EXPLORING NEW HORIZONS

Posted on May 14, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

On May 14, 1804, the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to lead an expedition from St. Louis, Missouri to the west coast of our country. Such an adventure has been captured in newspapers, books, and movies throughout the years. Documentary films have been offered to show the trials they endured along the way and how they overcame them.

The story of how the Lewis and Clark Expedition dealt with the perils that lay in front of them is not only interesting, but sometimes unbelievable. They encountered tribes of Native Americans – some friendly, others hostile. They had to rely on the land itself to provide food and shelter. They had no idea what they would meet as they traveled over unfamiliar and uncharted lands.

As we travel this broken world we live in, God gives us advice on how to navigate the troubling times. He shows us how to prepare, how to put our plans into action and how to finally reach our ultimate goal. When we wonder how we’ll meet another day – when the road is unfamiliar or dangerous – when the going gets more than tough – those are the times we rely on our Creator the most. When Moses led the children of Israel to the promised land, he faced much the same thing that Lewis and Clark would encounter. (Of course that journey lasted quite a bit longer,) They were led by God through His constant presence as they traveled. They became impatient and often gave up. They trusted in their own plans rather than God’s. They grumbled and complained. They strayed from God’s promises. They made an idol to take God’s place. Even in their groaning and groveling, they were protected and given provision by God Himself.

We have the luxury of that same protection. So, when it seems the road is impossible, or when we think we can’t take another step, that is the time we need our Heavenly Father the most. Turn to Him in the day of trouble. Hold fast to His commands. Follow His lead. Don’t be afraid. Persevere, because He will never leave your side. His ultimate goal for us is heaven.

When the Lewis and Clark Expedition ended, when the promised land was in view, when we make it through the trials of this life, we have the hope of eternity with our loving, protecting, strong and mighty God. Give thanks for His endurance today.

Romans 12:12 ESV “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

Posted in God, patience, perseverance, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

MAY 13, 2024 – NATIONAL FROG JUMPING DAY

Posted on May 13, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And If it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.” Mark Twain

So, today is National Frog Jumping Day. The first thing to jump into my mind was Mark Twain’s funny story about the Jumping Frog Contest at Calaveras County. As with most of Twain’s stories, we are given a taste of life on the Mississippi River and frogs definitely are in abundance there. The story tells of a contest between frogs to see which one could jump farthest. In order to win the race, buckshot was fed to the frog that usually won, so that he would be weighed down enough to keep him from winning on that day. It turned into a victory for a different frog that year.

It got me to thinking about how we often get weighed down with unnecessary weight from time to time. That weight comes in the form of extra stress that we hadn’t counted on or possibly a tragedy or loss we didn’t expect. I wonder how that poor frog of Calaveras County fared after that contest. Most of our heavy problems seem insurmountable at times. Where do we turn when the burden becomes so overwhelming that it interferes with our daily performance?

In Mark Twain’s quote about eating the biggest frog first, we get some good advice about dealing with stress. Tackle the big problems first. Then the smaller ones will seem even smaller. This may be good advice if you’re eating a frog, but often in life, we tend to flounder when it comes to the big stuff. God invites us to come to Him with that heavy weight, along with the little things that cause us to worry or stress out. Sometimes that seems so futile when you’re in a tough situation. It requires us to be patient – to have complete faith and trust in the outcome – especially to let go. Giving our problems over to God could seem to be a copout but think about it. You have the Creator of the Universe directing the events of your life. His power, wisdom and presence are enough to provide all the right answers to any situation – good or bad.

It’s Monday. It’s a do-over day. It’s time to turn your life over to the only One you can trust. He alone will lift the heavy load. He will provide the answers you need. He will be at your side through every struggle you face this week. Even if you’re forced to eat a frog.

Posted in Humor, Wacky holidays, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

PASSING DOWN MOTHERHOOD

Posted on May 12, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I come from a long line of dedicated mothers. Those ancestors have passed their devotion to the craft on to their daughters and so on and so on. Being a mom is probably the most wonderful experience a woman can have. At the same time, the occupation is filled with hard work, putting up with dirty diapers, scrapes and scratches, visits to the ER, the bringing home of various critters and, most importantly, not knowing what to do. The last one is so typical for all moms. I think not knowing what to do applies especially to these women who make sacrifices every day. Those who put up with complaints about cleaning their rooms – those who don’t fully appreciate what you’re doing to meet their needs before your own – those who make mistakes and fall down along the way. A mother is the first face your child will probably see when it breaks into the world. They will fall in love with you almost immediately. Most moms feel that way.

We don’t always tell you how much we love you. We try to show rather than tell. We pray a lot for you. We also pray that God will guide us through this process. There are times when we feel unappreciated, overworked, down in the dumps and downright failures at the job. Our minds quickly change when we’re bestowed with a bouquet of wilted dandelions, or a watercolor painting of the same wilted flowers. Our hearts jump for joy at your successes. We cry with you when you don’t get that part in the play or miss getting on the team. Our tears are often blended with yours.

We see the result of our handiwork, not while we’re doing it, but much later on, when you’ve grown up and have your own life away from ours. We see success when you become an adult and show love to others or when you give of yourself because you love someone else. You then become a reflection of what has been instilled in your life all along.

Being a mom is one of the greatest responsibilities ever. You honor her with your love, with what you become, how you face the truth of living in a broken world, how you place your trust in God when you just don’t know what to do. As I look back at mothers, grandmothers and forward to the next generations, I am confident that what was placed in those little hearts so long ago will go on and on and on.

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IN OUR CHILDREN’S EYES

Posted on May 11, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Today, May 11, 2024 is designated for birth mothers. Because I am going through the calendar of May, I’m sharing this older post about parenting.

When children are young, they look to their parents as superheroes – men and women of steel – those who can make all their boo-boos better and dry their tears when they are hurting.  When they get older, the mask and cape quickly disappear, and it soon becomes apparent that parents aren’t much different than anyone else.  They have problems – they can’t do everything – they make mistakes.

When they become teens, suddenly those original super heroes have now been relegated to not having a clue or being absolutely ignorant.  It isn’t until they begin their own families or life on their own that parents once again get the honor they’re deserve.

Parenting is probably one of the most difficult occupations out there.  No one tells you that your life is going to change completely.  No one tells you that your kids will get broken bones, hurt feelings and need to protection from dangerous situations. I didn’t expect numerous trips to the ER. I wasn’t prepared for snakes, bugs, baby ducks, frogs and many other critters.  How could I know the pain I would feel when one of them was hurt in any way?

Parenting is tough. You feel guilty going to bed with a sink full of dishes. You have so much to do, but your child wants a bedtime story. You’d really love a new pair of shoes, but school starts soon and the kids need supplies. You put your plans on hold so you can visit your child’s school and share hot lunch with them, or be their ‘show and tell’ item for the day. You cry when you’re not there to say goodnight and tuck them in for the night.  When the cares of the world are hanging on you – when you feel like a complete failure – when you think you can’t go on – you press on.  You stay the course.  You fly, because you will always be their super hero, even when your cape is in shreds.

Posted in Mother's day, parenting, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

PERFORMERS OF GREAT NOTE

Posted on May 10, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Today is May 10th and would’ve been John Wilkes Booth’s 186th birthday. His fate was sealed when he was only 26 years old. Up until that day, he was looked upon as a fine young actor who graced the performing stage in America. This dashing young man was doomed to die at an early age. Was this what he had planned for his life? I’m certain he thought about living a long and prosperous existence, but history had other plans for him. John was an actor of note among those Americans who made the stage their backdrop.

He was born into a prominent family of successful actors and was making his own name in the family business. Unfortunately, his political views got in the way of his ability to become a character on a stage. His zeal for the south and his ideals about the Civil War became an obsession for him. He blamed President Lincoln for the state of country. His plan to assassinate the Commander in Chief was set into play. This would be Booth’s final tragic performance.

We all learned about this event when we were in elementary school. The death of Lincoln was a shock to the nation at the time. His funeral lasted for weeks as his embalmed body was displayed across the country. Booth escaped from the scene of his crime and went on the run for twelve days, before he was tracked down and found at a Virginia farm. He was shot by Sergeant Boston Corbett and died from his wounds.

The final act of his performance would shake America to the core. It was only a few days after the Civil War ended before Lincoln’s life was cut short. Booth followed him to the grave.

Posted in acting, death, history | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

MAY 9TH, ASCENSION DAY . . .

Posted on May 9, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Today, Christians all over the world celebrate the ascension of Jesus into His heavenly realm. Forty days after His resurrection and a time leading His followers to spread the word that He had conquered death, He ascended into heaven. So, is that the end of the story? No way! It’s really just the beginning for us. We’ve been charged with the obligation of sharing the message of Jesus’ time on earth – His love for His people – His ultimate sacrifice for them – His compassion for all people – His forgiveness – His welcoming arms open for us to join Him in paradise.

Are you ready? Maybe because it was so long ago, the message has died down. Maybe the state of our world today and the has gone beyond forgiveness. Maybe we no longer realize the treasure that God bestowed on us through His Son. There are countless reasons that this day goes unnoticed. Think about it. The Son of God came to dwell among us. He gave up His throne in heaven for 33 years. He lived a life of poverty. He roamed the countryside without a real place to call home. Is this the kind of Savior the world is looking for today? There was nothing flashy about Jesus. Even so, He lived a life of a common man and experienced all the sorrows and pains that humanity allows, without sinning.

Today we place our hope in mere mortals who promise to make life better for us. We turn to things that lead us away from the very source of our strength. We rely on ourselves to make it through the difficulties of life. Our superheroes have become idols that have absolutely nothing to offer but false promises. God had a plan. He continues to live through those who believe and trust in Him. Don’t minimize the price He paid. He gave His life so we would live forever. His perfect plan for every individual is to draw them to Him and bring them home to heaven one day.

We have a wonderful message to share with others. Don’t underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit. He will give us the words. He will work through us to glorify God. He will help us to share the truth that we will one day ascend into heaven as well.

Posted in Faith, Jesus, Salvation | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

GIVING UP OR GIVING IN?

Posted on May 8, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

So deep within the tallest pines, with darkened haze enshrouded,

A hidden place encased in webs of silver threads beclouded,

Peaceful, quiet, sanctuary, a refuge where you can hide,

A place to lick the wounds of hurt and comfortably stay inside,

Far away from life’s distractions, a cave you can call your own,

Where you can hide all your troubles and tuck them under a stone,

That perfect place does not exist unless you believe in God,

He’s promised never to leave you, no matter where you may trod,

He’s by your side through all your pain, through joy and suffering too,

He knows you need His guiding hand to lead and see you through,

You simply cannot run away, He is in the air you breathe,

Surrender to His protection, and His blessings He’ll bequeath.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God's will, peace | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

MAY 8, 1945 – A DAY OF SURRENDER

Posted on May 8, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The skies must’ve been filled with thunderous clouds as a result of the bombing, shelling and what seemed like eternal hell. A small ray of sunshine crept through the carnage and gave the world hope – for a new tomorrow, for the end of years of war, for peace in Europe. It would be another three months before Japan followed suit and surrender as Germany did on May 8, 1945. Almost four years of war was at last coming to an end. Ravaged landscapes, horrific acts of terror and inhumanity, tears, blood and sweat would finally be released from the tyrannical reign of the Nazi regime. Prayers were answered. Hope was renewed. Life would go on and the restructuring of a smitten landscape would eventually proceed. Only a few days before, Adolf Hitler committed suicide, wiithout his maniacal control leading the German army, a complete surrender became necessary.

I was not quite four years old when this happened. I knew very little about war. A child living in the safety of America, but not realizing what was going on in the world around me. Surrender wasn’t yet a part of my vocabulary. I was in fact an only child at the time, and my parents were having difficulty bending my strong will into surrender. Surrender was another word I didn’t understand at that point. It took years of growing up to finally realize the meaning of the word. Surrender is defined as giving up – turning over unwillingly – letting go or relinquishing – submitting – to quit. Most of the time, this process is against our own will. So, what does the Bible say about surrender?

“Be still and know that I am God.
    I will be exalted among the nations,
    I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalm 46:10

Surrender is not an easy act to accomplish. Especially when our wills are so self-reliant. Giving in to God is a surrender of sorts, but it doesn’t hurt to do so. We will be lifted up when we turn things over to Him in honor, thanksgiving and prayer. His promises never fail. He will never give up on us. His love endures forever. He chose us before we even knew Him. His power and strength are what we need. When we surrender to Him, we are assured of perfection. Especially when we join the angels in heaven to praise Him forever and ever. Let every knee bow to the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and provider of all things. Surrender!

Posted in Uncategorized | 5 Comments

MAY 7TH – NATIONAL TEACHER DAY

Posted on May 7, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Since this is teacher appreciation week, I thought I’d talk about some of the teachers who influenced my life.  When I was in kindergarten, there was the kind, elderly, Mrs. Braham.  She was one of those very ample women, much like me today, who when she went to write something on the chalk board, would proceed to erase at the same time. When she turned around, her black dress was clear evidence.  Mrs. Braham taught me about letters and numbers and opened my imagination to wonderful stories that stirred me to write my own later in life.

I remember a history teacher who was so thrilled to inform us about the Civil War, that he actually acted out each battle, as if he were a general – all done on the top of his desk.  As he emoted each detail (as all good actors know) spit would fly, and wouldn’t you know, I was in the front row.  I love history today, probably because of his dramatic interpretation.  I wish he would’ve provided a towel though.

There was the drama teacher who laid the groundwork for my eventual career.  She taught me to take chances, to not be afraid, to follow my dreams. I also learned that the mask I used in my own life, wouldn’t really hide what was inside my head.

We all have been affected by teachers who went the extra mile to help us. There were those who branded us with their knowledge and inspiration leaving us prepared for life.   They gave us wisdom and knowledge, but they also urged us to go beyond our limits – to stretch ourselves – to believe we could do things we didn’t think we could.

I thank God for the gift of good teachers.  The kind that will spend their own money on special school supplies.  The kind that gives of their own time after school to help a student who is struggling with an assignment.  The kind that stays awake nights thinking about lesson plans to stimulate and interest your child.  The kind that loves your child almost as much as you do.

Teachers are not all perfect. Just like parents, they’re dealing with outside issues. They try their best to create a great learning environment for your children, often at the expense of their own checkbook. They inspire, ignite, initiate thought and ideas, spur young minds to learn and share part of themselves each day with those same kids. The ones we remember are those who touched our lives in a special way. Thank you to all in the education arena. You are indeed amazing. God has placed you in the classroom for a reason.

James 3:1-2 ESV “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.”

Posted in education, holidays, teachers | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

MEN OF HONOR . . .

Posted on May 6, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

On May 6th, 1957, John F. Kennedy was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Biography – “Profiles in Courage.” He later went on to become the president of the United States. His literary award gave credence to the man who would one day sit in the oval office of the White House. Looking at each of the presidents in the above photo, you would expect great things from the man who leads a nation. Unfortunately, we are all human – have a sinful nature – make mistakes. We expect so much more of our leaders.

We want them to be the epitome of strength, wisdom and honor. We place them at a higher standard, because they will represent us to the world. They in fact become “our” voice as they sit in that office. Presidents are not perfect, but our expectations for the one to fill that position far exceed what we receive in the end. Our vote might be considered one of the last freedoms we possess as Americans. I’m concerned that our vote is being lost in the shuffle of politics as usual. By the time the candidates are determined, we are left with imperfect choices for that esteemed job.

We also expect the same from our teachers, our parents, our pastors, priests and church leaders. Unfortunately, everyone has been touched by some ugly secret in their past, present or future. The way our country is going and has been from the first day of its conception, leaves a lot to be desired. It’s nothing new. In King Solomon’s day, things were much like they are today. He even declared that there was nothing new under the sun. We have lost respect for those in leadership positions, yet we continue to elect the imperfect, forgetting that we are also marred by sin.

In this election year, we need to be mindful of our own identity. How do we stack up when it comes to our ultimate leader, God? Do we keep His commandments? Do we follow them to a tee? Are we living perfect lives in His sight? Are we obedient to His precepts? Are we without sin? Jesus made a good example of the woman who was about to be stoned because she was found in the sin of adultery. He told the crowd that whoever was without sin should cast the first stone. Of course everyone left, because they couldn’t admit such a truth.

Because of Jesus, we have been made perfect because of His sacrifice. Therefore, we can stand confidently before God, knowing that we have been forgiven. Look at the cost of that forgiveness and learn to appreciate what has been freely given to us. Those in authority are to be looked up to, but we must also realize that they we’re all the same when it comes to our true identity.

Would you be able to claim the perfection we require of our leaders?

Posted in aging, politics, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 11 Comments

MAY FIFTH – A VERY SPECIAL DAY

Posted on May 5, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The month of May is filled with new things. The freshness of new growth. The delight of seeing little buds appearing on trees and emerging from the ground. The promise of lots of colors to bless our gardens and resplendent ornamental trees beginning to flower. It’s also a time of celebration – coming out of a long season of white into a new month filled with amazing hues of green, red, blue and yellow.

On May 5th we remember and celebrate the Mexican holiday of Cinco de Mayo for their defeat of the French at the Battle of Pueblo in 1862. Our menu of the day may include tacos, enchiladas, Mexican beer or Margaritas. The colors of the Mexican flag will fly, and celebrations occur even if you aren’t Mexican. There were other things that happened on that day.

  • Coco Chanel introduced her modern perfume to the world – Chanel #5
  • In 1260 Kublai Kahn, the grandson of Genghis Kahn, became the leader of the Mongol Empire.
  • in 1865 the 1st US train robbery occurred at North Bend, Ohio.
  • In 1917, the first African American, Eugene Bullard, received his pilot’s license to fly for the military.
  • In 1925, John Scopes was arrested for teaching evolution.
  • In 1969, Norman Mailer received the Pulitzer Prize for his novel, “Armies of the Night.”

So, today enjoy some traditional Mexican food, think about how history has influenced everyone’s life in some way or another and read a book, but try something other than one about evolution.

HAPPY MAY 5TH

Posted in history, holidays, seasons, Uncategorized | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU . . .

Posted on May 4, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

In my attempt to find something fresh and new for each day of May, I happened across the above meme. I’m not a big Star Wars Fan, but the phrase May the force be with you, will always require the Lutheran in me to respond with, “and also with you.” I would guess this would also be a Catholic response, and maybe Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, etc., etc., etc.,

Isn’t it funny how words and specific sentences can garner automatic responses from our past. As a Lutheran, I learned to recite the liturgy, so I would be able to respond without looking at the words. Soon those words became rote and lost their punch. So, in the spirit of Star Wars, with a Lutheran touch, my wish for you is that the true force will be with you, and also with me.

HAPPY FOURTH OF MAY!

Posted in aging, Encouragement, Humor | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

WALKING WITH JESUS . . .

Posted on May 4, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

Footprints in the sand

pressed deeply by two sets of feet.

They have a purpose in walking side by side.

But when one set disappears it easy to see,

by the weight carried by those lone prints,

that one has lifted the other and carried him when he could no longer walk alone.

The burdens that the one carried are now placed on the back of the other.

Not only does He carry the burdens – He lifts the one He carries to a perfect peace.

JESUS!

Posted in aging, Jesus, Poetry by Kathy Boecher, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WALKING WITH JESUS . . .

NATIONAL TWO DIFFERENT COLORED SHOES DAY

Posted on May 3, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Every now and then I pay attention to silly things. Well, actually most of the time I spend thinking about silly things. For example, I will never understand what happens to socks on laundry day.  There’s always at least one missing.  For years I’ve struggled with this dilemma.  My granddaughter has informed me that matching socks are so yesterday, so it’s not really a problem anymore, but it still bugs me. Leave it to young people to find the solution for lost socks and putting it into action.  A whole new fashion trend has evolved. I even noticed a talk show host wearing one sock on one foot and no sock on the other. Did the other sock escape? There is also a day to celebrate lost socks. It’s coming on May 9th.

Today, however, is a day of celebration for wearing two different colored shoes. I’ve been known to do this at times. It wasn’t planned that way, I simply got dressed in the dark and didn’t bother to look at my feet until it was too late. No one else noticed until I mentioned it. That’ll teach me to open my mouth at the most inappropriate time. I’m not crazy about change, so the idea of wearing two different shoes isn’t on my bucket list, but if it were to create a whole new statement, I might be game. When you’re over 80 you tend to do things to stir up conversation. Most of the time, you’re put on a waiting list of some kind.

It gets me thinking about the other pair of two different colored shoes left in the closet. How do they deal with such abandonment. I mean, weren’t they meant to be together? Like lost socks, they might just disappear someday destined to a life somewhere in the bowels of the earth. Maybe there could be an online dating service for those odd shoes, designed to find the perfect mate for each one. There would have to be an honest disclosure in the shoe’s description so that a cowboy boot doesn’t get paired with a ballet slipper. Who knows? They just might make a go of it.

Don’t worry, I haven’t completely flipped my lid. I’m not losing it. It’s Funny Friday and I can’t think of anything else to write about today. Thus, I turn to the Days of the Year Calendar for writing prompts. Have a great weekend and be sure to laugh, especially at those wearing two different shoes.

Posted in aging, Humor, Wacky holidays | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

A FIELD OF WEEDS . . .

Posted on May 2, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Yesterday we went on our weekly road trip within 20 miles of our home. It’s always good for us to roam through the surrounding neighborhoods and burrows in search of God’s beautiful bounty of creation. Nothing takes your mind off yourself better. As we searched the landscape, there were signs of spring everywhere. We came upon flowering cherry trees, some newly blossoming perennials and a lovely field of dandelions. I remember picking and receiving big bouquets of these flowers back in the day. Nothing says loving, like a handful of dandelions. When we got home from our drive, there was a girl walking with her mom. She was on roller skates and had a bundle of dandelions in her hand. It made me think of those days when my own children would do the same for me.

I guess these weeds are beauty in the eye of the beholder, but to those who love perfectly green lawns they can become a real pain in the neck. When my children brought me bouquets of dandelions, it meant they were thinking of me in a special way. Even though, when placed in water, they soon wilted and turned my fingers green. Our point of view has a lot to do with how we view everything in life. When things aren’t going well for us, when we have difficult decisions to make, when health problems occur, when we are emotionally hurting, a cheerful bouquet of dandelions might clear up the troubles for the moment, but soon the beauty wears off and the flowers wilt and die.

If we look at the dandelions as only weeds, we’re neglecting the beauty they can bring to a barren field or empty lawn. Weeds will come. They’re mixed in with healthy grasses and flowers. Soon they turn into giant puff balls of seeds which scatter and grow again. There will always be the tough things to deal with in life, but God will even open our eyes to great beauty and hope and faith that tomorrow will be another day. Your perspective can and will change your outlook if you let it. Don’t miss out on the beauty that’s right before your eyes.

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DAY TWO OF MAY . . .

Posted on May 2, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“TAKE ME AWAY” – Art & Poetry by KATHY BOECHER©

The world is not the place for me. I long to be in heaven.

When thoughts like that invade my mind, I need to be forgiven.

God didn’t make me to want death. He chose me as His own.

He crafted me and knew me before my life was sewn.

Each intricate piece he whittled. Each vessel put in place.

He had a plan set just for me. He knew the dreams I’d chase.

And even as my days grow short, and time is running out,

I feel His presence in my life. Of this I have no doubt.

To live for me is Jesus, no matter where I roam.

I will rejoice to meet Him when He comes to take me home.

Posted in Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, Heaven, inspiration. | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

Posted on May 1, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

A haze entrenched sky,

Sprinkles a minute amount of light,

Upon the mighty river’s edge,

Capturing reflections,

Dispensing shadows,

Displaying an array of natural color,

The remnant of a fallen tree rests frozen in a mass of crystal shards,

But today is a new beginning as each day should be,

Today the waters have returned,

God’s finger has opened them,

The first of May,

Transition time.

Time to sweep out the cobwebs of winter,

To lift the veil of anticipation.

And look ahead,

To days of warmth,

Rapture,

Lazy days of summer

To reach heights never dreamed of,

To find renewal,

To live.

Posted in Uncategorized | 8 Comments

JOYFUL, PATIENT & FAITHFUL

Posted on April 30, 2024 by atimetoshare.me 


"All good things arrive unto them that wait--and don't die in the meantime."  Mark Twain

“God writes a lot of comedy … the trouble is, he’s stuck with so many bad actors who don’t know how to play funny.” Garrison Keeler

Joy, Patience and faithfulness are formidable character traits, but when you add words like hope, affliction and prayer, you see there is more to them than meets the eye.  How often do we give thanks when our hopes have been dashed? How do you grow patient when everything around you is moving at a snail’s pace? How’s our prayer life? Do we just reach out to God when we need Him, or do we have numerous conversations with Him throughout the day?

God is not simply an aging old man in the sky, managing His kingdom like a puppeteer pulling all the right strings.  He definitely has a sense of humor, because He created me.  He looks after us as a loving father cares for His children.  He wants the very best for us and has a blueprint all drawn out for what He has in store for us.

He’s also demanding of us.  He wants our obedience, because He’s our Creator.  He wants us to share our love and trust in Him with those in desperate need of the Gospel.  He’s given us the command to love one another as we love ourselves.  He wants us to know that nothing we do is going to pay for our inability to live up to His expectations, but He also provided a way out for us.

We don’t just automatically become joyful when we turn things over to God.  Sometimes it takes Him a long time to answer.  Sometimes He does that to build character and patience, other times He’s refining us.  Sometimes He looks into the future and knows what’s best for us.  Maybe the thing we’re praying for isn’t for our good.  Many times He doesn’t answer at all, but He guides us through the path that He’s pre-determined for us.  He gives us discernment, wisdom and the ability to make the right choices.

God feeds us when we get a daily diet of His Word.  He nourishes our bodies and souls with the love He exhibits for us on those pages.  Plan on filling yourself up with his truth and He will bestow on you hope, patience and faithfulness.

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A WEEK WITHOUT BAGGAGE

Posted on April 29, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Mondays are good days to start over – to leave the baggage of last week and the weeks before behind and push ahead. The word, “motivation,” literally means to move forward. Sometimes it’s not easy to do so. We’re stuck in a rut because our mind tells us we can’t deal with change anymore. We’re too old to start over. We don’t have the energy or strength to begin again. Maybe we’re simply tired of the rat race of living and we don’t want to try again.

Life is full of reasons why we shouldn’t move on. We become complacent – satisfied – we’re physically unable to go through another change – we might be plain lazy – and a whole litany of other reasons. When you get to the final years of living, you become even more stubborn about change. You’ve worked all your life to achieve the things you hope to accomplish. It’s time for a break. By the time you reach retirement, you have all kinds of time, but no money – no energy – no MOTIVATION.

The truth is, when you turn 80, you can’t stretch your legs above your head. You can’t move as quickly as you once did. You’re deterred by poor health. Your sense of hearing fails, your sense of smell puts you in danger, your tastebuds have bit the dust, and your eyesight is clouded. Even your ability to physically feel something is deterred by neuropathy. In fact, you become senseless. All the things you strived for in your youth have no meaning now.

So how do we push on when our get up and go has got up and left? Where do we get the motivation to pursue something different, something new, something totally out of our realm of comfort? At this age, we’re making life changing decisions, even when we don’t want to. One thing I know for sure is that even though our life is full to the brim with choices, we have someone who will guide us through and has our back. God alone is our advocate. He will give us the strength, the brainpower, the wherewithal and the wisdom to make the right decisions. With that truth in mind, we cannot fail. He is our motivation.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not lean on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5

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ME, MY, MINE, MYSELF OR I . . .

Posted on April 27, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Today might be the time to challenge yourself. How many times, whether speaking to others, writing an essay, filling out an employment resume, do you use any of the words in today’s title? Isn’t it interesting how often those words come up in conversation. It may be that you simply want to help someone by sharing a personal experience that you’ve been through. It could be that your social circle is so small that you are limited in who you talk about. Perhaps you’re very proud of yourself to the point of being egotistical. Whatever the case, we all tend to refer to ourselves too often in conversation.

When we meet someone for the first time, it’s normal to expand on self in order for the other person to get to know something about you. If you tell them your entire life history, not only will you soon lose their attention, but they may actually fall asleep in your presence. When you’re filling out a job application, it can be difficult to list all the assets you can bring to the table. We don’t generally like to brag about ourselves. but is it bragging when what you can do to fill that job is precisely what’s necessary?

When you’re trying to impress someone, you tend to talk about things you excel at. When you are the center of the conversation all the time, you’re probably talking about yourself too much. It was recently suggested by an editor, that those self-words should be avoided as much as possible, because the reader may deem the author as arrogant. Something to think about for sure. Toby Keith wrote a song titled, “I wanna talk about me,” a while back. The words were sometimes comical but held a lot of truth. When involved in any conversation, it should not be one sided. Everyone has something to contribute and should be given the opportunity to do so.

We tend to throw ourselves into the limelight when it comes to social media. Of course everyone wants to put their best foot forward, but sometimes it best not to share everything. How about our prayer life? How many times do we use those self-words when approaching the throne of God? For example: Dear God, I need . . . or I want . . . or help me . . . give me. Get the picture? When we pray, we should first give thanks to the One we’re praying to. Then confess our sins and ask for forgiveness. Then we offer our petitions, pray for others and finally give honor and glory to God.

Try to do this for short time. Eliminate the self-words and focus on those you are talking to, writing to or praying for. It could make a huge difference in the way you actually see others and how they view you.

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