LIKE I NEED ANOTHER PLANT . . .

Posted on August 29, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Yesterday the air cleared enough for me to breathe long enough to get out and do my grocery shopping. As I pushed my cart rapidly through the store, I ventured into the garden center. I love the mums that show up at this time of year to give some added color to the garden. I really don’t need another plant, but still, I couldn’t resist a walk into that space. There were huge containers of mixed autumn colors. Brilliant maroons, lusty browns and glistening golds all in one pot. I took a look at the price tag and quickly walked away. As I left the garden center, I couldn’t help but notice a leafy hydrangea bush with several brown petals, yet a few dazzling white blooms peeking through. The leaves were healthy, the soil moist and the price was right. Ten dollars for this somewhat pitiful looking plant that never made it into a garden. So, I put it in my cart, finished my shopping and went home.

How ridiculous, I thought as I drove home. Only a couple of months ago we were looking for a new place to live. Senior housing was on our minds. The thought of selling our house has since been put on hold. Why on earth would I even think I needed another plant. My garden is filled with lovely perennials. This summer has been a banner year for all of them, but somehow that lonely hydrangea was calling out to me. Now I have to find a spot for it, dig a hole and hope that it survives the winter.

I realize that I didn’t need to buy that plant, even though it was a huge bargain. It was going to require extra work on my part. It was going to require intervention from God to restore it to its original beauty. I felt guilty. I felt foolish. I felt, in a way, that it was something I had to do. Suddenly I realized that I’ve been doing this a lot for the past few years. I’ve been trying to fix things. I’ve been hanging on tightly to something I have no control over. The events going on in our lives right now are like that plant. Love and attention are not always enough. Sometimes we simply have to let go and let God.

Dear, Father, God, I ask that you help me surrender to your will. When difficult times make me wonder what to pray for, help me to know that you are in control of everything and that your plan for us is always good. Please, Lord, increase my faith in you and allow me to surrender. Amen!

Posted in aging, cancer, healing | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

NEVER, EVER ALONE . . .

Posted on August 28, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Life presents daily challenges whether we want them or not. We need to make difficult decisions. We may lack the confidence to achieve our goals. We might have limited resources and wonder how we’ll pay the bills. We could be stuck in a job we hate or is taking us nowhere. Maybe we’re facing health issues. You would think that God would get tired of our whining and complaining all the time, but the truth is He loves hearing from us. He also loves it when we show His compassion and love to our fellow man.

The noted poet, Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.” Whatever lays in your path today, you can be sure that Someone has your back. Imagine the Creator of the universe, standing behind you, beside you and in front of you, encouraging – pushing – leading and guiding you through those difficult times.

Dear LORD, remind me of all the blessings you have given me so that I may be a blessing to someone else today. Even though I know there will be challenges along the way, you are also with me on the journey. Thank you for answering my prayers before I even utter them. Amen!

Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments

PEACE I LEAVE YOU . . .

Posted on August 27, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Water calmed by the silence and absence of wind,

Glasslike in the brilliant sun,

Quiet, tranquil, away from the maddening crowds of interfering life,

For a brief moment, the world stands still, and you are reminded,

That He alone brings perfect peace,

A peace that transcends all human understanding,

A solitude that will last throughout eternity,

Take the peace freely given with open arms,

Bathe in it, clothe yourself with it, delight in each breath of it,

And pass it on to someone who longingly awaits the same.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, peace, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , | 8 Comments

DEATH CANNOT OVERPOWER US . . .

Posted on August 26, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

A year ago, we were beginning to experience what Palliative care is. It is defined as treatment for those with terminal diseases of a chronic nature, which continue until death. In a way, each step closer becomes more and more anticipated. For those who know that the One who created us and breathed life into us and is with us throughout our lifetime journey, has the ability to snuff out that life and resurrect it again after we take our final breath. About a month ago, my husband took the next step to Hospice care. This would seem to be the beginning of the end. A few years back, Hospice was considered the beginning of the end, but today it means that the patient is set on a path away from the anxiety of doctor’s appointments and medications. Hospice allows the patient to be treated with compassionate, tender and loving care at home. It’s a transition period, which allows for those final days to be as good as they can be.

The Cancer journey began in 2011 with the onset of Prostate Cancer and radiation treatments which took its toll on his strength and energy level. This once super energetic, feisty, strong, creative and faithful servant of God was slowly succumbing to the effects of the fight. Still His faith continues and both of us know that heaven is getting closer each day. During those years, other health issues entered the picture. A small stroke led to another. An aneurysm in the brain is a constant concern. He has a faulty heart valve. Replacing it would be detrimental to any of the other physical problems. There are many other issues which counteract each other when considering how to approach them. The decision not to have any treatment seemed like the only option. It has been a year since the Cancer metastasized to a tumor behind his esophagus,

As I started writing this post, I had hoped to relay the positive side of this journey, but up until now it sounds more like a complex medical report. The most difficult thing for me personally has been being able to surrender to God’s will. I still have days when I wonder what I should be praying for. I know that God is in control and yet, there is so much I wish I could do to intercede. At that point, I began to realize that we are not in charge of our destiny. God created each individual for a purpose, whether it is in sickness, health, life or death. Before we were conceived, He knew us and had laid out the plan for our lives. Knowing that, makes it much easier to let go, but human nature continues to fight and make us want to be involved in the process.

In this year, we have found joy in the little things. We continue to take little road trips – which are getting shorter each day. Getting into God’s creation has always been rejuvenating for both of us. We have an amazing family who supports our choices. They have shown their faith through their actions. We have a great support team at our little country church, comprised of mostly over age 60 members. We have a wonderful community of those who touched our lives throughout our careers, our successes and our losses. We are truly blessed in so many ways.

Any kind of chronic disease is going to wreak havoc. It often becomes like a time in the wilderness where all our emotions are tested. We can go from periods of joy to the depths of despair in just minutes. We can feel optimistic and full of dread at the same time. Tears fall. Hurt continues. Worry about future events is always in the picture. The hope of a resurrected body, without pain, suffering, tears or sadness, doesn’t always make you feel better, but it certainly is something to look forward to. God is so good. He has blessed us in so many ways. Life is uncertain, but God is constant and unchanging. He alone can lead us through any difficulty.

Psalm 23:4 ESV “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Posted in aging, cancer, healing, Heaven | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

WHEREIN GOD DWELLS . . .

Posted on August 25, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

When fears and worries are so real,

We sometimes wonder why we feel,

The pangs of deep depression.

The weight’s extreme – we lose all hope,

Our hearts grow sad – for strength we grope,

To lighten this progression.

We look within and try to cope

There are no answers in our scope

It now becomes oppression.

We try so hard to rise above,

We search in vain for any love.

To deal with this obsession.

We cannot do it on our own,

We need one advocate alone,

To bring our full confession.

God takes our hand and leads us out,

Relieves our pain – our fear – our doubt.

He is our best possession.

His love is great – it sees us through

When there is nothing we can do.

Our words hold no expression.

He lifts us from the pit of death.

He died for us to give us breath.

To wipe out our transgression.

Posted in Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, Faith, God | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WHEREIN GOD DWELLS . . .

SUMMER’S END . . .

Posted on August 24, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

As giant sunflowers dot the landscape and the smells of autumn begin to invade our nostrils, we say goodbye to summer and hello to my favorite time of the year. Autumn brings reminders of pumpkins, harvesting, hayrides and crunching leaves underfoot. Each day holds its own beauty and glory, but many of them can also be filled with trial, pain and discouragement. 

Fall is the perfect time for seeds and bulbs to go into the ground.  They are sometimes placed by human hands or farm machinery.  They might be carried by the wind or birds and animals.  God provides the natural mulch which covers and protects them over the cold winter months. During this time of coming dormancy, God may use them as food for foraging animals or He might allow them a needed rest so they can be ready for rebirth in the spring. Every day that God allots us is much like the changing seasons.

For a time, we grow dormant.  We find ourselves wearing out and caving under the pressure of life.  We struggle to survive.  We sometimes give up and fall apart.  The enduring winter seems as though it will never end and then we receive the tender touch of our Lord and Savior and are reborn through Him.

Dear Lord, thank you for giving us the seasons to enjoy.  Your beauty is everywhere in each day and in every breath we breathe.  Help us remember that no matter what trials come to us – you are there.  When things are running smoothly – you are there.  When we think there is no hope – you are also there.  I praise and thank you for your faithfulness. Amen!

Posted in aging, seasons, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

A MILLION DREAMS . . .

Posted on August 23, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

My dreams leave me wondering about the contents of my brain. They’re vivid, almost real, sometimes a reflection of something memorable and often disconnected. Dreams are things we might wish for, as the world would like us to believe. Walt Disney once said, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” This adage has been adopted by many people in hopes of achieving their goals. Dreams cannot fulfill your wishes. We need to take action to get a result, so I don’t put much faith in the idea of trusting dreams.

The story of Joseph, the young interpreter of dreams, has intrigued people of all ages for centuries. Joseph didn’t always make friends when he related the meaning of dreams, but he continued to do so.  I’ve been known to have some very weird dreams which might even raise Joseph’s eyebrows or at least cause him to see to it that I get psychiatric help.

We don’t usually put a lot of stock in our dreams today, because they are simply dreams. However, God has given us the ability to fall asleep and see a story unfold as we close our eyes. Maybe the dreams will lead us to action. Sometimes they will fill us with fear. There are times when we try to analyze our own dreams instead of letting God manage our future. God invites us into His loving arms each day. He promises to hug us with His protection, to clothe us with love, hope and His forgiveness. Our dreams should not govern our lives, but we shouldn’t discount them. As we learn to accept the unconditional love of God, we can shake off the negative feelings that haunt us. Our dreams will still come. They may provide ideas, innovation, ways of helping others, but they won’t guarantee our future. Only God can do that.

THANK YOU, JESUS FOR ANOTHER DAY!

Posted in aging, Dreams, Encouragemet | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

BACK TO SCHOOL DAZE . . .

Posted on August 22, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

If you haven’t purchased those back-to-school supplies by now, they will soon be replaced with Valentine’s Day cards. Of course, you may need to take out a loan to purchase all of them. When I was preparing my kids for their first day of school, backpacks had not yet become popular. Their books and supplies were held in a canvas bag r their arms, along with a lunch box. I still have nightmares about forgetting to make their lunches.

Soon kids may be pulling a cart with all their school necessities. I-pads and computers take the place of books, but in the meantime, I wonder what carrying all those other things on their backs will do to their aging bodies someday, but I digress.

The end of summer conjures memories of my childhood vacation times. I often spent the entire summer at my grandparent’s farm in Northern Wisconsin.  I can still picture the line of pine trees that stood at attention, leading up to the front door of the farm. The smell of fresh air and homemade bread baking still linger in my memory. Oh, the blessed days of our youth.  When the cares of the world are non-existent and the only thing to worry about was how we looked in a bathing suit. Today, my fears of even wearing a swimsuit have turned to how I’d squeeze myself into one.  Panty hose is another story, but I won’t go there.

Today, young people are confronted with so much more.  They’re exposed to violent behavior, not only through video games, but actual crime in the streets and thoughts of having their schools invaded by terrorists.  Bullying has become so much more vicious with the advent of the internet and social media.  Hatred, division, anger and so many negatives are thrown at them in conversation, in reactions of their parents, from their peers and from the world – because the world is literally at their fingertips.

On my grandparent’s farm, the radio would blast with good old country or gospel music.  Grandma would sing as the dog chimed in with his howls.  There wasn’t much news in a farm community.  I used to think the farm report was really boring, but oh how I long to hear boring news again. Confusion reigns in these young minds. It’s more important than ever that kids be exposed to the truth of God’s Word to equip them during these difficult times of growing up.

Dear, God, as our young people return to schools across our land, give them the enthusiasm and excitement to enter this adventure in spite of the possible dangers.  Help them absorb the knowledge necessary to make changes to their future.  Also look over their teachers, giving them courage to face the school year with confidence.  Be their constant companion, in Jesus’ name.  Amen!

Posted in back to school, Children, Faith | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

THE GOD OF PEACE . . .

Posted on August 21, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

“FINDING PEACE”

Where can you find some peace of mind, when all around seems lost,
In city streets so dimly lit, at an expensive cost,
In valleys green where water pours through rivers pure and clean,
In shadows of a sin filled world, with nothing in between,
In darkness of the soul within, is that where you find peace,
A sanctuary built of stone, where troubles you release,
Do you see it in the people, you work with every day,
Is it in the quiet laughter of children as they play ,
Does calm come from the depth of art, of music or of dance,
Or does it come from looking at your love’s sweet, smiling glance,
Don’t search in the darkest corners, you’ll never find it there,
The light that comes from God’s own face, will banish all your care.

Posted in God, peace, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

OUR FATHER GOD . . .

Posted on August 20, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Parenting can be rewarding, a little stressful at times, somewhat frustrating at others, but always an adventure. When God blesses us with children it’s our obligation as good and loving parents to make sure that child is cherished and cared for, but there are times when we fall short.

Thankfully God, our heavenly Father never does. God is the perfect Father, because He provides for all our needs here on earth and gives us the promise of eternity with Him in heaven. He’s always involved in our lives. For example, if we’re frustrated because of all the roadblocks we encounter in life, it may be that He’s  preventing us from being involved in a dangerous situation.

He loves us unconditionally even when we stray.  He’s always there to lift us back up again and set us on the right path. He loves us no matter how foolish we are or how many mistakes we make.  He doesn’t keep track of them either.

He’s  present in every aspect of our lives even though we aren’t aware of it. Parents can learn what being a good parent is by just looking at what God does for His kids. He cherishes us so much that He took our sins to the cross and buried them there.  He then overcame death so we could live again as He did.  What greater love is there than that?

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6.

Posted in God, parenting | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

A DELICATE BALANCE

Posted on August 19, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. Martin Luther King, Jr.

We’re experiencing some wonderful weather here in the Midwest.  Days are growing shorter, but each moment is filled with fresh, clean air – gorgeous sunrises and sunsets – colors that defy any artist’s palette – and treasured amounts of light. Seasons change and we know that winter is just around the corner.

I think we experience the same kind of changes in our lives.  There are days when the sun is always shining, and things are going along smoothly.  There are times when storms gather and seem to go on forever.  We experience the new life of spring and joy erupts in us like a dormant tulip bulb.  Our days of winter seem to last for an eternity, and we soon grow weary of the bleakness.

Light is imperative for all for all of us.  In Minnesota, many suffer from a lack of Vitamin D because of the absence of sunlight.  If we are in the dark, we tend to grope around trying to find our way.  Light can be a comfort to those who are afraid or lonely.  When God speaks of light, He’s not only referring to the physical light that comforts and guides us, but the light which flows from His Son, Jesus.  He is the delicate balance which keeps us safe – which guides us through the difficulties of life – which shows us the way to heaven.

Without that light we flounder around and stumble.  With it, we can become vigilant to the dangers around us and be confident that we will be safe no matter what. There are dangers at every turn, but we must not let our fears overtake us.  God is with us.  He is our light – our guide – our delicate balance – our ever-present protector.

“For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness.  So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.” 1 Thessalonians 5:5-6

Posted in aging, light, peace, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

NEVER GIVE UP . . .

Posted on August 18, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I’ve always loved stories with a moral – parables like Jesus told and those of philosophical folks who have experienced life to the max. Today is “Never Give Up,” day. This little story is filled with great motivation for those of us who daily face obstacles requiring perseverance.

The story is about a donkey who fell into a well. His owner felt the donkey wasn’t worth saving and since he planned to close up the well anyway, he decided to fill it with dirt while the donkey was struggling to get out. Most animal lovers at this point will be appalled, but aren’t we all susceptible to this kind of treatment every day?

With each shovel full of dirt, the donkey would shake it off and take a step up. The farmer even recruited his friends to pour on more dirt, but the persistent donkey continued to shake it off and step up. Eventually he climbed out of the well, because he had built his own way out.

The moral is obvious. As we go through this muddy life there will be problems. It will seem like we’ll never be able to dig our way out. If we just let the dirt fall on us, we will soon become buried in it. We’ll suffocate and die. If we desire to live, we try to think our way out.

Trying to dig ourselves out of a pit of despair is physically and mentally difficult, but God gives us the means to overcome the world. It is by His hands alone that the future has been carved. He knows what lies ahead and He has a plan for everything that happens in our lives. Trusting in His unfailing grace, we can shake it off and step up.

Posted in aging, perseverance, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

JESUS CHANGES EVERYTHING

Posted on August 17, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

It seems the older I get, the less I know or understand. My life may seem hunky dory to most folks, but even those who seem to have it all together, face difficulties. Many times, those difficulties require smart choices, getting counseling or advice or having a strong connection with God through our prayers.

When everything runs smoothly, our stress levels are on an even keel, but when we’re faced with life changing challenges, our whole existence transforms.  Our demeanor changes. Tears fall fast and furious. Our patience runs out. We try and fail. We try again. We feel helpless or hopeless. Anxiety and depression set in. There is only One who can relieve us of our anxiety, our suffering, our pain, our loss, our fears, even our death.  He’s the One who brought good news to a sin sick world – shed His blood for all sinners – suffered unbelievable physical and emotional distress and had no place to rest His head.  He’s the One who loves us unconditionally – who took our place – who died and rose again to prove that He is God and that His plan for humanity has been fulfilled. His named is JESUS.

When we reach a breaking point in life – when it seems that things will never fall into place for us – remember how important we are to Jesus.  He wants us to live good lives, but He’s got even better things in store for us in eternity. When we feel like we’re at the end of our rope or that we can’t endure one more thing, it’s time to turn to Jesus. Don’t wait until it comes to that point. He’s available right now. Once we surrender to His love and acknowledge the good news of what He’s done for us, everything changes.

Posted in aging, anxiety, hope, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

LAST BLOOMS OF SUMMER . . .

Posted on August 17, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

A bouquet of vibrant colors, slowly fading in the hand,

Picked fresh this very morning, plucked from the moistened land,

Our lives are like those flowers – they slowly wilt and die,

We want to intercede somehow, but no matter how we try,

Our days on earth are numbered and our lives will surely end,

But even through our darkest days, we know we have a friend,

Our loving Savior, Jesus, shed precious blood for me,

He gave His life to save me and set my spirit free,

Life never ends with Jesus, His love endures the ages,

His Word sustains me every day within its splendid pages.

Posted in Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, Jesus, seasons, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

GOD’S LOVE LETTER . . .

Posted on August 16, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER


Do you know how precious you are to me?
Do you not feel my presence every second of every hour?
Do you know that I want to take your problems, your worries, your fears and place them all on my own back?
Can you see my hand working in your life – helping you to make hard decisions – leading you from temptation and pulling you closer to me every day?
Do you know I want you to prosper? I have a plan designed just for your life. It may not be what you want or expect, but it will be abundant.
Do you know that I am the only one who really loves you with an everlasting and divine love?
Do you know that I paid the ransom for the sins that have held you captive for so long? There is no need for guilt, I cover you with my protective wings. The price was paid once for all.
Do you know that I was not afraid to lay down my life for you, because I can conquer death?
Do you know that I am waiting for you in heaven? There will be no tears, no sadness, only joy.
Your room is ready! Do you know?

Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

2024 SQUIRRELYLYMPICS

Posted on August 16, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The 2024 Olympic games are over, but It’s that time of year again. Autumn is right around the corner and critters are stocking up for the wintry cold of Minnesota. In the process they’re creating lots of entertainment for us. I purchased some squirrel food to deter them from invading the bird feeder, but as soon as they polish that off, they head straight for the bird food.

Actually, we don’t discourage them from being around. I mean we provide meals and lodging after all. What do we get in return? A lot of entertainment is sure to follow. In fact this year, we’re looking forward to the Squirrelympics events, including the balance beam, walking the wire, 20-yard dash, gymnastics, weightlifting and survival techniques. Can you picture the scene? The squirrels have been given numbered t-shirts and are ready to roll. A team of judges (birds, cats and an assortment of other critters including us) are equipped with score cards which will determine the winner of each event.

Here comes #1 FLIP – His gymnastics on the bird feeder pole are astounding. He reaches the pinnacle of the feeder, attaches his rear feet to the roof and hangs backwards and upside down to get his food. When he’s had enough, he does a triple flip down to the ground. Oops, better get a helmet next time, Flip. Look at that five of the judges have voted a perfect ten while the other five gave failing marks for the descent. Oh well, it could be a bronze at least. Here comes #2 STUBBY – This little fellow lost his tail last year. We didn’t think he’d be back to participate, but there he is. He will be walking the wire, carrying a small branch with a walnut on each end. This is a balancing act to behold. Since Stubby is minus his tail he has to rely on pure grit and determination to get him across the wire. And he does it with ease, finishing his routine by placing a nut in each cheek. A perfect score for Stubby. That is all but one of the judges. He seems to be wearing a squirrel tailed hat. Hmmmm. Don’t worry though, Stubby finishes with an 8. Highest score so far.

NUTSY is up next, wearing #3. This little critter is really fast. He is sure to do well in the 20 yard dash. But wait, Nutsy has just discovered a pile of acorns near the starting line. Will he be able to overcome his natural hunger? Will he go on to prove he’s the fastest squirrel on four legs? There goes the starting gun and he’s off. Those acorns will have to wait for another day. Wait a minute, he’s turning around. He’s running the wrong way. Oh no, he’s heading for the acorns. Come on, Nutsy, you can beat this. You’re a much better squirrel than that. Oh, well, he’s not listening to my warning. He loses to his cousin, FLASH, who has beaten him by 20 yards. Looks like a Gold for #4. He’s not even going to wait for his medal. He just did a 180 degree turn and is headed for the acorn pile. Guess we know where his priorities lie. Too bad! Nutsy has won the really big prize.

And so, it goes in our backyard at this change of seasons. Yes, we name the animals that pass through our yard. We’re very creative after all. We also have nothing better to do.

Posted in aging, animals, Humor | Tagged , , , , , | 7 Comments

WHAT IS GOD’S PLAN FOR YOU?

Posted on August 15, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

If you feel that your role in life isn’t important – if you struggle daily with thoughts of failure – if you believe that whatever you do, it isn’t going to be enough – it’s time to put your confidence in something other than yourself. Some turn to self-help books.  Others think they can hide their feelings of inferiority by putting on a mask to cover up their shortcomings.  Some turn to drugs or alcohol to deaden the pain.  Many simply give up.  There are also those who do not lack self confidence, but still struggle because they are trying too hard to find the answers all by themselves.  That’s precisely the time we need God’s encouragement the most.

We’ll never be able to please all the people in our lives.  We won’t always be successful in our work.  We may feel left out or lonely at times, but there is One who loves us despite our failures – our brokenness – our insecurities.  He’s the One who created us. He also had a plan for our lives mapped out in advance of our birth. He formed each and every intricate part of us before we were ever born.  He crafted each cell, each nerve, each drop of blood. I would say that’s a masterpiece.

If you’re feeling insignificant today – read Psalm 139.  It not only praises God for His handiwork, it shows the intimate relationship David had with his Creator.  This is true for us as well.

Posted in Faith, Life, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

GOD’S PRESENCE . . .

Posted on August 14, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

I need to be wrapped in the protection of God’s holy wings.

Each pinion gently lays over me – cuddling and nurturing.

The softness and strength are overwhelming.

He breathes His presence upon me and gives me life.

He speaks and I am comforted.

His touch is gentle yet full of power and strength.

His steadfastness feeds me – nourishes my soul – guards me from all evil.

His love for me is unfailing.  A love so great that it’s indescribable.

His tenderness is equal to His might.

I will never be alone as long as He is with me.

Be in my heart – my mind – my understanding.

Be with me in life so that I will know you fully when I meet you after death.

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

AND THE WINNER IS . . .

Posted on August 13, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The Olympic games of 2024 are finished. All the years, months, days and hours, devoted to a particular sport have paid off with the awarding of gold, silver and bronze medals. To be honest, I did not tune in this year. I was glad to hear that the US did so well in many categories. The Olympics always creates images of the original games that were played back in the days of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Wrestling was a big thing then and still is. It seems that the idea of putting someone in a position of submission has been going on for a very long time.

The Bible refers to a wrestling match that occurred between Jacob and God in Genesis 32:24-29. God appeared to Jacob in the form of a man and invited Jacob to wrestle with Him. The struggle continued all night, but in the end, God was the victor. The wrestling was an opportunity for Jacob to submit to God’s will for his life, so even though he was defeated, he was a winner. By sustaining the injury to his hip, Jacob would always remember what it was like to wrestle with God. What he gleaned from this encounter was that his earthly struggles would be painful at times, just as we will face difficult situations throughout our journey.

Our wrestling matches with God will go on.  They are daily battles.  We may never quite understand the reason for those tests, but we can be sure that when we submit to God and His will for our lives, we definitely will gain the eternal victory.  We’ll carry those battle scars until our death, but while we’re alive we can help others through our own experiences – give hope that a good outcome will occur – encourage them to go on. Our own struggles will benefit someone else as they face theirs.

Jacob would go on as the father of a nation that eventually produced the Savior of the world, Jesus.  God’s plan is always best, because through it, we gain eternal victory. The wrestling will go on for a long time too and we may never understand why we have to go through it. When life seems hopeless by our standards, it’s good to know that by submitting to God’s will, we will win the perfect prize.

Dear, God,
As this journey on earth goes forward, give me the strength to face into the perils that occur each. Help me to rely on your strength before trying to figure things out myself. You alone are my guide, my protection, my companion and forever friend. I look to you today and every day and will remain still as you put your plans in place. I know they are always for our good. Amen.

Posted in daily walk, Faith, God's plans | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

LIFE’S MARATHON

Posted on August 12, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“Life is a culmination of the past, an awareness of the present, an indication of a future beyond knowledge, the quality that gives a touch of divinity to matter.”   Charles Lindbergh

There’s nothing wrong with setting goals.  By planning our futures we’re being wise stewards of our time and talents.  At an early age, we learn to tie our shoes or ride a bike.  When we begin school, we realize that we don’t achieve without knowledge.  Our parents often remind us that we aren’t working up to our potential.  As we become teens we start thinking about relationships and where they will go. 

Once we leave the educational system, reality sets in – and I’m not talking about the kind you see on many of today’s television shows.  We find that the goals we’re setting may be unattainable.  We run into roadblocks that slow down the race.  We get beat up by disappointment, failure, desperation, hopelessness. By the time we reach our senior years it doesn’t seem important to set goals.  We may wonder. “What’s the use?”   The main achievement on any given day is getting out of bed.

Running a race requires watching our diet, training our minds to focus on the goal and preparing physically. Because these things tend to turn our focus inward, we forget to set our eyes on the final destination. We put all of our attention into what WE can accomplish by our own actions, rather than asking for help.

Look forward to the final destination, while keeping these things in mind:

  • The race is being run daily.  Look at each day as an opportunity.
  • We are not alone.
  • Plan each step for the future with the knowledge that there will be road blocks.
  • The Word of God, the Bible is our manual for how to live.
  • We can do all things with God’s intervention.
  • The prize has already been won.  
  • Our victory is assured through Jesus, Christ.

Dear Father in heaven, I’ve already won the eternal prize through your forgiveness.  As I run through the rest of the race continue to nourish me through your Holy Word. Help me realize that you are right there beside me – encouraging, lifting me up, supporting me and giving me the hope of my future with you.  Keep my vision focused on you and your amazing grace and use me to share that wonderful message with others.  Amen!

Posted in aging, Setting Goals, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments