HE THIRSTED

Posted on April 7, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

(A fictional story of what might have happened on that original Good Friday. Many were moved by crucifixion of Jesus. Many came to follow Him. Many prophesies were fulfilled. The truth of the story is that He lived a human life – suffered an agonizing death – and rose again in a transfigured body so that we may live with Him in eternity forever.)

By this time, Jesus was a pitiful sight. He had been hanging on that cross for three hours. His body was weak from attempting to catch His breath. Blood flowed from every part of this shell of a man. The crown of thorns we placed on His head during His arrest, cut sharply into His scalp creating even more blood. Mixed with the sweat and spittle from the riotous crowd, His hair became a matted mess. We, the soldiers in charge of the crucifixion detail, had just finished casting lots for His robe. It was nothing special – a seamless piece of woven cloth that would fetch a fair sum back in Jerusalem.

As we entertained ourselves, the man hanging in the center – the One who called Himself the Messiah – uttered a few sentences here and there. Most of His words remained slurred or difficult for Him to speak. When He said, “I thirst,” one of the other soldiers prodded me to offer him a sponge filled with vinegar. This was just another form of mocking of this criminal and His ridiculous claims. You wouldn’t believe how many had come before Him, claiming to be the promised Messiah and descendant of King David.

I reluctantly filled the sponge with vinegar. Another soldier gave me a hyssop branch to attach to the sponge. I then lifted it to the dying prisoner. Being on the cross for so long had obviously dehydrated Him. Thirst was one of the side effects of crucifixion. Someone from the audience recalled using hyssop in the Passover celebration, as a reminder of the painting of the door posts with the blood of an unblemished lamb. Those Jews and their traditions. I suppose they thought this was the Lamb of God they always talked about.

As the man sucked in the vinegar, I couldn’t help but notice His bruised and blackened eyes. Below the swollen lids, I could see compassion as well as a spirit of forgiveness. I had never seen this in a dying criminal before. It was as though He was fighting through the pain just for me. When I saw that His life was drawing to a close, I removed the sponge from His lips.

After many years passed, I began to learn more about this man, Jesus. In reading the scriptures of old, I came across a Psalm that referred to giving vinegar to the Messiah to drink. I later discovered that this was another prophesy about the Messiah. Jesus was the Messiah. It was like a revelation of the truth of the man and His life – His death – His resurrection. I recalled His eyes and a feeling of relief fell over me.

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THE EMPTY CROSS . . .

Posted on April 7, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

THE EMPTY CROSS – Sculpture prototype by Paul Boecher

The photo accompanying this post is of a cross that hangs in our home. It was originally designed to appear at the front of a church. The cross is empty, but the scars of the suffering which occurred remain. My husband decided against this commission several years ago, because a member of the committee reviewing it thought it was too gruesome. His decision was based on his commitment to the truth of Jesus’ suffering and the cost that our Savior paid for our iniquities. Jesus no longer resides on the cross. He died there, yes, but His body was resurrected on the third day as He promised it would be. Because of this price – this gift to us – we will not have to suffer the pangs of death. He did it for us.

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DROPS OF BLOOD

Posted on April 6, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” Luke 22:44 ESV

When Jesus entered the Garden of Gethsemane, His mind was on one thing only – His mission for coming to this world.  He was a man, but He is also God.  Because of His human nature, He prayed to His heavenly Father, asking that He might be spared from his impending journey.  Because He was also God, He knew there was no turning back – no running away – no hiding, because it was His will which must be carried out

God’s will demanded full payment for the sins of the world.  That payment came in the form of His own flesh. That’s not an easy concept to understand.  God paid the price by His own death.  He was the sacrifice to atone for the sins of the world. No other blood sacrifice would suffice.  No animal or human being could cover the cost.  This was all part of God’s promise of redemption way back in that other garden – Eden.

Jesus’ prayer was one of a man talking to His Father.  In the end He realizes that there is no choice.  He could’ve sent an army of angels to protect Himself and His men, but He went willingly.  His tears were not for Himself, but for you and me and every human being that ever lived.  His prayer was so intense that He sweat drops of blood.  The sweat He bled was real and shows the depth and intensity of His prayer.

Through this event, we learn that it’s OK for us to cry when we hurt, when we suffer financial loss, death of a family member or friend.  When we’re depressed or worried tears will fall. It’s part of our human condition. Our tears hold no magical power, but they do allow us to grieve.  They cleanse the pain away for a while.  They act as a buffer against  outside anxiety.  They open our hearts to the Savior who went willingly to His death to rescue us.

Mountainous clouds entwine in a sky of black,
Filling with tears from the Lord of all.
He sees and He knows our tribulation.
The depth of our sorrow is in His hands.
There is nothing we can do to take away our sadness.
We cannot change the course of our lives,
But He has turned His tears to cleansing waters.
Through the death of His beloved Son.
Washed – forgiven from sin’s deadly pain,
We can dance in His refreshing rain.

                                                                                               KATHY BOECHER©

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THE MOUNT OF OLIVES

Posted on April 4, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

It’s located just outside the city of Jerusalem.  The garden below was a designated cemetery for the Jewish people.  Many of them are buried there.  Jesus seemed to find solace in that place.  He spent much of his time talking to his followers from that very site. It was the perfect place to retreat for prayer and contemplation.

The night was still – the sky dotted with a billion stars.  Mary, the mother of Jesus, looked up and couldn’t help but recall God’s promise to Abraham. God told the patriarch that his descendants would far outnumber those stars.  It was with faith that Abraham believed God’s promise.  It was faith that led him to sacrifice his long-promised son.  It was God that provided a substitute.  It is God who provides all of us with the faith we need when faced with difficult times. He gives us His Holy Spirit to breathe that faith into us. He gave His Son to die for us.

God always keeps His promises.  The thought of giving up her Son weighed heavily on Mary’s heart. Even though giving up the life that had grown within her own body for nine months, she knew she had to trust that there was a purpose for all this.  Would her boy’s life end and simply be added to the numbers buried on that mountain? She remembered the words of the angel Gabriel.

“Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.”

Her faith had to remain strong this week, because she knew it would be put to the test.  Looking up at those stars, she could see God’s handiwork woven into each intricate pattern. Each tiny globe of light was a beacon that filled her heart with hope rather than despair. She knew that God’s will was about to be done. On Tuesday of that Holy Week, Jesus and His followers retreated to the Mount of Olives. They cut through the cemetery at the foot of the hill. The Messiah knew His time was drawing to a close. His Father’s will would be done.

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AN INCREDIBLE WEEK

Posted on April 4, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

It was the most incredible week. The city of Jerusalem was filled to capacity and beyond. People had come from all over the country to celebrate the Passover. Jesus entered the city gates on the back of a donkey to cries of Hosanna to the Messiah – the son of King David – the rightful heir to his kingdom. Even though they honored Him with praises and the waving of palms, they would soon be screaming for His death. Behind closed doors, one of His own disciples was making arrangements to turn Jesus over to the leaders of the Pharisees. Jesus would continue His ministry in His earthly kingdom – turning the attention of His followers to the Kingdom of Heaven. Those closest to Him were told He would soon be leaving, and they couldn’t understand.

In that week – that very holy week – Jesus turned over the merchants’ tables, casting their wares upon the ground and sending doves into their escape. He overturned the tables of each vendor who was taking advantage of this holiday to make money. His rage was justifiable. His Father’s house, intended as a house of worship, had become a den of thieves. The Passover meal was set in an upper room. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet as an act of a servant. He instituted a new meal, which would replace the Passover Feast.

He prayed feverishly that the cup He was meant to drink would be taken from Him, yet He submitted to the will of His Father. He prayed while His followers slept. A group of soldiers was led by His disciple, Judas, who betrayed Jesus with a kiss. Another of His disciples, Peter, would try to defend Jesus by using his sword to cut off a soldier’s ear. Jesus healed the man. That same disciple would denounce knowing Jesus three times. Jesus was arrested, put on trial and declared guilty of blasphemy. He was brutally flogged to the point of death. He was mocked and ridiculed by the Roman army. A sign naming Him the “King of the Jews,” was placed at the top of the cross He would carry to Golgotha. Long, iron spikes pierced His hands and feet to the execution instrument. He would hang there for three hours asking for forgiveness of His enemies – feeling the pain and distress of losing oxygen and being bitten by flies. His already beaten body would endure more pain than anyone could bear. When He could breathe no more, He died. All of this occurred at the time of the evening sacrifice. The Lamb of God had taken the sins of the world to the grave.

That was not the end of the story. As we meditate on Jesus’ last week, let’s realize the extent He would go to release His creation from the grip of sin. He gave His life so that we could inherit His Heavenly Kingdom. So today, we can look at an empty cross and know the price that was paid for our salvation. It is a time of sadness, but our joy will overtake. In just three days He would also conquer the grave, the devil and our sins.

HOSANNA! GOD HAS SAVED US!

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THE HILLS CRY OUT

Posted on April 2, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©


Cutting through the depths of granite, crushing stone along the way,
Even though our God has planned it, it still takes our breath away,
Mountains high and surface rugged, deep crevasses cut within,
Rests the hand of One so tender, who destroys our every sin.

Waters surge and pour refreshment, cleansing all within its path,
Though we simply don’t deserve it, Jesus calms His Father’s wrath,
Takes us to the realms of glory, when our days on earth are done,
In the rock of our salvation, sin is dead, the victory won.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, PALM SUNDAY | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

MY LORD AND KING

Posted on April 1, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY  BY KATHY BOECHER

You are my Lord and King. Without you I am lost.
My praise to you I bring, for paying the great cost.
You died upon the cross to save a wretch like me.
You suffered pain and loss upon that dreadful tree,
You gave your life for me, and others who believe.
You died to set me free. Your truth I’ll never leave.
Help me to mirror you; to walk within your light;
To share all that you do – your power and your might.
You’ve given me your Word – a manual for my life.
With it I now have heard the answers for my strife.
Prepare my heart for you. Let me your servant be.
May everything I do reflect your love for me.

Posted in Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, Jesus, Lent, PALM SUNDAY | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

ON THE BACK OF A DONKEY

Posted on April 1, 2023 by atimetoshare.me


Before His birth, Jesus traveled on the back of a donkey. He was safely protected from the bumps and crevices on the rugged road. Tucked away in His mother’s womb, it wouldn’t be long and He’d be born to set the wheels in motion for changing the world forever.

The pack animal trudged over difficult terrain. The man guided him. The woman clung tightly to the reins as the first birth pains began. They traveled about a hundred miles to the city of their ancestor, King, David. The town of Bethlehem was bustling and overcrowded with others who had also come to be counted in the census. God’s plan for salvation was being transported on a beast of burden. Little did that animal know the precious cargo he was carrying. Away from the elements, in deepest humility, the Son of God was born in a barn where animals were sheltered..

Thirty three years later, that child had grown into a man. His popularity was growing every day. People flocked to hear His words of promise and hope for freedom. They thought He’d come to deliver them from their oppressors. They thought He would bring back the glory of King David and establish His kingdom once more. They looked at Him as more than a miracle worker. They saw Him as one who would bring them earthly glory once more.

It was time to complete His mission – not the one expected by the people, but the one laid out at the beginning of time by His Father – a plan to deliver the world from the sting of death. Through this young man, the iniquities of the entire world would be laid. He would carry the burden. He would be the perfect sin bearer – the Lamb of God.

Jesus would make His entrance into Jerusalem as a conquering hero – as did His ancestor, David, many years before. Why didn’t He choose a magnificent, white stallion, garbed in war armor and meticulously cleaned and brushed? Instead the King of Creation was carried into the holy city on the back of a donkey. Even though He didn’t look like a warrior, He’d surely come up with some kind of miracle – some amazing act to destroy their enemies – They gathered palm branches and placed them in His path. They shouted, “Hosanna” as He passed through the streets. Their hope was renewed. The Messiah had come.

In less than a week, this same crowd would shout, “Crucify Him, crucify Him” as His beaten, bloody body was paraded down the same road, carrying the instrument of His execution. This man of sorrows would make His way to Calvary, carrying the burden of the sin of the world on His own back. His death, the final sacrifice, would accomplish what man could never do.

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DATELINE – MARCH 31

Posted on March 31, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

March 3`1st usually indicates the end of winter in my town, but this year, winter has decided to hang on indefinitely. Another winter storm is approaching with the possibility of 5″ to 8″ of new snow. We sort of get used this in the Midwest, By this time of the year, we’re all a little devoid of vitamin D. We have a bad case of cabin fever. We’re stuck in a rut and it seems like it will never end.

On this same day, March 31, 1492, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella issued the Alhambra decree, ordering 150,000 Jewish subjects to convert to Christianity or face expulsion. I wonder how those Jews felt.

On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower is officially opened. Imagine the thoughts of the people of Paris as they gazed upon this architectural giant. How would you like to have that sitting in your backyard landscape?

In 1909, my father in law, Robert H. Boecher was born. He became a successful funeral director in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He passed away at the age of 56. A man of compassion ad great dignity, I will always treasure the memory of him.

In 1918, Daylight saving time went into effect in the United States. That which was designed to give farmers more daylight to do their work has turned into a point of great controversy today.

Three years ago on March 31, 2020, the world was under the grip of death and a pandemic that seemed endless. And here we are, three years later, still wearing masks at times, without many of our friends and relatives. Life has changed dramatically for many of us. Our society has changed too. Our three years of isolation has taken its toll on relationships, communication, education, entertainment, workplaces – and given way to a new way of living and focus.

Days come and go. Time marches on. We turn the page of our journey each day to another chapter in this thing called life. In two weeks, we will recall another Friday when death filled the minds of many. The ultimate sacrifice was paid on Good Friday, when Jesus laid down His life for all people. Some day we will die, but because of what was done on that first Good Friday, we are guaranteed a new life, where things are perfect – no storms – no wars – no fear or sorrow – no death. THANK YOU, JESUS!

Posted in Christ's passion, Good Friday, Jesus, Lent | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

MRS. PILATE, THE DREAMER . . .

Posted on March 30, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

She’s known  as Claudia Procula and had a bit part in the Passion Story.  She had a disturbing dream regarding the accused blasphemer and self-professed King of the Jews.  It was real enough in her mind to go to her husband and  plead for the life of Jesus.

Matthew 27:19  Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream.”

I’ve had some very realistic, frightening dreams, so I can totally relate to this woman.  The vision becomes a reality for a moment and when you wake, you are convinced that your dream was true.

Does God place dreams in our minds for a purpose?  Sometimes our dreams can turn into realities if they’re within our reach.  We may set goals and then dream how to fulfill them.  Dreams can give rise to anxiety too.  Maybe something is going on in your life that you’re struggling with and you come up with a solution through a dream.  Our minds have been intricately and beautifully created.  I’m certain that the Holy Spirit works within us in many ways, and maybe even through our dreams.

Of course, Mrs. Pilate’s dream caused her unrest, but her husband didn’t heed her warning.  His hands were tied when it came to the crowd that screamed for crucifixion.  There was nothing he could do but give in to their demands. That decision, by Pilate, was part of a greater plan God intended for His Son and for all of us.  Each step towards the cross – even though filled with ugliness, cruelty, scorn, torture and pain – was paving the way for us to walk into eternity free of the weight of sin and guilt.

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BLIND BUT NOW I SEE . . .

Posted on March 29, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Blindness in Jesus’ lifetime was quite common.  Actually blindness was a contagious disease carried by flies and the only way to avoid catching it was to stay away from those afflicted with it.    The hot desert sun would close the water duct under the eyelid and the eyes would become red and swollen, resulting in blindness.  Because the blind were often considered unclean they had to earn their living by begging at the city gate.

Bartimaeus was one of those afflicted with blindness.  He had become accustomed to sitting on the roadside of Jericho.  If he was lucky, someone might drop a coin in his bowl, allowing him one more meal to survive.  He spent his life as an outcast.  He couldn’t work.  He most likely felt useless.  He couldn’t take care of his daily needs and had no one to help him.  Then one day Jesus crossed his path.

The Jews heard the prophesies of Isaiah which claimed that the Messiah would heal diseases like blindness, deafness, physical disabilities and relieve the suffering of the poor.  Bartimaeus heard those words too.  The city was bustling with repeated words of Jesus, and now he was in his town.  The thought of having his eyes opened by the Messiah, was enough for him to go to any lengths to get Jesus’ attention – and he did.  He screamed at the top of his lungs, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

The crowd and possibly the disciples rebuked the blind man.  They thought he was making too much of a spectacle, but that didn’t stop him.  Again and again, he shouted, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”  His faith in Jesus kept him begging for mercy.

At last, Jesus stopped walking and told the crowd to call the man.  Bartimaeus jumped to his feet, dropped his cloak and ran to Jesus.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him.

The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.”

 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.”

Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. The healing was done by Jesus, because of the man’s faith.  How often do we become blind to the power of God’s healing in our lives?  Are we often like the crowd following Jesus?  Do we think Jesus is too busy for us – that we aren’t worthy to ask for such things?  The blindness we exhibit in a case like this is even greater than the physical darkness Bartimaeus experienced. Don’t ever be afraid to talk to your Savior.  He’s promised to hear our prayers.  He answers in His own way and on His timeline, but you can be confident that He will answer you.  His heart is so big and His arms open so wide, that we can reassured that He loves us beyond comprehension – even when we don’t return that love.  What a friend everyone has in Jesus.

Dear, Lord, Jesus, you continue to heal those who come to you in faith. You are the Son of God and our Good Shepherd. We rely on your fervent love and care. We are confident in your power. If it is your will, provide healing for all who need you today. Amen!

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NATIONAL SOMETHING ON A STICK DAY

Posted on March 28, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Today is National Something on a Stick Day. It’s March 28th, mind you. I live in Minnesota. The only sticks around here are still attached to trees or hidden under a mountain of snow. However, I love these wacky holidays, so I’ll go along with it. You know, there’s a day of honor and celebration for just about any occasion if you look for it.

In my state, food on a stick doesn’t usually rear its head until the summer months and folks from all everywhere look forward to our annual State Fail – where they can sample anything on a stick, including pickles, deep fried candy bars, a stick full of donuts, porkchops – you name it and they’ll put it on a stick. They do this so they can be the first to do so and to make a buck. Of course, with inflation, the price of a candy bar far exceeds a buck, so there’s that.

On a personal note, I prefer eating my food off a plate, but even that is getting more and more difficult as I get older. You might say that a walking stick is more appropriate for n octogenarian. At my house, you’ll find Paul and Kathy on Stick. Happy Day!

Posted in aging, Humor, Wacky holidays | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

DEVIL’S ADVOCATE

Posted on March 27, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

What was going on in his mind? A follower of Jesus for three years – keeper of the treasury – trusted disciple – led by the devil himself to betray the One and only Son of God. How could he? Why would he betray the man he had come to know as brother? Was the lure of thirty pieces of silver so strong that he couldn’t resist – even though He had God’s richest treasure within his midst? I can’t begin to imagine what Judas was thinking just before he entered the Garden of Gethsemane on that night.  How could anyone possibly explain what he was about to do?  In that moment he would walk up to his friend and betray him with a brotherly show of affection.  It was as if the devil crept into his soul and took up residence, but it was still part of the overall plan woven together by the King of Creation.  It had to be this way.

Judas Iscariot is mentioned a few times in God’s Word, but we don’t have a lot of background information. He was likely an educated man. He was put in charge of the money collected or donated as Jesus spread His message.

“But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, ‘Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?‘  He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it.“ John 12:4-7 ESV

This same disciple would be lured in by the leaders of Sanhedrin to turn Jesus over to them for trial. The cost was thirty pieces of silver – the average cost for a slave in Egypt during the time of the Exodus. They paid their blood money to Judas prior to obtaining Jesus’ arrest. Judas sold out his Savior not only because of his greed, but because Satan had already taken up residence in his heart.

After the scene in the Garden of Gethsemane, Judas was remorseful, but we don’t hear that he repented of his sin. Instead, he returned the blood money and hung himself. The devil thought he had won, but it was all part of God’s divine plan for the salvation of mankind.

How does all this apply to us? Are we true followers of Christ? Do we give our all for Him? Is He part of our daily walk or just an occasional visitor? Judas had him right beside him for three years, yet greed overtook him, and he caved. We have Jesus with us today. He is available to us 24/7. He has promised to carry our burdens, to relieve our suffering, to prepare a place in heaven for us. All we need do, is believe in Him and share His blessings with others. Let us ever walk with Jesus.

Posted in Jesus, Lent, Passion, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 8 Comments

START OF A NEW WEEK

Posted on March 26, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

My eyes open to the first morning light.

My mind fills with many thoughts, yet the chaos within is a driving force,

Pulling me to give up before I even start.

A new day, filled with obstacles, detours, roadblocks.

A new week, with new beginnings, old worries, empty wishes.

If only I could cast off the worries of yesterday – the reminders of past mistakes –

The hopes for the future and the wandering into unknown territory.

Looking at things beyond my control is not an easy task.

Only God can see the future and what’s in store for me.

With that assurance I can look forward rather than back,

Because I know He is in control.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, New life, Optimism | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

ENDLESS WINTER

Posted on March 25, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY Kathy Boecher©

Droplets blend together from remnants of ice and mountain snow,

Trickling over rocky crevices, dancing together in a timeless waltz,

Soon they meld into a cascade of raging energy as the dance becomes intense,

Crashing over rocks and boulders in search of the final destination,

Like us as we meander through life,

Wandering, winding here and there, tripping over roadblocks,

With one purpose in mind,

Reaching the end of the journey,

Today becomes tomorrow, tomorrow slips right by,

Soon comes the end of life and like all things we die,

But Christ gives us the promise to meet us at that bend,

To be with us forever, where life will never end.

Posted in aging, Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, Winter | Tagged , , , , , , | 7 Comments

UP A TREE

Posted on March 25, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

He was the chief tax collector of Jericho.  He was also a descendant of Abraham.  His own people despised him because tax collectors were considered corrupt as well as traitors to their own people.  Zacchaeus was also short – very short.  So short, that when the parade of people welcoming Jesus to Jericho prevented Zacchaeus from getting a good look, he climbed the nearest tree.,

He had a lot of things going against him, but he’d heard all about Jesus and he knew all he needed to do was get a look at the man.  He’d heard about the miracles and the raising from death of Lazarus.  It was as if he knew that seeing Jesus was seeing God in the flesh.

So, without hesitation, he climbed into a sycamore tree and settled in on one of the branches as the parade came his way.  Jesus stopped at the foot of the tree and called to Zacchaeus telling him that He would be a guest at the little man’s house that day.

Undoubtedly Zacchaeus was thrilled, but the crowd wasn’t.  Why would Jesus lower Himself to dining with a thief and a cheat?  This was the way Jesus operated though.  His mission was to minister to sinners.  Unfortunately that crowd forgot that each and every one of  them was just as guilty.

When Jesus arrived at the little fellow’s house, he was met by His host.  Zacchaeus admitted his sin and repented.  In fact he offered half of his possessions to provide for the poor and promised to repay any of his ill gotten gains to those he cheated, four times what he had stolen.  None of that would win his salvation, but it was something that Zacchaeus felt compelled to do.  Jesus knew what was in Zacchaeus’ heart and assured him that his sins were forgiven and that salvation had now come to his house.

This little man had a big problem.  It’s a problem common to everyone.  It’s called sin.  The only way to receive forgiveness of sin is to rephttps://billmichelmore.coment sincerely and believe in Jesus.  He has covered our sins with His precious blood and washed them away.  Because of that, we can rejoice with Zacchaeus knowing that our sins are forgiven.

Sin is sin – no matter how big or small.  Jesus has the power and grace to provide a way out for us.  Believe and know that your sin has been paid for and praise God for doing it for all sinners – all of us.

“God never said that the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worthwhile” – Max Lucado

Posted in Jesus, Lent, miracles, repentance, Salvation | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

CASTING STONES

Posted on March 24, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

It’s fun to spin stones across a vast expanse of water.  The stone skips a few times and then sinks.  Sometimes they have a soft, smooth exterior – other times they’re rough and may even cut through skin.  Stones have been used to construct monuments, buildings, landscaping spaces and have been used for centuries as tools as well as finished products.

God was referred as a stone in Gen. 49:24 In the New Testament, believers are referred to as stones in 1 Peter 2:5.  God built his church on the cornerstone – Jesus, Christ, the Savior of all.  Jesus also talked about stones when he said, “Let him without sin cast the first stone.”

Every one of us has some secret sin, hidden from the world.  It can be a lustful thought, greed, anger, frustration, loss of hope, fear – or may even go much deeper to a sin of murder, thievery or sexual perversion.  Every sin is equal in God’s eyes.  No matter what the sin, the punishment is the same.  We have all sinned and fallen short of God’s expectations. The wages of sin is death – eternal death in hell –  a place of perpetual pain, fire, thirst that is never satisfied and what every one of us deserves.

Today the headlines are full of people who’ve done heinous crimes and have become addicted to sin.  Their consciences have become numb so do ours.  Before we throw that first stone, let’s examine what’s going on in our hearts and see if we can justify ourselves.

There isn’t a single thing we can do.  By the grace of God we are saved.  If we use that  as a ticket to do anything we want with our new freedom, it’s like throwing a stone in God’s face.  We continually need to repent and with God’s strength overcome temptation to sin again.

Our final rest when death takes us to heaven – the crystal palace with unshakeable walls.  I can’t wait!

Posted in judgment, Lent, repentance, sin | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

A TOUCH OF FAITH

Posted on March 23, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“ Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment.” Matthew 9:22

Jesus spent the last three years of his young life, performing miracles, captivating audiences and achieving a following. He crossed borders physically as well as socially. His time on earth was limited, but He crammed a lifetime of lessons into it for us. Lessons that would build our faith in Him – turn us back to God – help us recognize our sin – remind us of the openness of God – showing us how much we need someone to take away our sins. As a woman in Jesus’ time, they were not considered on the same level as their counterparts, but Jesus took a special interest in them. He proved, in His short life, that God loves all people and wants them to join Him in heaven someday.

On one occasion, a woman who had been suffering an unknown ailment for twelve years, followed Jesus as her last hope for healing. She’d heard about the miracles He was performing. Her condition wasn’t common. She had seen many doctors, but no one was able to heal her. She spent most of her money on her malady, but to no avail. Because she was considered unclean, she became obsessed with finding someone to help her through it.

There are so many times in life when we simply don’t get answers for certain health issues. Even in this time of medical exploration and discovery, there are certain diseases that are still incurable. There are still conditions that leave us feeling helpless, hopeless and even to the point of obsession over them. There will be times when turning to God is the only answer. It should never be the last resort.

So, here was a woman, considered unclean by those around her. She had been bleeding for all those twelve years. She had come to the end of her rope. She could’ve chosen to end her life – as some people do when they’re desperate – but she heard about Jesus and the miracles He had performed. She acted in complete faith. Pushing her way through a crowd of mostly men and boys, she was moving into dangerous territory. She would be even further ridiculed because of her gender. Even so, she made her way with persistence. She even thought to herself, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” That shows complete trust in someone she didn’t even know – someone who gave her hope – someone who she had confidence in because of what she had heard.

She must have been shoved to the ground by the growing crowd, but she managed to crawl to her Savior’s feet. She touched the hem off His garment. He immediately felt strength draining from Him. He knew her thoughts before she spoke a word. He felt her faith. He could tell she believed Him to be her Messiah, because of what had just occurred. The woman was immediately healed of her infirmity.

This is precisely the kind of faith God wants from us – total reliance on His will – trusting that He can do the impossible -believing that all our troubles, worries, infirmities and even death have been overcome by our Savior, Jesus. His strength is unending. His power immeasurable. He’s just waiting for you to believe in HIm.

Posted in Faith, Lent, perseverence, repentance | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

AS YOUNG AS YOU FEEL

Posted on March 22, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Today is “As Young as You Feel” Day, according to the list of wacky holidays. I guess you could say that today I feel like I should’ve died a long time ago. The skies are grey. I have no great plans. I’m highly unmotivated. There are a million things to be done around the house, but I’ve managed to stay clear of those things for five years now. Why should I change?

I discovered recently why I stopped wearing panty hose several years ago. OK, so that’s out of the blue, but it really is interesting. A couple weeks ago, I decided to wear a dress to an event I was attending. I don’t wear a dress often, but I felt I needed a little tucking in here and there, so I purchased a pair of panty hose. It only took me an hour to get them on. The first leg wasn’t too difficult, and I thought it would be a piece of cake, but then came the second leg. I didn’t go into cardiac arrest, but there was a brief moment when I thought I might. I’m sure the sounds radiating from the bathroom may have caused my husband concern, but he has long ago given up trying to figure me out. Eventually the task was done, but I realized I would have to control my bladder for some time before having to go through the same thing all over again.

The whole event gave me pause to think of alternatives. Maybe I could invent something made out of spandex, which would tighten everything from the tips of my toes to the base of my neck. Then it occurred to me that most of the sagging was caused by gravity. Therefore, everything that has fallen down, would then be pushed up and my head just might explode. When we get old, we think about stuff like that. That and how many possible fractures we can avoid by thinking of several tasks to accomplish when we are bending down to get something off the floor.

So, to all my old friends and to those on the cusp of becoming old, remember a day has been specified for you not to act your age. That’s something anyway.

Posted in aging, America, change, Humor | Tagged , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

POWER SURGE

Posted on March 22, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

At this time of year, something weird happens to human hair.  Static electricity slithers its way into our frost laden prairie.  No amount of hair spray or styling products can fully eliminate it.  Hair simply does its own thing.  The same thing is true when you’ve been snuggled up under a nice toasty blanket, put on your slippers and reach for the light switch.  Electrical charges have no problem waking you out of your semi-slumbering state. Electricity indicates power. It fills our homes with light and energy to operate all our various appliances.  Now we’re able to speak a word and an electronic device will set those appliances into motion without our even touching them.  That device requires the same power that makes hair fly and gives us shocks.

Can you imagine what life would be like without electricity?  We’d be using candles to read by – campfires to spin stories at – fire to heat our food and hand washing our clothing down at the creek and stones as a washboard.  Praise God for allowing man to discover this wonderful force and helping him to contain it somewhat. Unfortunately, as with most of man’s discoveries, they’re often abused, thus creating problems within the environment. We may think we’ve lassoed power, but we’ve just moved it from one place to another.

During the creation of the earth, magnetic forces must’ve been flying and electrical impulses pulsating through the air, like a zillion arrows at one time.  At the time of Jesus’ birth, that same power was surging through the skies as angel armies sang His praises.  When He died on the cross, a power so great was able to pierce through the sky and divide the thick curtain in the temple. No more would man be separated from God. When Jesus showed His dominion over death and the devil, His face shone with a radiance that couldn’t be replicated.  At the Pentecost, the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and tongues of fire danced above their heads.  That Spirit would permit them to unleash a force never before felt.

We know God is omnipotent – all powerful.  A portion of His power has been planted within us at our baptism, through the Holy Spirit, but we can never harness the vastness of it.  Only God has the wherewithal to hold it in His hands. Are we shining as beacons for those who need to know about God and His love?  Are we electrified with the message of hope?  Jesus gave that charge – that commission – to His followers, when He told them to go and tell everyone about what had been accomplished through Him.  The stunning message of forgiveness for all and the hope of life eternal is the charge that can reignite our floundering world.

“The Holy Ghost bears witness to us of the truth and impresses upon our souls the reality of God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, so surely that no earthly power or authority can separate us from that knowledge.”   James E. Faust

Posted in Holy spirit, Lent | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments