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.

Posted in Dreams, Lent | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

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!

Posted in Faith, healing, Jesus, Lent | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

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

A MAN OF SORROWS

Posted on March 21, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.” Isaiah 53:3

Why did God allow this to happen?  How can a loving God cause so much pain to those He loves?  Why do we have to go through this?  Where is God?  These questions pepper our lives with feelings of abandonment, fear, depression and much more. Every day we’re confronted with evil.  There are wars, rumors of wars, destruction, hatred, inhumanity and it seems never to end.  It’s impossible at times, to believe that God is even listening to us.

Our Savior, Jesus, went through every physical, emotional and spiritual trial that we experience.  Yet He never sinned, because He was true God as well as true man.  Think about that.  Our God could’ve simply wiped out the devil at the start, but because of His love for us, He took on flesh and blood and suffered right along with us.  Not only that, His suffering took away every sin from our blackened souls.

The word empathy is derived from the Ancient Greek word empatheia, meaning “physical affection or passion.  The dictionary definition refers to empathy as being able to relate to another’s dilemma, because you have also experienced the same difficulties. From the day of His conception, Jesus knew the human experience first-hand.  He suffered poverty – watched His friends and family struggle through it – endured growing pains, bumps and bruises as a boy.  He knew what it was to be hungry and poor.  He felt the pangs of Satan’s temptation, and yet He never succumbed to its lure by sinning.  He was homeless, hungry, downcast, but never without the presence of His heavenly Father.

It was all part of the plan mapped out by God, in the Garden of Eden.  It was a masterful plan, designed with the greatest love and compassion for those He created in His own image.  He took our place.  He came into the world in a flurry of controversy.  He was cruelly beaten and suffered a horrific death, so we wouldn’t have to.  He paid the ultimate price for our salvation. This is one of the most wonderful mysteries of the Bible.  God loves us beyond measure.  He doesn’t want us to suffer, be anxious, go through Cancer or die.  He wants us to have a perfect life and He’s accomplished that through His Son, Jesus.

We rejected Him.  We were responsible for His death.  We caused His blood to pour out.  We continue to do so when we forget that He has perfect empathy for us, because He lived life and suffered death.  Now we are assured of eternal life.  Just as He overcame death, we will also. The perfect life is waiting for us beyond the grave.

Posted in death, Lent, Salvation, sin | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

WHAT PRICE FOR ART?

Posted on March 20, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

I didn’t post yesterday, because we ventured out to church in the morning and then spent the rest of the day on a date together. Usually I post some of Paul’s art on Sundays along with some poetry of mine. So today I plan to talk about the arts and give you two samplings of Paul’s art, to indicate the endless winter we seem to be experiencing here in Minnesota.

My husband spent the majority of his career in the advertising business, but in order to prepare for that he had to take many art history classes along with his regular studies. When he turned 50, the tables turned on advertising and he had to reimagine himself. The loss of his business led him into fine art and he’s been doing that ever since. It’s hard to put a price tag on art. When you consider all the years of study, work and experience one must first go through to become an artist, the pay should be comparable to that of a brain surgeon, but today art isn’t valued in the same way. Today you can buy a copy of anyone’s art for a fraction of its worth. Computer imaging and Photo Shop have given way to a whole new set of rules.

During WWII there was an effort to retrieve all the stolen art the Germans had hidden away. Most of the pieces of art were from the old masters. Much of it was never recovered, but the efforts of this group of soldiers, allowed for many of them to be found and returned to their original owners or put on display in museums for many people to enjoy. This didn’t come at a cost, however. The lives lost far outweighed the value of those paintings and sculptures.

Things should never trump human life. The works would not have survived had they not succeeded in their efforts – but again, lives were of less value than things of this world.

As the wife of an artist, I know the time that goes into creating art. It’s a daily struggle. Even when the body is breaking down, there’s a passion in this medium that drives the artist. As a writer and performer, I can understand that, because I still feel the need to contribute to God’s work through my own art form.

The truth, however, is that what we do here on this planet has no real relevance. When we die, those things will not go with us. They will not be necessary for what happens beyond the grave. They will be part of what we leave behind. Our worldly treasure cannot buy our salvation or eternal life. The perfect life of Jesus, His death and resurrection is the masterpiece that God created to bring that about. He alone is the only fortune worth preserving. It is our greatest heritage.

Posted in art by Paul T. Boecher, death, Inspiration, Salvation | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

WHAT IS MY VALUE?

Posted on March 18, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

According to US Government statistics, the average monetary value of a human life is ten million dollars. If you factor in inflation, you can kick that up another million or two. How do “they” come up with this number? It is an average, but still, how can we even begin to put a dollar sign on human beings? What about the child that lives only a few days after birth? What about the elderly, who live to be over a hundred and require constant care? The fact is, there isn’t a number that really can be placed on our value, but God happens to think we’re worth everything to Him.

We often underestimate our own personal worth.  If we’re able to breathe and move, we have value.  If we wake up each day with a sense of purpose; if we take time to listen; if we lift others up with words of encouragement, we have a reason to be here. Sometimes our own value gets set aside so we can spend more time on family.  We may even become overwhelmed by the everyday mundaneness of life.  We feel unwanted, unimportant, un-noticed and way under-valued.  The kids’ needs come first, the house is a mess, there are dishes in the sink, we haven’t even looked in a mirror.  We put so much energy into everyone else, we forget about our own needs. We have obligations with our job, our church our communities.  We don’t have the time in every day to get it all done.

It’s enough to make you raise your hands in despair – or at least think you are the only one in the whole entire world that feels this way.  Let me fill you in on a little secret.  Every person who has ever walked on the face of the earth has at some time or another dealt with a lack of self-worth. 

There are a couple ways of handling this malady. You can beat yourself up for your failures – little and big.  Soon the little failures become gigantic in your mind and overtake you.  You can go on antidepressants to help you cope.  You can join some kind of group of people like you who are facing the same problems. You can turn to a substitute like drugs or alcohol to numb you into believing you don’t have to prove yourself. You can become a drain on society and your fellow taxpayers. You can give up.  None of those ways is productive.  They may be temporary fixes, but they don’t eliminate the problem.

So, instead of turning to those “things” it’s so much easier to turn to the One who created you. His love for you is incomprehensible.  You will find none other like it. His care for you is beyond your understanding.  His willingness to sacrifice His own Son for your forgiveness and eternal life, is inconceivable. The value He places on us is beyond our wildest imagination.

We are important.  We are not meaningless individuals who are just coping every day.  There is so much more to us than that.   WE ARE GOD’S TREASURED CREATION.  He loves us just the way we are – imperfect, unclean, unworthy, but still loved and forgiven.  He no longer sees our sin.  It has been washed away. In place of that darkest wall, He sees Jesus, who changes everything. He doesn’t want us to wallow in self-pity, so He encourages us to carry on in all circumstances.

“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 ESV 

Posted in forgiveness, Jesus, Lent, Salvation, SELF ESTEEM | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

MY IRISH EYES ARE FAILING

Posted on March 17, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

I will be undergoing cataract surgery in the next few weeks. My eyes probably are about all that I can claim as Irish. The image attached to this post is not me, but those eyes are so nice and clear and beautiful, I just had to include it in this post. My hearing is also going, but hearing aids will have to wait until I win the lottery. The fact that I can’t hear, might explain why I thought the eye doctor said he was going to remove the Cadillacs from my eyes. Not really true, but it makes for more laughs in one of our next “Jewels of deNial” scripts.

Today we focus on the Irish and their patron saint, Patrick, who not only brought Christianity to the pagan country of Ireland, but he also supposedly got rid of all the snakes in town. I’m not quite sure if the snake part is true, but it makes for interesting reading. Sort of like the Pied Piper ridding the town of all the rats by playing his flute and leading them into a lake where they all drowned. But, I digress again.

A stereotype is defined as an over-simplified or standardized conception of a culture, profession or group.  How often do we categorize people?  For example, everyone knows that cops and donuts go together – right?  The Italian people are all members of the Mafia.  Rednecks have only one tooth and park their used furniture outside next to their pickups.

I happen to be composed of five different nationalities.  I’m Irish, English, German, French and Swedish.  I should therefore be a green beer swilling drunk- with a stiff upper lip – without a sense of humor, stubborn and serious all the time – a rude and arrogant romantic who loves freedom – and a blond socialist who shops at Ikea.

Well, I certainly hope that doesn’t describe me.  It’s funny how we put people into pigeon-holes before we ever get a chance to know them.  I think if were honest with ourselves, we have to admit Christians are also placed into their own special category.  Many people think that if you’re a Christian, your life is perfect – that you have no problems and if you do, it’s because you’ve done something to displease God.   They think you’re a goody two shoes – you’re too conservative – you don’t have any fun.  They think you worry too much about sin – that you are all show and no action and that you believe in fairy tales.

Many of those attitudes are formed because it’s easy to put people of one race, one nationality, one ethnic group, one religion into one category.  We aren’t all the same.  Every human being was created to be unique. God tells us not to judge others.  That job is up to Him.

Dear Lord, help me to keep an open mind in all my experiences today.  Keep me from making judgments about people, their intentions, their thoughts, their motives, without really knowing what’s in their hearts.  You alone are our judge.  Don’t ever let me forget that. Amen!

Posted in America, God, judgment | Tagged , , , , , , , | 17 Comments

WHEN IRISH EYES ARE LAUGHING

Posted on March 17, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

This is a rerun from last year, but the jokes are timeless.

Since I’m about a fifth Irish, I decided to post a few good Irish jokes for this special day.

  • ‘I was going to give him a nasty look, but he already had one.
  • O’Gara was arrested and sent for trial for armed bank robbery.
    After due deliberation, the jury foreman stood up and announced, ‘Not guilty.’
    ‘That’s grand,’ shouted O’Gara, ‘Does that mean I get to keep the money?
  • ‘Hello, Mary, how’s your new false teeth?’ asked Bridget. ‘I’m leaving them out till I get used to them!’ said Mary.
  • An American lawyer inquired, ‘Paddy, why is it that whenever you ask an Irishman a question, he answers with another question?’
    ‘Who told you that?’ asked Paddy.
  • An Irish lass, a customer: ‘Could I be trying on that dress in the window?’
    Shopkeeper: ‘I’d prefer that you use the dressing room.’
  •  Mrs. Feeney shouted from the kitchen, ‘Is that you I hear spittin’ in the vase on the mantel piece?’
    ‘No,’ said himself, ‘but I’m gettin’ closer all the time.’

‘O’Halloran,’ asked the pharmacist, ‘did that mudpack I gave you improve your wife’s appearance?’
‘It did surely,’ replied O’Halloran, ‘but it keeps fallin’ off.’

HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

Posted in holidays, Humor | Tagged | 9 Comments

ANOTHER WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY!

Posted on March 16, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

The sun sprinkles a handful of fairy dust upon clinging icicles. Each one hangs on for dear life hoping that tomorrow the thermometer allows them to dwindle a bit, but in reality each day only adds to their girth. That solar disk will return to full strength and eliminate them altogether. Until that day we accept our circumstances knowing that every season will present itself at just the right time

Icy winds push glistening remnants of the last snowfall across roads and fields. Long spires of stalactites cling to the eaves. The mercury in the thermometer longs to move to the opposite end. Time passes slowly as the skeletal branches of trees have given up the memory of the tender touch of rain and the warm sun only to replace it with thoughts of shriveling up and dying. Thus, it is in the winter of life and yet for those who have not yet given up the battle against the elements, the war wages on. Soon it will be replaced with green pastures, fields of gold and perfect temperatures. What shall we complain about then?

Sparkling facets of frost are scraped from our windshields so we can get a clear view of the road, but do we take time to really inspect the beauty of that frost? The tiny patterns etched into ice by the finger of God Himself are just one example of His majestic power. Each snowflake has its own pattern and becomes a kaleidoscope of intricacy. We hurry through life without often noticing the many gifts given to us through nature. The sun casts a wintry glow upon frozen lakes, the sound of crunching snow crackles beneath our feet. The chill in the air enlivens every nerve in our bodies. All the senses are aroused.

Trying to find the beauty in an endless winter is like looking at your reflection in a mirror and hoping to recapture your youth.. It seems that new life will never surface again. Everything is cold and dead. The green existence of spring seems eternally wrapped in a blanket of white. Somehow we hang on to the hope of a new day when the sun moves closer and embraces those withered limbs and forces life to bud forth again. Spring – will we ever see you again.

When winter’s final grip releases her icy hold on us, it’s such a relief. Our spirits soar, our coats come off, mittens are hidden in the recesses of the closet not to be donned for at least a few months. We breathe in fresh air instead of the stale, musty, dusty stuff that has permeated every inch of our homes. Curtains open, sunlight bathes each room with warmth and comfort. Windows may be cracked an inch or two simply to wash away the smells of the past duration. Memories of blooming gardens seep into our minds. Interesting remnants of the long season pop up everywhere – the snake of a hose that never got rolled up in time for the first snow; the remains of withered weeds and overgrowth of un-mowed grass; the Adirondack chairs which had become another level for snow to build upon. Ah, spring! It sends the senses into hyperventilation and a serious asthma attack.

Posted in aging, inspiration., Winter | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

RABBIT HOLES

Posted on March 15, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

In 2020, we were in the beginning throes of a worldwide pandemic. Things have changed since then. We’re more attuned to the necessary alterations to our lifestyles. We still wear masks in certain situations. We’re leery of government yet have become more reliant on them. We’ve separated ourselves because of the necessity of isolation, but we’ve also cut ourselves off from interaction and communication as they once were. Slowly, things are returning to the old normal, but we’ve created some very unusual rabbit holes for ourselves in the meantime.

SOME EXAMPLES: We communicate by text – often only a few words or emojis to express how we feel. We’re lacking face to face contact and are unable to read body language. We opt for online church services, because we’ve found it safer to stay at home, yet we long for fellowship with other believers. We assume the worst when we don’t hear from each other. We fall further and further into an abyss, with very little hope and a great deal of depression. Mental illness is at an all-time high and suicide rates are on the climb. We are suspicious, angry, frustrated, lonely and even frightened at times. The saddest part about all this, is that our younger generation has been relegated to the world of technology and have adopted it as their new normal, when there is a whole world of other things beyond the screen.

In Lewis Carroll’s story of “Alice in Wonderland,” we see an example of how the minds of the young can be easily transformed by the most unusual circumstances. My own personal opinion on the story, is that it is a tale of what it’s like to be an adolescent going through all the changes of puberty, but that’s a whole different post. Carrol had some insight into this dilemma of change. Here are a few quotes from the story.

‘When I use a word,’ Humpty Dumpty said in rather a scornful tone, ‘it means just what I choose it to mean – neither more nor less.’

“If everybody minded their own business, the world would go around a great deal faster than it does.”

“My dear, here we must run as fast as we can, just to stay in place. And if you wish to go anywhere you must run twice as fast as that.”

“I wonder if I’ve been changed in the night. Let me think. Was I the same when I got up this morning? I almost think I can remember feeling a little different. But if I’m not the same, the next question is ‘Who in the world am I?’ Ah, that’s the great puzzle!”

Sometimes we need to be shaken to the core, before we see our need for God. The wonderful thing about that, is that He’s always there to catch us if we fall – to encourage us to go on – to push us and shape us into a new person – to help us work up to our potential – to provide a way for us to overcome death and find eternal life – because He loves us so much. That is the truth we can ALL depend on, even when things around us are collapsing.

Posted in aging, pandemic, technology | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

WHO AM I?

Posted on March 14, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

I love musical theatre. One of my favorites is “Les Misérables,” by Victor Hugo. Hugo lived in a time of great turmoil. The French Revolution was in its early development. People were living in poverty while their rulers partied the night away. Hugo’s father was a general in Napolean’s army making it necessary for the family to move often. He witnessed the ravages of war – the politics of it – the drain on society – and the effect it had on the common man. In the 1830s Hugo started to write his major study on social misery and injustice. It wasn’t until 18 years later that his novel reached completion.

The Song, “Who Am I,” came later and centers around a man who has been wrongfully accused, serves a sentence in prison, escapes from his bondage, loses his identity, finds a redeemer, makes a new life and uses it to serve others.  This lovely story isn’t just about revolution, it’s about forgiveness and redemption.  Sounds kind of like the struggles of all our lives, doesn’t it?

I’ve often wondered about my purpose in this life. Who am I? I’ve lived a fairly average life. I’ve experienced things that most folks endure. I married my high school sweetheart. We raised three children. We struggled financially many times. We have three exceptional grandchildren. We experienced wealth for a few years too, but there isn’t much difference. I’m a writer, a poet, a sometimes artist, performer, theatre instructor and fairly healthy. I like to consider myself an encourager, but often find I’m the one who needs encouragement. I was raised as a Christian in a Lutheran church, I never really understood what a relationship with God meant until was older. Sin was often the topic of the sermons I heard as a child, with very little hope for salvation.

So far, my life sounds pretty boring, but that’s a good thing. Since I’m getting close to the end of it, I wonder if there is more I should do before my last breath. Jean Val Jean, the hero of “Les Misérables,” was serving a prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his hungry family. He escaped and made a new life for himself. It was a life devoted to helping others through their adversities. Always, in the back of his mind, he struggled with being found by the officer who pursued him all his life.

We may suffer with some past sins, which come back to haunt us from time to time. We wonder how we can ever be forgiven from those trespasses. For those who trust in God’s plan for their life, we can be assured that our salvation has been paid for in full. Instead of seeing our sins, God, the Father sees only His Son and the cost He paid for our redemption.

Who am I?  I am a redeemed child of the One and only God.  I am guaranteed a place in heaven.  I am a witness to his love for me through His Holy Word.  The world will be an evil place until Christ returns, but we have a new life waiting to begin every day,

WHO ARE YOU?

Posted in Lent, redemption, Salvation, sin | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment