DO OVER DAYS

whimsical_shakespeare_happiness_quote_art_print-rb8802197470e41508463dd8f49c8f6b5_jmf_8byvr_512

Mondays are great do over days.  We’ve been refreshed through worship and praise.  We have a new week ahead of us – new challenges to face – dreams to fulfill.  When we begin anew, we have to face the possibility of starting over and over again.  The truth is, no matter how we try to fix things on our own, we simply can’t do it.  We need an advocate – someone who will pave the way for us –  who can make that road easier –  who will be waiting for us at the end of the journey to take us to our perfect home in heaven.

In the meantime, while we are still walking this earth, we can also rely on Jesus to be with us every step of the way.  He’s the perfect traveling companion because He will pick us up when we fall, lead us through dangerous territory, deliver us from things that throw us off course.  He will never leave us in times of trouble, in good times and when we need Him  most.

When He leads the way, we are assured of reaching our heavenly home.  We are not assured of a perfect life here on earth, but we can count on being able to endure even the most difficult situations if we place our trust in the One  gives us hope for a great future.

Revelation 21:4 – And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Thank you, dear Lord, Jesus, for second chances.  I need them every day, because I fall short of your requirements.  Help me put my trust in you to guide me through every second, minute, hour and day of my life.  Amen.

Posted in Bible, christian daily devotions, Encouragement, Faith, God, hope, Inspiration, Jesus, Lent, Religion, repentance | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on DO OVER DAYS

FEBRUARY 28

It amazes me that there is a holiday for every day of the year.  In fact many days have more than one celebration.  Today is February 28.  It’s kind of a strange day to begin with, because it’s the only month with 28 days – and yet every four years there are 29.  Even then February has been shortchanged.  So it shouldn’t really surprise me that today is also International Sword Swallower’s Day.

This isn’t an occupation for everyone.  In fact I can’t claim that I know anyone who trains to be a sword swallower.  Where would you go to train anyway?  Maybe some cut throat college, I suppose.  Imagine the jokes people would throw at you.  The competition wouldn’t be that bad though.  How many of these guys are out there?  Of course there isn’t much call for sword swallowers these days.  You could say that the need for them has been cut drastically.  In fact, swords have been replaced by more sophisticated weapons.  I sure would hate to see someone try to swallow one of them.

The other event celebrated on February 28th is National Tooth Fairy Day.  My personal tooth fairy has undoubtedly gone into early retirement, because there’s no need for her anymore.  Besides, in my day, teeth were only reaping a quarter a piece.  She must be enjoying the good life these days.

It’s kind of funny that both these events would fall on the same day.  Of course I suppose if you swallowed enough swords it could lead to tooth loss.  It could also lead to many other maladies.  Maybe that’s why February 28 is also Rare Disease Day.

OK, so much for levity.  Have a great February 28th.

Posted in Humor | Tagged | Comments Off on FEBRUARY 28

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE

lightsintheworld

Our house is situated on a hill and during the winter months, the lack of foliage clears the way to a fabulous view of the city.  During the day its beauty is sometimes hidden by dark smoke rising from industrial areas, the dinginess of older factories, the container filled railroads and the big broken down warehouses.  Much of the ugliness of the city is hidden by the darkness of night and often overtaken by the twinkling of colorful lights all across the cityscape.  It puts a different perspective on things when there’s light – real or synthetic.

Jesus wants us to shine too.  That light is not something we can turn on and off at any time.  It’s a brilliance that can be seen all the time.  It’s the reflection of a much greater light that should bounce off of us and spread to others, bringing light to them as well.

We live in a world of darkness.  There are times when we feel helpless or hopeless and it doesn’t seem we will ever see the light again.  Sin has been with us since the Garden of Eden, but God gave us His everlasting light through His Only begotten Son.  Through Him, we can radiate like the twinkling lights that dot the city.  We can be a beacon in the darkness, helping someone find their way back to a hope filled life.  We can be a blaring searchlight or a tiny glint in the distance, but if there is even a glimmer, there’s light.

We depend on God to bring us forgiveness so let’s also rely on the fact that it’s available to the world too.  Even the darkest fears, the loneliest moments, the frightening problems and the most evil of humanity can be made bright again through the blood of Jesus.  Letting our light reflect off of Jesus just might lead someone back to Him.

Posted in Bible, daily devotions, Encouragement, Faith, God, hope, Inspiration, Jesus, light | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

NET WHAT?

201205-Net-Neutrality

Every time I go off on politics, I get negative feedback and it’s hard for an old lady to handle negativity.  Someone was once said, “Relying on the government to protect our privacy is like asking a peeping Tom to install your window blinds.”  Personally I think that relying on the government these days is just asking for more dependence on them.

Just when I’m finally able to maneuver my way around the internet with a little amount of understanding – wouldn’t you know it – Uncle Sam wants to get in on the action.  The FCC will probably be able to pass legislation giving them the ability to act as the police of the internet – another move by our transparent government to press their fingerprints into our lives to see what we’re up to.

I have nothing to hide.  The words I write are a simple confession of what I believe.  Sometimes I say things I don’t like about our current administration, but that’s one of the few freedoms I have left to me – or do I?

Every day we hear about how our privacy is being invaded through internet hacking and identity theft.  Now the government wants to get involved in it and we’re supposed to trust their judgment?  The same group of people who created national health care and determined that it had to be passed before we could see what was in it, has now decided to monitor the only line of mass communication left to us.

A whole new industry has opened up providing protection from hackers, but there is no protection from those who say they work for us, but have their own interests in mind.

Lord, I can’t get up or lay down without your constant care.  You deliver me from evil every hour of every day.  Help me cope with the fears that infect our world and even our homeland.  Give me the confidence that your guiding hand will hold me tight.  I know your freedom is the only one I can count on.

Posted in christianity, daily devotions, Encouragement, Faith, God, government, Inspiration, Internet, Jesus, politics, Religion, truth | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on NET WHAT?

HIS HANDS

th2JSJQX9M

A babe so soft, a child so sweet, lay on a bed of hay,

His mom looked at the dimpled hands and counted fingers at play.

His hands would grow with bruises and scuffs as children often do.

He used them to craft with wood and nails and callouses He knew.

The hands would search the scriptures, though He wrote every phrase,

His hands would do miraculous deeds – like heal and calm and raise.

He touched the hearts of many, He healed their broken souls, He held them close and tight.

The soldiers rammed iron nails into His willing flesh.  Each nerve burned for our plight.

He died upon that wooden cross, He suffered, and He bled,

The grave would never hold Him.  He conquered death instead.

When once again we see Him in glory and in might,

He’ll take our hands and hold them.  For He has won our fight.

KATHY BOECHER©

Posted in Christian Poetry, Encouragement, Faith, forgiveness, God, Inspiration, Jesus, Lent, Religion | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on HIS HANDS

I LOVE MY DOG GAGE

Our dog is a Llewellyn Setter going on seven years old. It took him more than six years to warm up to us. Perhaps it’s because of his British lineage that he’s a bit on the stuffy side. On the other hand it could be that he had some giant paws to fill. His predecessor had been part of our family for eleven years and I think he sensed how much we missed him.

This “new” guy has also had to endure some difficult times with us. There were the surgeries, the emotional and painful treatments for cancer – the financial struggles of going into retirement without a retirement plan – the loss and sickness of friends – the wondering if we could stretch a dollar any further – strange working schedules – and people who are growing old.

This dog has eaten a ton of paper towels, toilet paper, junk mail, receipts and yesterday topped it all off with a five dollar bill. I think there may be some truth to ” my dog ate my homework.”

He does have a constitution of steel regardless. He has also eaten an entire loaf of bread with the plastic wrap, a bag of M & Ms, (creating the most colorful barf ever expelled,) a raw chicken breast and destroyed a few shoes as well.

I kind of like this fellow. He’s filled a lot of empty spaces. Thwarted a home invasion while we were away, has always been at the door to greet us when we arrive home, doesn’t expect much except when we get a phone call. It’s at those moments he requires our undivided attention. When he decides to come close to us, he’s very affectionate. He loves us unconditionally, even when we aren’t lovable. I think we’ll keep him.

Posted in aging, Daily devotion, Encouragement, Family, Pets, reflections | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

LORD, HAVE MERCY UPON US

thM0JR0LM0

Things are getting closer to home with the current threats of terrorism at the Mall of America in Minnesota.  Our quiet home on the prairie isn’t as safe as we thought.  The entire country should be on alert.  Our land has been integrated with a giant force of evil.  It isn’t necessarily one group or ethnicity.  It isn’t a particular religion or philosophy.  It’s a true, clearly defined, crafty, insidious force which had its beginning long ago in the Garden of Eden.  It was crushed when the Son of God was nailed to the cross, but it’s not dead yet.  Satan’s power is running rampant across our planet and the only way he will be stripped of it is when our Savior returns again to judge him and all his minions.

In the meantime, God has given us the protection we need to fend off Satan – to put him at bay.  With Him we have a safety net which the devil cannot penetrate.  As Jesus was confronted by the devil in the wilderness for 40 days, His humanity was being tested.  Satan always seems to think he can overpower God with his knowledge, but he doesn’t stand a chance.

Jesus has a divine side as well.  He fought the prince of darkness with words from God’s scriptures.  We too need to arm ourselves with the Bible so we can have the right words to defend ourselves.  Words can be a powerful weapon.  God’s Word is truth and the devil can’t handle the truth.

Our prayers also hold clout, not because they’re coming from our mouths, but because they are communication from our hearts to our heavenly Father.  He loves to hear from us.  He promises to answer our prayers –  He will never depart from us – He’s trustworthy –  He’s in charge.

God, I don’t know what will happen in the next hours or days, but I know your plans include me.  You love me so much that you gave the life of your only Son to free me from the bondage of sin.  You are the One I can count on.  I pray for my country, for my fellow believers, for those who would harm us and for this world to finally come to know you.  We all need your presence in our lives.  Amen!

Posted in Bible, Christian daily devotion, Encouragement, Faith, God, Inspiration, Jesus, peace, prayer, Religion | Tagged , , , | 20 Comments

PSALM 118:1-6

O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever. Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever. Let the house of Aaron now say, that his mercy endureth for ever. Let them now that fear the Lord say, that his mercy endureth for ever. I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large place. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on PSALM 118:1-6

THIS ISN’T WHERE I LIVE

This planet’s not my home. I am an alien here.
This place is just a hardened shell encasing sin and fear.
The shell is hard to crack. There’s only one who can.
He is the Lord of heaven. The Son of God and Son of man.

He came this earth to save from punishment and death.
He died to save us from God’s wrath with His last dying breath.
We now can face our death with peace and confidence.
He bought us for His own with his own recompense.

Now arm us with your truth. Give us a faith of steel.
Defend us in our darkest hour, for you know how we feel.
You walked within our shoes, the price you paid immense.
You lift us from the depths of hell. New life will now commence.

KATHY BOECHER©

Posted in Christian Poetry, daily christian devotions, Encouragement, Faith, forgiveness, God, grace, Inspiration, Jesus, Optimism, peace, perseverence, Religion, Salvation | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

HOW DO WE FIGHT EVIL?

ArmorofGod_zpsde4fb639

Lately with all the ugliness of this world, I’ve been feeling so helpless and useless.  Our planet is slowing becoming polluted with evil and it’s hard not to become proactive.  We can easily fall into a pit of desperation if we let it get to us, but the best advice always comes from God’s Word, so that’s where I went.

The section in Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us how to approach the evil we encounter every day.  We should arm ourselves, not with physical armor, but with the tools that God gives us to fight the devil – the belt of truth – the breastplate of righteousness- the shoes which make us ready to spread the Gospel – the shield of faith, which protects us from all that the devil throws at us – the helmet of salvation – and the sword of the spirit.

All of those symbolic tools of preparing for war are especially important, because we are not actually waging a physical war as Christians.  Our war is not against one group of people or another.  Our daily battle is with the prince of darkness – the devil.  By arming ourselves with God and His Word we have the greatest defense against Satan.  In this section of scripture, it’s important to realize that God isn’t telling us to take up arms against our enemies, but to protect ourselves with the tools He provides us.  Our real enemy is the devil and the work he does corrupting the hearts and minds of people.

Jesus used God’s Word to fight the devil in the wilderness as He fasted for 40 days.  This is the one thing the devil can’t handle  When the temptation of Jesus was finished, the devil left Him alone, just as he will depart from us if we depend on God’s armor.

When life becomes overwhelming and it looks like all is lost – when it seems that man can no longer see God’s plan for His people – when the devil looks like he’s winning, it’s time to polish up that suit of armor and trust in the Lord’s protection.

Posted in anxiety, armor of God, christian daily devotions, Faith, fear, God, hopelessness, Jesus, Religion, war | Tagged , , | 13 Comments

TIME FOR A KATHY RANT

Have we been overtaken by fear of an unknown enemy? Are we reluctant to speak out because we are afraid what we say may go viral and have negative effects to our reputation or our families? If this is the case, what has happened to our freedom?

I know there are more than a handful of people in our country who are overwhelmed by what’s going on in our leadership, our branches of government our local representatives. Each day the news is filled with stories of inhumanity, ugliness, hatred, injustices. Where has our outrage gone?

Some say we need to get to the root of the problem by creating more jobs, training, help for underprivileged. Some think that dealing with the enemy requires peaceful intervention. Unfortunately our greatest enemies don’t care about peace.

As an aging American, I grew up with a love of my country – of my freedoms – of the foundations upon which it was founded. Lately I’ve seen a lack of patriotism, mistrust of government and a lack of the spirit which made our country great.

I know our kingdom is not of this world, but I also believe that God has laid out a plan for how we should live while we’re here. We have been told to be strong and courageous. Where is our courage? Where is our voice?

I’d like to hear from others about this. What can we do to make our voice heard? How do we get our country back on track ? Why are so many so complacent and satisfied with life as it is.

Posted in America, Christian daily devotion, christianity, Faith, God, Jesus, patriotism, politics, Religion | Tagged , , , | 6 Comments

GOD’S PERFECT TREASURE

You give a priceless treasure – a gift with love unmeasured.

It spans the days of time and gives with love sublime.

You walk within its pages.  You travel still through ages.

Your passion lies therein, how you have wiped out sin.

Your love cannot be hidden – each page shows how you’ve given

Your greatest gift to me.  Your Word will set me free.

KATHY BOECHER

Posted in Bible, Christian Poetry, Encouragement, Faith, Inspiration, Jesus, Religion | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on GOD’S PERFECT TREASURE

WHERE LIES THE TREASURE?

thZX4PR28H

Most of us like to hear stories about finding undiscovered treasures.  Some of the greatest books in literature, the most popular movies and exciting theme parks are based on the search for that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.  We may dream of winning the lottery and filling our pockets and hearts with happiness.  We may hope for a huge raise that will make our lives easier.  We dream about that fabulous trip we’ve always wanted to take.  We all like to think of ourselves in a better place with no worries or problems.

We might come across an antique piece of jewelry in a box left behind by grandma and think this is the answer to all our financial problems.  It could be that old book discovered at a garage sale or an unknown trinket at a flea market.  Maybe your treasure lies right within your reach and you don’t even know it.  I have been on both sides of the financial realm and they aren’t really that different.  Each side holds its own problems.

If you’re the owner of God’s Word to you, the Bible, you have a treasure that cannot be measured by human standards.  It has advice on every problem you’ll encounter in life.  You can learn about marriage and family – financial decisions – how to plan for the future – how to find success and confidence – how to overcome depression – what kind of spouse to look for – what to do when it seems there’s no hope – how to trust, live, relate to others,  overcome fear and that’s just the beginning.

Treasures of this world are only temporary.  Soon they run out and we have to find another way to live.  With the Holy Bible, you can be assured that the advice, wisdom, knowledge and treasure within its pages never run out.  They last for an eternity.

Posted in daily christian devotions, Encouragement, Faith, God, Inspiration, Jesus, Life, Religion, treasure | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on WHERE LIES THE TREASURE?

TAKE MY HEART

My heart Is stained with darkness. There is no good in me.
I don’t deserve God’s forgiveness, but still, He loves me.
I continue to turn my back on Him, but He won’t leave me.
I put my trust in myself rather than searching for Him.
Each day I come to him and ask forgiveness for the same sins.
Each day He shows His love for me by washing me clean,
By myself I can do nothing to win my salvation.
With Him my existence has purpose, value and a new beginning.
Search my heart, dear Lord and accept me just as I am – a sinner.

Posted in Bible, Christian daily devotion, christianity, Encouragement, Faith, forgiveness, freedom, God, grace, Heaven, hope, Inspiration, Jesus, Lent, peace, Religion, repentance, Salvation | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

WHAT WILL I GIVE UP FOR LENT?

hebecameme

The practice of giving something up for Lent is one of those practices that may seem outdated, but not if it’s done with the right attitude.  If we do it as a way of gaining our own salvation it’s wrong, but if done as a reminder of what Jesus sacrificed for us we are giving thanks to Him.

Think of what He gave up for us.  He left His holy throne in heaven where He ruled the world alongside His Father.  He shed the riches of His office and became a poor man with no place to lay His head.  He lived a life filled with frustration, anger, sadness, joy, weariness – just like we do every day.  He taught, led, delivered and gave hope to those who had lost all hope.  He allowed Himself to be humiliated in front of a court of people He’d come to save.  He suffered a brutal beating, a jeering crowd, the weight of the cross and ultimately the loss of His physical life.

As we know, the story didn’t end there.  When He overcame that pathetic death, He came alive again and showed Himself to His followers.  He conquered death so we would know that our sins are forgiven and we too would never die.

So, is it all right to give something up for Lent?  We can start by giving up our guilt.  He came specifically to bear our iniquities and tells us to lay our burdens on Him.  Still it’s not always easy to do so.  Our human nature tells us we should be responsible people and be involved in some way.  The truth is, we can’t save ourselves – only God can do that.

So if you want to thank Him for that in some outward way – don’t eat candy for 40 days.  You might lose a pound or two and in the process you will be showing honor to the One who deserves our praise.

Posted in Bible, Christian daily devotion, Encouragement, Faith, God, Inspiration, Jesus, Lent, Religion, Sacrifice | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments

WRINKLES

whimsical_shakespeare_happiness_quote_art_print-rb8802197470e41508463dd8f49c8f6b5_jmf_8byvr_512

Each day seems to bring a new line into my face.  With all the junk going on in the world it’s enough to make one look like a prune.  I prefer to refer to my wrinkles as laugh lines, because that’s what most of them were caused by.  I’ve always been good for a laugh.  I love funny jokes, I prefer comedy over drama and the sound of laughter is delightful to me.

There are days when we just have to laugh at our circumstances.  Not every day is going to be perfect.  We aren’t always going to be happy.  Our dreams may never be accomplished.  I suppose we could just pack it all up and throw in the towel.  A lot of folks do just that.  They give up!

God doesn’t want that from us.  He wants us to be refined by our troubles – to be crafted into a fine masterpiece.  Some of us will be polished and smoothed while others will be shriveled and beaten up, but the point is that He’s constantly working us – smoothing out the creases, straightening the path we walk, and making even the ruts and bumps along the way.  I expect that all my wrinkles will be gone when I get to heaven, but then no one would recognize me.  I guess it doesn’t matter what I look like as long as I have an eternity to spend in a perfect place.

Life can beat us up or lift us up.  It’s our choice.  As for me, I’m happy to have the ability to laugh – even at myself.  Think of the alternative.

Proverbs 17:22  A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Posted in Bible, Encouragement, eternity, Faith, God, Heaven, hope, Inspiration, Jesus, Religion | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

COME QUICKLY, LORD, JESUS!

Lord, the signs of the end times are swirling all around me. Some of the prophesies are unfolding right before my eyes. It would be easy to believe that the final judgement is coming soon. Those who trust in you and your promises are excited and can’t wait. We long for your return, just as the Jews yearned for a Messiah before your first coming.

You tell us not to try to determine when the final day will occur. You say you will return like a thief in the night – unexpected. I know we must all be ready and eager for that day. I pray for an end to all the corruption, needless brutality, sexual immorality and that Your justice will be given out with perfect knowledge and wisdom.

Help me to trust that you are in control of every second, minute, hour and day. You hold the world in the palm of Your hand and only You know the time when You will return.

Until then I pray, it’s getting harder and harder to wait so please come soon, Lord, Jesus. AMEN!

Posted in Bible, christianity, Encouragement, End times, Faith, God, hope, Inspiration, Jesus, peace, prayer, Religion | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

THE MOM GAME

mother quote 2

Fortunately I was young when I had my children.   As we age our patience runs out – our energy wanes – our tolerance is pretty much dead – and our thoughts can’t keep up with the speed of technology, much less children.

There were times I was ready to throw up my hands and just give up.  I often felt guilty- unworthy – unorganized – unqualified – unappreciated – inept.  I love my children, but there were days when I wanted to run away.

We expect motherhood to be the most beautiful thing we ever do as women.  We think our children will be well mannered, smart, beautiful and perfect.  We expect every day to be smooth sailing.

There will be dishes in the sink – unmatched socks in the laundry basket – oatmeal on the walls – not enough time in the day to get everything done – times when you think the bathroom is your only sanctuary, until they find your hiding place and join you.

There will be nights when you pace the floor with a colicky child – cool down a fever – remake a bed – wonder why they’re late and what they might be up to.  You may never sleep again.

There are millions of other moms going through the same thing.  Remind yourself why you had a child in the first place.  Think about the end product and maybe that will help you cope with the here and now.

The responsibilities of child rearing are huge.  Add to that a job outside the home, community commitments, church activities, grocery shopping, laundry, housekeeping, etc., and it all becomes overwhelming.

This is the time to appreciate the little things.  The delight when they  create a house out of a box or make a valentine just for you.  Think about the thank you hugs and the I love you that comes when least expected.  Think of their feeling of accomplishment as they  tie their shoes or show their siblings how to.  The small things become the important when you’re a mom.

Motherhood isn’t for sissies, but it’s the most important job you will ever do.  Start each day praying for them and for yourself.  This is a tough job, but with God’s help you can do it!!

Posted in aging, Bible, Christian daily devotion, Encouragement, Faith, Family, Inspiration, motherhood, parenting, Religion | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

LOVE YOU CAN COUNT ON

God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.

Posted in Bible, christian daily devotions, Faith, God, Jesus, Religion, valentines day | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

A VALENTINE FOR MY HUSBAND

th5Z646HOF

The touch of your hand, the power behind the hugs you give,

The joy I receive when I see you smile and know you’ have peace,

The feeling I get when you come home from a trip away from home,

The tears I shed when we disagree or misunderstand each other,

The way my heart hurts when you hurt,

The laughter we’ve shared for so many years,

Your silly jokes, your funny little dance, the way your humor still makes me laugh and laugh,

The feeling I get when I look into your eyes,

The tenderness of your kisses,

The security I feel when locked in your embrace,

The knowledge I have that we will see each other again in eternity,

The satisfaction I experience knowing that we have had a wonderful life together even in the most difficult of times,

The leader you’ve become through your teaching, sharing and caring for those you lead.

The enthusiasm you give to everything you do,

Your love for God – the Father, Son and Holy Ghost,

Your appreciation and interest in preserving the beauty of this world through your art,

Your talent, your zeal, your unselfishness, your faith,

These are just a few of the reasons I love you.

Thank you and thank God for allowing me to grow old with you.

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

Posted in aging, Christian Poetry, christianity, Encouragement, Faith, Family, Inspiration, love, marriage, valentines day | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments