CRUSHED BUT NOT BROKEN

Posted on July 12, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

When we’re going through a difficult patch in our lives, we try to manage the outcome ourselves. We look at how we can choose a different direction – how we react to a change in our health – or a challenge that seems insurmountable. You would think that by going through so many different roadblocks and detours, we are being crushed along the way, How do we move forward, when we know we may not live to see what’s next? How do we push forward, when it seems that there is no reason to fight anymore? How do we overcome those obstacles without losing our minds, crying ourselves to sleep or giving up?

The Bible is filled with stories like those mentioned above. The tale of Job and his battle with life and death situations is meant to give us an example of how to turn our cares over to God. This guy had everything a man could want. He had a large family, a good wife, material things, land, cattle, money. He continued to serve God throughout his life, but then things started to go sour. He lost everything all at once. No more kids, no land, no cattle, no money and he was sick to top it off. Certainly God doesn’t want us to go through trials. He intended for our lives to be perfect. He is not responsible for our troubles. Those were created a long time ago in a beautiful garden called Eden. Through all his trials, Job listened to his friends spout off reasons for the pain he was going through. They even suggested that he had done something to displease God. Through it all, Job remained faithful to God, but more importantly, God remained with him through it all. He never left Job. He continued to send His angels to minister to him. After the testing was over, Job was restored beyond what he had before. All the pieces were falling into place.

Our earthly troubles may seem meaningless compared to Job’s, but are they? We struggle through a lifetime of ups and downs. Our hearts break. Our bodies grow weary with age. Our minds become clouded with too much information. We get sick. We face death. Yet through it all, God is there. He is with us always. That is comfort we can count on, even when it all seems hopeless. He never changes, in spite of all the changes we encounter. He remains faithful, constant, ever present, eternal and loving. All we need do is turn to Him for answers. He has our lives in His hands. He will never let us go.

Posted in aging, Faith, God | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

THINE IS THE POWER . . .

Posted on July 11, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART BY PAUL T. BOECHER

Paul and I recently sorted through some pictures we’ve stored over on our phones. We came upon this painting that Paul did a while back. He sent it to me to share on my blog today. I don’t have a poem to go with it yet, but I thought it so beautiful and significant to the power of God that I wanted all of you to see and enjoy it.

Paul has an amazing gift for capturing light in the moment. He has painted many lovely works of art outdoors. I know I’ve seen this work before, but somehow, it’s hiding somewhere in our upstairs area with many others, away from our view. So often we hide some of the most wonderful talents and gifts that God gives us. We may do so, not to show off or gain praise for ourselves. We may not feel that we’ve done our best. The special abilities that God gives us are meant to be shared with others. Every gift from Him provides us with something we can give away. That’s a true blessing that we don’t often give thanks for.

We are given an average lifetime of 70-80 years. In the scheme of things, we are not using those gifts as we should. Why hide them in storage? Why put them in a box where no one can see them? Why do we limit ourselves when God has given us so much to share? In that life span, we waste more time than we use. Time is also a gift, so put your time and talent together and you have a recipe for an amazing life. It isn’t going to guarantee a perfect life, but one that is filled with experiences that will perfect you for eternity. Let your light shine. It could make a huge difference in the life of another person.

Posted in aging, art by Paul T. Boecher, God's will, light | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

EVERLASTING LOVE . . .

Posted on July 10, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Most of us don’t go into a relationship thinking it’s a temporary arrangement.  We think of a long term, from here to eternity, everlasting kind of love. The kind of love that has no end. It sounds very romantic and almost ethereal, because every relationship here on earth is often peppered with self-absorption, salted with selfishness, and seasoned with negativity and often times problems. Petty disagreements can lead to all out fights and eventually separation.

God doesn’t think like us mere mortals.  He’s God.  His perception of us is much different than ours. He knows all about us and He wants us to be happy.  His love will never end, because of those emotions.  It isn’t because of our perfect behavior, the amount of money we give to the church or charity, the volunteer hours we’re stacking up in order to feel good about ourselves.  It’s because of God’s perfect love – a love we will never be able to replicate.  Our good deeds are nothing but filthy rags to Him.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if other relationships were like that?  If people would open their hearts and hands to those they cherish the most – To put them first – To be willing to make sacrifices – To forgive, forget, to love perfectly.  It would even be better if we were that way with our friendships, our co-workers, the waitress who serves us, the teller at the bank.  Think of how things would change if we could only love with the unconditional love God offers us every day.

Our last few years have made things more difficult. We’ve cocooned for a long time now and have forgotten how to be kind to each other. We’ve gotten used to isolation. I supposed some prisoners eventually submit to their way of life after a time. We can sit and complain about it, or we can do something to make it change.  Maybe today is the best day to start. Use words like compassion, kindness, encouragement, hope, faith, love, friendship in your vocabulary. Share the love that Jesus poured out for you on the cross. Let others know that they have that same gift available to them.

Life is too short to spend alone. We need each other and the best way to achieve that perfection is to be the first one to start the conversation.

Posted in aging, America, depression, Inspiration, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on EVERLASTING LOVE . . .

FINDING TRUE PEACE

Posted on July 9, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER ©

When life engulfs you with anger and rage – when you struggle with fear and temptation,

Turn to the book of our God’s written page – He will heal you and give you salvation.

Though your days seem relentless, your nights never end – your hope is in Jesus, your brother and friend.

He’ll give you His peace with a love overflowing – your burdens He’ll carry for you,

A peace that’s eternal, no tears, no regrets – He’s paid the full debt that was due.

So, look heavenward, leave the world far behind, and focus on Jesus the King,

His arms are wide open – He hears every prayer – and surely His peace He will bring.

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

SOMETIMES IT’S GOOD TO BE ALONE

Posted on July 8, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Being alone is not always a bad thing. When we’re alone, we often tend to feel lonely – apart from others – let down – fearful – confused. Those same emotions can cover us when we’re in a room filled with people. There are days when we need time alone. We need to process, to sort through, to categorize our lives. We need to talk to God – one on one. We need those private times to cry, to laugh, to grieve, to wait, to think. I remember when my grandma would go out to the woods and sit by herself for an hour or so and do exactly that. She was a strong woman, with a great faith, but her life was filled with tragedy after tragedy. She muddled through those difficulties, but she also found it necessary to be alone for a while to regroup. Those moments gave her the strength and courage to push on. It also gave her a time to check in with her Creator who was right there with her all the way.

We can’t stay in that aloneness forever. We all need to have people in our lives too. Some of us need the company of others and the conversations more than others. I’m one of those who prefer the aloneness time. Maybe that’s why I write. It gives me an opportunity to step away from the crowd and enter my own cubicle for a moment. I can pour my liquid prayers out on a page of words much better than I can do so in person.

If you feel guilty asking for alone time, don’t. Remember we are never, ever really alone. God is with us all the way – from our conception to our death and beyond. He will never leave us. He will always provide the answers you need. He is in charge of all your troubles, worries and pain. He will give you a way out of situations that you thought were impossible.

Posted in aging, anxiety, depression, Faith, fear | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

SAVING OUR TEARS

Posted on July 8, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

When we are sad, when hearts are breaking,

We need to be wrapped in the protection of God’s holy wings,

Each pinion gently lays over us – cuddling and nurturing,

The softness and strength are overwhelming,

He breathes His presence upon us and gives new life,

He speaks and we are comforted,

His touch is gentle yet full of amazing power,

His steadfastness feeds us – nourishes our souls – guards us from all evil,

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

His compassion is equal to His might,

We will never be alone as long as He is with us,

Whether in hopeless moments or times of joy,

Lord, be in our hearts, minds and understanding.

Be with us in life so that we will know you fully when we meet you after death.

The practice of collecting tears in a bottle is called lachrymatory and has been practiced since around 1,000 BCE.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, depression, Faith | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

THE LORD IS MY ROCK . . .

Posted on July 7, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

My husband has carried a small rock in his pocket for as long as I’ve known him. It isn’t a lucky charm. It has nothing to do with superstition. It has no magical qualities. It’s just a small rock. I asked him once why he kept a stone in his pocket and he told me it was a reminder for him, to always know that God was with him. I’d often come across this little stone while doing the laundry. He may have forgotten to remove it, but I think it was still there as a reminder for me as well.

The rock made its way to another country recently. Paul gave it to a young man in our congregation who recently was deployed to Iraq. He would be separated from his young family for a time, so it went into the fellow’s pocket for a while. When the man returned from his appointment, he returned the rock to Paul. He also gave him a medal he had purchased while there as a thank you for his gift. The rock didn’t keep the guy safe, but the connection to which it was drawn did.

As I think about the little rock and where it’s been and what it’s endured, I can’t help but thank God for giving him to me for such a long and wonderful life. As we begin another journey together, I know that God still has things for both of us to do while we continue the road we’re traveling. I am confident that God is our rock – our salvation – our hope – our savior. His love is so much stronger than any material thing we can put in our hands or save in a pocket. His love endures forever.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me such a wonderful, God-fearing man to share this life with. He has a faith that can move mountains, because you are the force behind him. His faith has sustained him from one trial to the next and has never faltered. Guide us through the next few years as you have in the past. I know you will never leave us. I trust in your unfailing love. Amen!

“ROCK IN MY POCKET,” POETRY KATHY BOECHER©

I carry in my pocket, a simple roughhewn rock,

It serves as a reminder of Jesus’ earthly walk,

He trudged o’er rocks and pebbles, His sandals filled with sand,

He kept on walking forward with mercy in his hand.

He spoke to simple people, from every walk of life,

He healed them from their sickness and took away their strife,

Providing food and water, He gave them so much more,

He gave them life eternal and opened heaven’s door,

This little rock I carry, reminds me of my Lord,

My rock and my salvation, whose love lasts evermore.

Posted in aging, Faith, Inspiration, marriage, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS

Posted on July 6, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“We all face storms in life. Some are more difficult than others, but we all go through trials and tribulation. That’s why we have the gift of faith.” Joyce Meyer

Every step we take on this journey called life has been mapped out for us by the Creator of the universe. There will be twists and turns throughout the trip. We run into roadblocks and detours all the way. Yet, if we lose that wonderful gift from the Holy spirit – faith – our travels are pointless. With each deviation from that which was originally intended for man, we can either stray and fail or continue and live.

It’s taken me a lifetime to finally realize that letting God carry me through the times when I can no longer walk, is the only way to live. That doesn’t mean the expedition is going to be clear sailing all the way. In fact, it seems the more difficult the trek, the closer we come to our Maker. Our final surrender to Him, comes when our time of grace on this planet ends. We can then meet Him face to face in paradise and enjoy all that He has prepared for us.

Lord, help me to trust in you completely. I know that by doing so, you will lead the way in life here on earth and also in eternity. Give me strength to run the race, knowing that you are the One who knows what’s best for me and those I love. Amen!

Posted in aging, anticipation, anxiety, Faith | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

TRUSTING GOD ALONE

Posted on July 5, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

It’s been hot all week. In Minnesota anything more than a couple of days in the 90’s is considered a heat wave. We have extremes here in the Tundra, but it always amazes me how God provides for all of His creation even when the weather is unbearable. The birds can still find water to refresh themselves, and food to sustain them. The animals are given the ability to find places to rest and hide during extreme temperatures. If God takes care of these creatures by giving them what they need, how much more will He look after the ones He created in His image.

When I was teaching drama to young students, one of the exercises we did was a blind walk. We’d join hands and follow the leader with eyes closed. Only the one leading the group would be able to see. The rest had to rely on the sound of their voice and their other senses to “see” their way. I know many of them were peeking, but those that followed the directions and depended on the one leading, felt what it’s like to surrender to someone else – to let go – to trust.

There are days when I think there will be no end to the waiting, or no relief from fear or anger. I try to figure things out myself and don’t rely on the only One who can take care of me. He has a master plan – He knows before we do – He’s guiding us with love and provision.

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for providing for all my needs in good times and bad, in fair or inclement weather. I know that I can count on you to provide for me and give me the true rest that comes only from your loving hands. When my heart is troubled, you are there. When things are going well, you are there. When I need you the most, you are there. I can count on you and you alone. Amen!

Posted in aging, God, trust | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

THE GREAT EXPERIMENT – AMERICA

Posted on July 4, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

George Washington referred to the United States as a “grand experiment” on January 9, 1790. It was an experiment, that’s for sure, but the results changed government, people’s rights, their points of view and their ability to be free of oppression. As we look at the achievements of America after over the past 200 years, we can honestly say that we have become much more than most people ever expected. What began as a cry for liberty exploded into a full blown frenzy – a revolution – lives lost in battle – great cost throughout those years – growth beyond compare.

I can’t imagine what George Washington was thinking as he took his oath of office those many years ago, and what he might wonder about the many changes in this country today. The thought of international rail travel, moving mountains to create them and a population that erupted from 2.5 million in 1776. In two and a half centuries the US has grown to 130 times its size and now stands as the third most populous country in the world. People from all over the world come to America in search of the American dream. Technology has blossomed from the use of kerosine lanterns to solar energy. George wouldn’t recognize our country anymore. Not to mention all the changes in technology, values, growth, wars, loss of life, he would be amazed at the size of our dwellings and business places. I wonder what he would think of today’s fashion trends.

I believe that there is still a remnant of people who continue to place our country in high esteem. During these summer holidays honoring her, we should look back, not only at the progress, but the cost. Many lives were lost during that Revolutionary War. Lives continued to be spent as a result of the wars our nation has endured. The morality of the 1700s is non-existent today. Unity has suffered greatly over time. Even our own governing factions can’t seem to agree on much. Still, in spite of all the ugliness that infiltrates a country over time, we still have the right to stand for what we believe in. We can worship as we choose. We have freedoms that other nations will never know. I am proud of my American heritage. I love this land and will always hold her in high esteem. I know that God will heal her, if we ask Him to.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Posted in 4th of July, America, Chrisian daily devotions, DAILY CHRISTIAN DEVOTION, Inspiration | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

AMERICA – THE BEAUTIFUL

Posted on July 4, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©


Where is God?
Look around you at the churning of the deep, blue waters,
Reflecting and refracting the rays from the sun,
Feel His presence in the wind that drives those waves,
Take in the vast array of color, texture, brilliance, harmony,
Enjoy the sounds of silence,
The peace that comes on a hot summer day as your boat cuts through the water,
See His magnificence in each refreshing drop of water,
Experience the warmth of His loving caress as He carries you across that water,
Powerful soldiers of wood and foliage protect and shade you,
His hand touches the sky and makes clouds appear,
They dance through the vast expanse,
Changing,
Building,
Fading,
Returning again,
They form into angelic images and as quickly turn into menacing power,
He’s in the storms,
He watches,
Protects,
Guides,
Sees you through,
If you wonder where God is,
Simply look around,
He’s everywhere.
 
 
 

Though our nation is no longer just a Christian Nation, but one of a variety of faiths, those who still hold the values of the Judaeo/Christian founders of our nation still exist. If we return to those original concepts, God will bless our nation again. He will endure forever.

Posted in 4th of July, America, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

SHROUDED IN MYSTERY

Posted on July 3, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

The image I’ve chosen for today’s post is almost an exact replica of what I’m viewing outside my window this morning. The words that are attached to it, are indicative of what I’m feeling this morning. When you’re waiting for news that will change your life and of those around you, you can become engulfed in a fog – a dimly lit sky – that closes in on you. We pray for inner strength to get through these times. We ask why. We wonder what the next step will be. We cry. We hold tight to each other for strength. We rely on friends and family. We say we trust in God, but then question His purpose. We cry some more.

Comfort comes for a little while, but that fog closes in again the next day and the next. Life is so precious to us. We hang onto it without realizing something much better is waiting beyond. Words of comfort are given. “Trust in the Lord. Lay your burdens upon Him. Don’t give up. Be strong. You are loved.” All of those words often become second nature when we don’t know what to say to someone longing for the courage to endure. These are well intentioned words, of course. They are common phrases, designed to help, and they do for a while. Then truth reveals itself and more words are needed.

As I walk this journey with the love of my life, I can’t imagine not having him in it. I know that life is fragile. I know that aging is a signal for the end of it. I realize that God has a perfect place waiting for us beyond the grave and still I feel this emptiness in the pit of my stomach when I try to wrap my brain around it all. My strength falters so I must rely on God’s. I pray that He will guide us through this part of our journey together and help us to grow even tighter because of it.

Posted in aging, ENDURING LOVE, Faith, God's plans | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

SUNDAY PRAYER

Posted on July 2, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

DEAR. SWEET, JESUS, Thank you for another day. Amen!

Posted in aging, Faith, prayer | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

THE COST OF FREEDOM

Posted on July 2, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER ©

What is the price of liberty? Where lies the victor’s prize?
Is it in bodies laying still, beneath the cold, dark skies?
The cost to win our freedom cannot be seen in life,
But in the brave hearts smitten to take away our strife.

Our Savior did this willingly when tortured on the tree.
He gave His life and rose again so we could be set free.
No human life could do this. It had to be from God.
So we could see His love for us both here and far abroad.

His word He gave to teach us all the things we need to know,
His life He gave to save us from the pain that lies below.
So lift your voice to Jesus. His love will never die.
He purchased us for paradise. He’ll care for us on high.

Posted in 4th of July, America, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, freedom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS . . .

Posted on June 30, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
 In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust;
I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?

All day they twist my words; All their thoughts are against me for evil. They gather together,
They hide, they mark my steps, when they lie in wait for my life. Shall they escape by iniquity? In anger cast down the peoples, O God!

You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book?
When I cry out to You, then my enemies will turn back; this I know, because God is for me.  In God (I will praise His word), in the Lord (I will praise His word), in God I have put my trust;
I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Psalm 56:3-11

When fear overtakes me, I often forget that I’m safe in my Savior’s arms. The words of others, the fear of failure, the fright of bad dreams that wake me in the night – the dread of having to give someone bad news, the terror that comes when I face death or health issues.

All of these things make me tremble and feel helpless. When I’m haunted by fear, I know I can take comfort in the psalmist’s words. God fears nothing. He is almighty. His strength will give us the ability to deal with not only our fears, but everything that comes our way. All we have to do is ask Him. May God drive away all my fears and anxieties through His holy Son, Jesus. Like the Good Shepherd, who cares for each and every one of His sheep, He will lift me up in His arms, hold me tightly and lead me to eternity with Him.

Posted in aging, anxiety, fear, Good shepherd | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

ONE NATION UNDER GOD . . .

Posted on June 29, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

I realize the fourth of July doesn’t come around until next Tuesday, but this is holiday that holds the key to the foundation of our country. In just over two hundred years, we might not recognize the America of 1776. Change is good, but not always for the better. I pray that our nation would return to its founding fathers for inspiration. Without them, there would be no United States of America.

ONE NATION UNDER GOD

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

One nation under God,” is what our founders said,
But something happened on the way. They now say God is dead.
I know our God lives on. He stands at heaven’s gate.
And He will bring our nation back from greed, and lies and hate.

Under our power alone, we cannot run the race.
He sent His dear Son, Jesus, to die and take our place.
Because He is our God, He’ll never let us stray.
He holds our hands and leads us into His holy way.

When we turn back to God, His arms are open wide.
He doesn’t look at our mistakes, instead He looks inside.
So let’s get back to basics and remember who we are.
Our God’s not dead. He lives and reigns in hearts both near and far.

What is the price of liberty? Where lies the victor’s prize?
Is it in bodies lying still or in a winner’s eyes?
The cost paid for our freedom cannot be seen in life,
But in the brave hearts smitten to take away our strife.

Our Savior did this willingly when tortured on the tree.
He gave His life and rose again so we could be set free.
No human life could do this. It had to be from God.
So we could see His love for us, both here and far abroad.

His word He gave to teach us the things we need to know,
His life He gave to save us from the pain that lies below.
So lift your voice to Jesus. His love will never die.
He brings us into paradise to live with Him on high.

Posted in 4th of July, America, freedom, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on ONE NATION UNDER GOD . . .

SHARING YOUR STORY

Posted on June 28, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Often when we share things going on in our lives, our words are unwanted or ignored. When we’re suffering through some sort of difficulty, whether it be financial, emotional, dealing with illness, a broken relationship, people don’t necessarily want to hear about it. When someone asks, “How are you,” and you lay your whole life before them, you will most likely lose your audience. Jesus spent His time on earth, telling stories – parables, they were called. Each of those stories had a purpose. When we share a story of a trial we’re dealing with, it just might help someone else in their journey.

We have a reason for our existence. A few years back I wrote a book called “Stages.” It dealt with the seven stages of life and included a memoir of sorts. It’s no longer in print, but that isn’t why I wrote the book. I had no thoughts of becoming a best-selling author. I only wished to leave a bit of history behind for my children and grandchildren. I started writing my blog 12 years ago as a way to share my experiences with others so they would know that there is a way to get through our earthly struggles. Relying on God, rather than myself, has added to my life’s purpose. In the past two years, my posts have turned to the aging process, relying on God and death. If that doesn’t sound like a thrilling story, let me assure you, it isn’t. I do believe that everything that happens to us in life, is for a reason. God created us to not only serve Him, but to help others in any way we can. Our own experiences, our trials, our battles, our successes can give hope to others who may be going through a similar situation.

Every second of each life is filled with opportunities to share them. Whether you write those stories in a journal, share them on a blog site, share over coffee, or simply keep a daily diary, you are sharing advice that might give someone else hope in an otherwise hopeless situation. God saw that it was not good for man to be alone, so He created a helper for him. Throughout history, we find that we need each other to help us get through the storms of life. We may not always get that help from each other, but we can depend on God’s intervention in all things.

 “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

Posted in aging, change, Faith, storms | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

GOD’S PLAN OR MINE?

Posted on June 27, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3

This proverb might like an old-fashioned idea. Aren’t we supposed to do what WE can to prosper? We have the mind and the talent to accomplish what we want in life. Why do we need God? All around us are words like; You can do anything you put your mind to; You are the one who makes things happen; it’s all about you! Don’t rely on anyone except numero uno.

We lose sight of God’s promises to give us the victory in every area of our lives. We think that we should be responsible for our success. It’s a matter of pride, isn’t it? I’m quickly learning something I should’ve been aware of a long time ago. Death will come to each of us in God’s timing. His timing is perfect because He’s God. He designed our lives before we ever came to be. Our lifetime has purpose and usefulness, but the end will be determined by Him alone. By surrendering all things to God, we’re letting Him do what He does best. His path will not be easy, but it will make us ready for the next step we take. He gives us the abilities and the means to carry out our plans, but He is the one who actually fulfills them. Even if we don’t reach our goals in life, we can be assured that we have true success through Him.

Each day we approach a new door. What’s on the other side depends on our ability to open that door and see. God has amazing things planned for each of His children. Trust Him to make the right choices for you as you travel with Him.

Posted in aging, anxiety, Faith, Inspiration | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

GOD’S TEARS

Posted on June 26, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Be still, sad heart, and cease repining;
Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;
Thy fate is the common fate of all,
Into each life some rain must fall,
Some days must be dark and dreary.” Longfellow

The last verse of Longfellow’s poem about rainy days, is appropriate for today’s post. This weekend brought us some refreshing rain. The lawns and gardens received an instant face lift with the addition of some welcome drops of water. I’m sure the farmers are happy too. When I was a child, it was said by someone that rain was the result of God’s tears. Here’s another one of those quotes from the old days. “Thunder is caused by angels bowling in heaven. I doubt that my Father, God cries or has a bowling alley up in heaven, but He certainly has a lot to be sad about. The state of our world is so far from His original creation. We have not been good stewards in caring for it as we should. He also watches as man’s hate can eliminate lives, break relationships, tear apart families. He sees young people choosing to wash the hurt from their minds with numbing drugs. He watches the unmarried woman choose to eliminate a new life. He hears the cries of the sick, the weak, the weary from every corner of the world. I can’t begin to imagine the cacophony of confusion in all of it, but He is God and He hears every cry for help. That’s the God I know.

Knowing that He is so much stronger than any one of us, makes us realize that tears are beyond Him. However, there was a time in history when He decided to live among us. He took on human form and was born like we were. His life was short, but impactful. He wept when he saw the condition of mankind. He cried for the death of a friend. His tears poured from his eyes like drops of blood, as He faced His own torturous death. God knows all about tears. He created them.

Those tear ducts that He placed in the first human beings served as an outlet for our deepest emotions. We cry when a newborn makes his debut. We cry at weddings when a new partnership is established. We cry when we’re in pain. We cry at funerals. We cry when we’re anxious, frustrated, lonely, helpless or sometimes for no reason at all. That last one is happening to me a lot these days. I will cry if I see a child at play. I cry when I’m washing the dishes. I cry when I’m laughing. I cry when I get good news or bad. The doctors keep telling us to stay hydrated, but how can you when you’re eliminated all that liquid from your eyes?

When we go through any kind of living – when those we love are sick – when we lose someone in death – when our future is uncertain – when you find the one to spend your life with – when you get a difficult diagnosis – when you wake up in the morning. All of those events can set off a deluge. Just remember that God is available 24/7. He will wrap you in His loving embrace, wipe away your tears and give you the courage to carry on.

Psalm 34:17 “When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.”

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DOING LIFE TOGETHER

Posted on June 24, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

We come to the weekend with great expectations. There are projects to complete. There are friendships to share – time to unwind from all the pressures of the last few days – a time to relax and enjoy nature. When you’ve been married to someone as long as I have, you hang onto every second, because you are never sure when that time is going to end.

The trumpeter swans in the painting are usually seen together in pairs. When one lands on a pond for sustenance and a quick swim, the other is sure to be there in a few minutes. Trumpeter swans are said to mate for life. I’m not sure what their life span is, but it seems God watches over them as He cares for all His creation. God not only creates amazing environments for His handiwork, but He gives his creatures a partner to share their lives with. I think about that today. He gave me just the right person to spend my life with. We honor each other every day through our commitment to our vows. There are so many detours in this life, but God has always been at the center of our family and with that, we can face anything. With Him all things are possible.

The road is full of stumbling blocks, we see them every day,
Our path is filled with hiccups which toughen up the way,
Our journey to eternity is filled with indecision,
We struggle through all daily tasks, requiring supervision,
The signs that lead to nowhere, just clutter up our walk,
We can’t decide which way to go, we simply talk the talk,
But when we walk with Jesus, our road is made quite clear,
The things that seemed impossible, lose all their haunting fear,
Our daily walk is easy when we simply trust in Him,
We’ll reach our destination and in the end we win!

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Family, marriage | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments