GREAT IS HIS MERCY!

“For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:11,12. (NKJV).

“Mercy, son. What in the world did you roll in? You stink to high heaven.” Grandfather pinched his nose.

“Do you love me when I stink, Grandfather?” Timmy's head tilted.

“Want me to count the ways?” His grandson nodded. “One. You’re a right handsome fellow. Two, you’re smart. Three, you’re filthy.”

“Wait. You’re ’splaining how I look. Why do you love me?”

Grandfather's face softened. “Son, I love you because you’re mine. You belong to me.”

“Forever?” 

“Forever and ever. Don’t forget it.” His grandson nodded, grinning like he’d won first prize.

“Now,” Grandfather said. “Get your bath. Then we’ll have time after supper to go outside.” 

“But I’ll get dirty and have to take another bath.” Grandfather chuckled.

“After your bath all you need to wash will be your hands and feet.” He winked at his grandson. “All that dirt went down the drain.

“That’s what happened when I turned to the Lord Jesus.”

“What do you mean, Grandfather?” 

“Battered and broken from the lies of the world, I turned to the Lord Jesus. He scooped me up, washed away my sins, and showed me His great mercy. He washed my guilt and shame down the drain, to be seen nevermore.”

“Like you did for me?” His head dipped. “But will the Lord Jesus do it for me?”

“Absolutely.” 

“Why?” 

“'Cause He knows you can’t do it.” He shrugged. “Fact is—neither can I.” 

“How long does His mercy last?”

“His mercy endures forever.”

“I need His mercy, Grandfather. Will you pray with me?”

“Dear Heavenly Father, here we are again—“ 

“It’s me, Timmy, Lord. I need Your mercy. Thank you for loving me. In Jesus Name. Amen.” 

Grandfather grabbed Timmy, hugged him—dirt, stench and all.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus offers the same to you. He knows your hurts and pain. He promises never to leave nor forsake you. He loves you with an everlasting love. Let Him wash you clean. Please come. 

WHEN GOLIATH SNARLS!

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13. (NKJV).

“But he said we have no hope. Don’t you believe him?”

“No, Timmy. I don’t care how many people say something, that doesn’t make it true.”

“But Grandfather—” He opened his Bible to 1 Samuel 7.

“Timmy, remember the story of David and Goliath?” He  nodded. “Here’s David, a young shepherd boy, asking his brothers and the rest of the army, what they're going to do about this giant, Goliath. He was big and scary.”

“Was David scared?”

“Sure he was, but it didn't keep him from volunteering. So they took him to King Saul who tried to protect him with his armor. But it didn’t fit. One size doesn’t fit all.”

“Like me wearing your coat?” Timmy laughed. “Couldn’t find my hands.”

“Exactly.” Grandfather chuckled. 

“David depended on the Lord God. He ran towards the giant with his sling, stopped at the brook, picked up five stones, said. ‘I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand.’ He put a stone in his sling, slung it, hit Goliath in his forehead. He fell on his face to the earth.”

“Wait, Grandfather. How could David fight when the others were afraid?”

“The others thought Goliath was too big to fight. David thought he was too big to miss. It’s all about the way we see things. Remember, David had fought a lion and a bear while protecting his sheep. The Lord trained David as a shepherd. He was ready.”

“I want to be trained and ready but do I have to fight lions and bears?”

“Hope not, son. But everyone has Goliaths in this boot camp of life but God provides the stones. We know we will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Therefore, we don’t loose heart.”

Timmy tilted his head. “Let me get this straight. In this life we’ll have Goliaths?”

“Right.” 

“But God provides the stones? So I don’t have to fear?” 

“Right again.” 

“How do I know where the stones are?” 

“By studying God’s Word.” 

“So we know His Will and how to fight?” grandfather nodded. “I won’t be alone?” 

“He promises He’ll never leave you.” 

“Okay. If that’s true, I’ll trust God when Golliath snarls.” 

Grandfather hugged his grandson, his eyes glistening.

Kingdom Thinking. I find it easy to loose heart. So I choose to look at the Goliaths in my life and know the Lord Jesus has a plan. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave me. He promises the same to you. Won’t you come?     

LET THE LIGHT SHINE!

"No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light." Luke 11:33. (NKJV)

Timmy hustled into the kitchen “The storm knocked out the electricity, Grandfather. Where're the candles?” 

“Drawer next to the sink. I’ll get them.” Lightening slashed the darkness followed by a rolling crash  of thunder.

 A scratch of the match and a candle flamed. “Put this in the candlestick.”

Timmy grabbed the candle. It sputtered, darkness engulfed him. 

“Don't fret.” Grandfather lit another. “Not so fast this time.

“Tell you what, Timmy. Let’s put these candles under a flower pot.” 

“Under a flower pot? Then we’ll be in the dark.” He shivered. “I want light.”

“Bright fellow.” He chuckled. "Light gives us life, Timmy. It also gives us hope. 

In the early days of Israel, the lamp burned during the night. The clay lamp, filled with olive oil gave light, chased away the darkness. The light also let folks know the family was home.”

“Like the night light in my room?” Grandfather nodded. “I feel safe with it on.”

“The most important light in the world is the Lord Jesus. When you asked Him into your life, He brought light because He is Light. His light shines through you.”

“Even when I do bad things?” Timmy tilted his head. 

Grandfather smiled. “Sometimes, you close your spiritual blinds and don’t let the light shine through you but He’ll never leave you."

 

"Why?"

 

"He’s a Gentleman and will never force you to do something against your will.” 

 

“But why?"

 

"Because of His great Love for you.” Grandfather tilted his head. “Remember when you were little and scared. You’d come runnung to me with your arms outstretched?” 

“And you’d reach out and lift me in your arms.” 

“How’d you feel?” 

“I felt safe and I knew you loved me.” 

“Son, that’s the way it is with our Lord Jesus. When—“

“When I’m scared or sad, He reaches out His arms to me? Even when I don’t deserve it?”

“Absolutely.” 

 

“Always?”

 

“You can count on it.” 

“That’s what I want, Grandfather.” He hugged his grandson. “And grandfather? I want the Lord Jesus’ light to shine through me.” He hugged him a little tighter.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus, the Light of the world, offers me His love. Sometimes, I shutter His Light in my life but He promises never to leave nor forsake me. His Love Light is there forever. He offers it to you, too. Won't you choose Him?

THE 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 11:28-30. (NKJV).

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

“Calligraphy. Beautiful, isn’t it?”

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

“Nah. Let’s 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.”

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

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

“All right. 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 raced up the stairs. 

He stomped back down. “No invitation, just my Bible.” 

“You missed it?” 

Timmy’s forehead wrinkled. 

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

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

“Not at all.”

“Two invitations, Grandfather. One to Uncle Jim’s wedding. One from the King. Know what?”

“What’s that?"

“I’m accepting both.” 

Grandfather smiled. “Good choice, son—one you’ll never regret.” 

“Grandfather? Would it be all right if I asked Sam to go with us?”

“Don’t see why not. He’s practically family.”

“Thank you. I’m heading to Sam’s to give him two invitations. One to Uncle Jim’s wedding and the other to the King of Kings.”

He grinned, shaking his head as he caught the screen door. “That boy’s something else. Thank you, Lord, he accepted Your inviation."

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.

POINTING THE WAY!

“But blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear; for assuredly, I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.” Matthew 13:16-17. (NKJV).

“The plane—up high—at one o’clock.”

“Don’t see it.” Timmy slouched against the car. They’d pulled over to watch the airshow.

“At a high altitude, flying fast. Keep looking up. Rest your eyes for a moment, look for a flash as sunlight reflects off the plane.” 

Grandfather patted Timmy’s shoulder. “Don’t give up. Once you see it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t see it sooner. 

“There.” He pointed. “See the contrails?”

“Wow.” Timmy shielded his eyes with his hand. “And they’re two of them.” Grandfather grinned.

“Ready to go, son?”

Timmy hopped in the truck, buckled his seat belt. “Amazing flying. You flew, Grandfather?”

“I did. Served my country in the USAF. Quite an experience. I can tell you about it but until you fly, you won’t fully understand.”

“Our Sunday School Teacher said the same thing. He urged us to see people around us who need our help even if it’s a smile.”

“Your teacher’s right. Many folks' eyes and ears are blinded by the riches of this world and miss out on the blessings our Lord has for us.”

“Is it possible for them to ever see or hear?”

“Absolutely. Just as you didn’t see the plane at first, you—”

“I saw it because you told me how to rest my eyes and look for it. Your excitemen kept me looking up.” 

Grandfather smiled. “We are blessed to see and hear, son. Now we have a responsibility to share the excitement with others so they’ll want to see and hear, too.”

“That’s what you did for me. You didn’t give up.” He tilted his head. “Now it’s my turn. And you know what?” 

“What’s that?” 

“I’m going to tell everyone I can by pointing the way to the Lord Jesus.” He looked at Grandfather. “Just like you did. I won’t give up but I’ll help them to look up so they can see for themselves.” 

He high-fived his grandson and headed for home.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus opened my eyes and ears. As I share the Good News of His love, He promises never to leave nor forsake me and to love me with an everlasting love. His promises are for you, too. Let Him open your eyes. Keep looking up.

THE BITE OF DEATH!

 

“Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast in the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, ‘Has God indeed said, You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?’” Genesis 3:1. (NKJV).

"Don't move, Timmy."

Grandfather crept to the pile of pine straw by the log.

“It’s okay, son." He took a deep breath. "It's a Scarlet Kingsnake, not a Coral. Not poisonous.”

“You scared me. How can I tell one from the other?” He chewed his lip, glanced from the snake to Grandfather.

“An old poem helps. ‘Red on yellow can kill a fellow, red on black is safe for Jack.”

“What if I can’t remember the poem? I-I froze. I stared at the snake and he stared right back at me.”

Grandfather chuckled. “One thing for sure. You need to be able to identify the enemy. Three snakes in our area are banded with similar colors--the Scarlet Kingsnake, the Scarlet snake, and the Coral snake. The Coral snake is poisonous.”

“Scary.” 

“Good. We need to fear the enemy. His bite is deadly. But, not if you receive anti-venom.” Timmy’s forehead furrowed. “It is made from the venom of the snake. Antibodies develop. If a venomous snake bites us, the anti-venom neutralizes the poison.”

“The venom doesn’t kill us?” 

“Not if we take the anti-venom.

"The Lord Jesus took the bite of death for us,Timmy. He chose to have the anti-venom created in His body by dying on the cross so when we come to Him with the bite of death, His blood gives us life.”

“He did that for me?” He looked at the snake. “What is the bite of death?”

“Sin. We’re born with a sinful nature that separates us from God.” 

“So the Lord Jesus had to come and be bitten to make the anti-venom so I wouldn’t die when I choose to believe Him?”

“Absolutely.” 

“Grandfather, I don’t understand but I sure am glad the Lord Jesus did that for me. He’s an awesome Savior!”

“I totally agree.” He gave his grandson a high-five that resulted in a hug.

Kingdom Thinking. I stand amazed the Lord Jesus took the bite of death for me. So by Him, the anti-venom is available to anyone who receives it. He loves me with an everlasting love. He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you receive Him?

FORGIVE? HOW MANY TIMES?

 “Then Peter came to Him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you, up to seven time, but up to seventy times seven.’” Matthew 18:21-22. (NKJV).

“My Sunday School teacher said to forgive seventy times seven.” Timmy stood, arms folded. “No way I’m forgiving Sam.” 

“Forgiveness is a command of our Lord, but also a choice.” Timmy opened his mouth but Grandfather held up his hand.

“As a king settled accounts with his servants, they brought one who owed millions--impossible to repay.

“‘Sell him, his family and all that he owns for payment,’ the king said. The servant fell on his face, begged for patience, promised to pay it all.

“‘Your debt is forgiven,’ the king said.”

“Wow, Grandfather. Amazing.” 

“Later the servant saw a fellow servant who owed him a few hundred dollars. He grabbed him by the throat. 

"‘Pay up or else.’ The servant begged for patience but he threw him into prison until he could pay.”

“Wait, Grandfather. That’s not right.” 

Hand held up he continued. “His fellow servants told the king.

“‘You wicked servant. I forgave all your debt and you couldn’t have compassion on your fellow servant? Take him to the torturers until his debt is paid.’”

“Grandfather. How could the first servant be so mean?”

“He felt entitled. He abused the gift of mercy. He didn’t deserve it—none of us do. When I realize what the King of Kings has forgiven me, I can forgive others.”

“But you’re good, Grandfather. You’ve loved the Lord Jesus for a long time.” 

“However, I’m still a sinner saved by grace. The Lord lives in me but the older I get, the more I realize that He loves me for what the Lord Jesus did on the cross when He took my place. When the Father looks at me, He sees His Son—“

Timmy frowned. “The Lord Jesus did that for me, too?” 

“Absolutely.” 

“So He wants me to forgive Sam?” 

“He does.” 

“Hmm. Will you pray with me? That I’ll say the right words?” 

“Dear Heavenly Father, be with Timmy, guide his thoughts and actions as he goes to see Sam—“ 

“Thank you, Lord Jesus, for going with me and helping me. And thank you for Grandfather. In Jesus Name. Amen.” 

He smiled as he grandson dashed out the front door, the screen door slamming behind him. “Thank you, Lord.” 

Kingdom Thinking. In this world of mistrust and anger, forgiveness and kindness go a long way. For me, the selfish servant comes naturally. But the Lord Jesus loves me with a supernatural love and promises never to forsake me. He gives forgiveness freely and helps me to do the same. Do you need forgiveness? Won’t you come to Him?

ABOUNDING WITH THANKSGIVING!

 "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.” Grandfather lifted the branch of blueberries. “These'll taste mighty good.”   

                                                         

“Don’t forget we cleaned around them—remember how the honeysuckle and weeds tried to take over?”

“Yep, you’re right about that. Yet we must be diligent. Birds, deer, and other critters take their share. 

“Looks great, son. Thanks for helping with the clean-up.”  Timmy 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. It’s so important to study His word and fellowship with His children.”

“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 said, laughing.

“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’s invisible—“

"He does the work?” 

“He does.” 

“So when it seems like I’m working, actually He’s at work? Creating the fruit in our lives?” 

“Right.”

 “Amazing. So, we praise Him and give thanks?"  

“Absolutely.” 

“Wow. What a wonderful God we serve. 'Praise Him, praise Him, all ye little children.’”

Grandfather eyes glistened as his grandson broke into the praise song.

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 put your trust in Him?

HE’S BEEN THERE ALL THE TIME!

 “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).

“Ready, Grandfather.”

“I’ll be here in the stands. Oh, and 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. As he pulled ahead in the home stretch, a racer sprinted past him. He stumbled, twisted his ankle, went down.

“Never make it now.” He struggled to stand, 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 line, even for Timmy and Grandfather who trailed behind.

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

“We’re family, son. Always there for one another.” He tilted his head. “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 family.”

“Like you, Grandfather?”

“Exactly.” 

“The Lord loves me that much? He’s always with me—even when I fall?”

“Son, when we fall or need Him, that’s when we realize He’s been there all the time.”  

 “All the time? Even when I don’t feel He’s there?” Grandfather nodded. “Amazing. Hard to understand.”

“True.” 

“Well, then. If He’s with me, there’s no way I’m a loser.” 

“You got that right, son.”  Eyes glistering, 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!

THE BURDEN IS LIGHT!

  

“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).


“Look Daddy. The oxen are pulling that cart filled with coffee beans.” Honey frowned. “Looks heavy." 

Her father knelt at her eye level. “If the load is distributed so the weight is shared, neither animal carries too much of the burden. But,” he added. “The animals must work together to share the load.” 

“Are the owners kind? They take care of the animals?” She bit her bottom lip.

“Absolutely. The yoke must fit or the animals develop sores and don’t work well. Not good for the animals or the owner.”

“Is one stronger than the other?”

“Usually,” he said. “One leads, the other follows.” He pointed to the two pulling the red cart. “See how those two work together?” 

She giggled. “Look at their feet. They’re dancing, not working.” 

“As it should be or they would jerk back and forth.” Daddy lifted Honey onto his shoulders.

“Am I your burden, Daddy? I’m getting bigger everyday.” 

“You’re growing up but know what?” 

“What?” 

“You’ll never be a burden 'cause I love you. The Lord Jesus loves us, too, and tells us when we get tired and are worn out, come to Him. He lifts us and puts us on His shoulders…”

“Like you do for me, Daddy?” 

“Exactly. How did you get me to lift you? Did you yell or stomp your foot or—“ 

“You’re funny, Daddy. I just lifted my arms and you lifted me and put me on your shoulders. I fit, too.” 

“You cetainly do.” 

“When I get really tired, the Lord Jesus picks me up? Like you do? He loves me that much?”  She was quiet for a few seconds. “I’m loved a whole lot. Love you, Daddy.” 

“Love you more.” 

Kingdom Thinking. I tried to be the leader and do things my way. I messed up, big time. Then the Lord Jesus offered me His way. His yoke. My back couldn't handle burdens not meant for me. His yoke fits and He'll never unyoke Himself from me. He offers the same to you. Won't you come?

TO LOVE AS A LITTLE CHILD!

 “At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, ‘Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.’” Matthew 18:1-4 (NKJV).

“How can I be a little child? Most times you tell me to grow up and act my age.” 

“Timmy, when I say grow up, I’m saying don’t be childish. Big difference in childlike and childish.”

“Childish like when I got mad with Sam yesterday? Stomped in, slammed the door and caused the windows to rattle?”   

Grandfather chuckled. “Usually when you don’t get your way.” 

“Timmy, remember when the Hill's adopted their little son? Mrs. Hill had never seen him. She was scared—“ 

“Why?” 

“How if he didn’t like her? What if he wouldn’t come to her?

“She said she knew he belonged to her when he stretched his little arms, clinging to her as if he'd finally come home. Said she’d never forget how those little arms slide around her neck.”

“He loves his mom and dad.”

“You’re right. Why?”

“I guess he trusts them. He knows they love him.”

“That’s what the Lord Jesus offers us. He never forces us to come. He waits for us to lift our arms to Him. He picks us up and hugs us tight. We’re secure in His love. Once we realize how much He loves us, we trust Him.”

Timmy tilted his head. “It’s hard to trust Him when I’ve never seen him.” He paused, his face brightening. 

“Oh, like when the Hill’s got their son? He’d never seen her but he loved her?”

“Exactly. She asked nothing of him. Just loved and nurtured him.”

“So the Lord Jesus loves me like that?”

“He does.”

Timmy blinked. “Grandfather. That’s the most awesome thing I’ve ever heard.” 

“Awesome, indeed.” He wrapped his grandson in his arms.

Kingdom Thinking. I’m grateful the Lord Jesus gives pictures of His great love. I was terrified our son wouldn’t love me. But at the airport, seeing me for the first time, he stretched out his arms, came to me. Now when troubles come, I choose to remember the Lord loves me the same way. He promises never to  forsake me and love me with an everlasting love. He offers the same to you. Won’t you trust Him?

LOVINGKINDNESS!

“Then the king said, ‘Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, to whom I may show the kindness of God?' And Ziba said to the king, ‘There is a still a son of Jonathan who is lame in his feet.’” 2 Samuel 9:3. (NKJV).

“Life isn’t fair, Grandfather.” Timmy slumped on the sofa.

“You’re not the first to think so.” He sat next to Timmy.

“Mephibosheth’s father was Jonathan and his grandfather, King Saul.”

“Bet he had a cushy life.” 

Grandfather tilted his head. “He did for a while. Then King Saul and Jonathan died in battle and David was anointed king. Because of Saul’s hatred for David, everyone fled.

"As the nursemaid ran with Mephibosheth, she dropped him, causing him to be crippled. They fled to Lo Debar on the backside of the desert where he had a steady diet of ‘hate David--if he finds you, he’ll kill you.’

“One day the lookout yelled. ‘Someone’s coming.’ A speck of dust grew into a cloud. Riders. Coming to Lo Debar, the place of nothing.

“‘We come for Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan. King David’s orders,’ one said.

“In the king’s presence, he threw down his crutches and fell on his face.

“‘Mephibosheth,’ the king said. ‘Do not fear, for I will show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather.’

“‘Why? I am nothing.’

“‘As for Mephibosheth,’ said the king, ‘he shall eat at my table like one of my sons.’ So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem and ate at the king’s table. And he was lame in both feet.”

“Grandfather, Mephibosheth hated David. How could he be kind to him? Grandfather smiled.

“He showed the kindness of God, son, or lovingkindness. Shouldn’t we do the same?”

“Is lovingkindness being kind to someone we don’t like?”

“Lovingkindness is more than kindness or compassion.” Grandfather’a brow furrowed. “It’s a deep, steadfast, and enduring love. Not only emotional but a commitment, a loyalty even in the face of adversity.” 

“Oh. You mean it’s like the promise Jesus makes to always love me and never leave me? No matter what happens to me? No matter how I mess up? He’s always there?” 

“Absolutely."

“Wow. He must love me a whole lot.” 

“You got that right, son. And He always will.” 

Kingdom thinking. I’m crippled, broken. My feet take me places I don’t want to go, yet you, Lord,  invite me to sit at your table? How marvelous to know God, the Father, accepts me because of what His Son, the Lord Jesus (my Jonathan), has done. He offers the same invitation to you. He loves you and promises never to forsake you. Won’t you come?

WHO KNOWS THE WAY?

 “O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.” Jeremiah 10:23. (NKJV).

“Grandfather. I can’t see where I’m going.” Fog rolled in, blurring the landscape.

“Don’t panic, Timmy. Can you see a few steps in front of you?”

“Yes. But not far.”

“Trust me. I know this path. Watch me, not the things around you.”

“Are you sure?”

Grandfather knelt, put his hands on Timmy’s  shoulders. “Look at me. I love you, son. I know where we’re going.” He chuckled. “Hang on to my coattails.”

“Those aren’t coattails. It’s your jacket tied around your waist.” Timmy snickered.

“Works for me.” Grandfather winked at him.

Timmy gave a quick nod. “For me, too.”  He latched on to Grandfather’s jacket, steps steady.

“Maybe this is a lesson for both of us." Timmy tilted his head.

“Don’t understand.”

“When you thought we were lost in this fog, fear rolled in. Fear causes confusion. Wrong thinking. We need--.”

“A coattail to hang on to?” He tugged on Grandfather’s jacket.

“Right.” Grandfather chuckled. “But not just any coat tail. We need to hang on to the Lord Jesus—the One who directs our steps—“

“Why do I forget? I know I’m to hang on to the Lord Jesus but when all I could see was fog—guess I panicked.” He dipped his head.

“Then what happened?”

“I called out to you—oh, like I can call out to the Lord Jesus?” Grandfather smiled. “Cause He knows the way.” Timmy grinned. “And He promises never to forsake me ’cause He loves me forever."

 “Absolutely, son. Absolutely."

Kingdom Thinking. I choose to remember I’m not alone when I struggle along the foggy path of life. I’m with the One who created the path. He knows the way but most importantly? He knows and loves me just as I am. He offers this love to you. Won't you come to Him?

THE BEST GUARANTEE EVER!

 “In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.” Ephesians 1:13,14. (NKJV).

“I hear the words ‘were sealed,’ but don’t understand them.” Timmy tilted his head.

 “Remember when we bought your puppy?” 

His eyes sparkled. “Sure do. I held Harley but couldn’t bring him home. He still needed his mama.”

“Right. But we paid for him, trusted Mr. Jones to take care of him. He promised to call when Harley was ready to come home.” Grandfather quirked his left eyebrow.

“How did you know Harley was the one? There were others.”

“Because he was the one I wanted.” Grandfather chuckled.

“So you’re telling me Harley's special? You can pick him out of a litter of Boykin Spaniels?”

Timmy nodded as he hugged his pup. “See the way his hair stands up on top of his head? He's mine ‘cause I love him and he loves me.”

“Even when he chewed your baseball bat? And your new shoes?” Timmy nodded. “When you have to feed him and train him?” Timmy held Harley close.

“Indeed he loves you and you love him. And that’s the way the Lord Jesus loves you. You fit in His arms.”

“The way Harley fits in mine, Grandfather?”

Grandfather hugged Timmy and Harley. “When we put our trust in the Lord Jesus and believe in Him, we’re sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. He’s the guarantee of our inheritance to come. We’re sealed by His love. We belong to Him.

“You hear that, Harley? We’re sealed by love.” Harley licked Timmy’s face. “That’s the best guarantee ever,” Timmy said. “The Lord Jesus loves me and promises me an amazing inheritance.”

“Absolutely, son. Absolutely.” He gave his grandson a big hug.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus paid for my inheritance and sealed me with His Holy Spirit. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to forsake me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you accept Him?

WHO CAN KEEP THE RULES?

“So Moses came and called the elders of the people, and laid before them all these words which the Lord commanded him. Then all the people answered together and said, ‘All that the Lord has spoken we will do.’”  Exodus 19:7,8. (NKJV).

 “Look, Grandfather. No parking beyond this point! A crazy sign to put on the edge of a cliff, huh?

Grandfather grinned. “you’d think but folks do what they want."

He tilted his head. “When Moses presented the way the Lord God wanted the people to follow, they answered, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do.”

 

“Did they?”

 

“Humph. They broke one rule after the other. We haven’t learned much either.”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“The Lord promised if the people would obey, He’d take care of them. Provide everything they needed.”

 

“Sounds like a good deal.”

 

“Easy to agree but following through? They looked at the other nations, wanted what their neighbors had.” Grandfather shook his head. 

“Got into trouble just like we do today.” His eyebrow raised. “Our human nature breaks the rules.

 

“Remember when Sonny visited us, Timmy? He liked your pocketknife. You let him use it but that wasn’t good enough.”

 

“Yeah. We searched—couldn’t find it. Didn’t know he had it until his mom mailed it back.”

 

“You know, son, there’s only One who can follow all the rules.” 

Timmy’s shoulders slumped. “Then there’s no hope.”

 

“Ah. But there is. God sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ to fulfill all the requirements. He took my place. When I realized I was a hopeless sinner, turned to Him, He accepted me and made me a part of His family.”  

 

“Will He accept me, too?” 

“Absolutely. He’s waiting for you to ask Him.”

“I don’t know what to say. I’ve done a lot of bad things.”

“That’s the thing, son. He promises He’ll be with you and help you follow the rules. When you mess up, you ask forgiveness, and He helps you make the right choices.”

Head bowed, he said, “Lord. It’s me, Timmy.

“You know all about me. I don’t understand how You can and still love me but Grandfather says You can. I believe him so will You come into my life and help me follow the rules? Thank you, Lord.”

“Amen," a tearful grandfather said as he hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. The more I tried to follow the rules, the more I broke them. Then Jesus came. He said if I put my trust in Him, He’d live in me and keep the rules. He loves me and promises never to leave me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come?

A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE!

 "What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that do not go astray.”  Matthew 18:12-14. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, I can’t find Beau.” Timmy slid to a stop, gulped.

“When did you see him last? Check his bed in the kitchen?” He nodded. "His basket in the den?" Tears glistened.

“I called him and called him. Think someone took him? Or he’s hurt or--”

“Don’t panic, son. We’ll find him. Surely a three-month-old Boykin Spaniel can’t escape.”

“He’s so tiny, Grandfather, but he ate a good breakfast...”

“I’ll say. If he eats that much every day we’ll call him, Roly Poly.” Grandfather chuckled as they walked into Timmy’s room.

“Why are your clothes piled on the floor?” Timmy dipped his head.

“I forgot. I’ll do it now.” Into his dirty clothes basket he tossed dirty socks and a couple of shirts. He lifted a pair of jeans. A curled up ball of fur was fast asleep. 

“Beau.” The puppy raised his head and yawned. He grabbed him, held him close.

“Oh, Beau. You’re safe.” Timmy plopped down in the pile of clothes, rocking his puppy like he'd never let him go.

“What a lesson, son,” Grandfather said. “Jesus told about one sheep who wandered away. So loved, the shepherd left the others to look for him. When he found him, he rejoiced and brought him home on his shoulders.” He tilted his head.

“Now you understand how the Lord feels when one of His lambs is found.” Timmy nodded and hugged Beau who licked his face. He grinned.

“The Lord Jesus loves me as much as I love Beau?”

“More.”

“That’s hard to understand. I love Beau so much I don’t know what I’d do if something happened to—“you sure He loves me that much?”

“Absolutely.”

Timmy held the puppy tight. “Wow. That’s a whole lot of love.”

“Indeed.”

He tilted his head. “I’ll take Beau on a walk—maybe to Sam’s. He needs to know this.”

“Good idea.” He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. I wandered in this world, didn't know my destination. The Lord Jesus found me. He picked me up in His arms and brought me to safety. He'll do the same for you. He loves you and promises never to leave you. Won’t you come?

A MOTHER’S LOVE!

 “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 our souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. (NKJV).

She stretched her back, then rolled her shoulders. For three days she'd kept vigil at her little daughter's bedside. 

She placed a cool cloth on her daughter’s forehead. Heat radiated from her skin. A fine red rash covered her face and body. 

She leaned against the bed, closed her eyes.

“Mama, will you rock me and tell me a story?” The child’s hoarse whisper slashed the silence. She lifted her daughter to her lap. 

With the child snuggled against her, she whispered. “Once upon a time—"

“No, Mama, a story about Jesus.”

“Ah. The Lord Jesus loved the little children. One day, when children were brought to Him to be blessed, the disciples complained. But He said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And He laid His hands on them and blessed them.’ He loved them."

“Does He love me, too, Mama?”

“Indeed He does, my darling. He loves His children.” She began to sing Jesus Loves Me. Before the song ended, she felt the little body relax, her breathing regular. She kissed the forehead, now cool. 

“Thank you, Lord Jesus.” She closed her eyes, sighed. Now she could rest.

“That really happened, didn’t it?”

Grandfather nodded. “When my sister was little.”

“Why didn’t the doctor come?”

“He did—gave medicine but she was really sick.”

“Her mother stayed near her for three days? She must have been tired.”

“There’s something about a mother’s love, Timmy. She feels the pain of her child. She won’t leave. She stays by her side, to pat her, to sing to her…”

“Why?” 

“She wants her to know she’s loved and never left alone.”

“The Lord Jesus must teach mothers. You know, the verse we love? His promise to love us and never leave us.”

Grandfather swallowed, his eyes glistening. “Absolutely, son. Absolutely.” He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. When I doubt His love, I remember I tried to be good. Do the right thing. Failed. Finally, I gave up, lifted my arms up to Him in surrender. Instead of condemning me, He pulled me into His loving arms. He promises His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Not just for me but for you, too. Won't you come?

THE TUTOR!

 

“Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.” Galatians 3:24, 25. (NKJV).


“Our family lived in the country,” Grandfather said. “The nearest school, twenty miles away, made attending impossible. Father worked from sunup to sundown and Mother was ill at the time.”

“So how did you learn?”

“One evening, Father answered the door. 

"'Jim Andrews. Come in.’ They were roommates at The College of Charleston.

“‘I heard you might need my help,’ Mr. Jim said.  ‘Especially with these rascals.' He ruffled my hair, then my brothers. He agreed to be our tutor.”

“Did you like him? Was he an easy teacher?” Grandfather held up his hand.

“Mr. Jim instructed us from books but, he taught us to love nature and respect it.  He kept a tight reign on us to protect us. Especially after Michael wandered off after being told to wait on the back porch.

“Everybody searched for my six year-old brother. Never been so scared in my life.  As I ran down the path, I head--‘He-ooo.’ Michael’s special call. Found him standing in a small stream.

“‘Look at me. I’m fishing,’ he grinned.

“His grin disappeared fast when Mr. Jim grabbed him. Several yards away, an alligator swam towards them. Mr. Jim put him down on the path, swatted his bottom all the way home.” Grandfather chuckled.

“An alligator. Wow!”

“Wow, indeed.”

“Did Mr. Jim stay with you a long time?”

“For a year, then he helped to build a school near us where he taught. That story of Michael reminds me of the tutor in Galatians. The law, our tutor, brings us to the Lord Jesus. The law protects us...”

“Like Mr. Jim did?” Grandfather nodded.

“But when we give our lives to Christ, the Lord justifies us, lives in us and through us. That doesn’t mean the law is useless, but our tutor has done his job.”

Timmy cocked his head. “Like when I learned my multiplication table, it’s in my mind—don’t have to look at my book?” His eyes flared. “The Lord Jesus is my teacher.”

“Couldn’t have said it better myself. Well done.” He high-fived his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. Even now, I have to remind myself the law brought me to the Lord Jesus. He teaches me all things. He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He loves me with an everlasting love. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?

PLANTING TIME!

“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5, 6. (KJV).

“We’re planting, aren’t we, Grandfather?” He handed him another seed.

‘Yep, it's planting time. Would you like some seeds? Have a garden of your own?”

“Yes, yes, yes.” Five-year-old Timmy's big blue eyes sparkled as he hopped from foot to foot.. “Now? Can we do it now?”

“Let’s finish this row of corn, then we’ll begin your garden.” 

A week passed. Grandfather’s corn was stringing the row. But not Timmy's. In tears, he said, “What happened to my corn?”

His grandfather rolled his lips. “How many times did you dig up your seed?”

He dipped his head. “Every day.”

“Here’s what I want you to do. Plant your seed. Pat the soil nice and easy. Water it every day but don’t dig them up. Understand?” Timmy nodded.

Days later, Timmy hustled into the kitchen. “I have plants. Come see.”

“Excellent!” Grandfather patted his shoulder. “You sowed the seed, nurtured it, but trusted it would sprout. That's the way it is with God's love.”

“I don't understand.”

“We pray, even weep over the ones we love, but we don't pester them. In His generous Love, the Lord allows us to participate in His Plan. Then we come to Him, rejoicing, bringing our sheaves with us.”

“Wow.”

“Wow, indeed.”

“You mean like we pray for Uncle Harry? We want him to know Jesus loves him?” Timmy tilted his head. “We pat him nice and easy--like planting time? We love him every day, but don't dig at him?”

“Exactly, son.”

“Is he coming for supper?”

“He is.”

“I can't wait to hug him.” His smile dropped. “But I won't dig at him. I promise.”

“You'll do great.” He gave his grandson a hug.

Kingdom Thinking. How wonderful is our God? Our Lord Jesus allows us to plant His seeds. Yes, there will be weeping, but our tears of sorrow shall turn to tears of joy. He promises never to leave us and loves us with an everlasting love. Won’t you accept Him? He loves you.

HIS SIGNATURE? NAIL-SCARRED HANDS!

 

“So when Jesus received the sour wine, He said, ‘It is finished!’ And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.” John 19:30. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, is that you in the painting?” He pointed to the portrait over the mantel.

“No, it's my great-grandfather--a different style. See the clothes? Happy I didn’t have to wear that stiff collar.” He tugged at his neck, hacked a cough.

“Your hair and eyes are like his. But you don’t have a beard.”

“We know it's Great-Grandfather, but who's the artist?”

“Does it matter?” Timmy said.

“Absolutely. What if the artist didn’t like him, changed the shape of his nose or the color of his eyes?” Grandfather's left eyebrow arched. 

Timmy grabbed his magnifying glass and stood on a stool to look. “No signature.”

Grandfather removed the portrait. Name, date of birth, and date of death were neatly written on the back.  Michael Joseph Blackwell, b 13 April 1839, d  27 October 1897.

“How can we know for sure?” Timmy said.

“We’ll search the family records and the census of that year.

“Son, the Lord Jesus did the same for us. He said, ‘It is finished.’ He completed the work necessary for us to be in His family, then placed His signature for everyone to see.”

Timmy frowned. “His signature?”

“Nail-scarred hands. So we’ll see the price He paid.”

Timmy frowned. “He did that for me?”

“He did.”

“How can I thank him?”

“Tell others what the Lord Jesus did for you and for them...”

“Like Johnny and Sammy? What if they make fun or don't believe?”

“Keep on telling...”

“And never quit. That's what I'm gonna do. I'll tell them about His love and if they make fun, I'll wait a while, then tell them again. Wow! That's exciting.”

“Totally agree.” Grandfather gave Timmy a high-five!

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus went to the cross for me. He paid for my sins with His shed blood. He loves me and promises never to leave me.  He extends His nail-scarred hands to you. Won’t you come to Him?

THE POND OF DESPICABLE DESPAIR!

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9  (NKJV)

Janie eyed the two-by-four stretched across the sludge of green slime. She chewed her bottom lip. Two piglets wallowed nearby.

“Can’t come across. You’re too little!” Maggie sing-songed, hands on hips, her grin wide.

“Can, too.” Janie stepped onto the board. At midpoint, the board rocked, then stilled. She inched forward. Only two more steps. 

She pushed her foot against the board. It slid sideways. She windmilled, splatted into the green goo. 

“I’m so sorry,” Maggie wailed, wringing her hands. “I'll get Grandmother.” 

Janie lifted her hand, green slime dripped. Slipping and falling, she sloshed her way to dry land. She plopped down, looked at her dress. Ruined. Tears streaked her face.

“Come on, little one.” Grandmother puffed up to her, holding a large towel in her hands. “Nothing a good washing won’t take care of.” She cocooned her and carried her home. 

“Eww. You stink.” Maggie held her nose.

Grandmother’s eyes crinkled. “We’re all stink to high heaven. Yes, even you, little miss.” Maggie’s lip poked out.

“There. A nice bath does wonders. You’re nice and clean.” Grandmother patted the daisy bow in her hair. 

“You said we all stink? I didn’t fall in.” 

Grandmother smiled. “Maggie, we all fall into the pig pen or the pond of despicable despair. It’s our nature. So the Lord Jesus came, took our place. He’s the only One who can get rid of the stench. He washes us clean...”

“But how if I fall in again?” Janie’s lip quivered. 

“You confess it to our Lord. You’re His. He’ll clean you up.”

“Like you did, Grandmother?” Two little girls wrapped their arms around her as she smiled, blinked away the tears.

Kingdom Thinking. During difficult times, it’s easy to splat into the pond of despicable despair. The Lord Jesus rescues me--He’s my Savior. He promises never to leave me and to love me with an everlasting love. He loves you, too. Won’t you choose Him?

BATTERIES NOT REQUIRED!

“All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” John 1:3-5. (NKJV).

“Why is light important, Grandfather?” Timmy plopped into the kitchen chair.

“Remember your nightmares when you were little?” 

Timmy grinned. “I'd yell out and you'd charge into my room, click on the light, and chase the darkness away.

“Then you'd shine your big flashlight under my bed, in the closet, and all the dark places.”

“How'd  you feel?”

“Safe. Not scared. I kept your flashlight to shine anytime I needed, but--,” his voice lowered, “the batteries burned out.”

“Son, the Lord Jesus fixed that for us when He came to earth and took on the form of a man. He is Light, the Light of the world. For those who believe, His Light comes into them to stay. Forever. We don’t need batteries." His voice softened. "But most folks don’t believe Him.”

“Why not? Don’t they know He came to shine His Light so they wouldn't be scared?”

“Some do, but others choose to stay in darkness.”

“Makes no sense.”

“I agree.”

“What can I do to help others see the light?”

Grandfather smiled. “You keep showing folks His light shines through you by the way you talk and act. Not always easy because folks don't always agree.”

Timmy's brow wrinkled. “By the way I live?”

“By the way the Lord Jesus lives through you.”

“Oh. Like when Jake trips me up? But I reach out and help him when he falls down?”

“You got it.”

“Not easy.” His bottom lip poked out.

"I agree.”

Timmy tilted his head. “We're not talking about easy, are we? We're talking about letting the light of Jesus shine through?”

“Absolutely, son. His Light. Batteries not required.” He gave his grandson a high five.

Kingdom Thinking. I knew about the Lord Jesus, but I didn't allow His Light to come in and fill my life. Finally, I fell to my knees and invited Him in. He loves me and promises never to leave me. He promises the same to you. Won't you come?

BY THIS ALL WILL KNOW!

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35. (NKJV)

“Were you and Aunt Mary close growing up?”

Grandfather smiled. “Sure. She was my little sister.--taught me a thing or two, though with her tender heart.”

“Like what?”

“I'd promised Mary I'd take her to the bakery. The day finally came--

“Come on, Mary,” Bubba tugged his sister's hand. “Let's go. My treat.” For weeks, he'd saved for this.

“Morning, Mr. Gray,” he called as they entered. “I have my money.” He pulled out his wallet.

“Indeed you do, and what's your pleasure this fine morning?”

“Two cinnamon rolls--with lots of icing.” 

Outside they sat on the bench. Bubba lifted his treat to take a bite when a hand snaked from behind him.

“I’ll take that.” Junior, the town bully, gobbled the whole thing in three bites. Bubba's jaw dropped. 

Mary stood, shoulders stiff. “If you’re hungry, take mine, too.” She offered hers to him.

He stared then ran down the street.

“I'm glad you bought these big cinnamon rolls.” She divided hers, handed half to him. “Always tastes better when you share with someone.”

“Even Junior?”

Her dimples winked. “Of course. Just think, Bubba. You may be the only one who shared with him today.”

“Did that really happen, Grandfather?” At his nod, Timmy said, “Has Aunt Mary always thought like that?”

“She has.”

“No wonder she's a missionary. By the way she lives, all will know she loves Jesus.” Silence followed. 

“Grandfather? I want all to know that I love Jesus. But I mess up so much.”

He put his arm around his grandson. “Well, He wants His disciples to live so others will know of His love--“

“By being kind and sharing? Like Aunt Mary?” He chewed his lip. “And keep on loving one another?”

“Absolutely, son.” He squeezed his grandson’s shoulder. “Absolutely.”

Kingdom Thinking. When bullies come, and they come in all shapes and sizes, I choose to remember our Lord Jesus isn't surprised. He shows me by this all will know I belong to Him. He loves me and promises never to forsake me. He wants to show you this love. Won’t you come to Him?

THE MISSING PART OF THE PUZZLE!

 

 “But Jesus looked at them and said unto them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” Matthew 19:26. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, guess what's in the mail?” He waved a letter as he ran into the kitchen.

“Your excitement says a letter from Mary. Let's see what she has to say.

Dear Brother,

Sorry I've fallen behind with my letters but I had to tell you what's happened. 

Doctor O was treating children in the clinic when he noticed a little girl's head was indented. He lifted her hair to discover a hole. No covering over the brain. He looked at her mother.

“She fell off the church roof, landing on a concrete patio,” she said. “The doctors did surgery but gave us no hope she would survive.

“No,” her mother said. “We are praying for a miracle.”

“If she lives, she'll be blind,” the doctor said.

Days later, as her mother dozed in a chair by the bed, a voice said. “Mommy?” She thought she was dreaming. “Mommy?” Her mother leaped up, thrilled her daughter had regained consciousness.

“What's going on,” the doctor said as he entered the room.

“She's awake. Praise the Lord.”

“Not possible,” he said, standing at her bedside. “She's probably blind.”

“Mommy, your blue dress is pretty.” Tears streaking her cheeks, her mother lifted her head and voice, praising the Lord.

“Not possible,” the doctor shook his head.

“Sir, I don't know what you believe but you have witnessed a miracle of God. My child not only lives but she sees.”

Brother, I had to share this with you. Our God is Amazing. Got to go. Love you. I'll update you soon.

Love, Mary.

“God can really do that?”

“Of course, son. If He is the Creator, He surely can create.”

Timmy's eyes flared. “That's the missing part of the puzzle, huh? We think of Him as God and Lord but He's our Creator, too. Wow. No wonder He can make all things new.”

“Couldn't have said it better, son. He is our Mighty God, our Creator, our All.” He wrapped his grandson in a big hug.

Kingdom Thinking. I agree with Timmy. We serve an awesome God. He loves me and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He loves you, too. Won't you come to Him?