Verses from Mama

Hearing God speak one Bible verse at a time.

The Thanksgiving Turkey – More Reasons To Be Thankful

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Colossians 1:16-17 “For by Him all things were created, both in heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” 

Dear Kids,

The Thanksgiving season provides an occasion to stop and reflect on things often taken for granted. Our little Ruby’s wise mama has helped her focus on things for which she is thankful. Every day for the past few weeks she has been coloring a turkey feather listing something or someone she loves and is grateful for. While I haven’t been personally crafting turkey feathers, I have recently found yet another reason to thank and praise our heavenly Father.

Earth Science and the Laws of Nature

It is exam season for college students, and the other day I spent a good amount of time helping Abigail study for an earth science class. All the things God set in motion when He created the world amazed me. He brought about the heavens, the earth, the sun, moon, stars, fish, birds, and humans with His spoken word. This is remarkable! But I had not given much thought to all the forces and laws of nature the LORD God set in motion to make our earth a viable environment for life to thrive.

Science has made great strides to understand the workings of our world, but there is so much we still do not know. Yet the Bible tells us that all things, both in heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities, have been created through Him and before Him. He is the Creator and through Him all things also hold together.

Thanksgiving for God’s Incredible Creation

Evaporation and condensation produce clouds that bring rain upon the earth to water the vegetation we need for food. The ozone layer protects us from too much heat. Processes like thermal circulation and advection, all unfamiliar to me, were set in motion by a good and loving Creator to help protect, provide, and nourish our human bodies on this earth. It’s really more than my mind can contain! Yet the all-wise God thought of every detail to ensure a safe environment for His image-bearers. What incredible gifts!!

Ruby has colored many feathers for the things she is thankful for this Thanksgiving – family members, music, food, the park and even her favorite movie, Frozen. But I think I might stop over and add some other things to her turkey – like thermal circulation and advection. These, along with thousands of other blessings of which I am unaware, are also amazing gifts from God. And for them we should all be very grateful this Thanksgiving season!!

Love,

Mama

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Getting on the Right Train – An Effective Response to Anxiety

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Psalm 148:13 “Let them praise the name of the LORD, For His name alone is exalted; His glory is above earth and heaven.”

An Effective Response to Anxiety

Dear Kids,

2020 has been a year of increased anxiety for many people. We live in stressful times, but soon after this year made its grand entrance the pressures only increased. COVID restrictions, unfamiliar work and social conditions, and an unprecedented election are only a few of the abnormal circumstances we’ve navigated. All of this, melded together with personal struggles and fear of the unknown, lends itself to sleepless nights, tension headaches, high blood pressure, and a general feeling of unease. But late one night as I tossed and turned, my head swirling like a tornado, I suddenly realized a good way to respond to my anxiety.

“What If” and “What Was” Questions Create Anxiety

As I reviewed my apprehensive contemplations I began to understand that most of them pertained to two trains of thought. The first related to “what if” questions. What if this happens? Or what if that doesn’t come through? Most, if not all, of these ideas were only speculation and not based on anything solid. But once I allowed my mind to board that train, the panicky thoughts came faster and faster until I had worked myself into a tizzy.

The next damaging train of thought had to do with “what was” reflections. “I wish it was like it was before.” “Those days went by so fast, and I wish I could have some of them back.” “Maybe if I had done things differently we would be in a better place.” This mindset also caused consternation and added to the swirl of emotions keeping me wide-awake.

Focus on “What is” With Thankfulness

Once I understood the trains of thought that were taking me on a wild ride of anxiety, I decided I better get off before my mind and body collapsed under the pressure. It was time to change my thought patterns and focus on healthy and life-giving truth. That’s when I decided to concentrate on “what is” in my life. There are so many things for which to be thankful; so many reasons to praise God. I must choose to fill my mind with these.

Psalm 148 calls us along with all creation to praise God. Part of praise is thankfulness. By thanking Him for “what is” in my life I diffuse the confusing torrent of “what ifs” and “what was” thoughts that produce such great anxiety. The Lord knows the future and has it under control. He also understands the past and walked with me through every circumstance. So there’s no point in second-guessing. It’s time to leave that behind. But “what is” is where I can find relief and peace.

Thankfulness is an Effective Response to Anxiety

There’s no denying it, we live in a stressful world filled with many anxiety-inducing situations. So what train are you on? If you find yourself moving at tremendous speeds on the “What if” or the “What was” Express, then disembark as quickly as you can. Refocus your thoughts on praising God. Soon you’ll find that gratitude for “what is” replaces uneasiness with peace. And thankfulness is a very effective response to anxiety.

Love,

Mama

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True Love is Always About the Heart

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Mark 12:42-43 “A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amount to a cent. Calling His disciples to Him, He said to them, “Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the contributors to the treasury . . .”

Love is Always About the Heart

Dear Kids,

The weather turns colder, and the wind whips the trees mercilessly. It’s a good night to hunker down on the couch under a cozy blanket with family. What more perfect setting to watch a favorite movie? Most of my preferences involve the typical love triangle. Girl has rich inattentive boyfriend. She goes away and meets a fellow with average means who ends up falling in love and portraying it in romantic and very real ways. Of course, in the end the girl dumps the guy with the money for the man who truly loves her with everything he’s got. This is because love isn’t about money; true love is always about the heart!

What would you rather have: a very expensive gift from someone who doesn’t care about you, or a small thoughtful present from someone who adores you and would sacrifice everything for your benefit?

Jesus Recognized a Poor Widow Woman

Jesus recognized a poor widow woman who did just that. She only had two small coins to give, but He pointed her out to His disciples as someone to be emulated. He was nearing the end of His earthly ministry and had met many different people. The religious leaders should have understood who He was and reverenced Him, but instead they despised Him. Yet they continued to go through the rituals of honoring God with great piety although they only cared about gaining personal recognition and admiration.

One day Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and began observing the contributors. There were many rich people putting in large sums. I am sure they made a great display of their fine offerings, so others would see how generous and spiritual they were.

But suddenly there appeared a poor widow woman. She approached the offering box and dropped in two copper coins. Those whose eyes were only on themselves hardly noticed the clink of this measly offering. But Jesus noticed and called His disciples to Him. “Look at her,” He said. “Her gift is worth more than all of the other contributors to the treasury. They put in out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty. She offered all she possessed and had to live on.” This unassuming, humble act came from a deep faith and a heart of love, and it caught Jesus’ attention.

Love is Always About the Heart

In just a few short days Jesus would be led away to the cross to play His part in the greatest love story ever. He gave up everything including His life for us, so shouldn’t we, like the poor widow, sacrifice all for Him?

The wind continues to howl outside the living room window, but our hearts are warmed as the girl falls in love with the underdog in yet another chick flick. It’s because most of us value the real deal over the self-centered love interest. We know that in all love stories it’s never about the money; it’s always about the heart.

Love,

Mama

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God’s Way to the Top is at the Bottom

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Mark 10:44-45 “ . . . and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many.”

God's Way to the Top is at the Bottom

Dear Kids,

How does a person make it to a place of prominence? Our world would say you do whatever it takes to fight your way to the top. But in God’s economy the way to the top is at the bottom.

Fall Sunday afternoons bring to mind so many peaceful feelings: enjoyment of a warm scrumptious meal with family, encouraging conversation around our large, Amish-made dining room table where everyone feels satisfied and loved, walks with good friends down a country road lined with glorious trees of changing colors, and the soothing sound of the football game droning on while I drift off to sleep in my comfy chair until the punctuated cheers of the sofa fans startle me out of my slumber.

Avid football fans have always intrigued me. These devoted followers wear the gear, decorate the house, scream encouragement, and rarely miss a game, always hoping their team will win.

Desire to be at the Top is a Natural Human Craving

This particular desire to be on top seems to be a natural human craving in more than just the realm of football. We often strive to be the best in our class, top achiever in our work, highly recognized in our circles, record breakers in our sports, and even sometimes the most respected in our churches. How else does one become successful if he or she doesn’t shoot for the top position?

More than once Jesus’ disciples expressed their desire for a place of prominence in God’s kingdom. One day James and John approached Him and solicited Jesus to do what they asked: give them the seats of honor at His right and left side in glory. Jesus told them they did not understand what they were asking. Could they drink the cup He had to drink? Could they be baptized with the baptism with which He was baptized? Even though these audacious men thought they could, Jesus informed them these positions were not His to give. Of course, their request annoyed the rest of the disciples who also wanted these positions of honor.

God’s Way to the Top is By Lowering Yourself to Servanthood

So Jesus called the grappling men to Himself and taught them a different method of becoming great than the world proposed. His route to the top was not by pushing yourself ahead. Instead, it involved lowering yourself to the status of a servant. He, Himself, would be the greatest standard of this manner of living. For the Son of God, the Creator of all the earth, came to this world not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many. Anyone who was to be His disciple must follow His example.

In God’s economy, those who push themselves forward end up last. And those who take a back seat end up first. What a contrast to how we normally structure our lives! Instead of using all our resources to become the top dog and call all the shots, we are to humble ourselves and use our resources to serve others.

I know Autumn Sunday afternoons will always hold a special appeal for football fans. And I will probably always love the drowsy sound of the TV announcers calling the game. But when you nestle down on the couch to cheer your favorite team to the top of their division, make sure you don’t carry the mindset into the rest of life. If you want to be a follower of Jesus the way to the top is at the bottom.

Love,
Mama

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Making Decisions When You Hear Two Voices

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James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Making Decisions

Dear Kids,

No one makes it through life without facing some life-shaping decisions. Even one who resolves not to take one road or another is making the decision to stay where they are. And this choice also affects their life. Some decisions are no-brainers. Others stretch the mind. But what happens when you have two options with possible outcomes that could be good or bad? How do you make sure you are choosing the right one?

Following Two Voices

Those who know me best recognize that I am directionally challenged. As I have often admitted I rely heavily on Google Maps to take me wherever I need to go. The other day I began to drive to a nearby place of business. Since I don’t go there often I, of course, asked SIRI to guide me. It wasn’t long before I realized she was guiding me to the wrong place. This place of business has two offices and she was leading me to the incorrect one. So I stopped the car, Googled the correct information, and entered the appropriate address.

Confidently, I started out again following her advice until something strange happened. My technological advisor told me to turn left, but when I did so she immediately started chirping, “Reroute, reroute!” This kept happening until the opposing commands had me completely confused. I pulled over to the side of the road again to figure out my dilemma, and that’s when I realized the problem.

When I had typed in the new address I hadn’t turned off the first navigation router. So, now two voices were telling me where to go. They were guiding me to different places with the same business name, but the addresses were in opposite directions. Only one of the locations had what I needed. That’s where I had to go.

Making Decisions Can Be Confusing

I find that life’s decisions are often like this. Where should I go to school? Who should I marry? Should I invest or shouldn’t I? The possibilities for good and bad can race around in our heads until our thoughts tangle into a ball of confusion. But the decisions must be made.

James tells us that those who lack wisdom should ask of God who gives generously. Now God does not always immediately make the answers plain and clear, but He does promise to guide us when we wholeheartedly seek Him. So we must pray and ask Him to show us the correct way.

Wisdom For Making Decisions

Next, we must seek God’s will through His word. We can eliminate some of our options by comparing them against the Bible. Is the issue a matter of sin? If so, the answer is obvious. God would not want us to make that choice.

Then, we can ask knowledgeable and wise counselors to give us advice and list the pros and cons of each possibility. After we have done all our homework, prayed for wisdom, and thoughtfully weighed all the options, we must make the decision and trust God for the outcome. He is completely able to close doors at any time and lead in a different direction. By going through this process we may still experience questions about whether we made the right choice, but we can have confidence that God will keep His word. He promises to give wisdom when we ask, and we must believe and not doubt.

So the next time you hear two voices in your head giving conflicting opinions about the direction you should take, don’t panic. Do what James suggests. Ask God for wisdom, do all your homework thoroughly, and then make the decision with confidence. God is faithful! And who knows to what exciting places He will take you!

Love,

Mama

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How to Deal With Conflict and Gain Peace

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Mark 9:50 “Salt is good; but if the salt becomes unsalty, with what will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”

Dear Kids,

Deal With ConflictDoes anyone really love conflict? I know there are some who thrive on the drama of difficult circumstances and relationships. But I expect there are many more who would love to float through life without ever facing any kind of uncomfortable disagreement. This would be nice, but the Bible makes it clear that such ease will not be the norm. Life in a sinful world that is full of sinful people portends hurt and strife. We will need to deal with conflict. And in order to attain peace we must embrace the painful path.

Different Ways to Deal With Conflict

All of us deal  with conflict differently. Some, with feet planted and fists clenched, like to face it head on. These ones are ready to protect and fight to the end. And that is often what happens. Harsh words fly, hearts shrivel, and souls die a painful death.

Others defend themselves by running away and avoiding the fray at all costs. In their minds they think this will guard against hurt and preserve the peace. But these responses are wrong also. The painful emotions caused by misunderstanding take root in the heart spreading cancerous bitterness that over time erodes even the best of relationships.

If you want to experience peace in a confusing, hurtful, disappointing world there is only one way to do it. It is to walk the path of conflict courageously with wisdom, grace, and love. This thorny trail is risky. But the benefits are reconciliation and life.

Interpersonal Struggles Have Been Around Since the Fall

Interpersonal relationship struggles have been around since Adam and Eve chose to disobey God. Even Jesus had to deal with them while here on earth. His closest band of followers struggled just as we do. One day they were travelling to Capernaum and on the way the twelve argued over which of them was the greatest.

Jesus could have blasted these prideful men for thinking so highly of themselves, or He could have avoided the conflict by trying to change the subject. Instead Jesus appropriately addressed the heated discussion and used it as a teachable moment.

How Did Jesus Deal With Conflict

First, Jesus waited for the right timing. He did not enter the fray in the public arena, but delayed until they were inside a house and could speak privately. Next, Jesus gently questioned His disciples about what they had been discussing on the road. The disciples knew they were wrong and were embarrassed, so they kept quiet and didn’t answer.

Instead of accusing and belittling these men because of their misconduct, Jesus sat down with them and explained that the way to become great is to be a servant of all. To help them understand He demonstrated His point by taking a child in His arms and showing the kind of humility they must maintain to reflect Christlikeness.

The Benefits of Dealing With Conflict Appropriately

Many more missteps took place during those days as Jesus trained His disciples, but each time the Lord gently guided them to the right way of thinking and acting. They were to salt the earth with prudence in their dealings with each other and all people. This salt would be the very ingredient necessary to preserve relationships and share the gospel of peace successfully with the world.

We will always be confronted with conflict on this sinful earth. How we deal with it will make all the difference. Do not run away. Do not go toe-to-toe only to defend your self-interest. Instead, when appropriate, gently and humbly enter in with love and grace. This painful path is what leads to interpersonal healing and gives us opportunity to promote the gospel of peace. This is the salt that seasons the earth.

Love,
Mama

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Finding Joy in Change

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2 Corinthians 3:18 “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.

Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/larisa-k-1107275/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=19830">Larisa Koshkina</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=19830">Pixabay</a>

Finding Joy in Change

Dear Kids,

Facing change is a necessary part of life. Every day things change all around us. From the weather to the seasons to our personal circumstances and environments, the inevitable takes place. And we must all adapt to this natural ebb and flow. While these transitions may sometimes bring feelings of sadness, there are other times when we can find joy in change.

Change Can be a Time of Sadness and Loss

Recently I have entered a major season of change. Not only have my children left home, leaving me to feather an empty nest, but other unexpected changes have occurred too. In the past year two of our long time neighbors have sold their homes. Driving by these familiar houses daily brings a touch of sadness stemming from the changes in our neighborhood.

Also, our beloved dentist who has cared for our teeth for close to thirty years – and Dad’s for over forty – has retired. We are now left to find another to take his place. Two large family businesses in the area that we have patronized closed their doors. A family member has died, a pastor moved on, and a number of parents we’ve developed relationships with at school functions have chosen to move away now that their kids have graduated. These changes and more have produced deep emotions as I ponder the losses.

Finding Joy in Change

But change doesn’t always create melancholy. Sometimes change is a reason to rejoice. Those who believe in Jesus and become part of His family begin a journey of transformation that lasts for a lifetime. God, who slowly transforms us into the image of His Son, brings about these changes. As we peer into the mirror of His Word and behold the glory of the Lord, the Holy Spirit renews our heart and minds. We begin to love the things the Lord loves, and our actions and attitudes respond accordingly. The old us fades away and the new us rises to the surface. This process of intently gazing on Jesus through the Word reproduces His image within us.

Over time those closest to us will observe the changes. A nasty temper gives way to patience and understanding. A covetous nature becomes more content. A bitter heart melts into joyfulness. An angry spirit is revived by forgiveness. These character shifts and more reveal the positive changes the Holy Spirit is making in our lives.

Focus on Personal Changes that Last for Eternity

So while you and I will regularly face the ebb and flow of sentimental changes in our life’s journey, we do not need to sink into despair. Instead of focusing on the temporal fluctuations in our everyday experience, pray for the Holy Spirit to bring about the personal changes that will last for eternity. Preoccupy yourself with the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ and little by little you will be transformed into His very image. Those changes are ones in which we can all rejoice.

Love,

Mama

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The Voice and the Presence that Calms the Storm

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Mark 6: 50b “But immediately He spoke with them and said to them, “Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid.”

Jesus' Presence Calms the Storm

Jesus’ Presence Calms the Storm

Dear Kids,

There is not much that calms fear like the voice and presence of someone we love and trust. The panic of the lost child in a crowded shopping mall turns to tears of relief when he sees his parent’s face and hears the familiar voice. The distressed patient gains courage when his familiar doctor arrives at the hospital. And the child of God can face any storm if he knows Jesus rides in the boat. His presence calms the storm.

A Personal Scary Storm

Twenty-seven years ago I found myself in a very scary situation. I was eight-and-a-half months pregnant with Emily and developed some concerning symptoms. After numerous tests the doctor ordered a C-section. On the morning of November 18, 1993, a nurse strapped me to a gurney and left me completely alone in a cold and empty hospital hallway for what seemed like an eternity. I was frightened beyond belief as I waited for this surgery to bring my baby into the world and hopefully mitigate my alarming test results.

But I clearly remember the sense of relief I felt when I heard my doctor’s voice floating down the hallway. He arrived and squeezed my hand. I knew that, somehow, all would be well.

Jesus Walks on the Water and Calms the Storm

Jesus and His disciples had had an exhausting day. Crowds had followed them wherever they went. And even after crossing the sea in a boat to find a secluded spot, the people reappeared on the other side, clambering for more teaching and miracles. Finally, after feeding the 5,000 with only five loaves and two fish, Jesus sent His disciples out onto the lake again while He stayed to dismiss the crowds and spend solitary time praying.

The wind picked up very early in the morning, and as Jesus looked out into the lake He saw His disciples struggling to keep the boat on course. So He set out to come to them, walking on the water. The exhausted men screamed with terror because they supposed the apparition to be a ghost. Immediately Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid.” Then He got into the boat with them, and the wind stopped; and they were utterly astonished.”

Jesus’ Presence Calms the Storm

Is the wind whipping around you at this time in your life? Are you lost in a crowd, waiting for the results of a crucial medical test, or wondering how you will face the storm that is brewing on the horizon? There is no need to panic because you are not alone. If you look carefully through the mist and listen attentively for His voice you will hear your Savior’s comforting words, “Take courage, my child; it is I, do not be afraid!” Invite Jesus to ride in your boat. His loving and faithful presence will melt your fear into a peaceful calm.

Love,
Mama

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What’s Really Behind Your Mask?

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Jeremiah 17:9-10a “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart . . .” (NIV)

Dear Kids,

What's Really Behind Your Mask?

What’s Really Behind Your Mask?

We now live in a world where masks are an everyday reality. Every time you engage with someone – whether at work, school, or store – everyone wears a mask to protect themselves and others. But is this really very different than what has always been?

The other day I took my weekly grocery shopping trip into town. While in the store I ran into four people I thought I knew. I didn’t recognize any of them at first because half of their face was covered, but after scrutinizing their other physical characteristics, even one person’s sandaled feet, I realized they were acquaintances. It took some time and effort to recognize these individuals because I couldn’t see an important part of their face.

Creativity With Your Masks

Since the mandate to mask up, I’ve also noticed a wide variety of creativity. I’ve come across big toothy smiley faces, scary monster grimaces, animal snouts, and masks with various messages. Each of these is meant to draw attention to the wearer and evoke some sort of response, but no one really knows the true sentiment behind the cloth cover.

This may seem like a new and strange development in our COVID-19 world, but people have been masking up for years. Some of the seemingly happiest people I’ve known have struggled with debilitating depression within the recesses of their inner self. Other ultra-charismatic people sometimes have ulterior motives. Their smooth and well-timed words may be meant to induce the response they want from the hearer. What we initially see in people is not always the truth of their character.

God Sees Behind Your Mask

Although we can’t always discern what’s behind the masks people wear, there is Someone Who can. God is not fooled by a laughing face cover trying to disguise tears. Likewise, He never capitulates to smooth talk and calculated actions meant to use others for personal gain. He sees directly into the soul and discerns the deepest hurts and truest motives. This can be a scary thought if your heart is not right. But it is also very comforting when others don’t get you or understand your broken heart.

I’m sorry to say that for now it looks like masks are around to stay for a while. So keep your creative stash handy and available for all occasions. But while you must keep your mouth and nose covered for safety’s sake, be careful not to cover up the true sentiments of your heart. Friends and family may not always see the real you, but there is Someone who does. And not even a mask will fool Him.

Love,

Mama

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Finding the Help and Healing You Need

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Isaiah 53:4 “Surely He took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered Him punished by God, stricken by Him, and afflicted.” (NIV)

Dear Kids,

Find the Help and Healing You Need

Archie Jordan Shaw – born September 10, 2020.

Have you ever seen someone endure deep pain? When we love someone we are willing to do whatever is necessary to help in times of hurt. But often there is nothing we can do except be there and extend comfort and encouragement. If only we could find the help and healing they need.

The Struggles of Entering the World

Last week we celebrated a joyous occasion! On Thursday, September 10th Emily gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. We are so thankful for the safe arrival of Archie Jordan Shaw. But his entrance into the world was not without some struggle. As I watched and encouraged Emily through the many hours of labor, I empathized with her in the painful process. I had gone through this five times, but it was so different to be on the other end. So many times I wished I could have taken her place and spared her the pain. But that was not possible.

As I watched, waited, and prayed I thought about life. All of us come into the world through the difficult birth process, but the struggles don’t stop there.  Every person will face various trials throughout the years of his or her sojourn on earth. Sometimes others can help alleviate the pain and sometimes they can’t. But there is nothing any human can do to lift the burdensome penalty of sin we are all born under. That is something that only God can do.

In Jesus We Find the Help and Healing We Need

God loved us so much that He sent His only Son to help us. Jesus took up our pain and bore our suffering brought on by sin. He was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities. He took the punishment we deserved and through His wounds we are healed. Those who believe in Jesus no longer experience the pain of spiritual death. But instead they are born into His family and will live forever.

I am grateful that the pains of childbirth to bring Archie Jordan into the world have been eclipsed by the celebration of his birth. And I pray that someday he will understand the great gift God has provided for him in Jesus. Life in a sinful world will often be difficult, but in Jesus we can find the help and healing we need.

Love,

Mama (Nana)

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