settingatthepoolofgrace

Have you ever experienced something you couldn’t understand, yet; it changed your entire prospective on life. From my youth I was told Jesus loved me, that He died for me and He could save me from my sins. I heard the pastor speak about Him and I sang praises to Him in the choir, but; I didn’t really know Him. He was the missing part of my life and it didn’t seem to matter. I was doing church without knowing Christ. wrapped up in a world that was sinful I just did what everyone else was doing; just ordinary stuff or so I thought. That’s how the deceiver works he makes you think sin is just the way the world works, everything is as it should be.

I was doing what was right in my own eyes. The life I was living was pleasing to the enemy of souls, but God in His mercy and love wouldn’t leave me in that state of ignorance. In my 20th year of life I was introduced to His Only son, the room was very quiet; my traveling companions and I sit in the stillness gazing upon a life size cross on the wall of the sanctuary with a man nailed to it, it appeared to be 7 or 8 feet tall. Then it happened and I saw it, He began to bleed; I closed my eyes because I couldn’t believe what I had seen. When I opened them again the blood was dripping down His face from His brow and down his leg from the side where a gapping hole was; that was the moment Jesus became real to me and my search for Him truly began.

I searched for Him in all the wrong places no one bothered to tell me He was waiting for me in the Bible I had neglected to read for myself. When I opened it’s pages the love of God leap from every word. It revealed the story of creation, the fall of mankind through disobedience, and who the real enemy truly was; yes the devil is real and constantly working for the destruction of man. He knows how much God loves His children and his goal is to keep them from knowing Gods love is unconditional. I wish I could say that was all it took, the enemy doesn’t give up his prey without a fight; so the battle began. He deployed every tactic to maintain control; deception, enticements, family and friends. The more I read the Bible the more I understood my need of a savior. The more I rejected the ways of the world the closer I felt to the love of God; love that forgives my sins and orders my steps on life’s journey.

I am a willing witness God is real His love unconditional and mans salvation is found Only in surrendering all to Him through Jesus the Christ. The devil is real also his greatest deception was to make us believe he doesn’t exist, he comes to steal, kill and destroy; a raging lion seeking whom he may devour. We must make a choice who will we serve; I fell in love with Jesus He is my choice and I am His witness. What will your choice be, will you become a witness ?

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

It had been a long journey, from the time he opened his eyes until this very moment; tears rolling down her cheeks as she stood watching the life drain from his body. She remembered how franticly she had searched for him when she thought she had lost him, calling out his name as anguish consumed her and how calm he was when she finally found him in the temple speaking with the rabbis. So many memories each one filling her heart from the life she had with this amazing son who was now leaving her world.

Her mind reflected on a time which now seemed a lifetime ago; the Angel, the message, and her acceptance. She didn’t fully understand what the future would bring, but; she was willing to be used by Yahweh who had chosen her. This however was the hardest thing she had ever endured. Then his voice reached her ears, slowly he gazed on John standing there with his mother and said this is your mother and to her this is your son; even now his attention was on her welfare not his suffering, what kind of heart was in this man? After all the good he had done this was his reward, a horrible death on a cross between two criminals.

He was his mother’s gift when he entered her life, her joy was watching him grow into the loving, compassionate, gentle and honorable man he became. She witnessed him healing the blind, feeding the hungry and giving hope to the forgotten. Now his blood was dripping from the wound in his side, his face stripped of its normal appearance, a crown of thorns pressed into his temple and each breath shorter than the one before it. Her heart was shattering and she had just heard him ask that his tormentors be forgiven, how could he? Her gift was being sacrificed, the price paid for mankind’s disobedience; unblemished blood shed to save the lost.

What would she do now? His last words “It is finished” had hit her with the finality of his death. It had been 3 days when Mary of Magdala rushed into the room where his family and followers assembled together in grief, I have seen him she shouted; he is risen// The gift of redemption secured for you and me, a mother’s gift restored. His sacrifice was not the end, it was a new beginning for all who wish to live free of sin and the sentence of death that sin brings; the choice is ours to make. As we prepare to celebrate this great gift, remember the One who paid the price was Jesus the Christ the ONLY begotten Son of the Father.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

I often wonder what would have happened to me had you not whispered your love song in my ears. Broken and battered by the darkness of life, alone and feeling unworthy of love I wondered through the world. Each day the same just trying to survive the best way I could, afraid to want for more only seeing the darkness that seemed to consume me.

The melody ringing in my ears awakened a new hope, then I imagined you smiling at me; your face filled with joy and love. Love so pure it penetrated the darkness with light; as darkness began to break more light radiated and hopelessness faded. As a Master Artisan you took the brokenness of my life and began to create a master piece, re-creating my life one piece at a time until a new work of art emerged. The old life no more weighing my heart down with worldly cares, a new life of possibilities in it’s place; a heart filled with joy and peace, no dark clouds.

The love song you sang to my heart vibrates through my entire being reassuring me of how much you love me and I’m worthy of that unconditional love. Love that taught me life will bring trials but I don’t need to fear because I’m never alone; with you holding my hand through the storms. It is so amazing to me as I look back down the road of life how you have changed my path and given me a greater understanding of how important it was that I chose to hear the soft whisper of love in my ears.

Falling in love with Jesus was truly the best thing I have ever done. I rest in His arms, Love, and peace. If your life is like mine was, let me recommend the Master Artisan to you, ONLY He can make a mess into a Master Piece.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

February 14th is designated as the day to celebrate love, but; the question that comes to my mind is “what is love?” 1Cor13 defines love as patient, kind, not envious or boastful, it hopes, protects, trust and perseveres. Love is not self seeking, not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs. 1Cor13:13 states” And now these three remain; faith, hope and love, but; the greatest of these is love.” The world gives us so many superficial expressions of what love should be most of which are emotional responses to our feelings. The day to honor love was named Valentines day after St. Valentine; it has its roots in the Roman festival of fertility.

Men and women around the world choose this day to express their love for their mates and others they love with physical gifts; flowers, candy, and cards. While it is good to acknowledge those we love, my mind reflects on the greatest expression of love given to the world. John 3:16,17 “For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” By the death of His son the sins that separated man from His Creator were forgiven and the breach restored. The sacrificial blood of Jesus the Christ was the ultimate expression of love.

The embodiment of love came from the Father through the life of Jesus the Christ, a life of selfless service to all mankind expressing the true character of love; for God is love. Only when we put aside the superficial love of the world and seek the face of love found in the life of Christ can we fully experience what real love truly is; for love comes from a relationship with the Father before we can honestly have love for ourselves and others. It is through Gods love for us we are taught how to love others unconditionally. It is His love that flows through us to others when we allow Him to inhabit our hearts. As Valentines day approaches let us consider the true origin of love; love that sacrificed all that we might be saved from the penalty of sin. Romans 5:8 reminds us, But God demonstrates His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

I found a beautiful vase at a thrift store, I couldn’t believe the price for what appeared to be a perfect vessel; of course I couldn’t pass up such a bargain. I visualized it setting on my table with a wonderful arrangement of flowers, the sunlight accenting both the vessel and flowers. So excited with my purchase I stopped on the way home and purchased a bouquet of flowers; an array of colors that put a smile on my face. I had one goal, to decorate my home with the treasure I had found. After carefully preparing the water in the vessel and placing the flowers in it I stepped back to survey my handy work.

On the surface everything was just as I expected it to be, however; after a few minutes I noticed a very small puddle of water on my table where the vase was setting looking so perfect. My first thought was that I had wasted it, not thinking much about it I wiped up the water and began another task. Once again my eyes fell upon the beautiful flowers just to see a even larger puddle then before; something is wrong was what my mind was telling me now, action was required. After carefully removing the flowers and water I examined the vase, I couldn’t see one single flaw, yet; each time I replaced the water, it leaked.

I thought about life and how sometimes as Christians our outward appearance seems to be flawless; we say the right words, smile seamlessly, warmly shake hands and give the impression of acceptance to everyone we encounter. Every now and then the secret thoughts of the heart slip through the unseen cracks; she really thinks she is something, not said with malice but not with love. He is always trying to get the best position, the power; not said with malice but not with love. The tongue is a small member, but; holds the power of life and death. It can assassinate the character with a few words. It’s like throwing the rock that shatters the window then hiding your hands so no one can see who threw it.

Just a little gossip shared in the right circle can spread like wildfire, but the lips from which it fell is now silent. Character flaws hidden behind a flawless façade, little black spots on the heart we fail to recognize, repent from and ask our Father’s forgiveness. We don’t see the pain in the Potters eyes knowing the vessel He made with love and care needs to be remolded, yet; He is willing without hesitation to remove the flaws and refine the vessel. 2Timothy2:20-22 enlightens us with these words, “but in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor”.

21 “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Only the Father can change the heart, remove the dark spots no matter how small; but , we must be willing to admit they exist and ask Him to do the work of refining us through His Spirit. Jesus opened the door to the Father’s house so that we wouldn’t be afraid to come to Him with our needs, knowing without any doubt He loves us and will welcome us with open arms. Only when we submit to His cleansing blood will the flawless façade be erased and we can be remade into an honorable vessel.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

Speak to my heart Holy Spirit, give me the words that will bring new life, words on the wings of the morning the dark night will fade away; if you speak to my heart now. This song woke me this morning resonating in my mind; the words so poignant stirring a need to pray. The daily grind of life brings distractions from the only source that gives renewal and strength to fight the battles within us. The message of love we need to chase away the uncertainties and doubt that causes stagnation.

The mind is the battles ground the enemy of mankind desires to capture and enslave; Romans 6:16 states “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves you are slaves of the one you obey, whether you are slaves to sin which leads to death or to obedience which leads to righteousness. It is by our choices we are bound to whichever we choose. If we open our hearts to the love of the Father Creator His Holy Spirit will guide us in the direction the Father desires we travel.

However, man’s nature is to lead and not follow, this what the enemy uses to interfere and disrupt Gods plan for mankind. We came into this world with fallen natures prone to do what is contrary to the will of our Father; it is His transforming love that brings us into alignment with His plan for our lives. Daily communication with the Father in prayer fortifies the mind, body and spirit leaving no room for the enemy to enter. We must choose to fight the battle raging within constantly yielding each moment of the day to the Holy Spirits leading.

Isaiah 5:20 tells us “woe to the perverters: against those who call evil good and good evil, and light darkness”. This is our world today, we are living in chaos and it seems those who govern refuse to see the consequences of their actions. The enemy has pulled out every weapon he has to create battles within; battles in the mind, the heart, the family, the educational system, the church and the nations. As indicated by the song only when God speaks to the heart can change come. When He speaks we are encouraged and all despair is lifted by His message of love.

When we yield everything to Him, He will guide us safely to a resting place where no pain or problems can invade, the enemy can’t distract and we are strengthen in our inner man to withstand his temptations. we must give all our battles to Him, they are not ours to fight; He stands ready to carry our heavy burdens and give us His light burdens, but first we must make the choice to give Him control of our lives.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

More than 2000 years ago you came into the world to show mankind how much love you had and how much you wanted them to be reunited to the Father creators love. A Father who sacrificed all He had for earthly children who had forgotten who He was, forgotten how to love each other, and excepted the lie of the enemy; they were unworthy of forgiveness. This world is so in need of You, we are lost in the darkness of decay; the light of love seems with each day to be dwindling farther away.

Chaos has enveloped every shore and nature is revolting against the carelessness of mankind. Children are living in the rubble of powerful men’s greed and thirst for more power, their parents the victims of useless wars. Each generation has been given the chance to remember your love has always been the solution,yet; each failing to realize their need for that love. Willingly giving their hearts to false worship of idols that can’t see or hear or talk. I’m one who still calls upon your name knowing you hear and see the state of this world you made.

I am trusting your word which says you will come again, eliminate the stain of sin and darkness will never rise again. All war will end and peace will reign, the lion will lay down with the lamb. Peace and love will rule the land and every voice will lift in praise to the great I AM . No more pain, no more tears, no fear or unbelief will remain; the world of darkness eradicated and light will shine again. The world as in the beginning will be once more, just more beautiful than before. As another year draws to a close I am lifting my voice to say please come Lord Jesus come, change the hearts of mankind and chase the darkness away.

Bring peace and love in your warm embrace and give the world the hug it needs to realize you are the ONLY way. As a New Year dawns please help mankind keep their hearts and minds lifted to your throne of grace, the only place where true peace waits. Happy and Blessed New Year

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

Then the sky was filled with an Angelic host, voices ringing out with clarity; joy to the world peace and goodwill to all men. The announcement was made the greatest gift mankind could receive was given wrapped in the smile of a babe. For 33 years love walked among mankind singing it’s love song to the world, a song of healing, understanding, forgiveness, compassion, and peace. Loves melody found a place in the hearts of many changing the way mankind saw itself as it began to follow loves example.

With each new generation the beautiful melody that once rang throughout the halls of time seemed to be fading and love seem to be a distant whisper trying to find it’s way back into the hearts of mankind. The great disrupter had interfered with the frequency on which love travels, however; each man who’s heart is filled with the melody of love can reach out to touch the heart that is close to him or her and share the love inside of them until the earth is again filled with love’s song to the world.

The stronger love grows the more the darkness will cease to exist and joy to the world, peace and goodwill must return to all mankind. As we reminisce on the greatest gift given to the world, allow the love song that dwells in you reach out to touch those around you with the love you received from the greatest love that ever walked on the earth; the love of Jesus the Christ, the babe born to save the world from the wages of sin; which is death.

When the love of Christ is embraced the heart is regenerated, hate is eradicated and darkness is dispelled; this Holiday season spread the love and joy of Jesus everywhere you travel, with everyone you meet and every helping hand you give to another; let the song in your heart ring out as the Angels did that night so long ago, a song for the world. Have a blessed holiday season.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

The song says” Deck the halls with bought of holly, tis the season to be jolly; don we now our gay apparel, troll the ancient yuletide carol; just these few lines indicate celebration and joyous times are coming. Yet, our world is filled with so much sadness, pain, and hatred. For most of us preparations are being made to enjoy the holiday season; Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Each of these have their own reason for celebration; Thanksgiving was a celebration of conquest by colonist over the native peoples who occupied the land when the settlers landed on their shores, shrouded in compromise and bloodshed.

It was made a national holiday in 1863 by then president Abraham Lincoln. Christmas is well known as a celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ who died for the sins of the world, but; we fail to recognize it’s beginnings came from pagan and roman roots. December 25th was the Roman festival of the Sun and aligned with the Winter Solstice. The church chose to Christianize existing pagan practices rather than eliminate them. The traditions practiced by pagan worship were redirected to honor Christ’s birth with gift-giving and feasting.

Finally, the New Year celebration began about 4000 years ago with the Babylonian’s, this was a 11 day festival around the Spring Equinox held in late March; the Julian calendar established Jan. 1 as the day of celebration to honor Janus the god of new beginnings; a Roman god. In 1582 the date was adopted and officially established in the Gregorian calendar. Throughout the years we have all celebrated theses holidays by gathering together with family and friends; feasting, gift giving, and sharing stories of life. Many will be traveling across the country to be with their loved ones during this season of celebration.

Unfortunately, some will be alone and some will have no idea what the season will bring for them. Luke 12:48 states ” for everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required”; we are blessed to be a blessing to others, it is important that we set aside selfishness. Sharing what we have with others should be our goal for the season, whatever we have whether more or less we have enough to share; if we place the little we have in the hands of the Master giver much can be accomplished. So as you plan your celebrations this holiday season invite someone to share your home, table and love.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace

The Kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man seeking goodly pearls; who when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Math,13:45-46. What does this mean to you, me, and those we love? 1Cor. 2:9 says “but as it is written no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined the things that God has prepared for those who love Him.” We were created and mandated to populate the earth; in the image of our Creator we were created. He desired to be in relationship with His creation, but; disobedience separated them from each other.

This separation brought sorrow to the earth and heartbreak to the Fathers heart; the string broken and His pearls shattered. Each of us a pearl of great price on the Father’s string of pearls; He searches for each pearl with love that has not diminished. Each pearl found and reclaimed brings joy slowly mending the Fathers heart. His determination to redeem each pearl is not detected by the condition they may be in, He is willing to clean them with His love restoring their brilliance and placing them in their assigned positions on the string. Unfortunately, many of us fail to see the value God the Father has placed on us not realizing we are a great pearl in His sight.

We have been convinced we are to dirty to be cleaned and accepted having strayed so far from the jewelry box of heaven. Romans 8:33 reminds us Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for His own? No one, for God Himself has given us right standing with Himself. Through Juses the Christ we are assured that nothing can separate us from the love of the Father; there is nothing we can do that would make void the sacrifice of blood Jesus shed that we could be restored to our position on the string of pearls. The search is exhaustive, but; the Father is not willing that any should remain lost. He sent Jesus that those who were blinded by darkness could see their beauty through His eyes and realize they were one of the great pearls missing from the Fathers string of pearls and He is still searching for them.

The heavenly jewelry box still has room and God’s string of pearls has a place for you; just choose to accept the gift Jesus has already provided when, you choose Him.

My revelation as I sit by the pool of grace