THE PERFECT SACRIFICE!

 “Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”  Luke 2:22.  (NKJV).

“But isn't Jesus God?” Grandfather nodded. “Then why present Him to the Lord in Jerusalem?”

“The law stated every firstborn male is holy to the Lord. His parents fulfilled the law when they presented Him at the Temple.”

“So the sacrifice was for Him?” Grandfather shook his head. “I don’t get it.”

“The sacrifice was for the new mother. She would offer a pair of turtledoves and be declared ceremonially clean.”

“Wait, Grandfather. I thought the Lord Jesus was the sacrifice for sin.”

“You’re right. But this was before He died on the cross. Think about it. Mary had to offer a sacrifice for her sins. All she could afford were two turtledoves, while in her arms, she held the Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the world.”

Silence.

“Timmy?”

“Umm, it’s awesome when you think about it,” his eyebrows dipped. “But hard to understand.”

Grandfather put his arm around Timmy’s shoulders. “We don’t have to understand to praise Him and be thankful. He knows our hearts, son, and we need Someone perfect to offer Himself in our place.” 

“To think He loves us that much. Still think it's hard to understand.”

“Totally agree,” Grandfather said as he hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus provided the way by offering Himself as my sacrifice. He loves me and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers the same to you. Think about it!

HEART-LOVE!

“Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:4-7. (NKJV).

“Donkey, cow, lamb. I like the animals to look at the Baby Jesus, Grandfather.”

“And the boy with an orange in his hand?”

Timmy grinned. “It’s the only small boy I had. Baby Jesus won’t like the orange?”

“He’ll love it if the gift is ‘heart-love.’ That’s why He came, to be born in a stable, to live a perfect life. See the lamb in the stable?” Timmy nodded.

“The lamb, perfect and unblemished, was the sacrifice for sins. At the perfect time in history, the Lord God sent His Son into the world to be the sacrificial Lamb who would die for our sins.”

“That’s hard to understand.”

“Indeed it is. Down through the centuries, people refused to believe because they didn't understand. But that doesn’t change the promise of God. The Lord Jesus is the perfect sacrifice, the only one recognized by the Lord God.”

“So ‘heart-love’ is when our hearts love God and others?”

Grandfather smiled. "God is Love and He began the 'heart-love' when He sent His Son to take my place."

"'Heart-love' for me, too?"

"Absolutely."

"Wow. With all the people in the world, that's a lot of 'heart-love.'

"Indeed, son."

"Can we share it with Mr. Brunson? He's sad and I'd like to tell him about heart-love." 

Grandfather grabbed his jacket. "Ready when you are."

Kingdom Thinking. From the manger to Calvary, the Lord Jesus prepared the way for whosoever believes in Him. He loves us “who’s” with an everlasting love. He promises never to leave nor forsake us. He offers you a room in His Inn. Won’t you come?

INTERRUPTED BY JOY!

“Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ  the Lord.’” Luke 2:10,11. (NKJV).

 

“There. The bright star in the evening sky,” Grandfather pointed into the heavens. “See it?“

“Wow. It’s amazing.” Timmy gazed upward.

"As bright and beautiful as it is, it doesn’t compare to the light the shepherds saw that night."

“I’d have been terrified.”

 Grandfather chuckled. “You could say the same for them. They were watching over the sheep when suddenly light flooded them and an angel of the Lord told them not to be afraid..."

“Why didn’t the angel come to them during the day? Think that would have helped?”

“Don’t think so, Timmy. God had been silent for a long time. The Romans were in charge of the country. Times were bad. The future seemed bleak.”

“That’s when we need the light, right?”

“Absolutely. Hopelessness cripples us, causes us to doubt. When we’re interrupted by joy, the light shines the brightest.”

“Wonder what it was like? To hear the angel of the Lord bring the good news?”

“Just a minute. You do realize this event filters down to us today?” Grandfather tilted his head, his left eyebrow cocked.

“Don’t understand.”

“This good news wasn’t only for the shepherds. The angel declared the message for all people. That’s you and me.” He put his arm around Timmy’s shoulders, smiling at his look of awe.

"Me? Never thought of it like that." He looked into Grandfather's face. "Wow! Who do we tell?"

"The next person we meet." 

Timmy grabbed Grandfather's hand. "What are we waiting for? Let's go."

Kingdom Thinking. I was interrupted by joy the moment I realized the Lord Jesus included me. The tidings of great joy because of His great love is for all people. That includes you. Isn't that the best news ever?

A NEW DAY!

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22, 23. (NKJV).

“Grandfather. I don’t know what to do.” Timmy came into the kitchen as Grandfather poured a cup of coffee.

“The nightmare again, son?”

Timmy put his head in his hands. “Always the same. The fire's burning my hands. I can't put it out no matter what I try.”

Grandfather looked into his grandson's tortured eyes, prayed. Lord, tell me what to say. Please set him free.

Timmy continued, “I prayed but I--”

“We’re going about this all wrong. You’ve asked forgiveness?” Timmy nodded. “In 1 John 1:9, God’s Word tells us He forgives us and cleanses us. So you’re forgiven.”

“Then why these dreams?” Timmy brow furrowed.

“The enemy is torturing you. He remembers the things that scare us but The Lord Jesus chooses to forget them, to wash us clean. Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed. His compassions are new every morning.”

“What can I do?”

“Grab your pad and pencil. First, write down the dream, then we’ll pray over it. Next, write your prayer to the Lord Jesus across the written dream. Be sure to put His name across it.”

“I don’t see how that will help--”

"Sometimes we need to see our prayer to Him. Lay it down before Him. In black and white.

“His promises are faithful and true. When our lives look dark and impossible, our Lord's mercies never leave us. Sit, son. Write it down.”

"Done. Now what?" 

"We put it in His Hands. He is Faithful."

"I just transferred it to Him?"

"Indeed, son." He hugged his grandson. "A new day."

Kingdom thinking. Nightmares that come from life’s journey often stalk me. But the Lord Jesus is more powerful. His mercies never fail. He promises to love me with an everlasting love and never leave nor forsake me. His compassion gives me a new day. He promises the same to you. Won’t you come?

THE FLAVOR OF THANKS!

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.  (NKJV).

“In everything?” Timmy tilted his head.

“Even bad things?” His shoulders drooped. “When I don’t feel like it?”

“Yes, son,” Grandfather said. “Now mind you, I didn’t say it was easy but it’s necessary.”

Grandfather smiled. “I have a Thanks Box on the kitchen table. Each time you follow the Thanks Rule, you’re allowed to open it. What do you say?”

“I don’t know, Grandfather. Sounds silly to have a Thanks Box. What will my friends say?”

Grandfather rubbed the back of his neck. “You decide what’s more important--giving thanks in everything or pleasing your friends.”

“I’ll wait. Okay if I go over to Sam’s?” At Grandfather’s nod, he left.

Later that afternoon Timmy came into the kitchen, jerked to a stop. “Grandfather, is that the Thanks Box on the table?” He leaned close. “Sure is wrapped nice.”

“There’s one way to find out what’s inside,” Grandfather leaned against the door frame. “But you must follow the rules.”

Timmy stared at the box, turned on his heel. At the kitchen door, he did an about-face. “I’m sorry I was stubborn. Thank you for loving me, Grandfather.”

“Check out the Thanks Box. Go on. Open it.” Grandfather laughed as Timmy flushed with pleasure.

“All kinds of chocolates,” he said.

“Not all your favorites but they’re chocolateS.”

“Just think, Grandfather. I would’ve missed this if I didn't give thanks. He popped the chocolate-covered caramel in his mouth, closed his eyes.

Eyes wide flew open. “Grandfather, wonder what I’ve missed by not giving thanks?”

Grandfather smiled. “Guess we’ll never know but that can change.”

“Thank you, thank you, thank you.” He hugged his grandfather.

Kingdom Thinking. Giving thanks in everything doesn’t mean I manipulate the Lord. The wonderful result of rejoicing and giving thanks is the change in my flavor of thanks--my attitude. The Lord Jesus promises to love me and never leave nor forsake me. He offers the same to you. 

ALLOWED TO SEE!

“And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, ‘Do you believe that I am able to do this?’ They said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord.’ Then He touched their eyes, saying, ‘According to your faith let it be to you.’ And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, saying 'See that no one knows it.'” Matthew 9:28-30. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, they saw after the Lord Jesus touched them?”

“They did.”

"If they were blind, how did they know Jesus?”

"Maybe someone told them or they recognized His voice?” Timmy tilted his head.

“Why didn't He give them new eyes? Why'd they have to ask?” Grandfather leaned back in his chair, a twinkle in his eye.

"Remember the morning you tangled the cord to your kite?" Timmy nodded. "The more you tried, the more tangled it became--one big mess." Grandfather chuckled.

"Finally I asked you for help." Timmy grinned and you said, ‘Do you really want my help?'"

"Right. Once you agreed and believed I could untangle the cord, you trusted me with it. 

“The Lord Jesus wants us to trust Him, to believe in Him, son. When the blind men said they believed, He touched their eyes, said, 'According to your faith let it be to you.'

"Can you imagine? Blind one minute and seeing the next. Then He warned them to tell no one about this."

"Why?"

“Our Lord loves us and wants us to come to Him, not for what we can get from Him. He wants us to love Him and share His Love."

"Oh. He allows me to see so I can help others find Jesus?"

"Absolutely, son. We can lead others to the Lord Jesus. He opens their eyes."

"Amazing."

"Amazing, indeed, son." He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. My eyes although open couldn’t see the important things in life. Then the Lord Jesus came. He touched me and allowed me to see He loves me and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers the same to you.  

A WITNESS? WHO ME?

"For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard." Acts 22:15. (NKJV),

“Who me? A witness? Don't think so--wouldn't know what to say.”

“What is a witness, son?” 

Timmy’s brow furrowed. “Someone who tells what happened.”

“Right. Do you trust what anyone says?” 

Timmy chewed on his bottom lip. “No. Someone who tells the truth?”

“Right, again. You trust Mr. Jim?” At Timmy’s nod, he said, "Why?” 

“'Cause he’s nice to me. He stood up for me when those bullies chased me, remember? He was sweeping the sidewalk in front of his store and...”

“I remember. So he looks out for you?”

“More than that, Grandfather. He’s my friend.” Grandfather smiled.

“Now we’re getting somewhere. You see, son, being a witness is more than talk. It’s the way we act, the way we live. When the Lord Jesus is in your heart, He’s the one who witnesses as you allow Him to fill your life.”

“That’s not easy. I still do bad things.”

“I get it. We humans tend to do that.” Grandfather chuckled as he put his arm around his grandson. “We have hope and the Lord Jesus commands we let others know they can have hope, too.”

“Even the bullies?”

“Even the bullies.” He squeezed Timmy’s shoulder. "When we extend kindness when it's not expected, we're witnessing. Sometimes not saying anything shouts loud and clear."

"Like Mr. Jim? He didn't yell at those boys. Talked with them really soft-like. 

"Oh. Now I understand. Did you know two of them come to his Sunday School class?"

"Good to know, son."

"You know what? I want to be a witness."

"You are, son. As we share His love and kindness, we're witnessing." He patted his grandson on the back.

Kingdom Thinking. I was wrong. Witnessing includes more than sticking a track in someone’s hand. It’s a way of life. The Lord Jesus promises to love me and never leave nor forsake me. In my daily walk, He reaches out to others through me. He’ll do the same for you. Won’t you come?

STORMS AND OTHER HARD TIMES!

"And Peter answered Him and said, 'Lord, if it's You, command me to come to You on the water.' So He said, 'Come.' And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, 'Lord, save me!'" Matthew 14:28-30).

"What's the matter, Timmy?" Grandfather sat by him on the back steps.

Shoulders slumped, he wrung his hands.

Grandfather waited a minute, and said, "Want to tell me about it?"

"Jake made fun of me in front of my friends. Says only sissies go to Sunday School and church. That real men don't need a crutch."

"Hmm. Let me tell you about a big guy, a real man. Made his living as a fisherman. One day, the Lord Jesus called him to fish for men."

"Whoa, Grandfather. What's this got to do with Jake?" Grandfather held up his hand.

"The fishermen shoved their boat out into the waters. By evening a storm came up, the waves tossed the boat like it was made of cardboard. They were terrified, even more so when they saw a figure walking on the water. Until He called out to them. 

"'It's I. Don't be afraid.' 

"This big tough guy, Peter, says, 'If it's you, command me to come to You.' 

"'Come,' He said.

Peter crawled out of the boat and walked on the water to go to Jesus, but he looked down. Saw the waves licking his feet. 'I can't do this,' he thought and sank."

"Wait, Grandfather. What you're saying is, when the waves get strong and are tossing me about, I'm not supposed to pay attention to them?' Timmy shook his head. "That's hard, really hard."

"I agree. In fact, it's impossible." Timmy's sucked in a deep breath. "Unless the Hand that reaches for you, is the hand of the Lord Jesus." He released his breath with a sigh.

"We all need a Savior, Timmy. One who comes to us in the storms of life."

"Even you, Grandfather?"

Grandfather smiled. "Especially me, Timmy. We never outgrow our need for the Lord Jesus. You know what?" 

Timmy shook his head.

"He's always there--"

"But we don't recognize Him 'til He says, 'Come?'"

"You got that right, son." He squeezed his grandson's shoulder.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus came to me in a storm. He lifted me up out of the turbulent waters. He promises to love me and never forsake me. Do you have storms in your life? Call out to the Lord Jesus. He's there and He'll take your hand and lift you up.

SCULPTING—THE PROCESS!

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments And His commandments are not burdensome.” 1 John 5:3.  (NKJV).

“I don’t feel like it.” Grandfather walked over to Timmy, felt his forehead.

“No fever. Pain?” Timmy mumbled, stretched out on the sofa. Grandfather covered him with a blanket. “You rest.”

A few minutes later Grandfather came into the den with his coat. “You’ll be okay while I’m gone?”

“Where’re you going?” 

“Thought I’d run over to Charleston. I have some errands...”

“Charleston? Let me grab my jacket.” Grandfather’s eyebrow arched.

“I wouldn’t want you to go in your condition.” Timmy dipped his head.

“Sorry, Grandfather, guess I was feeling sorry for myself.”

Grandfather draped his coat on the back of a chair. “Want to talk about it?”

“I’m tired of everyone telling me what to do. At school, at home...” 

Grandfather smiled. “You think that now but later you’ll realize you're being sculpted into a fine young man.” Timmy's lips twisted.

“Remember when you used to play with clay? You’d work on something until you had it right. Then you’d bring it to me to admire. I still have the little dog you made that resembled my Jack. I treasure it.”

“You kept it?” Timmy’s face, wreathed in a smile, watched Grandfather nod.

“That’s what we do when we love someone. We keep the things they made us and protect them--like the commandments of the Lord.

“When I think of how God loves me, I’m amazed. He gave His commandments for my good, never to burden me down.”

“He's sculpting me? He loves me that much?” Timmy shook his head. "That’s hard to understand.” Grandfather hugged Timmy.

"It is but it doesn't make it any less true. You're that important to Him."

"Wow. If He loves me that much, the least I can do is...what can I do for Him?"

"Love Him with all that you are! He's awesome and He'll show the way."

Kingdom Thinking. The love of God is difficult to understand. I know He loves me and will never leave me, but at times I feel unloved and alone. Then I force myself to remember he’s sculpting me. He loves you, too. You don’t have to understand, just accept His love. It will not be a burden.

HOPE! A POINT OF VIEW!

 

"We also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:3,4. (NKJV).

“I don’t understand, Grandfather. Why do we have troubles?”

“There was once an old violin maker. His violins made the sweetest music you ever heard.”

“Did he have a special type of wood?” 

“You could say that. His fellow violin makers envied him and begged to know why his violins differed from theirs. He finally shared his secret.

"When selecting wood for his violins, he didn’t go into the protected valleys but combed the rugged mountain to get trees anchored securely due to the fierce storms. The weather-beaten ones held a quality of beauty and tone.”

“That makes a difference?”

“It does. Like me, I don’t learn when the days are filled with sunshine. It’s during the storms I need hope.

"Like the old violin maker, our Heavenly Father knows the storms of life which He allows, will cause my roots to go deep in Him. When I'm hurting, I turn to Him--like a child who's happy when all is well. But when he gets hurt, he runs to his mother. She lifts him and whispers words of love and comfort.”

“I never thought of it like that.”

“Remember the Lord Jesus is in the process of building our character and hope. He promises to love us and never leave us, no matter how difficult the storm."

“But I don’t feel He’s there.”

“Ah, Timmy. Point of view, son. We look at the storm's swirling clouds and ferocious teeth, not the One who’s using it for our good.”

"So. I change my point of view? Look to Jesus and not my problems?"

"Absolutely, son. Always." He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. Knowing our Lord Jesus is there during the tribulations (storms), allows me to learn perseverance which produces character which produces Hope. Do you need hope? Perhaps you need to change your point of view. 

WHERE ARE YOU?

“Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, ‘Where are you?' So he said, ‘I heard Your voice in the garden and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.’ And He said, ‘Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?’” Genesis 3:9-11.  (NKJV).

“Timmy?” Grandfather called his grandson.

 Silence. 

He searched his favorite places. Eyebrows furrowed, he walked into the guest bedroom.

Did the bed skirt move? 

He got down on his knees, lifted it.

“Why're you hiding, son?” Timmy scooted to the other side of the bed, large blue eyes glistening, his lips trembling.

“Cause I’m bad. And. And I’m scared.”

On his stomach, Grandfather wiggled under the bed, joined Timmy. He looked around. “Good hiding place, huh? Kind of dark.” Timmy nodded.

“Want to tell me why you think you’re bad and scared?”

“’Cause he said so.”

“Who told you that you were bad?” Grandfather touched Timmy’s hand. “It’s okay, son. Tell me.” 

"Mr. Sims. Said I'd ruined his flowers."

“Did you?”

Timmy shook his head. "I didn’t, Grandfather.” Tears streaked his cheeks. Grandfather nodded, hugged him.

Later, Grandfather pulled Timmy beside him on the sofa. "Son, we need to talk. You know I love you?" Timmy nodded. "The Lord Jesus loves you more and promises to be with you--"

"Me?" He put his hand over his heart. "Even when I'm scared and hide?"

"Always and forever. The problem is we have an enemy who doesn't want us to believe God. He tells us we're bad and not good enough for God to love. So--we hide." Timmy nodded.

"But the good news is God loves us so much He comes to find us--"

"Like you did, Grandfather?" Timmy sat up, a smile brightening his face.

"Yes, son. The Lord Jesus loves His children and wants us to know He'll never leave us." Timmy leaned against his grandfather, smiled.

"I'm so glad."

"Me, too, son. Me, too."

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He promises the same to you. Where are You? Won’t you come to Him?

BLUEBERRIES AND ME!

 "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving."  Colossians 2:6,7. (NKJV).

“Check these out, Timmy.” He lifted the branch of berries. “These'll taste mighty good.”

Grandfather smiled. “This is the largest bush. Planted in enriched soil with the proper light. Just the way they like it. They're happy...”

“Because we cleaned around them,” Timmy said. “The honeysuckle and weeds tried to take over.”

“Beautiful berries on these plants so we must be diligent. We like the berries but birds, deer, and other critters take their share.” Work finished they took a break. Clean pine straw banked the plants, giving them space.

“Thanks, son. Looks great.” Timmy nodded as he lifted his glass of lemonade.

“You know, Timmy, we’re planted with the Lord’s tender loving care. But we don’t stop there. Just as we’ve received Him, we need to walk in Him, become established in His ways. Really important to study His word and fellowship with His children.”

“That’s hard, Grandfather. How can I do that?”

“Remember when you were a little fellow, you wanted to walk in my shoes?” Timmy grinned. “You placed your feet on my shoes and we'd walk around the room. Were you walking? Or me?”

“We both walked--at the same time,” Timmy chuckled.

“Actually I walked, son. You enjoyed the ride!” 

Timmy's eyebrows dipped. "So what are you saying?"

As we're rooted in the Lord, and become established in Him, we're visible to the world. He does the work, creating the fruit in our lives. We praise Him with thanksgiving."

"Amazing."

Amazing, indeed. Praise the Lord."

Kingdom Thinking. So many times I take credit when it wasn’t me at all. As I am rooted in the Lord Jesus, I'm the visible one, so I praise Him and thank Him who loves me and promises never to leave me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you trust in Him?

SILENT AND SNEAKY!

“Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump.”  1 Corinthians 5:8. (NKJV).

“What are you making, Grandmother?"

“Rolls for dinner, Janie. Want to help?” 

“Wait for me.” She dragged a kitchen chair to the counter, eyed the mixing bowl and ingredients. Grandmother handed the measured flour to her granddaughter who dumped it into the bowl.

“Grandmother, why do the rolls get big when we put them in the oven?”

“See this bowl?” Janie nodded. “It’s yeast with a little sugar and water added or its other name is leaven.”

“It’s bubbling.”

“That’s how it works. Mixed into our bread mixture, the yeast feeds off the sugar, multiplies, gives off the byproducts of carbon dioxide and alcohol. As the bread cooks, the heat kills the yeast, leaving tiny holes in the bread while the alcohol evaporates.”

“The rolls get infected with that stuff? Don’t understand but I like your rolls. They’re delicious.” Grandmother smiled.

“The Bible calls sin in our lives leaven. We see the results but it works undercover--silent and sneaky. We’re often unaware of its power and don’t remember allowing it into our lives.”

“I watched you put the leaven in the mixture.” She tilted her head, a frown on her forehead.

“Actually you saw the bubbling and knew it was working. You never saw the leaven itself. The Bible instructs us to purge out the old leaven--half truths, bad attitudes...”

 “Not being nice to my brother? That's hard.” Grandmother smiled.

“Yes, it is. Because it's difficult, I turn to the Lord, ask His forgiveness. He washes away the leaven--the infection of sin.”

“My brother's hard to love sometimes. Will the Lord wash my leaven away, too?” She nodded, hugged her granddaughter.

"The Lord Jesus will. But we have to be willing for Him to wash us clean."

"I'm willing, Grandmother. Will you help me ask Him?" She leaned against Grandmother's shoulder, closed her eyes.

"Of course. 'Lord, we come to You asking for cleansing for Janie...'"

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus promises to love me and never leave me. He removes the leaven from my life. He'll remove the leaven from your life, too, and restore you to wholeness. Won’t you come?

HIS SECRET SERVICE!

“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.” Proverbs 21:1. (NKJV) 

 

“That’s one crooked river, Grandfather. Twists and turns. Powerful, isn’t it?”

“It appears so. But things aren't always as they seem. One flood could change the river’s course.”

“Talking about the Bible verse we learned? But Grandfather, it seems impossible.”

“Does.” He tilted his head, eyebrow cocked. “That’s a hard lesson to learn, son.

“Remember our drive through the mountains? You thought we were going downhill but we were going up? We can’t rely on our feelings. They’ll confuse us.”

“Yeah. I was positive we were going down. Until I looked behind us.”

“Or the summer day you thought water covered the road up ahead? When we got there...”

“Dry. So what’s this supposed to teach me?”

“To understand the Lord Jesus is in control--all the time. When the storms of life hit, it appears He’s forgotten me. Not true. 

“Once you learn the secret the King’s in control, you can rest in Him. He has your back.”

“Do you always remember the secret?”

“Got me there, son.” Grandfather chuckled. “Have to confess I’ve forgotten a time or two."

“So, I’m in the Lord Jesus’ Secret Service?”

“Indeed, son. Good thinking.”

"If I'm in His Secret Service and you--wonder how many are?"

"Too many to count. So we praise Him for loving us as we serve."

"I can do that." Timmy hugged his grandfather. "I'm so glad we serve together." 

Kingdom Thinking. My problem? I look at the news the world shows--wars and rumors of wars and find it difficult to remember the Lord Jesus is in control. But! He promises to love me and never leave me. He keeps His promises. How about you? Would you like to be in His Secret Service?

HE BEGINS! HE COMPLETES!

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;”  Philippians 1:3-6.  (NKJV).

"Timmy. Time to get to work."

"Coming, Grandfather." The squeaky wheel of the wheelbarrow loaded with hedge clippers and supplies announced his arrival. "I've got the rake, too."

"Doing a great job, son. The boxwood hedges look fantastic." Honeysuckle vines, sumac, and weeds filled the wheelbarrow. "Huh. Those weeds were taking over."

"You missed that vine growing up the side of the potting shed, Grandfather. Want me to pull it?"

"Naw. I'll get it. Just a big tug should bring it out of the ground--

"Ahh. Oh, no! Run, Timmy." A hornet led the swarm. "Run!" Fire radiated in the area above his thumb. Another on his forehead. Attacked by angry bald-faced hornets for invasion of territory.

Timmy whizzed past, not having to be told again. By the time Grandfather made it to the back porch, Timmy held a basin of ice for his battle wounds.

"Man, Grandfather. You almost passed me."

"Had a great incentive, Timmy. A painful attack can do that." Timmy grinned. "Thank you for the ice. It helps."

"What about the wheelbarrow? Are we leaving it out by the shed?"

"You better believe it! We'll wait 'til those hornets calm down, return to their nest." He tilted his head.

"it's amazing, isn't it?"

"What is?"

"I thought I was doing a great job. Just clipping and cleaning. Until I disturbed the hornets. Then the day became memorable. At that point, I called on the Lord to help and protect us."

"You know what, Grandfather?"

"Tell me."

"Every time I pick up hedge clippers or trim a hedge, I'll remember today. Might even tell everybody about it at the next family reunion."

Grandfather chuckled. "Like the scripture. 'I thank my God for every remembrance of you.' God is working in all that we do. Even when we disturb bald-faced hornets. We serve an awesome God."

Kingdom Thinking. This life journey is filled with joys and sorrows. I'm confident of the fellowship for the Lord Jesus promised He'll never leave me nor forsake me. He loves me with an everlasting love. He began the work and He will complete it. He'll do the same for you. Won’t you trust Him?

THE CAT-A-LYST!

“A merry heart does good like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones." Proverbs 17:22. (NKJV).

“No way!” Timmy snickered. 

“Oh, yeah. Late that evening, Harry plopped into the kitchen chair, his elbows on the table.  Jenny set a plate before him--steak, baked potato, hot rolls with a green salad on the side.

“Umm, just what I need. Thank you." She smiled, handed him a cup of coffee, and joined him. He blessed his food, but before he could pick up his fork--

A blur of black and white fur zipped under his elbow, snagged his steak, and fled. Stunned for a nano-second, he knocked over his chair in haste and took off after the cat. The feline made it to the now-closed door, the meat dangling from his mouth. 

Harry strode into the kitchen, the trophy between his thumb and forefinger. He tossed it into the garbage. "My steak. And he thought he'd get away from me? Ha!"

His wife doubled with laughter. "I'm impressed. Didn’t know you could move so fast."  She swiped away tears, patted her husband on the back. The kids came running at the commotion and hooted as did steak-less Harry.

“Who'd believe a cat could stir up this much laughter? Guess it was in there all the time." His wife suppressed a giggle, fingers covering her mouth.

“Did Uncle Harry get supper?” 

“He did." He chuckled. "Not steak, mind you, but a cheese omelet with the trimmings and a good dose of laughter."

"Dose of laughter?"

"Absolutely. Which would you choose?  A merry heart or dried-up bones?"

"A merry heart, of course." He grinned at Grandfather. Grandfather winked. They laughed.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus promises to love me and never forsake me. He'll be there in times of trouble and in times of gladness. He tells me in His Word, a merry heart is like a dose of medicine--a real catalyst. He promises the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?

A STORY TO TELL!

"Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, Therefore I hope in Him!’” Lamentations 3:22-24. (NKJV).

“How can you say 'God is good?' He takes away everything I love."

Aunt Janie sat on the bed, gathered Cing in her arms. As the crying turned to hiccups, she handed her a tissue.

"I feel the same at times."

"You do?" Cing stared at her aunt. "But you're always smiling."

"Everyone goes through pain and suffering. It's not whether we have pain, it's how we deal with it." She propped the pillows so they could get comfortable.

"I don't understand. Why can't life be easy?”

“We wouldn't have a story to tell. It would be 'Once upon a time they lived. The end.'”

“That's not a story. Nothing happened.” 
 

“You're right. You need action. In our life story, things happen. Which story would you prefer? ‘She walked home.’ Or 'She tripped on a rock, fell down, ran home...'” 

“I get it.” She looked into her aunt’s face. “I’m still sad.” 

“As you should be. You loved Kitty. When you give your love, and lose it, an empty place remains.

“I’ve made mistakes, Cing. But I'm not consumed or destroyed because of the Lord's great mercy. We are His children and the Lord is always faithful. My story is being written. So I hope in Him!"

"Even when you don't feel like it?"

"Especially when I don't feel like it."

"Thank you, Aunt Janie, for loving me." Aunt Janie hugged her. "I'll hope in the Lord, too."

"Remember. As you go through life, your story is being written. Live so the Lord Jesus is glorified."

"He'll be with me?"

"Always."

"That makes life exciting, doesn't it?"

"Absolutely!"

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord's mercies are new every morning. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave nor forsake me while He's preparing my story to tell. How about you? Is your story a work in progress?  

YOU CHOOSE!

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” 1 John1:9,10.  (NKJV).

“Look at my hands.” Timmy held them up.

“Have on your dirt gloves, huh?” Grandfather chuckled. “Definitely need a scrubbing.” He nodded toward the sink. 

His grandson grabbed the bar of soap, squeezing it in the water. He splashed, popping bubbles. Dirty suds and water twirled down the drain.

“If your hands are clean, this towel won’t be dirty. 

"Uh-oh. Lots of smudges. Wash them again.”  

“I don’t see dirt.” He flipped his hands.

Back at the sink, Grandfather did the scrubbing. “They're clean now. Good job.”

Timmy's brow furrowed. “You did the work with your soap--you washed my hands. Thank you.” He hugged his grandfather.

“Welcome. Often we have dirt in places we can’t reach or forget about.” 

“Like under my fingernails?” 

“Right. We try to clean ourselves and miss spots others can see but especially God.” Timmy cocked his head.

“You’re not talking about dirt now?”

“Sin is like dirt, son. It clings to us, and residue is left when we try to clean it. I was hopeless. Unable to get clean. Then the Lord Jesus came, offered me new life in Him because of His shed blood on the cross.  He declares me clean because I choose to believe in His Power to make all things clean and new.”

"Like you cleaned my hands?" Grandfather chuckled.

"Right. You allowed me to clean them." 

"I want to be clean, washed by the Lord Jesus."

"All you have to do is ask Him to come into your life and He comes in and cleans you from inside out."

"Will you help me, Grandfather?"

"Absolutely. 'Father. We come to you in the blessed name of Jesus asking for Timmy...'"

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus offers the same wonderful option to you. He loves you with an everlasting love. He promises never to leave nor forsake you. I hope you'll accept His offer.

WHO IS A TRUE FRIEND?

“Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up.  Ecclesiastes 4:9,10. (NKJV).

“Help, Grandfather.” Face flushed, Timmy put his hands on his knees to catch his breath. 

“What happened?”

“Bobby’s hurt. Fell out of the tree.”  

“And he’s...”

“In the apple orchard.” 

“Hop in the truck.” At the orchard, Grandfather ran to Bobby. “Arm hurts bad, huh?” Bobby nodded. “Easy now.” He lifted him into the truck, drove to the Emergency Room.

“He climbed the apple tree, a limb broke, and he fell.” Timmy bit his lip. “It's my fault.” Grandfather shook his head.

 

“You came for help. You're his friend...”

“He’s a lucky boy.” The doctor stood before them. “Broke his arm but it’s a clean break. Are you the responsible party?”

“A family friend. Left a message for his parents. I’ll see he gets home.” A voice caught his attention. “There’re his folks now.” 

“That was dumb to climb so high, huh?” Timmy said on their way home.

“I’ve climbed higher than I should. Taken too many chances. Without a friend watching out for me.” He caught his grandson's gaze.

“Remember, Timmy. We have a Friend, the Lord Jesus, who is always with us.” He cleared his throat. “He promises never to leave us.”

“He promised for me, too?”

“Absolutely. When you asked Him into your heart, He came to stay. He'll never leave you.”

“Wow.” A big sigh. “Awesome.”

“Awesome, indeed.” He hugged his grandson.

 

Kingdom Thinking. I discovered my true Friend, the Lord Jesus, was there all along. He loves me and promises never to leave me. He takes the pain in my life and uses it for His Glory and my good. He can do the same for you if you let Him. 

A NICKEL A DAY—GREAT DIVIDENDS!

“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.” Matthew 25:14-15. (NKJV).

“How can I interest them in church.” She nibbled her lower lip. Her nieces and nephews flipped through comic books, laughing and talking. She stood behind the counter at the family drug store. Ah. It just might work.

“Who would like to earn a nickel a day?”

Heads swiveled. “I would.”

“Me, too.” A couple raised their hands.

“What do we have to do?” Bubba said. “Clean out the back room?” He wrinkled his nose.

“No.” Her periwinkle blue eyes twinkled. “But that would be great. I’ll give you a nickel a day if--“

“If? What's the catch?”

“You go to Sunday School with me every Sunday.”

“That’s all? I can do that.” Bubba eyed the others. “Y’all in?” Nods all around.

“Did they, Grandfather? Every Sunday?”

“Without fail. Unless they were ill. 

“They met at her home and accompanied her to Sunday School.” He chuckled. “After several Sundays, they sat with her in church.”

“Is that all they had to do?”

“Timmy, what she thought a ploy to get them to church paid off in dividends.”

“Really?”

Grandfather nodded. “Yep. A godly mother, a faithful father, a minister and a missionary came from her little group.”

“Wait. Our family's drugstore? You?”

He grinned “When my aunt made her promise to us, she used talents the Lord gave her.”

“They multiplied, didn't they?”

“Absolutely. Who knows how many folks came to know the Lord Jesus because of her obedience.”

“I want to be obedient, Grandfather." His grandfather's hug was louder than any amen.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus blesses us with different talents. But more than that, He allows us to use them in His Kingdom for His Glory and our good. He loves us and never forsakes us. Won’t you choose Him? He gives the talents. You share them.

YOU’RE INVITED!

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. (NKJV).

“Mail, Grandfather.” Timmy waved an envelope, handed it over. “Fancy writing, too.”

“Calligraphy. Beautiful, isn’t it?”

“Gonna open it?” Timmy shifted from foot to foot.

“Not now. I’ll leave it on the kitchen table. We can look at the beautiful script from time to time.”

“But Grandfather, we won’t know what’s in it.”

“True. Okay, let’s open it!” Breaking the seal, he took out an invitation. 

“We’re invited to your uncle’s wedding.”

“Yay. Will my cousins be there?”

“Hope so but receiving an invitation doesn’t guarantee they’ll accept.”

“That's dumb! They’ll miss out.” 

“By the way, Timmy. Did you see the invitation on your bedside table?” Eyes wide, Timmy ran up the stairs. 

Shoulders drooping, he stomped downstairs,. “No invitation, just my Bible.” 

“You missed it?" Timmy’s forehead wrinkled. 

“You have an invitation from the King of Kings to come to Him. It’s up to you to respond, son.”

“I never thought about it like that. Is it too late?”

“Not at all.”

“Grandfather, two invitations. One to my uncle’s wedding. One from the King. Know what? I’m accepting both.” Grandfather smiled.

“Good choice, son--one you’ll never regret.” 

Kingdom Thinking. I received an invitation from the Lord Jesus. He promises to give me rest. He loves me and will never leave me. His invitation is to you, too. Hope you'll accept.

AN ORPHAN? NOT ME!

“And I will pray the Father and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever--the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” John 14:16-18. (NKJV).

“You never felt you belonged?”

“No,” Aunt Sadie stared over Timmy’s shoulder, remembering.

“I was five years old when Mama died and Aunt and Uncle took me in. In their own way they loved me but their children came first. I, an orphan, never measured up."

Aunt Sadie brushed tears away, tightened her jaw to hide the quiver.

“Not the way I recall it,” Grandfather walked into the den. “You fit in as a special member of the family. I taught you to drive...”

“I remember,” she grinned. “I’ll never forget the way you clutched the car seat--like a drowning man clings to a life preserver. I didn't drive into the river.” She grinned, hands on her hips. 

Timmy's head snapped to Grandfather.

“I also remember being the guinea pig when you learned to cook.” Grandfather crossed his arms.

“You lived to talk about it,” she said, then her voice softened. “We did have some good times, didn’t we?” Grandfather gave her a hug.

“You’ll always be special to me, Sadie--a member of our family.

“I have to remember emotions can deceive and leave us feeling unloved and hopeless. Remember whose you are, Sadie. A daughter of the King and my sister.” She smiled up at him.

Kingdom Thinking. I choose to remember His promises and not resort to self-pity. Then I can let the tears of joy stream forth and wash away the lies of the enemy. The Lord Jesus loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave me. He promises the same to you. He’ll never leave us as orphans. Won’t you come to Him?

DON’T LOOK DOWN!

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you shall find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-30.  (NKJV).

“Timmy, use the bridge.” 

Grinning, he ran past it and stepped on a log stretching to the stream's other side. He stepped forward, his arms windmilling.

“Easy-peasy, Grandfather, and lots more fun..." The log tilted.

“Help. I’m falling.” 

“Timmy. Look at me.”

He stretched out his hand. “Come to me.  Don’t. Look. Down.”

Timmy’s foot pushed against the log as he lounged for Grandfather. He grabbed his grandson, hugged him tight. 

Timmy looked over his shoulder as the log twisted and splashed into the current of the fast-flowing stream.

“I thought it would be safe.” He looked at his grandfather. “I was scared.” 

“You’re safe now. Did your log crossing prove something?” 

“I wanted to see if I could do it myself.” He shivered. “It didn’t look bad from the other side but halfway out, I...”

“Maybe the Lord wants you to learn from this. Remember our verse this morning?” Timmy nodded.

“The ‘Come’ verse?”

“That’s the one. Our Lord Jesus is always there. Sometimes we think He’s there because we call Him. But He’s there because He loves us. He knows we like to think we’re strong and able to do...”

“Like me?”

“Exactly. But He’s there. All you need to do is call on Him. He’ll catch you.”

"Like you did?" A muffled "Thank you. I love you," sounded as he hugged his grandfather.

"Love you more, son." 

Kingdom Thinking. Instead of Kingdom Thinking, many times I world think. So I must rest in the Lord Jesus, believing His promises. He’ll never leave nor forsake me and loves me with an everlasting love. He offers the same to you. Don’t look down. Look up. He’ll catch you.

TRUSTING. A CHOICE!

“‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.’ And again: ‘I will put my trust in Him.’” Isaiah 55:8-9, Hebrews 2:13a (NKJV).

“What'd Grandfather mean at breakfast--to trust him? Guess he’ll explain later.” Cing pumped with her legs. The swing arced high as the sky.

“Cing. Time to go or you’ll miss your surprise.” 

"Coming, Grandfather." She hopped from the swing, slipped her hand into his, then stiffened. Four grinning Gray kids, gifts in their hands, stood by the car.

“Surprise! We're invited to your birthday party!”

Why'd Grandfather invite them on my special day? She peeped up, and saw Grandfather watching her. He winked. She sighed but held his hand.

After dropping off the Gray kids, Cing turned to him. “Best birthday ever. Thank you, Grandfather.” She smiled.

“The hiking trip was fun but know what I loved best? Angie is my new best friend.” She hurried to explain. “Her brothers are nice but they’re just boys. Will you teach me how to build a campfire? And cook hot dogs and s’mores?” Grandfather chuckled as he listened to Miss Chatty.

“Indeed I will. Happy Birthday.” He cleared his throat. “Glad you had a change of heart. Saw disappointment on your face but I knew this hiking trip would be a great gift--if you’d trust me.”

“It’s hard to trust when I don’t know what you’re doing.”

“That's what trust is, Cing.” He smiled at her wrinkled brow. “I want the best for you 'cause I love you. I'd never do anything to hurt you. There'll be times when we don't know the answer to our problems so we put our trust...”

"In Jesus." She slumped in the seat. "It's hard 'cause I can't see Him." 

"You're right. So I made a choice. The Bible teaches He has a plan for my life and it's too difficult for me to understand. So if He loves me and died to save me from my sins. I choose to put my trust in Him."

"I want to put my trust in Him, too, Grandfather. If He's kind like you, I trust Him." Grandfather's eyes glistened as he prayed with his granddaughter.

Kingdom Thinking. Let's face it. My best plans don't always work out but the Lord knows what I need. He promises to love me and never leave me. The Lord Jesus offers the same to you. You can trust Him with the plans He has for you. Just slip your hand into His outstretched One. 

RACE ON!

“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” 1 Corinthians 9:24. (NKJV).

“I’m ready, Grandfather.”

“I’ll be right here in the stands. Son?” Timmy turned. “Praying for you.” He gave a thumbs up.

Race day, July 4th, drew a large crowd. The runners toed the line. The shot sounded. They took off.

Timmy kept abreast. Heading into the home stretch, one of the racers brushed past him. He stumbled, twisted his ankle, went down.

“Never make it now.” As he struggled to stand, he felt strong arms come around him.

“Lean on me, son. We’ll get to the finish line.”

“Grandfather.” His lip trembled. “I lost the race.”

“Nope. That’s when you quit. Race on. To the finish line.”

The crowd cheered the runners as they crossed the finish line, even for Timmy and Grandfather.

“Thank you, Grandfather.” Timmy’s chin quivered, his eyes shining.

“We’re a family, Timmy. Always there for one another.” He tilted his head. “Sort of like the race of life. No matter which section of the race we’re in, the Lord Jesus watches over us. And when we fall? He’s there to pick us up. Sometimes He uses other members of the family.”

“Like you, Grandfather?”

“Exactly. The Lord loves you,  Timmy. He’s there for you--one fact I hope you’ll never forget.” He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. When I realized I was in the race of life, I froze. Then the Lord Jesus came to my rescue. He promises never to leave nor forsake me and He loves me with an everlasting love. He offers the same to you. Come to Him. Race on!

PRUNING? A WORK IN PROGRESS!

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1, 2.  (NKJV).

“Mumbling coming from you, Timmy?”

“Grandfather, why can’t we let these shrubs grow?” He tilted his head. 

“We take out the weak parts. “See here?” He held a stalk with brown leaves, then cut it out. “Now more light and air can get in and space for new growth.

“We prune and shape the healthy plant. When the storms come, they’ll survive. Take these two shrubs.

“Which one looks better?”

“You want me to say the one we trimmed?” Timmy propped his hands on his hips causing Grandfather to chuckle. 

“No, son. Tell me the truth.”

“The trimmed one. But you already know.”

“Yes. But I want you to see the difference. Remember the little boy we saw at the grocery store yesterday?”

“The one screaming 'cause he didn't get candy at the checkout?” Grandfather smiled. “His mother picked him up and took him outside.” Timmy thought for a minute. “His mother's shaping him? Can’t have everything he wants?”

“Right. He’s in training, like the rest of us. Our Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to bear fruit. The fruit of love, joy, peace...”

“He loves me that much?”

“He does, indeed.”

"So He'll keep on--"

"You're a work in progress."

"It'll hurt, won't it?"

"At times. But He's lovingly working in your life." Timmy's brow furrowed.

"If He loves me and is working on me, that makes me special, huh?"

"Absolutely, son. Absolutely." 

"Okay, then. I trust Him." Timmy smiled, hugged his Grandfather. 

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus loves me with an everlasting love. He promises never to leave nor forsake me.  He loves you, too. Won’t you come to Him?

THE MARK OF FREEDOM!

“If you buy a Hebrew servant, he shall serve six years; and in the seventh year he shall go out free and pay nothing...But if the servant plainly says, ‘I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free,’ then his master shall bring him to the judges. He shall also bring him to the door, or to the doorpost, and his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall serve him forever.”  Exodus 21:2-6. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, have an earache?”

“No. Just checking my right earlobe. Has a hole in it.” 

“I don’t see a hole.” Timmy leaned close. “Nope. Nothing there.” 

Grandfather chuckled. “It’s there, all right. Know about the bondservant, son?” Timmy tilted his head.

“It’s a picture of what the Lord Jesus does for us. He sets us free. Free to choose Him.”

“Isn’t it just a story? 'Sides, I don’t want to be a servant.” He crossed his arms over his chest. 

“You don’t want to be just anyone’s servant. You want someone who loves you and will provide for you. That’s what the Lord Jesus did for me, for you.”

“For me?" He squinted, lips tight. "How?”

“I wanted to be honorable. To love my neighbor. The more I tried, the more I messed up. I was one miserable somebody.” 

Timmy's brow furrowed. “But you’re good, Grandfather. Why’d you think you were bad?”

“Why do you say I’m good?”

“You treat folks nice and you're kind--”

“All because Jesus loves me. He paid for my sins, set me free. Like the servant, I love my Master, told Him I wanted to be His. ‘You’re sure?' He said. Then He brought me to the door because He is the Door. He pierced my ear with an awl, a permanent hole so I serve Him forever. Now I come and go where He sends me.”

“Why the ear?”

“Listening obedience--I hear and obey His voice.”

“I asked the Lord into my life.” Timmy touched his ear. "Do I have a hole?” 

"You better believe it. That's the servant's mark--the mark of freedom." Grandfather tugged Timmy's ear.

Kingdom Thinking. When I understood the Lord Jesus loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave nor forsake me, I sold out to Him. His forever. He offers the same to you. Won’t you choose Him?

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." Romans 2:8,9. (NKJV).
 

“Timmy,” Grandfather called. “How about lend me a hand.”

Timmy hopped off the tire swing. “Okay. What can I  do?”

Grandfather pointed to the six-foot log on the garden path. “I want to weigh the bottom wire of the fence with it--to keep out the critters.”

Timmy tried to lift his end. “Oof. Heavy. Can we cut it in half?”

“Nope. This’ll work better. On the count of three.”

“One, two, three,” Timmy said. He lifted his end.

"There. That should do the trick.” Grandfather stepped back to check the fence. “The pegs against the log will keep it secure.”

“I thought it would be heavy,” Timmy squinted at Grandfather.

“Why'd you think that?”

“I tried to lift it just now. Couldn’t budge it.”

“When we try to do things without our Heavenly Father’s help, they’ll be too heavy every time." He bent down, winked. "I’ll let you in on a secret. I carried the heavy part of the log.”

“Then what part did I carry?” Timmy tilted his head. “You didn’t need me, did you?” 

“I need you because I love you. I let you carry one end of the log while I carried the weight of it--in the middle." He smiled. "The Lord Jesus carried the weight of the cross providing us the gift of salvation. Nothing we can do to help the Lord save us. He’s done it all.

Timmy's eyes sparkled. "It wasn't a trick. Your love poked through." 

"Absolutely amazing, huh?" Grandfather drew his grandson into a bear hug.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus died on the cross for me. He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He loves me with His absolutely amazing Love. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come?

A STANDING INVITATION!

 “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28. (NKJV).

“Here you are, sir.” The lady at the grocery checkout handed Grandfather his receipt. “Have a good day.”

“Thank you, Melissa. And remember, you have a standing invitation.”

“What’s a ‘standing invitation,’ Grandfather?”

“Hmm. Well, Timmy, Johnny has a standing invitation at our house.”

“Oh. Because he’s always welcome?” Before Grandfather could answer, Timmy said. "What's wrong with that guy? He looks sad.” A young man sat on the steps out of the way of traffic.

“Are you okay, son?” The young man mumbled a response. “Sorry, couldn’t hear what you said.”

“I’m fine.” His lips curled.

“Hey. Don’t talk that way to my Grandfather.” Before the guy could respond, Grandfather handed Timmy his bag of groceries, sat by the young man. 

“Grandfather?” He winked at him, patted the place next to him. Timmy plopped down. 

“What ya think you’re doing, old man? I don’t need your help.”

“I want to hear your story. You do have one?” The young man’s chin rested on his chest.

“Why should ya care? Nobody else does.”

Timmy's brow furrowed. Why's Grandfather talking with this guy?

“I care because Someone cares for me.” Tears welled. The young man swiped them. “Are you hungry? Okay. Come with us. I can fill your belly and I know Someone who can fill your heart.”

That evening Timmy said, "Grandfather? Why did you sit by Eric? How did you know he'd come with us? How...?"

He held up his hand. "I offered him a choice, son--an invitation. He knows we care and was introduced to the Lord Jesus who loves and cares for him. Now we pray he'll seek the Lord." He shrugged. "My responsibility is to share His kindness--to share the invitation. Believe me, the Lord Jesus can save His lambs.

"Exciting, isn't it? To know we can share the invitation?"

"Absolutely, son." He wrapped an arm around his shoulders.

Kingdom Thinking. I was once that person who sat on the steps, desperate, hungry for the truth. Then the Lord Jesus came, sat, offered rest. He replaced my ill-fitting yoke of sin, bitterness, selfishness, and anger, with his shining yoke of love. He promises His yoke is easy; His burden is light. Won’t you come?  It's a standing invitation.

THE WARRIOR HANDCLASP!

 “Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: I will strike the Shepherd, And the sheep of the flock will be scattered. But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.’” Matthew 26:31-32. (NKJV).

“I don’t get it, Grandfather.”

“Remember your hiking trip last summer?”

“No way I could forget. We were lost and scared.” 

“Because your leader got sick and couldn’t guide you?”

Eyes large, Timmy nodded. "Unconscious part of the time, we didn't know what to do. I’m glad that guy came along who helped.”

“Then you understand how it is when the leader is unable to guide you.”

“What’s that got to do with scattered sheep, Grandfather?” He tilted his head.

“We wander like sheep thinking all is well until wham! Suddenly, we're not in control. We panic. Until our Shepherd Warrior who was raised from the dead makes Himself known. He grabs us with His warrior handclasp. He won't let go.

“The Lord told us we'd stumble but He’s holding us with His hand and His power. He promises nothing can separate us from Him.”

"But how if--?"

"He's got you, son. He's Faithful and True."

"Always?"

"Absolutely."

“I’m glad the Lord Jesus is my Shepherd Warrior.”

“I’m glad, too, Timmy. So glad.” He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus gave His life for the flock, rose again to buy me back from the enemy. He loves me and promises never to forsake me--never to let me go. He offers the same promise to you.