GATHER MY TEARS, LORD

Posted on November 10, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

Psalm 56:8-11  “You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle.
Are they not in your book?  Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call.
This I know, that God is for me.  In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.  What can man do to me?”

If I were to count the tears I’ve shed in the 79 years of my life, I would undoubtedly fill a lake rather than a bottle.  I’m one of those sensitive types that cries at the drop of a hat. It can be to a fault most times.  On the other hand, tears are a way for us to manifest our deepest feelings and when presented to God, they are like liquid prayers.  There are times when tears are our only means of communication with Him.  He already knows what our needs are. He knows everything about us – our failures and weaknesses, our strengths and victories.  He has endowed us with these emotional droplets to release the pain, to express joy or demonstrate compassion.  When words aren’t available to us, those tears are often stronger than words.

We can be judged as weak when we cry.  We can be accused of being too sensitive.  Many may condemn us for our lack of ability to stand and fight, but sometimes it’s the only way we can deal with things that happen to us.  Many times it’s best to walk away and not stir the pot anymore than it needs to be stirred.  Sure it is a form of escape and not facing into the problem, but it also gives you time to think before speaking.  The tongue is a whole different area where we tend to mess up.

Have you ever just gone into prayer with tears?  I certainly have. Many times there are not words to express what I’m feeling.  The pain may be too great to overcome.  The loss is overwhelming.  There seems to be no answer to our dilemma.  That’s the time when the Holy Spirit steps in on our behalf. He interprets our innermost thoughts to the Father in a voice that we can’t understand.  

I will undoubtedly continue to face my problems with a certain amount of eye moisture involved, but I know that God is there for me in all times, through all my longings and concernsm with every step that I take..  What a comfort to know that He’s in our corner even when we don’t have the right words.

Posted in aging, Encouragement | Tagged , , , , , | 14 Comments

FURROWED FIELDS

Posted on November 9, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

A November sky, displaying clouds filled with dust particles shining like diamonds,

The perfect ceiling, suspended in space over a furrowed field of forgotten gleanings.

Deep ruts in the earth, carved by a machine driven by a farmer – a man or woman who loves the earth.

The caretakers of God’s Creation.

 

As the landscape is in a constant state of metamorphosis,

So are we.

We have been crafted by an amazing God, who loves His creatures beyond measure.

He watches over us as He surveys the unfolding lives He has already arranged.

 

In the original design, man was taken from the earth.

A hunk of clay – sculpted into a body – into which He breathed life.

Meticulously He fashinoned each cell, crafted each gene,

So that no two would ever be the same.

 

The ruts created throughout a life are deeply imbedded into our existence.

They exhibit themselves in the passing of time and age.

Our bodies wear out.

They cling to life, but the natural thing to come is death.

 

The body will wash away in the sands of time.

It returns to the earth from which it came.

It dies, yet it will go on,

For those who know God.

 

Posted in aging, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , | 10 Comments

IF I COULD TURN BACK TIME

Posted on November 8, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

If I could turn back time
If I could find a way
I’d take back those words that’ve hurt you
And you’d stay

I don’t know why I did the things I did
I don’t know why I said the things I said
Pride’s like a knife it can cut deep inside
Words are like weapons they wound sometimes

Written by Diane Warren\

Picture it.  The vocal artist of the eighties, Cher, standing before an audience, dressed in risque costume, belting out the lyrics to “If I Could Turn Back Time.”  This became one of her trademark songs and revived her career in the late 1980s. Now that I’ve created that image in your mind, you will probably be humming the tune and singing the words yourself for the rest of the day.  I love planting ear worms.

Of course we can’t literally turn back time, but what would you do if you could?  During our return to normal time and the dismissal of daylight savings time, we have an opportunity to capture the lost hour which has eluded us for several months.  Did we even notice it was gone?  Does it matter?  I hate the time changes, especially the one in fall.  I’m completely off schedule at this time of year anyway, and adding another hour to the confusion is almost more than a sane person can take, but who said I was sane?  

Maybe we should collect all those lost hours over the years, so we could find enough time to do over some of the things we messed up on.  It certainly can’t be accomplished in one hour.  We can’t mend a relationship in an hour.  We can’t reclaim words said in anger or without thinking?  We certainly can’t redeem ourselves from all the mistakes we’ve made over time.  Many of those errors in judgment are often forgotten about or shelved for the rest of our existence.

I would love it if we could go back and erase the bad stuff from our past.  Unfortunately, we don’t have the power to do that, but God does.  He knew before the creation of the world what the plan for our salvation would be.  It was already in the blueprint.  He is the only one who can change our past and restore a future with Him. 

So the clocks were changed again for a time.  I still have trouble changing the one in my car, but maybe I’ll just save that hour for next year.  If I continue to do that, I might find myself with an entire day to do over.  In the meantime, I’ll trust that all my past and future mistakes have been washed away by the Creator of the Universe.  

“Odd things happen to all of us on our way through life without our noticing for a time that they have happened.”  J.M. Barrie “Peter Pan”

 

Posted in daylight savings time | Tagged , , , , | 13 Comments

NO SMALL PARTS

Posted on November 7, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

Constantin Stanislavsky once said, “Remember, there are no small parts, only small actors.”

Where do you fit in to the scheme of things? I always told my young performers that each of them was an important piece of the story we were trying to portray – without their participation, the story is incomplete, no matter how small the part may seem.  That doesn’t mean much to the kid who counts the number of lines he has and compares them to others. We want to be equal to the others – on the same playing field – as good as or better than.

However, each of us is part of something much bigger than we are. If you consider how a business runs, a government, an orchestra or anything that involves multiple talents and abilities, you will see that each one involved in that enterprise has an important contribution to make.

Some of us have great organizational skills while others are more inclined to handling the people management issues. Some folks have wonderful visual abilities and can create ideas just like that. Some are more capable with numbers or the mechanics of things. What ever skill you have, don’t ever underestimate or underplay the importance of your part in the big picture. It’s up to you to discover where your talents lie and then make good use them.

Do you know that God knew exactly what you would become long before you were even conceived? He has a plan for each one of us and He wants to partner with us to accomplish the work He has set before us.  We all have the same opportunities in life, whether we’re rich or poor. We can overcome adversity, disabilities, having dreams shattered. We can accomplish amazing things, but we can’t do it alone. As soon as we recognize that we are part of something greater than us, doors will open – changes will occur – relationships will improve and all of this will draw us closer to the one who made it all possible in the first place.

Walk on, with God and you’ll never walk alone.

Posted in Unity | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

NO GREATER LOVE

Posted on November 6, 2021 by atimetoshare.me
LAST SIGNS OF AUTUMN, PHOTO BY KATHY BOECHER


A tiny droplet of water clings to a dying leaf – hanging on for dear life,

Soon it falls into oblivion into the waiting earth below,

The tears of a child sets off a chain reaction of frustration, helplessness,

Defiance, insecurity and a plethora of emotions,

Only to be replaced with a smile big enough to consume the hardest of hearts;

You fall in love – once – again – another time – again,

Each time you believe it’s the real thing, the only thing,

Life changes you, your opinions, your goals,

You fall out of love.

Saline fills the eyes and tears result. Tiny capsules filled with emotion waiting to be released.

Self worth can be squashed in a second, with just a word, creating a mountain of anxiety and angst.

Is there anyone who can wipe away the tears?

Is there no one who feels our pain?

Will our tears ever be erased, never to return?

While we walk this planet, hearts will break.

Tears will fill swollen eyes.

Life will go on.

But there is a love much greater than we can ever know.

A love that has no boundaries, conditions or expectations.

Just pure unblemished love that transcends the ages.

The love of God is available to all.

It’s freely given.

Because you are loved by the Creator of the Universe.

He treasures you as His own child.

He loves purely.

He asks only that you believe,

Trust,

Have faith in His plans for you.

Surrender.

Posted in God's plans | Tagged , , , , , | 6 Comments

STRONGHOLD

Posted on November 5, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

“May the glory of the LORD endure forever; may the LORD rejoice in his works, who looks on the earth and it trembles, who touches the mountains and they smoke!”                    Psalm 104:31-32

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

 

The glory of the Lord is painted throughout His creation,

Wafting down from the heights of heaven as an eagle,

Upon whose tremendous wingspan touches every cloud,

Carving through granite mountains with the touch of a finger,

Glistening in the silver lined clouds,

Reflecting across still waters,

Racing through the wind to places of majesty,

This is God’s handiwork,

This is His voice,

His Touch,

His view,

His creation,

Only He can make a mountain,

Only He can piece together a valley,

Only He can fill empty spaces with refreshing water,

Only He can create colors of such beauty,

Only He.

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

TURKEY DAY

Posted on November 4, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

It’s only three weeks until Thanksgiving – three Thursdays from now – less than a month away.  Thanksgiving at my house usually runs anywhere between November 1st and November 30th.  For years (far too many to count) Thanksgiving Day was just another day for me, as the men in the family would trudge off to Wisconsin for the white tailed deer hunt, male comradery, sitting in a tree and feasting and fun on Thursday.  The past couple of years have changed all that.  The hunt has kind of slipped into times passed and our family has blossomed out to the point of sharing them with the other sides of their families.

I remember the Thanksgivings of my youth.  The table was set with fine china and crystal.  The fancy silver needed to be polished free of the tarnish that had set in.  Food was days in the making.  Pies and special breads and treats were made in advance. Turkey was stuffed with delicious dressing and all throughout the week, sensational smells danced through the house.  The day arrived.  Televisions were shut off, football games were put on hold and for almost an hour, we passed the potatoes, soaked in the tastes and eye candy and conversed with each other.  A perfect meal – yes.  A lot of thanksgiving – not so much.  The meal, the table and the festivie flavor was the center of attention.  The meal was generally rushed through so a return to the game could occur.  Not much different than today.

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessings – words from a Thanksgiving hymn I learned as a child.  Our blessings are so often overlooked in lieu of the blessings we;ve already received.  This holiday has become the precursor to the holiday shopping season, but many folks have started that tradition way back in July.

So is it so hard for us to take one day to put the focus on the gifts we’ve so richly been endowed with?  The most important being the greatest gift ever given to mankind – salvation by grace alone.  In the next three weeks leading up to the celebration, it might be fun to write down one thing you’re thankful for and when you gather for your turkey dinner, read your individual notes to each other.  It might take a little longer to get through the meal, but think of how long it took to prepare it.

“God so loved the world, that He gave His own beloved Son, that whoever believes in Him, will not perish, but have everlasting life.”  That might be a good place to start.

Posted in Thanksgiving | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments

NOVEMBER SKY

Posted on November 3, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

There is nothing like getting out in nature to clear away the cobwebs and dust of every day living.  Problems that are left behind are soon forgotten as you traverse through God’s beautiful creation.  I’m beginning to understand why my husband is such an outdoor nut.  Each week we get in the car and find a new destination.  The ride is usually no longer than a couple hours, but it’s enough to rejuvenate and exhilarate the senses. 

Yesterday’s journey took us on a longer trip.  We spent about five hours exploring the final remnants of Autumn.   The skies at this time of year are amazing.  Clouds filter the sun and rays bounce carelessly along the horizon.  Splashes of color still remain.  Fields have been plowed, but a trace of what once was still exists.  A patchwork of green, gold and browns now replace the fields of corn, soybeans and wheat.  The bronze and deep crimson oaks are now in sight and a few brilliant aspens are still hanging on – most leaving a carpet of brilliance below their branches.  The chillier temperatures create tiny shards of crystal, refracting a rainbow of color into the clouds.  It bounces off the water and dances in ripples across the expanse.  When you need to get away from the world and all the chaos and disorder, get in the car and take a drive.

Thank you, Lord, for the seasons – for the beauty of your creation – for the gift of life here and eternal life,  If this world is even a small fraction of a glimpse of eternity – I can’t wait.  Amen!

 

Posted in creation | Tagged , , | 9 Comments

SIT & WAIT

Posted on November 2, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

Back in  2014, I wrote a musical play based on the story of Esther from the Bible.  This beautiful book reads like a fairy tale, where a lovely young woman is chosen to sit beside the ruler of the most powerful nation of the time. She is selected for her beauty by the King. She has already been chosen by God to fulfill His plan for His people. During this story, we never hear God’s name mentioned, but it is apparent that He has been woven carefully and meticulously throughout the text.  God has a plan for all of us.  Right now it would not seem so, with all the chaos going on around us, but even in our darkest hours, He is right there with us and will deliver us into a better place eventually.  The love story in Esther is not only between a man and woman, but between us and our God.

These are the lyrics I wrote for the song “WAITING” from the musical version of Esther’s story, “SUCH A TIME AS THIS,” with music by Sarah Siegler.  I think the words are indicative of the times that we try to wait and understand God.  We will never fully comprehend His wisdom, but everything He does is for a purpose.

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

I don’t know what it is.

I wish I knew your plan for me.

I know I should be patient,

but my mind is filled with fear.

I sit and wait and wonder why.

Why have you chosen ME to be in this place?

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

I know that with you I can do anything.

I will always trust in you.

You are the God of my people.

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

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

I give to you my all.

Use me as you will.

I trust in your direction for my life.

I know I am  your instrument

and you will guide my way.

Posted in armor of God, patience | Tagged , , , , | 12 Comments

CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN

Posted on November 1, 2021 by atimetoshare.me
ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

  Our morning devotion had to do with Psalm 121:1-2

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
  My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.”

After a night of neighborhood noise and Halloween haunting, we finally went to sleely,pnly to awake to an ambulance approaching the door of our neighbor who just returned from the hospital two days ago.  Immediately after reading the words to this Psalm, we looked out our window and saw a red sun rising on the horizon, creating a silhouette of black trees against a crimson sky.  Tears began to flow as I thought about the mountains we continue to climb even at our age.  

I found the above painting by my husband, Paul Boecher and some poetry to add to it for today’s post.  It seems there is a constant range of mountains ahead of us, even as we come to the end of our days.  We’re struggling with old age issues, unable to manage things we used to take for granted – trying to stifle the creative juices and take it easy – losing ourselves in memories of what used to be and will not be again. Sitting on the precipice of 80 is much like standing on a tightrope and hoping you can maintain yourself through the journey ahead.  You’d think the mountain climbing would be over now, but it isn’t.  True comfort and peace is not to be attained upon this earth.  It’s guaranteed us when we pass from terra firma, but in the meantime, we continue to climb with each dying breath.

Clinging tightly to the lifeline that has sustained us through the years, we look to the Word of God.  We know this life is only temporary and it soon will pass.  Eventually the gates of heaven will open wide and we’ll be ushered into perfection.  Until then, we continue to climb towards that goal.

TRUE PEACE BY KATHY BOECHER

We search in vain for a place empty of confusion,

All the trappings of the world bring no relief,

The noise of life overtakes us.

We run to the mountains for serenity,

We hide in the meadow near a quiet stream,

We sail away from the pack to be alone,

But the sound of a jackhammer penetrates the silence,

The voices of anger rage around us,

The tempest of fear stirs within us,

True peace can only be obtained in the Son of God,

The Prince of Peace.

We search in vain for a place empty of confusion,

All the trappings of the world bring no relief,

The noise of life overtakes us.

We run to the mountains for serenity,

We hide in the meadow near a quiet stream,

We steal away from the pack to be alone,

But the sound of a jackhammer penetrates the silence,

The voices of anger rage around us,

The tempest of fear stirs within us,

True peace can only be obtained in the Son of God,

The Prince of Peace.

 

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, peace | Tagged , , , , | 15 Comments

MARTIN LUTHER MEMES – REFORMATION STYLE

Posted on October 31, 2021 by atimetoshare.me
Posted in Uncategorized | 9 Comments

IS REFORM NECESSARY?

Posted on October 31, 2021 by atimetoshare.me
The Christian church is under attack today, just as it always has been. The Word of God is being challenged daily and rewritten for man’s advantage. When God inspired His human scribes to pen the words He wanted them to pen, He promised that they are His words – not those of sinful men. The words are hard to swallow sometimes. They might even seem old fashioned and foolish to some, but they are the divine utterances of our holy, living God.
 
Today the Bible is assumed to be just another book with some ideas for good living; some perceptions by a group of narrow minded folks who have nothing else to boast about. Isn’t it funny how the Bible remains a best seller? There must be a need for reading what it has to say. Over time and with the help of the devil and his legions of followers, the Word has been corrupted as much as has the church. It’s time to defend it once more. We need to make sure it remains the same today as it was when it was first placed in man’s hands. We must use the entire book, not just bits and pieces of it. If we don’t, we don’t get the whole message. God is very clear in what He has to say to us.
 
Let us arm ourselves with the truth He has given us. This is a battle we can win, because God has this.
 
“The Word they still shall let remain, nor any thanks have for it;
He’s by our side upon the plain with His good gifts and Spirit.
And take they our life, goods, fame, child and wife,
Let these all be gone, they yet have nothing won;
the Kingdom our remaineth.”
 
Martin Luther  “A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD.”

Posted in Bible, reformation | Tagged , , , | 7 Comments

HALLOWEEN IN MY HOME TOWN

Posted on October 30, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

Since I live in the Halloween Capitol of the World, I’m required to celebrate this day.  I’m not a believer in ghosts and goblins, even though the city of Anoka is known to have several of them residing within some of the older buildings.  They make a big deal about Halloween here in my home town.  There are at least three parades along with pumpkin tossing, bobbing for apples, hayrides and costume parties of all sorts.  Funny thing is, when I went to purchase some fall decorations, I was lucky to find some.  Most of them have been shelved for the year and are now replaced with Christmas decorations.  I suppose Valentine’s Day stuff will be showing up on Black Friday.

This year I imagine there will be tons of little monsters roaming the streets, looking for a free handout.  Like their parents are going to love the dental bills that will resilt in a few months.  Usually we only get a handful of children knocking on our door.  There are many churches now offering Trunk or Treat events to replace the problems that seemed to occur before.  Now folks decorate their cars, get in costume and pass out candy in a safe environment.  It may not get them into the church, but bribery has worked before.

I know all about costumes. I used to make lots of them as a director of childrens’ plays.  I had accumulated quite a collection of wigs, hats, shoes, apparel from different time periods.  Up until a couple of years ago, I had retained most of them.  Over the past five years, I’ve managed to get rid of most of them, but just when I give a bunch of stuff away, people begin to request costumes from me.  Maybe they’ll get the hint eventually.

Last year we faced unusual circumstances when it came time for Trick or Treat.  A new spook showed up in our country and it set the nation into fits of fear and isolation.  The threat remains, but somehow, people are tired of being restricted and are gathering in huge groups again  I pray that it won’t create future problems, but there comes a time when we must set our fears aside.  God doesn’t want us to be afraid.  He promises us peace from all the cares of this world.  Still those evil creatures that carry gloom and doom on their shoulders find it hard to give up.  They delight when we’re down in the dumps.  They rejoice when we give in to fear.  Don’t let them win.  

And though this world, with devils filled,
should threaten to undo us,
we will not fear, for God hath willed
His truth to triumph through us.
The Prince of Darkness grim,
we tremble not for him;
his rage we can endure,
for lo, his doom is sure;
one little word shall fell him.

Martin Luther, “A Mighty Fortress is our God”

Posted in America, holidays | Tagged , , , | 14 Comments

HALLOWEEN BLOOD TEST

Posted on October 29, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

A few years ago, I was scheduled to have a blood test at my clinic.  It was the day before Halloween so I wasn’t too surprised to see the staff dressed in costume, but I had a little scare when the phlebotomist came in to take my blood.  She was dressed in vampire garb and I had second thoughts about staying there.  Halloween is like that.  It can scare the bejeebers out of you, or unleash a creative spark.  From that experience, I decided to have fun with it and wrote the following poem.


My day started out on a rather weird note.
I was met at the lab by a girl in black coat.
There was blood on her hands and her hair was a flutter.
She rolled up my sleeve. Not a word could I mutter.

I could tell she had recently had a brief taste,
And I knew that my blood test would not go to waste.
She then drew my blood with her knife in its sheath.
She smiled and said thank you with vampire teeth.

I think she was hoping for more to show up,
As she added my specimen into a large cup.
But I have to admit that she did make me nervous.
I suppose she’ll get fired for poor customer service.

Since that unusal experience, blood tests were put on hold for a whole year and I was surprised to find I wasn’t in as bad of shape as I thought I was.

Posted in corona virus, Humor, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , | 8 Comments

RENAISSANCE MAN

Posted on October 28, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

The late Middle ages was a time of political intrigue and turmoil – much like the atmosphere today.  Yet within this turmoil, a new world was slowly taking shape.  For centuries, the common people were governed by the ruling class.  Democracy was non existent.  The church played an important part in all of this, because of its extreme involvement in the lives of the people of that time.  Truly, the only thing they had to hang on to in times of distress, was their religion.  The religion of the day had become corrupted over time, by the church itself and its many “fund raising” activities.

The people were being sold a false sense of security when they purchased “indulgences” which would guarantee a shorter time in purgatory for those who had passed on.  The very rich would find their salvation in buying relics from the church.  In other words, they were buying their families a way into heaven.

In Rome, artists like Michelangelo, Da Vinci and Raphael were focused on realism and employed the use of scientific study in anatomy to create works that would live on in time forever.  Architectural design included mathematical calculations and study of ancient building techniques to create newer and better edifices.  Da Vinci experimented with different types of mechanical devices. He chronicled his studies in medical dissection, water flow, movement and aerodynamics – all of which laid the groundwork for future study in those areas. The use of both the analytical and creative sides of the brain were being put into use.  The world was coming back to life after a deluge of disease and death caused by the Black Plague.

There was an awakening in exploration and discovery with the expeditions of men like Columbus and scientists like Galileo and Copernicus, who went on to prove that the earth revolved around the sun and was part of a much larger universe.  Falling off the edge of the earth was no longer an option.

In England, a man was putting words together as had never been done before.  “What a piece of work is a man, how noble in reason, how infinite in faculties, in form and moving how express and admirable, in action how like an angel, in apprehension how like a god!” William Shakespeare – Hamlet.

In that same place, Henry the VIII was in the midst of his own fight with the church.  His battle had to do with divorce, which is what he needed in order to marry the woman he loved or lusted after – Anne Boleyn.  This led to a reformation and the establishment of the Church of England, which he would preside over instead of the pope.

In Germany, a man named Martin Luther struggled daily with the weight of his sin.  His conscience would not leave him alone.  No matter what he sacrificed, no matter how much he prayed or beat himself – his sin remained.  He knew that God was righteous and that’s what scared him.  During his lifetime he suffered with various physical ailments, including kidney stones, (another reason I can relate to this guy) constipation, bouts of depression and anxiety.  He was just a man – like you and me, but he changed the way the world thought and how they related to a righteous God.

This time period included the invention of the printing press as well – the tool of the day to get the word out – much like the Twitter of the Reformation.  We have even more sophisticated tools available today to spread the truth of God’s Word. So when you put it all together, the timing was perfect for a reformation.  

It’s time for another reformation – a revival of what once was – a return to the God of our fathers – Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.  The truth of the matter lies in God’s Word and the honesty of it.  We can believe completely in the Bible, because it is the inspired Word of God and God does not lie..  The Old Testament shows us our sinful nature and the New Testament shows us God’s plan for our salvation – a Savior, Jesus, Christ.

We’re still coming out of a plague.  Staying isolated has given us new ideas, inventions, a new Renaissance spirit.  We need to look at where the church is going and if God’s truth is still evident in its teachings.  New technology makes it easier for us to study online.  Eventually the fellowship will return, but the main thing is that we don’t let the church and the purity of the Bible go into isolation too.  It’s time to get out the hammer and nails.  Let’s do this!

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in reformation | Tagged , , , | 21 Comments

IT’S JUST ANOTHER HUMP DAY

Posted on October 27, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

Apparently the origin of Hump Day occurred while a group of office workers were standing around the water cooler.  Being the middle of the work week, Wednesday was tantamount to getting over the hump of said work week.  Others allude to the fact that it was associated with WWII, when allied troops were forced to fly over the Himalayan mountains on bombing runs against the Japanese at Burma.  Getting “over the hump” was often like a suicide mission in itself because the Japanese pilots would be waiting and ready for the attack.

Our work week begins usually on Monday.  When we get to mid-week we are half way to the end of the week.  We probably don’t do our best work on Monday, because we’ve had two days to rest and recharge.  Maybe we’re in the groove by Tuesday, but it almost takes until the middle of the week to work up to capacity and accomplish something. At that point most people are looking forward to the end of the week.  Instead of getting the work completely done, we start planning for the weekend – again.

Looking at the days of Creation, Wednesday would’ve been the 4th day by today’s calendar.  Up until that point God created day and night – the atmosphere, outer  space and everything above the earth – He divided the water and created land masses which contained vegetation and all things that sprang from seeds to fill the earth.  On the 4th day He made the stars, planets and all things that fill the universe, including the sun and moon which work to track time according to Gods divine plan.

He could’ve rested on that day, but there was still more to do. The rest of Creation meant making inhabitants to fill the land, air and seas.  Birds, fish and other sea creatures were made upon this day.  They did not evolve.  They were created. On the next day He made the beasts and creatures that creep across the earth.  He also created man and gave him dominion over all living things, and He made woman to be a help mate suitable for him. Everything was perfect.  There was peace – no killing – no predatory instinct.  On the seventh day God rested.

He took a breather on the seventh day, which He didn’t really need, because He’s God.  He used that day to look at what He’d accomplished in His Creation and knew that it was good. When we reach mid-week and our thoughts turn towards the weekend, it might be a good idea to look back at the work we’ve accomplished so far and see if we can acknowledge that it was good…

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

DEATH HAS NO POWER OVER ME

Posted on October 26, 2021 by atimetoshare.me
POETRY & INSPIRATION FROM KATHY BOECHER

Death seems to be surrounding us lately. With the influx of new COVID cases, even those who are vaccinated are not immune to the last breath of life as we know it. My thoughts have turned to this subject of dying much more than I want them to. How do we overcome the fear of death and the emptiness that it causes within us? With all that is happening around us, it would be easy to raise our hands in despair. The world fills our minds with thoughts of gloom and doom every day. So how do we manage to make it through each day without walking around with a cloud over our head?

God has given us the hope of eternal life. Our future home is assured. There will be no mortgage payments, no worry about maintenance, no fear, no tears, just eternal peace. That isn’t pie in the sky mentality, its true. Our hope is built on Christ alone, who came and paid the price of the ransom that held us captive. Our sins have been forgiven once and for all. We can place our faith in the promise of eternity with Him once we breathe that last breath.

When death approaches our front door, it seems a dreadful thought,
But just imagine what’s in store. With Angels we’ll be brought.
The gates of heaven opened wide, the throne of God we’ll see.
Our Savior at the Father’s side, a room for you and me.

Our bonds are freed – the chains are gone. The ransom has been paid.
No hopeless tears – a brand new dawn – no more to be dismayed.
A paradise awaits us beyond this murky life.
No pain or sorrow will there be – a perfect holy life.

So set your eyes on Jesus. Don’t ever let Him go.
He is our own Redeemer. His blood for us did flow.
I love you, dear Lord, Jesus. You’re all in all to me,
and when death comes I’ll tremble not, for you have died for me.

Posted in death, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , | 12 Comments

INTERNATIONAL ARTIST DAY

Posted on October 25, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

  • KATHY BOECHER, PERFORMER,PLAYWRIGHT & AUTHOR
  • PAUL BOECHER, FINE ARTIST, SCULPTER, REENACTOR

From the beginning of time, art has been a source of enjoyment, means of expression and part of humanity’s soul.  The painting artist may swing his brush through the air and create a masterpiece or nothing more than color on canvas, but whatever the results, it has impact.  A dancer spins flawlessly across a stage, caressing every note of music with each step.  A musician masters the use of an instrument and notes pour from the center of his heart.  An actor delivers a soliloquy and embraces the attention of his audience – both moving or inciting them  The sculptor takes a piece of wood or stone and carves life into the lifeless.  The poet weaves stories into beautiful verses, yet often they are never seen.  For a moment, an artist becomes recognized, but it isn’t usually until after his demise that his talent is monetarily realized.  Thus the term – starving artist.

In ancient days, the art scrawled on walls of caves, became a means of communication.  As time progressed, pottery was crafted for practical purposes.  Again the clock ticked away and art became more a means of expression. During the European Renaissance, art became a way to edify God.  The church was the greatest patron of the arts as they decorated their sanctuaries with amazing sculptures and frescos depicting the life of the saints, Jesus, Mary and God.

Moving on to modern times, art flowed as abstract artists set a new style in motion.  Impressionists also flourished.  In the early years of our own country, artists traveled with explorers to chronicle their discoveries – this was before photography, which is an art in its own right.

Art wears a different face down through the ages.  Plays and movies tend to follow the times and interests of the masses.  Sometimes they are an escape to a fantastical place or an unknown world.  Music can also reflect the times, yet often everything seems to repeat itself at some point.  What goes around often comes around, with a different spin to it.

As we celebrate this special day, honoring artists, I intend to hug one and he will hug me back.  Starving artists we remain, not because we like being poor, but because art is a part of who we are.

Posted in art, Daily inspiration and devotions | Tagged , , | 11 Comments

I HAVEN’T GOT A CLUE!

Posted on October 22, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

There are days like that, when I simply don’t have a clue.  I don’t understand why the world is rotating the way it is.  I can’t begin to understand the workings of our nation’s leadership and Washington, DC is just a dot on the map.  It seems like law enforcement has been hogtied and vigilante justice is now ruling our streets.  I guess I’m getting old, because the things I used to hold in high esteem are now the low man on the totem pole and life as I knew it is completely upside down.  The ideals of Christianity are being tossed aside in favor of a live and let live attitude, which allows for tolerance of any kind of behavior. 

OK, I am old.  I never thought I’d get this old.  Many of my aunts and uncles died at an early age.  My father was only 62 when he passed.  Some lived to nearly 100 years.  I guess there’s no limit to longevity in this day of modern medicine and concentration on the physical prowess of youth.  Still, as our bodies age, I think our mind takes a back seat and just wonders what we’re still doing here.  What kind of contribution can an old lady like me make to the world?  Does anything I’ve learned over the last eight decades of living have any worth?  Can I share my wisdom and make a difference?  Will my voice still be heard or am I wasting valuable oxygen?  How can I make a difference in a world that I don’t understand?  Again, I have to answer, “I don’t have a clue.”

The only place to find a clue that makes any sense for me is in God’s Word. I am convinced in my heart and mind, that God will not forsake me.  He will always be at my side, even when I can’t make any sense of things.  His love, His kindness, His compassion, His empathy, His consistency, His peace and mercy endure forever, so I need not worry about the menial problems that each day might bring.  I do not have the ability to change the world, but He does.  

“So even to old age and gray hairs,
    O God, do not forsake me,
until I proclaim your might to another generation,
    your power to all those to come.”  Psalm 71:18 ESV

So, I ask that God would give me the ability to share His love with the next generation, so that it continues on and on and that will be my legacy.  I can’t think of a better gift to leave behind.  

 

 

Posted in aging, America | Tagged , , , , | 14 Comments

HOW DO WE SHOW COMPASSION?

Posted on October 21, 2021 by atimetoshare.me

Upon the stage of every day, the cast is set in stone.

God uses each and every one, to lead us to His throne.

He calls upon the villain and the understudy too.

To fill the roles He’s planned for us. He knows what we must do.

His direction is perfection. He doesn’t miss a cue.

He even did the final act – alone – for me and you.

I thank you, great Jehovah, for loving me so much –

For giving your compassion with such a heavenly touch.

I don’t deserve His pardon. My works don’t mean a thing,

But through His Hero, Jesus, Christ, He’s made my spirit sing.

The story has unfolded. The truth lays at our feet.

The happily ever after comes when we our Savior meet.

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

Love and compassion are emotions we must work hard at.  Unlike God, we cannot see into the hearts, souls and minds of those we meet as we journey though life.  Jesus, being God as well as man, had the ability to read a person’s thoughts, know their wants and needs and act upon them with sincere compassion.  Our goal as followers of Christ is to imitate Him in our dealings, in our relationships and in reaching out to others.  God has already arranged the characters in His story – not as an all powerful puppet master, but as a loving Father cares for His children.

Each day, our prayers should include asking God to bestow pure compassion in our hearts so that we can understand where others are coming from.  We can never achieve the unconditional love that He possesses, but He will gives us a sampling of it if we ask Him.  This doesn’t mean we should be tolerant of all kinds of activity, or worry about political correctness to the extreme. Sometimes in our attempts to be helpful, we believe that we must give in, before the lines of communication are open.

God has established a rule book for us to follow.  He laid it all ot at the beginning of time.  Our obedience will never be perfect.  We continue to hold the inherited original sin of our first parents. Our compassion will always be lacking. Our love for others and our emathy as well as sympathy cannot be pure without first having the love of God imprinted on our hearts.  It is then that the balance occurs.  The true blending of love and compassion will not be perfect as long as we live, but we can and should strive to be more like our Savior every day.  We know the outcome.  The end of this story is sealed and complete.  Once we reach the other side of life, we’re assured of eternal peace – the true love and compassion of our Savior will be ours too.

Posted in eternal life, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , | 6 Comments