WHO IS THAT?

Posted on January 12, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I have to admit, I feel this way almost every morning when I get a first look at my reflection in the mirror. Who is that old lady? How did she get into my bathroom and why is she here looking at me like that? My first thought is to do a better job of cleaning that mirror. For a while, I used to see the reflection of my mother staring back at me. Now my image has become more wrinkled, eyes have crusty stuff sticking in the corners of them. My hair resembles someone who has just put their finger in an electrical outlet. A drop of drool has dried on the corner of my mouth. Truthfully, it is not a pretty picture. Lately, I try to avoid looking in the mirror until I’ve been up for a few hours. Make that a couple days. Maybe even once a week if necessary. Makeup can help, but I’m getting tired of doing that each day so I might not bother going through the process. It is not fun getting old. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. Our bodies sag, our rear ends drag, our energy lags and we resemble an old bag. Even though all those physical changes are making us crazy, there is hope. It’s called laughter.

They say that laughter is the best medicine and statistics prove that to be true. I don’t know “who” is responsible for saying that, but most likely it was someone in their twenties. I must say, however that a good belly laugh – a semi-funny joke = an upside-down frown can do wonders for a sagging face, wild hair and sticky eyes. That’s why I laugh. Some people think it’s just a natural reflex for me. Since my hearing is also failing, I find myself laughing even though I can’t hear what’s being said. As my grandmother noticed, I laugh and then ask what was said? It can be a challenge, but I just find it easier to laugh when others do, so I fit in somehow. I’ve been accused of being a little crazy, because I laugh so much. Maybe I am, but it’s better than being grouchy or crabby like many elderly folks get over time.

This is our only chance in this life. Why not make the most of it? Enjoy the misspelled or misinterpreted closed captions. Be happy that you still have a few teeth left to chew with. Make fun of yourself. Laugh at yourself. Don’t let life pull you away from your joy. You might find out that even though others think you’re crazy, at least you’ know that you’re happy to be alive.

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

WHAT DO WE DO WITH THE LEFTOVERS?

Posted on January 11, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I started sewing when I was in 8th grade. It was a requirement of young girls at that time. I struggled to make an apron which finally ended up with poorly sized ties and an upside-down pocket. As time went on, I forgot all about sewing and started thinking more about my social life. I picked it up again when my children were old enough to sew for. It was an economical way to dress our kids in special one-of-a-kind clothing. When they got older, homemade clothing didn’t cut it anymore. I turned to sewing costumes for my drama students. Over my 40 years of teaching, directing and writing plays, I must’ve created at least a thousand costumes or more.

There were always remnants from those designs. The leftovers, so to speak. I recall my grandmother telling me to use every inch of fabric you have left, because you can truly make something beautiful out of those scraps. She was a whiz at making quilts with what remained. They were indeed beautiful. The word “remnant,” is one that isn’t used much today. When things wear out, we rarely mend them with patches. We usually throw things away and buy new. A remnant can mean a low number of a remaining group or an unused portion of something. It can be referred to as a leftover – odds and ends or a residue of something that once was.

When we look at church attendance today, maybe instead of looking at the low numbers, we should be looking at the possibilities available with what remains. Our churches are losing ground lately. There are new means of worship, thanks to online services. Many have given up going to church because of other obligations, busy schedules and other interruptions that get in the way. Does that mean all these beautiful churches should be abandoned or left to die? There’s still a remnant at many of those edifices. The leftovers, the unused, the core, the believers, those who hunger for the peace that comes from the Word of God. 

When Jesus ministered, He often would speak with small groups of people. Even going one on one with them. In fact, His first congregation consisted of twelve young men. I’m quite sure He wasn’t looking at the numbers. We shouldn’t either. Numbers will grow if the message is true, and God is in the midst of it. Jesus not only ministered to His followers, He also ate with them, slept alongside of them, walked with them and had times of enjoyment with them. This is something else we get at church. A chance to spend time with like-minded Christians – to encourage – to lift up and spend quality time with them. You might even be on the receiving end of all of those things as well as being filled to the brim with God’s Word.

Those beautiful quilts my grandmother crafted, were snuggled under by chilly bodies over the years. What she did with all the leftovers was a sight to behold. The same can be true of the remnant of believers at some of those dwindling churches. Using what we have remaining, often creates amazing results. Keeping God’s Word alive in this way most definitely will.

Posted in aging, church, God, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

BEST FRIENDS FOREVER . . .

Posted on January 10, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

As I review my life, I can’t help but think about the many friends have had through these past 81 years. I remember the name of my very first best friend. It was Mary Beth O’Neill. She was the first Catholic I’d ever met. We did everything together, including going to Saturday movies and staying to watch the main attraction a second time. We played jacks, went roller skating and put on backyard plays. I attended her first communion and was enthralled by the grandeur and splendor of it, yet I didn’t understand a word of the Latin service. We were friends until my family moved away from that neighborhood. I never saw Mary Beth again. I wonder sometimes what happened to her. 

There were lots of friends after her, that filled the empty spot she left in my heart. I’ve never really considered myself an outgoing person, especially when I was younger. Time changes things like that. I would eventually learn to be better at making friends, but through those teen years, I was sort of an anomaly – always trying to be like everyone else – to fit in – to live up to what was expected of me. I made many wonderful friends in high school and still keep in contact with some of them. Friends came in all sizes, ages and shapes as time went on. This is true even today.

Most of my friendships have been shaped at the churches I’ve attended over the years. Whenever we moved our living space, we would join a new church and make new friends. We make friends through our interests and hobbies along with our beliefs and ability to nurture each other. As I’ve grown into this final chapter of my life, I look back at the many friendships that I’ve formed over the years and must say, I have been so blessed by a great many of them. I now can claim many more than one BFF. The list is growing shorter though as some of those friends have passed away, but the beauty of true friendship with someone you share your faith with, is that it never ends. You can be sure that you will meet again someday in heaven. 

“If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day, so I never have to live without you.”—A.A. Milne

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GOD’S CREATURES – GREAT & SMALL

Posted on January 9, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Something has been missing from our landscape for quite a while. Yesterday we were blessed with a fresh covering of the white stuff. Suddenly, that which was almost green grass is now arrayed in a carpet of glistening diamonds. As I write this, I’m looking out my side window, expecting to see a bird or two at the feeder. I worry sometimes about those smallest of critters. Will they survive the cold weather? Will they come back in the spring when the flowers push their fresh foliage through the dirt? I miss all the feral cats that used to visit from time to time. Have they moved on to different digs? Are they still alive? How do these creatures survive?

When I worry about those things, I have to remind myself that these are part of God’s creation and He is taking care of all their needs. If He does this for the birds, the squirrels, the chipmunks and all the larger animals, like deer, bears, mountain lions, etc., He will provide for us as well.

In the sky above, I see an eagle soaring. His great wing expanse hovers over something that will fill his tummy for the day. On the ground, squirrels continue to forage for food and find it. That stuff doesn’t just magically appear but is made available by the One who created the entire world, the universe and everything beyond. Still the tendency for us as human beings is to worry about where the next meal will come from. We also worry about having enough money to pay the pressing obligations. We forget too soon that God has this. He controls everything and provides for everyone. We forget to thank Him for His provision. We forget to place our complete trust in Him. We try to fix things by ourselves. 

The birds and cats will return in the spring, but I will see evidence of their existence by their little tracks in the snow. I will continue to worry and pray that God will help me with that. He is God and I’m not. He’s so much greater and knows all my needs. On top of that, He loves me enough to provide for all of my needs. If He takes care of the creatures of this earth, how much more will He provide for those He created in His image?

“PROVISION,” BY KATHY BOECHER©

God’s provision is present in the food we eat,

In the laughter we share,

In the quiet, stillness of a cold winter day,

He comforts and refreshes,

In body, mind and soul,

He provides for every need,

Nourishing,

Filling us up to overflowing,

Giving more than enough,

Even when we don’t take time,

To thank Him for it,

He takes away our anxiety,

Fills our hearts with hope,

Saves us from our iniquities,

Delivers us from the devil,

Even when we don’t take time.

To thank Him for it,

He took upon the sin of the world,

Defeated the devil,

Gave us eternal life,

Through His Only Son,

Rejoice and thank Him,

For His greatest gift.

Posted in aging, anxiety, Poetry by Kathy Boecher, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

Posted on January 8, 2024 by atimetoshare.me


Winter blahs, cabin fever, vitamin D deficiency, and wind chill index are all negative terms used for winter. In Minnesota we take winter to a new level by throwing out terms like Winter Carnival, Ice Palace and ice sculptures. In this land of the Norsemen, our hearty people cut a hole in the ice and either jump into it after sitting in a sauna, or sit next to it with a fishing pole waiting for dinner.  If you are sporting a beard, count on having icicles hanging on your chin. You may not even need a beard.

 I guess weather is all in how we look at it. When you live up north you find ways of enjoying it, such as turning your backyard into a hockey rink; sledding down a steep hill; blowing bubbles into the polar vortex; or curling up with a good book. When you’re an octogenarian, your bones creak, you discover new aches and pains, and you stay glued to a chair during your waking hours. If you go crazy sitting in that chair, you think of something to do besides watching TV. You may take up a new hobby – like painting, knitting, writing, whatever keeps your mind alive. Once that goes, it’s “curtains,” for most of us. I love the commercial with the three elderly women sledding down the hill like little children. I just wonder how they get back up that hill.

This winter, we’ve been blessed with fairly warm temperatures and very little snow, but it’s only the second week in January, so we know it’s an unusual year. Just think! In a few months we’ll be complaining about the rain or the water leaking in from the roof which carried too much snow. God gives us our environment as a blessing. Whether we are happy with it has nothing to do with the gift.  It seems we can always find the bad in any situation but remember – there are only two more months until spring.

Stay warm, my friends.

Posted in aging, anxiety, Winter | Tagged , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?

Posted on January 6, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Lately, much of my time has been spent going to doctor appointments. I guess that goes along with the aging factor. During those times, I have the opportunity to observe the comings and goings of people – sick, well, hearty and sometimes close to death. Yesterday, as I sat in the car waiting for what I knew would be a short appointment for my husband, I had the opportunity to witness an elderly couple entering the building. It was obvious that he was confused. Each step he took was deliberate, yet unsure. Something that happens to all of us as we get older. He stopped just outside the door to rearrange a winter arrangement that seemed to call out to him. He and his wife stopped suddenly. He fixed what was bothering him and she guided him on. Through that interlude I could see a couple who cared deeply for each other. One a caretaker, the other the one needing care. Patience was evident. Love and compassion was obvious.

There was a woman with pure, white hair and skin almost the same color. She didn’t look very old, but her face said that she had been through a lot. She walked with a quick step and searched with her eyes for her car. For a moment looking lost, but eventually found. A man about 6’4 with a thick beard, steadily entered the building confidently. He carried a briefcase. Maybe a doctor or salesman. Another man, briskly walked into the building and quickly came back out. A woman who had most likely endured chemotherapy, boldly entered with her head uncovered, revealing a beautifully balding head. She apparently had a positive attitude.

OK, so what is my point? Am I becoming a voyeur in my old age? Well, that could well be, since I don’t spend all my time looking at my phone. I am a people watcher and have been for a very long time. As a writer, I try to observe as much as I can about the human race. As a performer, I’ve learned that this is a great way to learn how to develop a character. We’re all created to serve a purpose in this life. How we behave in our daily walk will have some affect on those around us. 

A lot of stories began to form in my mind as I watched. So many different people types, ages, abilities, difficulties. We’re all different, but even those tiny little differences make each one of us unique. When we allow folks into our lives, we are opening doors that may never have been opened. We’re also allowing friendships to be made, problems to be solved and understanding to take place. In that short fifteen or twenty-minute span of time, I witnessed a parade of individuals who were on their way to get good news or bad. Maybe they were making a delivery. Whatever their destination, they were on some sort of mission. 

As part of humanity, I find that everyone has a story. We may never discover what that story includes, but by reaching out, understanding and being compassionate, we may be able to help those individuals in some way – or they may be able to help us. Jesus was a perfect example for us to follow. He could see into the minds and hearts of individuals and know what they needed. We don’t have that ability, but we can still love, understand, have compassion for and help others, because He showed us how to do it.

“When he (Jesus) saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36 ESV

Posted in aging, anxiety, compassion | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

REFLECTED LIGHT . . .

Posted on January 5, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART BY PAUL BOECHER©

“SONSHINE” – POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

How do you harness the sun and capture the magnificence of its light?

Some have tried to manage the physical light that encompasses them,

Some struggle to bring illumination back into their lives by setting goals & dreaming dreams,

Some never find it,

Some are filled to the brim with it,

Some will continue to spend their lives searching for it,

God is the source,

He created light from darkness – it was His first creation,

Separating the night from day – setting time into place,

He controls the sun, the moon and stars,

He lights the world with His radiance,

When the world seems so ugly and dark,

When it seems that nothing will ever be bright again,

When the darkness of sin has penetrated every aspect of our daily living,

Turn to the Creator,

His light shines brightly through His Word,

When we let Him, He shines through us,

Leading others to the flame of His truth,

Let your light shine.

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

PROMISE . . .

Posted on January 4, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

In his early years as a fine artist, Paul T. Boecher did a lot of sculptures for various individuals and businesses. Everything from totem poles to fish and birds, along with a life-sized relief carving of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. The above piece is now located in our church. I don’t think I’ve ever shared it before. So, here it is. The individual photos of various symbols on the sculpture are all very meaningful.

The picture shows a closeup of the base which is hewn from a discarded railroad beam. It represents the cross of Christ and the piece of wood He carried through the streets of Jerusalem. This was designed to represent the cross bar that Jesus would be crucified upon. One of the photos shows a spike, which was recreated to be symbolic of a handmade nail from circa 33AD, which would pin Jesus to that cross. It is also a reminder of 9/11 and the destruction on that day. The base of the sculpture is representative of the waters which flooded the earth in Noah’s time. The photograph of a green sprout coming from the beam, indicates the discovery of new life. The dove at the top, carrying a small branch, fulfills the promise that the flood is over, and dry land will facilitate the start of restoration.

When we think about restoration, we can be sure that it can occur when we let God lead us. I wrote this poem to go with the sculpture, but I think the description of the elements within it are truly beautiful all by themselves. The beginning of the year represents a time for change and renewal. Today, think about how you can bring the Joy of Jesus to someone.

INNER PEACE by Kathy Boecher©

Times of turmoil and confusion, peace may seem aloof or gone,

Yet the Lord of all creation, stills the waters and the storm,

He will calm the rumbling seas, He can give relief from pain,

He can help you through all trouble, making loss become your gain,

Put your trust in His compassion. Put your faith in Him alone,

He provides for your salvation and will take you safely home.

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

OUT OF THE DARKNESS . . .

Posted on January 3, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

We just said goodbye to another year – to all the past sins, mistakes and blunders. Now we can take heart in the everlasting light that takes away every blot.  We have a clean slate because of that light – the one that shone brightly in Bethlehem so many years ago – the baby Jesus, the Son of God, God with us. We cannot, by anything we resolve, erase the past, but we can look forward with hope to the One who came to this world and changed it completely.  No longer need we fear death.  The terror of judgment for our wrong-doing no longer holds a life sentence.  Our guilt no longer exists. We can look ahead to each new day with confidence that our sins have been eliminated by what He did for us.  We can resolve to do as He did during His time with us, to serve others and thereby serve Him.

Through the cobwebs of existence – through the darkness of our strife –

Through the dankness of our sinning, through the wickedness of life –

Through the deepest, darkest pits of hell and the helplessness we feel –

Comes a beam of light from heaven our dark, sinful hearts to heal.

The light grows stronger as we move to get a closer glance,

but as we reach to touch its warmth, we’re enveloped in a trance.

It’s just within our grasp we think, but no matter how we try,

We can’t escape the darkness that consumes us from all sides.

Just when we think that all is lost and relinquish every hope,

The light erases darkness and it’s then that we can cope.

This little light from Bethlehem became a brilliant star

that came to earth to save the world from sin’s most deadly scar.

Now as we start a brand-new year, old sins have been washed away,

He shed His blood so we could live, a ransom we can’t repay,

He came in darkness of the night, but His brilliance cannot hide.

We are redeemed by His great might.  With us He’ll always abide.

KATHY BOECHER©

Posted in New Year, Poetry by Kathy Boecher, Salvation, savior | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

THE SCARS OF THE PAST . . .

Posted on January 1, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This painting wouldn’t be considered beautiful by most, but looking at it closely, I can see myself in that tree.  Each second of life is quickly ticking away.  The weight of brokenness and age are taking their toll.  Aging is like that.  We feel shattered at times and under the weight of sin, but by God’s grace, we will be renewed again.  That’s the most beautiful hope we have for our future. Thank you, Jesus, for another year.

A life filled with twists and turns, obstacles and bumps in the road,

Coming to an end in an instant,

That which once was full of zeal and new growth,

Covered with bruises and bumps of existence,

For years, travailing through time,

Reaching for the stars at night,

Resting in the shade of its own shadow,

Raising its limbs to God in prayer,

Resisting the tests laid out before it,

Rooted in the solid ground it grew from,

Resilient, ripe, restored, renewed, revived,

All because of its Creator,,

When our days ebb and flow through channels of discovery and learning,

When we feel attacked or cut down,

When the sting of death lays at our door,

We come to Him,

Scarred, torn, shattered, twisted, abused and lost,

But through Him we are,

Restored,

Renewed,

Reborn,

Redeemed,

No more will the blemishes of sin invade our souls,

For He has made us new again.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Life, New Year | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

GOODBYE, OLD YEAR . . .

Posted on December 31, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

A lifetime of memories, a brain filled with stuff,

I wonder if all of these things were enough,

In years of contentment or days of despair,

Not one of these memories could heartbreak repair.

Oh, the many lost days would never return,

Escaped like the hot breath of leaves as they burn,

Caught by a cold whirlwind and tossed all about,

They shall not return here, when they are let out.

The minutes become hours, the days turn to years,

Our life passes by us, our joy turns to fears,

Oh, where did the time go and what can we show,

Those life changing memories are cast down below.

Our days they are numbered, we don’t know just when,

When we take our last breath, will we live again,

Heaven’s gates open wide, we’re asked to come in,

Welcome, faithful servant, new life will begin.

There really is no point in looking back on a year past, other than to learn from the mistakes we’ve made, to figure out how to fix them and to look forward to another chance to start over. As we come to the close of 2023, I could go on and on about all the challenges we faced, but nothing is going to change what’s been and done. God has blessed us through difficult times. We’ve discovered true friends. We’ve learned to trust His plan for our lives and give Him the reins. He knows what’s best for us anyway. Each year we grow in wisdom. We face new difficulties. We struggle with old ones. We start a litany of new memories and pray that God would continue to use us for His glory in the year to come. May He bless your next page on the calendar of life. May He watch over you and guide you. May He grant you peace. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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AULD LANG SYNE . . .

Posted on December 30, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

I’m not sure that the song, “Auld Lang Syne,” by Robert Burns ever made the Hit Parade, but I do know that Robbie Burns didn’t actually compose the lyrics. It’s right there on Wikipedia and of course the Internet knows everything, right? Actually, Burns attached a note to his publisher stating that this was not his writing, but instead the words of an old Scottish folk song which he copied as an elderly man sang them. So, what’s the big deal about this song? Every December 31st, when the clock strikes twelve, we raise our glasses and chant these words. I remember this tradition from my youngest days, but never understood what they were talking about. We don’t sing it much at our house anymore, because we usually don’t stay up that late.

Born on January 25, 1759, Burns lived to the ripe old age of 37. He became the National Poet of Scotland. His experience watching his father try to reap his fortune through farming and eventually dying with nothing, was fodder for the way Robert looked at life. He was sarcastic about the social order of his time and his writing often reflected it. He took over as a tenant farmer after his father’s death. His writings would discuss the religious leaders of the day, the class situation and the inability of the working class to advance. During his life, he had several romantic encounters, producing a set of twins and another child born out of wedlock. Eventually he married the mother of his twin children. He transposed many old folk tales and songs into poetry and music. Auld Lang Syne is one of them.

Now that I know the history of the man and the origin of the song, I still don’t understand why we sing it every year on New Year’s Eve. The words are difficult as they are written with a Scottish flair. The updated English is a little better, but I’m including only the first verse and chorus so you will know what to sing tomorrow night. The title actually means, “old long since” which probably translates into the good old days. 

Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind?

Should old acquaintance be forgot, and good old times?

[Chorus:]

For old times since, my dear, for good old times,

we’ll drink a cup of kindness yet, for good old times.

I guess my translation of the song might go something like this:

The folks we’ve met and learned to love will never pass away,

We watch them grow and live full lives but soon will come the day,

When time will capture youth and age and evermore will know,

That life goes on as we persist through winds and rain and snow.

Friends old and new will never die, they live on in our soul,

We’ll treasure memories of their love and strive to set a goal,

To pass this way another day and trust in God’s control.

KATHY BOECHER – 2023

Posted in Friendship, New Year, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

TIME MARCHES ON . . .

Posted on December 29, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

SHADOWS OF THE PAST – ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

It was at the height of its opulence, this city from of old,
It commanded respect and attention, its streets were paved with gold,
It shone like the brilliant sun in the sky, reflecting its bright rays,
Within the dark shadows, secrets survived, infecting light of days.

The brilliance soon disappeared from all sight, as darkness slithered in,
No one realized what was happening, knew nothing of this sin,
The ominous shadows penetrated the brilliance of the day,
Corruption and greed encapsulated and sent the good away.

That once shining and glorious city, no longer casts its light,
What remains are shards of days long ago, decay, great loss and blight,
If only the fire had been overseen, by those within her gate,
Perhaps a flame would rise from the embers, and new life would create.

We should learn from our own sweet history, but we often fail the test,
We think that we have the perfect answers, we think that we know best,
Instead of trusting our almighty God, we struggle, and we fall,
Still patience abides in His gracious love, His love is meant for all.

The clock in my kitchen doesn’t change when daylight savings time occurs. It’s too high for me to safely reach it. Our grandfather clock is always set for 9:00, because the inner workings are packed away somewhere and it’s too much of a chore to find them. Time on other clocks in our house are reachable. We have access to the correct time on our computers and phones. There’s an app for everything these days. One thing we haven’t been able to manipulate is time. It comes and goes like “clockwork.” Nights turn into days, days into weeks, weeks into months and so on. We come to the end of a year with hopes of making the next year better, but those hopes are soon dashed and life steps in instead. Just like the hands of time, life marches on. History repeats itself. Illness steps in. Political issues rage. Raising a family comes with a whole new set of issues. Death will come to each of us. Problems will occur. Relationships will fail or flourish. 

The only way change can occur for the best, is to trust in the One who created time. The first day and night were made possible by God. That first second involved time and eternity. His time has already been mapped out for us and only He knows what the outcome will be. Times change yes. God changes everything through His precious Son, Jesus.

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND GOODBYE 2023 – FROM THE BOECHERS!

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, New Year, time, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

CHANGE & DECAY . . .

Posted on December 28, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

As we come to the end of another year, it’s natural to look back at the past and think about all the ugliness that happened during that time. It’s time for a fresh start – a second chance or a do-over. In doing so, we often see the negative things that happened in the past. We focus on things we promised to change in the coming new year. We think about our declining health. We think about all the failed resolutions we made last year. We look at our world and wonder where all of the wars and descension will lead. We think about the state of our own country – the investigations of those in power – the slander – the morality taking a nose-dive. Why, why, why? We see the signs of decay within our own bodies as skin begins to age and memory fails. We see all kinds of these signs of death in the future. The end of the year is a time for us to take stock and see what we can do to make things better.

All the difficulties we faced in 2023 are not going to stop just because we’re changing a page on the calendar. Frankly, life goes on. Death will eventually come to all of us. We can’t change a thing without help of some kind. Since we are still healing from a terrible pandemic which took many lives, we’ve become more cautious about our gatherings. We continue to wear a mask from time to time. Our emotions can get in the way of improvement or moving on. We feel safer living in the cocoon we’ve built around ourselves. Like any kind of decay, it is a slow-moving process, that requires attention. 

We can look at the past and continue to wonder why. We can dwell on past mistakes or words said that can’t be retrieved. We could fall down a rabbit hole of doubt, anxiety, fear or depression, but that only leads to a place of deep confusion. Instead, if we begin with God as our guide, we can expect a great outcome. He never changes. He may seem not to hear us, but His plan is always perfect and for our good. As we look forward to 2024, let’s remember that life is going to go on – with all its challenges, fears, illnesses, decisions, growth and development. Disease will continue. Death is imminent. God is the same today as He always has been and ever will be. When we ask Him to abide with us, we can be sure that His plan is far greater than ours. He will not leave us. He will never change. His perfect love is our eternal life insurance policy. We can count on that. 

Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away.
Change and decay in all around I see.
O thou who changest not, abide with me.

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. 

Verses 2 & 5 of “Abide with Me,” from Lutheran Hymnary

HAPPY NEW YEAR – 2024

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HUNGERING & THIRSTING FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS

Posted on December 27, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Being hungry and thirsty are ways of telling us we need nourishment and refreshment. The only way to satiate that hunger and thirst is to immerse ourselves in God’s Word and His amazing plan for our lives. Through them we will be satisfied and at One with our God.

Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”

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CHRISTMAS YET TO BE . . .

Posted on December 26, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

All the festivities has slowed to a snail’s pace. The stockings have been emptied and the presents are being used. All that remains of the Christmas feast is a refrigerator filled with leftovers and Christmas cookies galore. So, we hunker down with those cookies and face the rest of winter with eyes slightly filled with tears, joy, some sadness and a whole bucket list of dreams for next Christmas. This is the final chapter of the journey – or is it? In the end, we will all face death. It’s that one thing we can’t escape. Terms like, “the last hurrah,”
“the final journey,” “kicking the bucket,” all come to mind as we look ahead to our final days. We don’t like to talk about it much, but we will all meet that so-called grim reaper someday.

Is this what Christmas means to us? In Scrooge’s journey, we see a beleaguered, stingy, old man finally facing the reality of Christmas. He discovers the joy of knowing that he has a second chance – a chance for redemption.  When we take our last inhalation and succumb to death’s boney grip it might send shivers up and down our spine.   When we think about death, it can mean tears, wondering what lies ahead, what we’re leaving behind and the tug of heartstrings as loved ones mourn their loss. We cling tightly to life, because it’s all we know right now. The thought of a perfect world seems nothing more than a dream.

The chance for redemption is still available to every living soul. Our souls were purchased at a great price. God’s plans don’t always make sense to us in the here and now, but we will see His plan fulfilled when we meet Him in paradise. A little baby. A virgin birth. A life of poverty. What seemed a senseless, torturous death, would result in the salvation of the entire world. None of it made sense, but God had a plan. Just like He continues to guide us through this veil of tears. Heaven is waiting. Death has no sting. Christmas has a gift for each one of us. A Savior was born and continues to live. He has paid the price that only He was capable of doing. 

Isaiah 9:6-7 ESV  For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

May that wonderful gift of eternal life give you pause to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. God loves us so much that He paid the ultimate price to win us back.

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PEACE BETWEEN GOD & MAN

Posted on December 25, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

What is happening in our world today? We certainly don’t see much evidence of peace with wars raging in Ukraine and Israel. We don’t see peace in our own country as we’re still a divided nation in so many ways. Disputes erupt on our city streets and roads. Tempers flare and another war occurs. Peace should be our focus at this special time of year, but most of us are not feeling peaceful. There is chaos all around us. Our individual lives are a patchwork of stress, anxiety and depression. Disease continues to ravage many, including children and the elderly. Death still happens, even though we’re guaranteed eternal life. We’re called upon to enjoy the peace of Christmas, but where exactly is that peace?

Jesus did not come into the world to fix all the problems it faces every day. He came to return the peace that was originally established by God, the Father, when he created the world. Man was responsible for the chasm that grew bigger and bigger with time. Man was responsible – not God.

So, as we search unswervingly for peace, the only place we’ll find it is in an animal feeding trough some 2000 years ago, when Jesus took on human flesh and God became one of us. He would be the advocate, the perfect sacrifice, the lamb without blemish, the necessary ransom that would redeem the entire world and bring peace back between man and God. This little child would calm the seas of trouble. He would bring life to the lifeless. Heal the sick, bring people back to life and teach the truth of God, His Father. Because of that perfect baby, we’ve been made perfect and have a direct connection with God, which brings us peace.

PRINCE OF PEACE – By Kathy Boecher

Live in my heart forever, Lord. Give light to a darkened world.

Bestow on us your gift of love, through Jesus, Christ our Lord.

A peace that lasts forever. A light that always shines.

He will forsake us never. His hands are open wide.

Prepare us for salvation through Your own precious Son,

And grant us peace – a lasting peace – for each and everyone.

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THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Posted on December 24, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”  Matthew 6:19-21

Out of the depths of my transgression, my heart screams for relief.
I grumble – I complain – I even blame God for my shortcomings.
How dare I challenge the Creator of heaven and earth?
Who do I think I am that I can question the One who molded me in my mother’s body?
I am but a worm – an insignificant gnat who persists and bothers.
In my distress a quiet voice reaches my ears. It tells me not to be afraid.
The voice is comforting and for a moment I let myself be soothed by its gentle caress.
Again, I stumble. My feet cannot follow all the regulations for my life.
My hands feel useless. My heart is empty. I lose hope.
Again, He whispers, “Do not be afraid.”
It is like the spinning of a revolving door – in and out of belief – around and around,
Spinning, falling, helplessly, hopelessly. From the darkest part of my existence
He comes to me again – “Do not be afraid” – He lifts me and carries me to safety.
He is the Light of the world – I am not afraid – I rest in the strong arms of my Savior. Jesus!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER
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CHRISTMAS PRESENT – PART FOUR

Posted on December 23, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Christmas today has become an amalgamation of travel plans, waiting in airports or taking to the road. We buy, wrap and hope the response will be positive. We cook wonderful meals; special desserts and all the preparation of the Advent Season leads to the big day. Christmas Eve is overflowing with beautiful music. Trumpets, harps, organs and voices praising the birth of our Savior touches our hearts. It’s finally here. Now what?

According to the results of a new poll by the American Psychological Association, 89% of Americans admit to being depressed during this time of the year. It can be caused by anxiety over stretching the budget beyond its limit. It can happen because of loneliness as a result of the loss of a loved one or simply missing being together with extended family. It can be triggered by memories of Christmases past or the nostalgia of childhood gatherings. It can rear its ugly head when we stress about family getting along at this time of year. Many suicides also occur during this time of the year. Remember to call 988 or 911 if you are experiencing such thoughts.

Imagine the first Christmas. An egotistical tyrant of a king had ordered all people to return to the place of their birth to be counted. A young couple from Nazareth would make the trip to Bethlehem, which was about a three-day journey over treacherous terrain. The man would walk. The nine-month pregnant woman, sat upon a donkey as it bounced over the unpaved road. When they reached their destination, they would be turned away from the inn, which was overflowing with others coming for the same reason. The woman knew it was time for the child to be born and they sought shelter in what may have been a holding place for newborn lambs. The Son of God was born that night. Angels filled the sky to announce His birth to shepherds in the field. The long-promised Messiah was placed in a feeding trough for the animals. This scene would be replayed for years after. That very first Christmas was the beginning of humanity’s second chance. 

God always keeps His promises. They aren’t always what we expect. They may be wrapped in strips of cloth, rather than fancy gift wrapping, but the value supersedes anything we can possibly afford to buy. Our gracious God has provided for our salvation, even though we don’t deserve it. That’s what Christmas is really all about. As we think about what we may have waited for during this time of anticipation, it’s more than worth the wait.

“WAITING,” By Kathy Boecher© Lyrics from “Such a Time as This.”

My God, you have placed me here for a reason.

I don’t know what it is.

I wish I knew your plan for me.

I know I should be patient,

but my mind is filled with fear.

I sit and wait and wonder why.

Why have you chosen ME to be in this place?

Am I the one who must make sure that your work is done?

I know that with you I can do anything.

I will always trust in you.

You are the God of my people.

Just help me to understand what you would have me do.

I’s hard to wait, Lord -it’s so hard to wait.

I give to you my all.

Use me as you will.

I trust in your direction for my life.

I know I am your instrument

and you will guide my way.

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COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

Posted on December 22, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Final exams are done.  It’s time for a well-deserved Christmas break for students and teachers.  The excitement for the big day is growing.  People scurry about looking for the perfect Christmas gifts and carols are filling churches across the country. Christmas is one of the most important holidays in our country.  We get days off of school, even the mailman gets a day off.  There’s a feeling of connection to one another that isn’t often there during the rest of the year.  It’s a time to gather as families – to share love with others – donate to various charities – to do random acts of kindness.  All of these things are important, but are we missing the real reason for our celebratory feelings?  Are we doing all these things to make us feel good or worthy of God’s grace?

The beauty of Christmas is not in what we can do or the cost of our gifts.  It’s not even our concern for the plight of others.  The greatest gift given to mankind, came wrapped in strips of cloth, as an ordinary baby, without sin, perfect in every way, true man and true God all rolled into one.  That little child is the One who took on the devil and crushed him.  Jesus is our most precious treasure. We certainly didn’t do one thing to deserve His love, but He gave it without question.  There is no other God like Him.  He offered Himself as a living sacrifice to pay the price for our forgiveness.

As we look forward to Christmas with anticipation this week, let’s not forget the perfect gift that came directly from the Creator of the Universe.  He is coming back soon for the final judgment.  Get ready.  It won’t be long now. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.

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