when, God willing, we might still have lived and loved together, and seen our sons grown up to honorable manhood, around us. I have, I know, but few and small claims upon Divine Providence, but something whispers to me — perhaps it is the wafted prayer of my little Edgar, that I shall return to my loved ones unharmed. If I do not my dear Sarah, never forget how much I love you, and when my last breath escapes me on the battle field, it will whisper your name. Forgive my many faults and the many pains I have caused you. How thoughtless and foolish I have often times been! How gladly would I wash out with my tears every little spot upon your happiness …

But, O Sarah! If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you; in the gladdest days and in the darkest nights … always, always, and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath, as the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by. Sarah do not mourn me dead; think I am gone and wait for thee, for we shall meet again …

 “Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it… it flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” – Unknown

Posted in America, heroes, Veterans Day | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

END OF A PERFECT DAY . . .

Posted on November 9, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Yesterday was a beautiful November day. The morning carried a bit of a chill in the air, but the sunshine made up for it. The Jewels of DeNial were invited to participate in a Veterans Day celebration. As many of you may know, this is a performance group of women over 55, me being the oldest. Veterans began to gather. You could tell many had been at this venue before and were eager to make connections once again. It was a morning filled with the presenting of the colors by the military color guard – always an inspirational ceremony. The American flag waved against a blue backdrop as you see in the pictures. There was a luncheon served – military style and we finished up the celebration with a snippet of one of our recent episodes. It was a great opportunity for these men, women and their families could come together, talk about current and past events and share memories. Truly, it was a blessing to see this unfold.

The afternoon was spent resting at home, followed by a delightful meal at a restaurant on a local golf course. It was just me and my own personal veteran airman from the 1960s. We shared an amazing dinner. We watched through sun filled windows as the golden orb descended into the horizon. We don’t often venture out to eat, but we were glad we did. Thank you, Jesus for another day.

“LET IT GO,” By Kathy Boecher
 
When darkness fills my sleeping nights and fears surround each hour,
When good news turns to deep concern and makes my day grow sour.
When perils of each passing day invade my tear-filled eyes,
I wonder if God hears my prayers, or does he hear my cries?
 
Confusion rages in my thoughts, I try to lift the load.
But it’s too heavy for these arms which now are turning old.
My mind is going up and down, like waves that fill the sea,
The turbulence is far too much for one like little me
.
The world is throwing challenges from every single port,
When wars still rage, and hate abounds we can’t begin to sort,
The answers seem to disappear, when they begin to form,
The shadows of a broken life leave nothing but a storm.
 
As hard as we may try to win, the struggles we must fight,
Trials cannot by us be won. Our dreams soon take to flight.
And when it seems impossible, that’s when God shows His face,
He reaches out to calm our fears, He cuddles us with grace
.
Instead, it would be easier to let God take that role,
To trust in His unfailing love, for things we can’t control.
To turn them over to the Lord, and trust He’ll find a way,
To give us rest and confidence to live another day.
<img class="x16dsc37" role="presentation" src="data:;base64,” width=”18″ height=”18″ />
 
 

Posted in America, Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 11 Comments

OPEN MOUTH, INSERT FOOT . . .

Posted on November 8, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Apparently, putting a foot in our mouth isn’t anything new. We’ve just come off an intense political battle – one filled with promises and sometimes vicious words. What a relief to have all those ads deleted from our TV screens. Words hurt. Words lessen a person’s self-image. Words can also encourage and inspire.

Someone once said, “Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time. You won’t have a leg to stand on.” I’ve found myself saying things I don’t mean or using words that hurt. I sometimes speak without thinking of the consequences of my words. My tongue doesn’t always follow the directions of my brain and seems to take on a life of its own. Life would be so much easier if we had a script to follow wouldn’t it?

James 1:26 says, “ If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.”

When we’re disappointed, angry, or depressed, we tend to use hurtful words as well. We might even feel better to simply get our thoughts out there. Venting can be good for the soul, but in the process, we may offend someone or tear them down without meaning to. Being careful and mindful, we need to think before we speak. Lots of times I find myself struggling to find the right words. My husband commends my writing ability, but chuckles when I can’t verbalize with the right words. I guess that’s true. As we age, our thought processing slows down. We don’t always say what we mean or think of the right way to express ourselves. That just shows me how much I need help in every area of my life. So, I go to God and ask for His help. His promises are always kept. His Word is always true. He love is greater than anything the world has to offer. I know I can trust His wisdom.

Lord, I am sinful. My words are not always the right ones. When I am tempted to say or think things that would hurt another person, remind me that I cannot even speak without your guidance. Teach me to control the words that come from my mouth. Help me communicate in my writing what I mean without hurting anyone. Make me an instrument for your glory alone. Amen!

Posted in aging, compassion, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on OPEN MOUTH, INSERT FOOT . . .

THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT

Posted on November 7, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

There was a news story a while back of a young girl with a disability who invited her classmates to her upcoming birthday and was rejected by every single one.  Can you imagine her heartbreak and that of her loving parents?  It’s hard to realize we have sunk so low as a society, that we look down on someone who is slightly different than we are.  The story ended beautifully however, when it was posted on social media by the girl’s mom and a group of caring people planned a party for the girl and 300 guests showed up to wish her Happy Birthday. Even though the story ended well, it makes me wonder how many other children are being snubbed by their peers because of a handicap or simply because they don’t fit the mold.

Jesus tells us to love one another.  He doesn’t say love the ones we want to love.
We’re expected to love the unlovable, the weak, the drug addict, the alcoholic, the child molester, those of a different nationality and religion, and those who don’t agree with us. In other words, we are to love everyone as He first loved us – without question.

We may all be guilty of prioritizing people.  Our actions speak volumes to those we set apart.  If we consider how we’d feel if we were in their shoes, maybe we wouldn’t be so quick to judge or classify. The pandemic didn’t help. People isolated. They lost the face-to-face contact that can’t be retrieved by a camera. The body language was missing. The intimacy of friendship began to crumble. That isn’t really a good excuse. It’s just part of what happened during that time. Unfortunately, we have lost our trust along with communication skills.

All people matter to Jesus.  He came to save everyone – even those who spat on Him and nailed Him to the cross – even those who continue to doubt His Godhead – even those who kill His followers.  We’re all pieces of this great puzzle called life.   We’re all important and accountable to Almighty God. We are obligated by the commandment Jesus gave to His followers when he lived on this planet.

 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

We can learn so much from those words. Particularly loving God first and then loving others as ourselves. Children especially learn by our example. It’s not impossible to set aside our differences. It’s not impossible to reach for tomorrow for the innumerable stars in the sky. We can accomplish our goals, live and work together and move on when we trust in the Triune God.

Posted in America, Jesus, Unity, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

HE LEADS ME ON

Posted on November 6, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

As the morning light arises, on a pasture green sublime,

Sun light kisses trees and branches, balancing the sands of time,

Though through danger I will wander, snares are set at every turn,

God is there to guard my footsteps, leading me to where I yearn,

Peaceful, green and tranquil landscapes, skies are filled with golden light,

Yet the heat from summer sunshine, hasn’t risen to full height,

Listening as He sits with me, as my heart to Him I spill,

Understanding all I ask for, promising to do His will,

When at last my days are finished, I will walk on streets of gold,

No more tears, no pain or sorrow, only peace and love untold,

The darkness of an evil world, purged with grace from God alone,

I’ll walk in valleys green with life, for heaven will be my home.

Posted in armor of God, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, encouagement | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

THE WORLD CONTINUES TO TURN . . .

Posted on November 6, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“There is nothing which I dread so much as a division of the republic into two great parties, each arranged under its leader, and concerting measures in opposition to each other. This, in my humble apprehension, is to be dreaded as the greatest political evil under our Constitution.” ― John Adams

“Terrorism is a psychological warfare. Terrorists try to manipulate us and change our behavior by creating fear, uncertainty, and division in society.” Patrick J. Kennedy

Thank you, Jesus for another day, has been my prayer for the last few years. With the breaking of each day, I have been blessed to have my husband still by my side. Life goes on for us until it doesn’t. Our prayers are not what keep us here, it’s what God has ordained for each one of us. Today I say, “thank you, Jesus for another day. An election has taken place, and the voice of the people has spoken. No matter what your political bend, we continue to have that right to vote. As a unified nation we have the ability to work together.

There will be broken hearts, fear of our nation’s demise, threats to our leaders, more rhetoric and who knows what else. God is still in control. He is the One who created this orb – the One who continues to watch over and direct it – The Sovereign King who will never leave us. When we separate from Him, we are losing out on the greatest gifts of all. Instead of a day of sadness, loss or fear and anxiety, we should consider today a new beginning. We can start by setting aside our differences and start the healing process. Division has been our downfall for a long time. It’s time to start looking at our country and its leaders with respect and honor. We must also remind ourselves that life goes on. The world still turns until He decides otherwise. His love endures forever!

Posted in America, Uncategorized, Unity, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

WHAT WILL TODAY BRING?

Posted on November 5, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

We’ll be seeing a lot of maps, polls, numbers and colors on our TV screens today through the evening hours. After a while, it will be kind of a mish mosh of opinions, forecasts and optimism. For the most part, I pray that things go smoothly today and, in the days, ahead. Since this is one of the rights established in the Constitution, I take it very seriously, but it seems like each election year there are more lies than truth. There is rhetoric, which most of us no longer trust. We have in a way become numbed by all of it.

Four years ago, hope and change were offered to the entire population. Of course. it was a political claim, and we should all know by now that promises like that can’t be kept. Man has always tried to manipulate others with words, and when his actions don’t live up to them, we tend to lose faith quickly. Unfortunately, the topic creates all kinds of division, which we certainly don’t need in our country. Our voice can still be heard at the ballot box. Whatever happens in this election, someone will win, and someone will lose, but we can be assured as God’s children that He is still in control of our lives and our government. He is the one who established it. He will maintain it, if it is meant to be kept alive. I think we should remember that the only one who does keep His promises is Almighty God, who tells us to call on Him alone for our hope. He does keep His promises. You can depend on it. In four more years, we will be faced with this same situation.

Dear Father, God, you have watched our country emerge from a group of immigrants who were seeking a better place to live and work. America was founded on the truths of God. Our country is now on the brink of uncertainty. Help us all to return to you for guidance. You alone can heal our land. Amen!

Posted in America, Elections, Uncategorized, Voting, wisdom | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

TIME CHANGES EVERYTHING, OR DOES IT?

Posted on November 4, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Have you ever looked at the eyes of an infant and wondered what they might be thinking. That tiny body has gone through the trauma of childbirth. He was intricately formed in his mom’s body, knit perfectly together by the Creator of the universe. His brain has been ticking for some time now, so thoughts must be running through that developing mind. He might be wondering where he is, who he is, who are these new faces? As his eyes develop along with his other senses, he is able to feel who is holding him, feeding him, singing to him, changing his diapers and talking sweetly to him.

I recently became a great grandmother. I can’t begin to tell you how much I love this newborn. He has captured my heart. Both my husband and I realize the value of this precious child and pray that he will be surrounded by those who love him, support him, encourage and inspire him. Looking at those tiny fingers and toes, I am amazed by God’s handiwork. So many of the sounds he makes along with silly faces and smiles are caused by a little gas, hunger or discomfort. It may seem funny, but this is kind of what we look like as we approach our final days. We spend most of our days in the comfort of a chair or bed. We sometimes must wear diapers. We rely on others to take care of us. Our sight begins to fail. All those marvelous parts created so long ago, are breaking down now and we have come full circle. Now we wonder what is being said to us. We can’t control our balance or ability to move. We can no longer communicate as we once did. Things are devolving from infancy to old age., but a new life awaits. Until that day, we can make each day and every moment a new beginning.

“WHAT IS THE WORLD TO ME?“ by Kathy Boecher

Has life become just another commodity with little value?

Has humanity so quickly forgotten the price that was paid for it?

Have we come full circle in our quest for peace?  History repeating itself?

Each day on this planet is as a thousand years to the One who made it.

He alone has the answers to the human condition and how to heal it.

Still, we try to figure things out for ourselves.  We try, but fail.

We make the same mistakes over and over and it almost seems our lives are futile.

Instead, why not turn to Him in the first place?

But we think we know better.  We abort babies, we use fists to solve problems, we pull the plug on life.

We are all guilty if we stand by and allow this to continue.

We are as one pulling the trigger and taking a life if we say nothing.

We must stop the madness that will eventually consume this great country of ours.

We could easily self-implode and our enemies are aware of that.

May God be with America in this time of our great distress and show mercy on us.

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

Posted in ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS, Life, Poetry by Kathy Boecher, wisdom | Tagged , | 7 Comments

THE WEEK AHEAD

Posted on November 3, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

It’s not unusual to make plans for the coming week. We usually have some kind of agenda to accomplish and setting goals for completing them is usually mapped out at the beginning, but by the end, the road has taken a detour. What do you do when your plans are interrupted? How do you deal with major delays and distractions? Most of us just give up and add those hoped for dreams to next week’s list.

Do you get discouraged by that? Are you disappointed in yourself? Do you wonder why this always happens to you? You’re not alone. We are about to enter a week of turmoil. A National presidential election looms over us. Many have made up our minds, many have already voted, many still can’t decide. There are also those who refuse to vote, because they feel there aren’t any good choices. However, when we fail to vote, we better be prepared to keep our mouths shut when a candidate we might have voted for doesn’t win. This wonderful right that has been granted to every citizen of the country. Not doing it is like spitting on the Constitution. How can we find any joy in that

Later in the week we will celebrate the veterans who bravely served our country – who gave the ultimate sacrifice – who didn’t plan to die but did. These two days come at a time when our country is not only divided, but angry with each other. The election will happen. Someone will be declared the winner. The process will undoubtedly be challenged. All of which is going to create even more division, but it is a right that has been duly given to us and we need to realize how important that is. It’s a gift.

There is nothing we can do about the lost lives in battle except to honor them, respect them, celebrate them and what they’ve done for us. This is another gift. Placing your life on the line for your countrymen is not something we give honor to anymore, but it is a gift of great value.

Jesus is the greatest piece of the equation. Without Him there would be no hope for our fallen race. There would be nothing but eternal death in hell. God’s love for us was so great that He sent His own Son to die for the human race and guarantee a place in heaven for those who follow Him. This is something we can count on for the coming week until our dying day. The gift of salvation is given to us every day that we draw breath. There will be ups and downs. We’ll face problems. Things will not always go smoothly. Our path may be filled with roadblocks and detours, but one thing remains. God loves us. He died for us. He lived again and we will too. He has an amazing plan lined up for the human race. He’s made that possible. That’s something we don’t even have to think about. When we put our trust in God. Instead of beginning the week with a cloud hanging over your head, remember this. Look up! It’s going to be a good week!

Posted in America, God's plans, purpose, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on THE WEEK AHEAD

LOVE MEANS SAYING YOU’RE SORRY

Posted on November 2, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The world is not the place for me.  I long to be in heaven.
When thoughts like that invade my mind, I need to be forgiven.
God didn’t make me to want death.  He chose me as His own.
He crafted me and knew me before my life was sewn.
Each little piece he whittled.  Each vessel put in place.
He had a plan set just for me.  He knew the dreams I’d chase.
And even as my days grow short, and time is running out,
I feel His presence in my life.  Of this I have no doubt.
To live for me is Jesus, no matter where I roam.
I will rejoice to meet Him when He comes to take me home.

Personal relationships should always be truthful, but an intimate relationship with God requires laying all our sins at His feet.  We should do this, not because He isn’t completely aware of our mistakes, but because He wants us to see our need for Him. By doing this, we’re being released from the burden, but we’re also drawing closer to Him.  Instead of thinking of Him as a vengeful judge, we should remember how much He loves us.  His love covers all our past mistakes. When He conquered death, He was demonstrating what lay ahead for all those who ask for forgiveness – eternal life.

We see the world falling deeper and deeper into darkness – we think it has lost sight of God’s eternal plan – we blame others for the trouble we’re in – but we often forget that sin is what brought us to such a time as this. God knew that our weakened state required a Savior – now we need to rely on His saving grace. Our salvation depends on it. The only way to do that is to open our hearts completely to Him – to admit that we have sinned and fallen short of our God’s law. Repent of those sins and live life in a way pleasing to God. That’s where the intimacy begins.

KATHY BOECHER©

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, forgiveness, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

THE DAY AFTER HALLOWEEN

Posted on November 1, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

It had been an exhausting night. The man, Martin Luther had made his way up the steps to the door of the Wittenburg church. No doubt, anxiety was raging inside him. As he unrolled the scroll and lifted his hammer, he had to be wondering if he was doing the right thing. He had pondered this very deed for some time, until his voice could no longer remain silent.

Martin was born the son of successful businessman who wanted his son to follow in his footsteps. Martin had other ideas. As a child he was educated in schools that were run by the Catholic church. He was well versed in scripture. He studied the Bible incessantly. As he grew older, he decided to become a monk against his father’s will. Perhaps the strict lifestyle of the time in the home as well as the church, made him feel he had to choose this vocation to make himself right with God. Times were also changing. The Renaissance was in full force. New ideas, newfound appreciation for the arts, and an interest in world issues was emerging.

The monastic life required a life of structure, prayer, work, study, self-sacrifice, service and more prayer. The life required confession and prayer and Martin lived up to that obligation. Many a priest would complain about his long list of sins as he entered the confessional. For some reason, he never felt adequate to come into God’s presence. The church of the time was selling indulgences, which guaranteed a place in heaven. Knowing that grace was the only thing required, made Martin question the church and its desire to gain wealth through the selling of these worthless documents.

Finally, he could wait no longer. He had to confront the church. He knew in his heart that he might be considered a heretic. He felt the sting of condemnation. Yet he could not allow his fellow Christians to be duped in this way. When he hammered the document to the church door, he knew it would be read. On the next day, the church would be filled with many who would gather for All Saints Day. I wonder what was going through his mind as he left that church. I wonder if he knew his words would not only challenge the church, but also put his life in danger. I wonder if I would be able to stand up to the voices of those I challenged. I wonder, yet I know that God was guiding Martin Luther to change the corruption and reform His church on earth.

Once again, God had a plan. He used a group of young reformers to weed out the wrongs of the church. They were ordinary men like you and me. We all have an obligation to do God’s will on this earth. He has made it possible for us to enter paradise. We have the confidence to join the saints in heaven who have gone before us. Death no longer holds fear for those who love God.

Hold Thou Thy cross
Before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom
And point me to the skies.
Heaven’s morning breaks,
And earth’s vain shadows flee;
In life, in death,
O Lord, abide with me.

From the Hymn “Abide With Me,” by Henry Francis Lyte

Posted in reformation | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

THE LAST DAY OF OCTOBER

Posted on October 31, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Today is the last day of October and a lot is going on. First of all, Paul and I managed to hobble to the polling place yesterday and cast our ballots early. So that scary thing has been crossed off our list. It’s also Halloween and soon the little creatures of the night will knock on our door expecting free candy. We are impressed with the very young trick or treaters. The local squirrels have carved our only pumpkin with their sharp little teeth. It’s not perfect, but you have to give them credit for originality. The scary images of this day are everywhere. Zombies, witches, ghosts, vampires and many more. Many of us are getting used to seeing them, which is a scary thought to begin with. In Minnesota, it has also become traditional for snow to fall. Right now, I’m looking out at a carpet of white and heavy flakes falling from the sky. October 31st also recognizes the Reformation of the Roman Catholic church of the Renaissance era. Martin Luther was one of the early reformers. The teachings of the church had been corrupted and the message of salvation had turned into the selling of indulgences. The truth of the Gospel had been erased and become a works-oriented institution.

Yes, a lot of things are happening on this last day of October. One thing remains the same, no matter what month of the year it is. Jesus came to save that which was lost. All our fears, our demons, our past mistakes have been washed away by Him. The consistency of our God is apparent. He never changes. His plans are always for our good. He invites us to lay our burdens on His shoulders. He has a plan perfectly designed for each one of us. Tomorrow is another day, and we can be confident that all of this will be the same where He’s concerned. Trials will come and go. Elections will pass and we will go on. Fears will be swallowed up in victory. The church will undergo changes, but as long as the Bible remains the source of its teaching will never change.

So goodbye, October. Maybe I’ll see you again next year. Maybe I’ll be in heaven by then. Whatever happens, I know that my Redeemer has it all figured out.

Posted in fear, halloween, Jesus, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

IT’S OK TO SAY NO . . .

Posted on October 29, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

There are days when we simply must learn to say “no.” The actual word is a negative response, but there comes a time in life when we can no longer accomplish the things we did 20, 30, 40 years ago. In fact, we often have trouble remembering what we did a minute ago. For many of us, a life of serving others has been our mission. It’s inborn as well as taught by those who have gone before us. Jesus was the perfect example of serving ever. We can’t possibly match Him, but he has given us gifts which we can use to serve Him and His kingdom.

Still, when we reach a certain age, we need to remember that our bodies and minds don’t always remain the same. We grow old. We’re limited in what we can do. When we push too hard to accomplish things, it takes us so much longer to recover from them. What we used to accomplish in a day, now takes a week or more. Admitting that fact is difficult for most of us. It’s like saying “goodbye” to our youth and “hello” to our decline. The whole thing is depressing if you let it be.

Within the last week my schedule included rehearsal and performance. We enjoyed a homemade meal at our house, with family. We attended a church event for Trunk or Treat. We treated ourselves to a dinner out. We watched the Packers play football. We attended church. I went grocery shopping, which is my weekly exercise. Today we were invited to attend breakfast with our church friends. This is a weekly event and also a chance for fellowship. I tried to make my way out of bed at least three times but kept returning to it. Both of us struggled with getting up. We are both 82. Getting out of bed shouldn’t require so much work, but it does.

We shouldn’t feel guilty when we simply can’t keep up anymore. We should feel honored to still be invited, but we can keep those friendships alive in other ways. As we age, we seem to take longer to recover from an illness. We struggle to come back healthier from each surgery. We take longer to heal. We eventually wear out. We still have value, however. Life doesn’t have to be a rat race. We can be useful even when the years start accumulating. The wisdom, knowledge, patience, lessons we’ve learned over time can be of great value to the younger generations.

For me, slowing down has come to mean a freedom of sorts. God has promised to be with us on this journey called life. Knowing that He is there, makes the walk so much easier, but in the meantime, we should remember that we aren’t always physically capable.

PSALM 71:17-18 ESV – “O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds. So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come.

Posted in aging, anxiety, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

WE CAN NEVER LOVE LIKE GOD DOES

Posted on October 28, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The very idea that God loves us without conditions is impossible to comprehend. When you add to the fact that His forgiveness is a reflection of that love and even when we were sinners, He loved us more than we possibly could deserve.

In our world today, we’re told that sin is non-existent – that we’re accountable to no one except ourselves – that there is no God – that we should live every moment to the max, because we deserve it  – that we are the rulers of our own domain –  that we should blame others for our mistakes and foolish actions – that when we die, that’s the end of us.

We’ve gotten so far away from the truth of God’s Word, which incidentally was inspired by God’s voice into the minds, mouths and pens of ordinary men.  If you don’t believe that, chances are you’ll not believe in God’s expectations of us – He demands perfection.  You will never comprehend His unique love, which surpasses understanding.  You won’t see His willingness to sacrifice Himself to pay for every sin and to give us the inheritance of a life in eternity. None of it will make sense without the Bible.

Every time you refer to His Word, you’ll learn something new, but the core of the message is that God’s love is different than ours.  His ways are not our ways.  His thoughts are different than ours.  He is perfect in every way.  Because of his unconditional love, we’ve been given freedom from our sin.  We’ve been purchased at a great price.  We need the law of the Old Testament to show us our sin.  The New Testament is God’s gift to mankind – His “get out of jail, free” card.  Through it we see how great God’s love is for us.  He washes the slate clean and gives us a fresh start.

This doesn’t mean we can go through life sinning as usual.  Because we’ve been redeemed by the Savior, Jesus, we should be changed through our sanctification – not by our deeds, but by God’s unimaginable love. The change will be evident in how we finish out the rest of our lives.  We’ll never be like God until we reach His heavenly realm, but staying true to His Word of truth, we’ll grow to know who He is and how much He loves us.  His love is without end – love unknown by us – love imperishable, everlasting, eternal.  He cannot be outdone, so why would we even try?

“Only the supernatural love of God through changed lives can solve the problems that we face in our world.”

Billy Graham

Posted in ENDURING LOVE, peace, Salvation | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments