THE SILVER CHISEL!

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, to love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8. (NKJV).

“Listen to this, Timmy.” 

The preacher read the verse from the prophet Micah. Jake shook his head, and stared at his feet. Shame suffocated him.

As a child, he thought himself smart. He'd sneak into the kitchen and sample cookies Mother told him not to touch. He swiped change from Daddy’s dresser. 

In adulthood, his dishonesty escalated. Money from the benevolent fund at work, short-changing a client. Not a lot—just enough to aid his lifestyle. Now reality hit full force. A crust of hardness encased his heart. Hopelessness filled his soul.

“What have I done?” He swallowed the lump in his throat. “Justice and mercy? What a joke.” He swiped his eyes. No hope. 

“Wait. What did the preacher say?”

He tilted his head, listened to the rest of the story. A story that no man, rich or poor, could meet God's requirements. A story of God the Father sending God the Son into the world to fulfill the requirements of good, to take the place of sinners for only God is Good. A story of hope and forgiveness and love.

"For someone like me?"

He listened and as he did, God’s Silver Chisel chipped away the hardness around his heart and tenderized it with His redeeming love. He hurried down front, fell to his knees. 

"I want to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with the Lord," he said to the preacher.

With his arm around Jake, the preacher listened, then prayed with him. He turned to the congregation.

"This is Jake, our new brother. Please welcome him to the family.”

“Grandfather, is that my Uncle Jake? Aunt Mary’s husband?”

“The same.” 

“But, Grandfather. My Uncle Jake is a missionary in South America. He’s good and kind…” 

“And changed by the Mercy and Grace of the Lord Jesus when he gave his life to Him.” 

“So The Lord shows us what is good?” 

“Not only shows us, but He comes into our lives and guides and directs us as we live daily for Him…” 

“He completes our requirements ’cause we can’t? We depend on Him. He brings us new life, His Life, as we go?” 

“Absolutely.” 

“Wow. He just chisels away the bad stuff and fills us with the good stuff?” 

“A good way to put it.” He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. In the darkest moments of my life, the light of the Lord Jesus shines brightly. Why? Because The Lord Jesus fulfilled the requirements. With His Silver Chisel, He chips away the hardness of sin and unbelief. He promises never to forsake me. His arms are open wide. Won’t you come to Him? 

THE WORK IN THE GARDEN!

 “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. (NKJV).

“We’re planting, aren’t we, Aunt Janie?” Cing handed her another plant.

‘Yes, we are. Be careful with the little plant. Maybe, if you’re a good helper,  we can make you a garden. Would you like that?”

“Oh, yes.” five-year-old cing’s big blue eyes sparkled as she bounced. “Now? Can we do it now?”

“Let’s finish these plants then we’ll begin your garden.” She handed her aunt another plant.

A week passed. Aunt Janie’s plants were looking good and her seeds had sprouted, but not Cing’s. In tears, she asked, “What happened?”

Aunt Janie smiled. “How many times did you dig up your seeds?”

“I dug to see if they were growing.” She dipped his head. “Every day.”

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

Days later, Cing, bursting with joy, announced. “I have plants. Come see.”

"Excellent!” Aunt Janie patted her shoulder. "Good job. I’m proud of you.” 

"You sowed the seed, nurtured it, but trusted they’d 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.” 

“Like I pestered my seed by digging them up?” 

Aunt Janie chuckled. “But that’s okay. You’re leaning how to plant.

In God's generous Love, He allows us to participate in His Plan. Then we come to Him, rejoicing, bringing our sheaves with us.”

“May I call mine flowers?”

“Absolutely.”

“Wow. That’s amazing. I can wait to tell Maggie about my flowers. She’ll love them.”

“She will,  indeed!” 

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 nor forsake us. He loves us with an everlasting love. Won’t you accept Him? 

THE BONDSERVANT!

“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.” 

Timmy leaned closer. “Don’t see it.”

"It's invisible." Grandfather winked.

“Know about the bondservant, son? 

“Just a story. Why would anyone want to be a servant?” 

“Depends on your master—one who'll love you and provide for you. The Lord Jesus did that for me, for you.”

“How?” 

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

“But you’re good, Grandfather.”

“Why do you say I’m good?”

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

“Because Jesus loves me. He paid for my sins, set me free. Like the bondservant, 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 anytime I don’t want to serve, I reach up, touch my ear. Ah, I remember. I’m in service to my King. I am His. 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?” 

Grandfather smiled. “Better believe it and It's invisible…to us, not our Master.” 

“So I am His and He is my King?” 

“Correct.” 

“When will it get easy? When I’m old like you?”

“Ah, son. We’re in training. He’s the Master, we’re the servants. We don’t have all the answers but one thing I’m sure of—“ 

“We can trust our Master and King?”

“Absolutely, son. Absolutely.” He hugged his grandson.

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 bondservant forever. He offers the same to you. Won’t you choose Him?

SHADOWS! DISTORTED AND REAL!

“For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect.” Hebrews 10:1. (NKJV).

Eight year-old Timmy folded his arms across his chest. “I want to see Jesus. Then I’ll believe He’s real.”

Grandfather tilted his head. “Let me show you something, son. Stay here on the couch. Okay?”

He gave a quick nod, chin up. Grandfather walked out of the room into the hall. The lights in the hall brightened. That’s when he saw it. A looming shadow.

“Grandfather,” he called. “Help. A big shadow's coming to get me.”

“I’m here, Timmy,” Grandfather said, as he walked into the room.

He leaped into his grandfather’s arms, put his hands on both sides of his face. “You were the shadow?”

“Yes. The light shone behind me. You saw my shadow. You couldn’t tell how I looked, could you?” Jake shook his head. ”Now I’m in the light...out of the shadows.”

“And now I know you.” 

“Right. The Bible tells us the law is a shadow of the good things to come. A shadow can distort the truth and leave much to the imagination.” He shrugged. “ We just fill in the blanks.” 

“Like I did.” 

“Even though you know me, you didn’t recognize me.” 

“I was scared.” 

“What happened when I walked into the room and said, ’I’m here.'” 

“I was so happy, I jumped into your arms.” 

“Why didn’t you jump into the shadow’s arms?”

“’Cause that wasn’t really you—just your shadow.” 

“But now I’m here—“

“And I’m safe in your arms.” 

“Before the Lord Jesus was born on earth, we had the law that told us how to live. But we broke the law. So the Lord Jesus came, lived a perfect life and fulfilled the law. Now we believe in Him and He abides in us…”

“I still want to see Jesus.”

“I understand what you’re saying. That time will come.”

“It will?” 

“Yep. Until that time comes, we trust in Him and live every day with His joy and love in us.” 

“And I’ll be able to see Him?” Grandfather nodded.

“That’s something special to look forward to.” He chewed his lip. “Think He’ll come before Christmas?” 

Grandfather chuckled. “Nobody knows. Only the Heavenly Father.” 

“I can’t wait to see Him, Grandfather.”  

Grandfather smiled, gave him a hug.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus gave us the law. But much more than the law, He fulfilled the law and now gives us the chance to know Him. He loves us with an everlasting love. He promises never to leave nor forsake us. Won’t you come out of the shadows and into His light? He waits for you.

BRIDGE CROSSING—A LESSON IN TRUST!

 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3: 5, 6. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, got a  letter from Aunt Mary. Let’s see what’s happening.”

Grandfather opened it, read.

Dear Brother,

“Out family decided to take a trip to the coast. Friends told us about this quaint island. A get-away—a special vacation. We did well until we got to the river.

“You’ve got to be kidding!” I peered at the chasm. A lazy river snaked its way to the Caribbean. Not quite as deep as the Grand Canyon, but might as well be.

My husband pulled over to the side of the highway. The bridge wasn’t completed. 

“Guess we’ll have to make the trip to the island another time,” I said.

A jeep pulled up. The driver got out, pulled some boards from the side of the road, placed them across the unfinished section. He lined his tires with the boards, and drove across the bridge.

“If that guy can do it, so can we.”

“No way. This old Buick across those boards? The weight will cause the boards to...” In the backseat of the car, our four children, eyes wide, looked from their dad to me.

“You drive," he said "I’ll walk across the boards to the finished part, and direct you. Pay attention to my hands.” My husband turned to the children. “Y’all need to sit on the floor and be quiet so your mama can concentrate."

Really? My observation told me the builders of the bridge considered some people would try to cross the bridge before completion. At the edge of the highway, a gap, then a completed part, another gap, to the road on the other side. 

I don’t remember much about the crossing and most of our visit on the island blurs due to my fretting about our return trip—same bridge, same boards. My family insists we had a great time. 

Okay. Let’s just agree it was a trip to remember. I believe the Lord Jesus is teaching me to trust Him. I’m so glad He was with us every turn of the wheel and every step of the way. Hope you’re well. 

Please continue to pray for us as we go, sharing the Good News that the Lord loves us and promises never to leave nor forsake us.

Love, Mary

“Grandfather, I’m glad I wasn’t in that car. How if it—“

“It didn’t.” 

“Do all missionaries have scary stories?”

“Probably, but the main thing we should learn from this—“

“We can depend on Jesus no matter what kind of bridge we’re crossing? He’ll always be with us. He promised.”

“Absolutely, son. Without a doubt.” He hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. Trusting in the Lord with all my heart is difficult, at times seems impossible. So the Lord Jesus promises never to leave me and loves me with an everlasting love. No matter what bridge I'm crossing, He'll be with me. You can trust Him, too. He’ll direct your paths if you let Him—even across your life's bridges.  

THE ROSE AFTER THE STORM!

 “The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose; It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, Even with joy and singing.” Isaiah 35:1. (NKJV).

“Look, Grandfather. A Cherokee Rose. On the side of the road.”

“You’re right, Cing. It grows wild in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Beautiful, isn’t it?” Grandfather dug a small root of the rose. “Your grandmother'll love it. A gift for my Bride.” He winked.

“Ouch! It may be beautiful but these thorns hurt.”

Grandfather chuckled. “Even with these gloves.”

Back home, he selected a spot beside the garden shed, an oak tree nearby. “Let’s get this rose planted. Hold it steady.”

“Will it bloom soon?”

“Hope so. We’ll tend it, give it plenty of TLC.”

Years passed. Healthy leaves. No blooms. Until a hurricane hit the lowcountry, bringing down several trees. Still, the rose clung to the oak tree by the shed.

The following spring, Cing called. “Grandfather, come quick. You’re not going to believe this.”

She ran ahead. “Look.”                                                          

At the corner of the garden shed, entwined in the oak limbs, the Cherokee Rose bloomed, boughs of white flowers dripping beauty.

“Amazing.” He looked at the space created by the downed trees. 

“Why did it wait so long to bloom, Grandfather?”

“Didn't have enough sunlight to nourish it properly or Our Lord made sure the timing was right. He knows which storms will bring about our reason to bloom—“

Cing chewed her lip. “You're saying we need hurricanes to make room for our rose to bloom?” She placed her hand over her heart.

Grandfather chuckled. “In a mannner of speaking. Sometimes bad things happen to make us stop and catch our breath, to see what’s really important.” He tweaked her braid. 

“The storms clear the space for us to see the light, huh?”

“Absolutely. Good thinking.” He smiled. “Maybe I'll change your name to Rose. What do you think?”

“I think I'll go fetch your Bride.” She giggled as Grandfather waved her on.

“You do that,” he said.

Kingdom Thinking. When storms come, I look at the damage and clean up. But storms bring changes that lets the light shine in. Changes that allow me to see the Lord Jesus loves me with an everlasting love. He promises never to leave nor forsake me, especially in the storms of life. He promises the same to you. Won’t you come to Him? 

WHEN LOVE POKES THROUGH!

“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 secure the bottom wire of the fence with it—to keep out the critters. They’re helping themselves to our tender plants.”  

Timmy tried to lift his end. “Heav-vy.” he moaned.  “Can we cut it in half?”

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

“One, two, three,” Timmy 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 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?” 

“Oh, I needed 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.” 

“Indeed. The way the Lord’s Love pokes through when He gifts us so much. Most of time we take it for granted or think we did it.” 

“He was there all the time.”  

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

“One truth I never want to forget.” Grandfather nodded.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus died on the cross for me. He rose from the grave. Now He lives and 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?

AN OPEN 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 an open invitation.”

“What’s an open invitation, Grandfather?”

“Hmm. Johnny has an open invitation at our house.”

“Oh. Because he’s always welcome—what's wrong with that guy? He looks sad.” A young man sat on the steps out of the way of traffic.

“You okay, son?” 

The young man mumbled a response. 

“Sorry, couldn’t hear you.”

“I’m fine,” he spit out, 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, 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, don’t you?” 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'd 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.

“You know what?”

“What’s that?” 

“You shared the invitation with me. I get to share it with others—it really is an open invitation, right?” 

“Right you are son. An open invitation, indeed.” 

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 an open invitation.

HE IS NOT HERE. HE IS RISEN!

“But the angel answered and said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for He is risen as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead.” Matthew 28:5-7b. (NKJV).

“That was some production, Grandfather. Is that how the tomb looked?” They walked down the church steps.

“Maybe,  but the most important lesson we can learn from this?” Timmy tilted his head.

“The Lord Jesus said He would rise on the third day and He did.”

“That's important?”

“Definitely. The performance was great. The props, actors, and music—all contributed to a spectacular production. But the main point...”

“You didn’t like it?”

“I did but at the crucifixion, the disciples watched their Master go through an unfair trial, beaten and betrayed, then hung on a cross like a common criminal. They believed He'd come as their King, but now? Imagine what they thought?” Timmy gasped.

“I hadn’t thought about it.”

“Most of us don’t. We know He arose from the dead.” Grandfather dipped his head. “He paid an unimaginable price for me—to pay for my sins.”

“No, Grandfather. You’re good. I love you.” His grandson threw his arms around him.

“Ah, son. All of us sinners need a Savior, but I’m glad you love me. Now the good news? The tomb is empty! He has risen! He paid for my sins in full—past, present, and future.” His face wreathed in smiles, he hugged Timmy.

“That is the Good News, huh?”

“You better believe it. None greater.”

“Grandfather?”

“Umm?”

“I want to share the Good News. Will you help me?”

Tears in his eyes, Grandfather nodded. “With pleasure.” He put his hand on Timmy’s shoulder.

"Lesson #1. 'He is not in a tomb. He is risen.'

“Your turn, son. You say, ’He is risen indeed.’“

“He is risen indeed,” Timmy smiled. “And I say it again. He is risen indeed.”

“Amen and Hallelujah,” they chorused.

Kingdom Thinking. The tomb is empty. Death couldn’t hold Him. He is risen. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He gives me new life. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come?

BEST NEWS EVER!

 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.” Matthew 23:27,28. (NKJV).

“Do you have to take out all the stuff, Grandfather?”

“This closet'll be like new, Timmy. Hand me the crowbar.”

“But I like the shelves in the back—where I put my special stuff.”

“We’ll put in sturdy ones that don’t sag.” Grandfather's nose scrunched.

“Something's rotten. Timmy? What’s on the bottom shelf?”

Timmy rolled his lips. “Um. I kept the glittery golden egg from the Easter egg hunt. Put it on a nest and  sprayed it to preserve it.”

“You may have put it on the back shelf but the smell fills the room. Hand me that garbage bag.”

"Hard to believe something that pretty can smell so bad, Grandfather.” He dipped his head. "Sorry."

“Like the rest of us, son, you were deceived. Because something's beautiful on the outside, doesn’t make it good. I’ll join you downstairs when I get this contained.”

Later, sitting on the back steps, Timmy said. “That was a dumb thing to do, huh?”

“I’ve done some dumb things myself.” Grandfather chuckled. “Just don’t talk about them. But it doesn’t hurt to share a few things now and then.”

“Really?”

“When we confess our faults, others find it easier to identify. Especially when it’s something they’ve done.

“You’re not the first to hide eggs. Your aunt hid her entire Easter basket under her bed. She wanted to hatch colored chicks.” Grandfather chuckled.

“What happened?” Timmy tilted his head.

“Wooee, what a smell! Had to clean up the mess.” Timmy giggled. "Remember glittery and golden on the outside is no guarantee it’s good on the inside.” 

“I’m not the first to mess up, huh?” 

“And not the last, to be sure. That’s why we keep our eyes on the Lord Jesus. He told us a lot of folks would look good on the outside but what really counts is—“

“Putting the Lord Jesus first? That’s hard, Grandfather.” 

“It is but you know what? He’s in the process of changing us, one step at the time, as we walk with Him.”

“Best news ever, isn’t it?” 

“The absolute best.” He hugged his grandson. 

Kingdom Thinking. Dumb things? Easy to do. The good news? I have a Savior, the Lord Jesus, who knows me, loves me and promises never to leave me. He is the One who indwells me, cleanses me—from the inside out when I confess my rottenness. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?

WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING!

 “How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.” Proverbs 16:16. (NKJV).

Cing twisted the silver basket one way, then the other. 

Humph. Take forever to clean this old thing.  It’s black as soot. 

She squirted dish soap on a cloth, scrubbed, rinsed. 

Her shoulders drooped. It'll never come clean. She shivered, looked over her shoulder.  

Leaning against the kitchen door, arms crossed, Grandfather grinned. “What are you doing?” 

She tossed up her hands, soapy water spattering. “Trying to clean this thing. Grandmother wants to fill it with her prized roses.”

“First, let’s get this soap off your nose.” He dabbed it with his handkerchief. “Know what’s happened to this basket?” 

She tilted her head. “You’re gonna tell me, right? He smiled.

“Underneath this tarnish, the silver’s the same as the day the basket was made.  Over time the tarnish built up because the basket wasn’t cleaned or put to good use. 

“The pollutants in the air caused the problem. The basket couldn’t do a thing about it—and along came Cing.” She giggled. 

He grabbed the silver polish from the pantry, motioned with his head.  

“Come on. I’ll help you. Put on these gloves and let’s get to work.” 

“Wow. That's some shine, Grandfather. Grandmother'll love it.” She wiggled her fingers. "But these gloves? Black." She snapped them off.

“You know, Cing, we’re like this basket. We’re tarnished by living in this world filled with pollutants—physical, spiritual or emotional. We use all sorts of solutions but nothing works. We need someone who is willing and able to cleanse us. 

“The Lord Jesus?” 

“Yes," his voice softened. “He made us and knows exactly how to clean us. He allowed sinful, tarnished man to nail Him to the tree. He took all the tarnish on Himself so we can be clean, like new.” 

“Me, too?” Grandfather smiled, tapped her nose.

“Absolutely.”

“Sounds easy whe you say it like that.” 

“Not easy at all. It’s a choice. We choose to get wisdom rather than silver—“

“And the Lord Jesus cleans us ’cause we can’t?”

“Every day—as we walk with Him. The choice is a process and it takes a life time.” 

“But I don’t have to worry ’cause He knows how to cleanse me?” 

“True, indeed.” 

Cing smiled. “I’m so glad.” 

“You and me both.” He high-fived his granddaughter.

Kingdom Thinking. No matter how deep the stain, He nailed it to the cross so I could come to Him. He cleans my life so I reflect Him. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave me. Do you want to be cleansed and loved? His Arms are open to you.

THE PRUNING!

 “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).

“Do I hear mumbling, 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 there's 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. The truth, please.”

“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—"

“Pruning. 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. One of a kind." 

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

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

EXTENDING KINDNESS, SHARING THE JOY!

 “Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away.” Isaiah 51:11. (NKJV).

“I've made reservations for our anniversary dinner for seven o'clock this evening.” Her smile brightened the room as she hugged her husband.

That evening, the maitre d’ escorted them to a choice table. Orders placed, they sat back to enjoy their iced tea. The server returned, chatting as he served their food.

“Is there anything else I can offer you?”

“Thank you, not at this time.” The husband reached for his wife’s hand. Heads bowed, he blessed the food.
At the amen, the server spoke up.

“Why do you do that?” His forehead furrowed, arms crossed.

“Well, the Bible admonishes us to give thanks..." 

“I can read and could care less what that book says,” he said to her husband.

“And you?” He turned to the wife. “Why do you believe that nonsense?”

She smiled. “The Lord Jesus changed my life. He set me free.” 

“Can’t argue with that.” 

“Would you like to know what happened?” she said.

“Some other time. On the job, you know."

“Of course,” she said. 

“You not going to argue, to convince me to think like you?” He tilted his head.

“Don’t think that would work, do you?” 

“Got that right.” He turned. “But maybe if I see you again, I could ask some questions?” 

“Of course.” She nodded.  “Look forward to it.” 

Her husband took her hand, gave it a squeeze. “You really do have everlasting joy. Did you see his name tag?” 

“Name’s James—a new aquaintance, maybe friend?” 

“Extending kindness, sharing your joy.” He smiled. “That’s what it’s all about.” 

Kingdom Thinking. In this life journey, we, the redeemed, are returning. With singing and everlasting joy. Many will be offended at what I believe. That's okay. Extending kindness is sharing the joy. I can't change anyone but the Lord Jesus can in the most amazing ways. He loves you with an everlasting love and will never leave nor forsake you. Won't you come? 

ADOPTED INTO THE FAMILY!

 “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 flattened her lips.

“I was five years old when Mama died and Aunt and Uncle adopted me. 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.

“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. “Never will 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.

“Who was 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.

“Emotions can deceive and leave us feeling unloved and hopeless. You are a daughter of the King and my sister, Sadie, and don’t you forget it.” She smiled at him.

“So what you’re saying is, we have to remember we’re adopted into the family of God?” Timmy said. “Even when we don’t feel like?” 

“Especially then, Timmy.” 

“So I must choose to believe the Lord Jesus and His promises because He doesn’t break them and He’s always with us.” 

“Absolutely, son. Well said.” 

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?

WHEN STORMS COME!

 “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. “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, said, '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 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 watches over us—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.

“But that’s not all, is it? He’s always there ’cause He promises to never leave us.” 

“Absolutely, son.” He squeezed Timmy’s shoulder again.

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.

THE POWER GIVER!

 “O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places. The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people." Psalm 68:35. (NKJV).

“Wow.” Timmy said. “What a beauty.”

Grandfather turned. A new red sports car rolled to a stop at the neighboring gas pump.

The amazing low-slung car, built to hug the curves, exuded power. Spectators gathered, oohing and aahing, some drooling.

“Come on, Grandfather. I want to see inside.” He replaced the nozzle and they ambled over.  “I want a car like that when I grow up.”

“No doubt about it, huh?” Grandfather chuckled.

“Let’s look under the hood,” one gentleman said.

“In a minute,” the owner said. “First look at the safety precautions. Check out these special tires, the reinforced roll bar...”

“How many horses?” someone asked but was ignored.

"Let’s see under the hood.” The owner shrugged, popped the hood.

They gasped. A clean engine gleamed but no battery? No power source for the car with all the safety features?

“How’d you get the car here? I saw you drive up.” 

The owner winked at Timmy. “Rolled down the hill and glided in as pretty as you please.” He pointed to a van parked across the street. “Cameras rolling as we speak. If you agree, you can be on the evening news.” All clamored to give their consent. Who wanted to miss their five minutes of fame?

“Changed my mind,” Timmy said. “Our truck’s got power.”

Grandfather smiled. “Proves things are not as they appear.” 

“Looks really great—if you don’t raise the hood.” Timmy tilted his head. “The power source can be tricky, huh? Like our Bible verse this morning? We need to know our God is the Power Giver.” 

“Absolutely, son. No doubt about it.” He highfived his grandson.

 Kingdom Thinking.  I was like that car. To the world, all appeared well but the power of life was missing. Then the Lord Jesus came. He took the emptiness and pain—all my unrighteousness—and nailed it to the cross. He declared me righteous. He promises to love me and never forsake me. He is my Power Giver. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come? 

PROBLEM? DIFFICULT TO TRUST!

 “‘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).

“Grandfather has a Birthday surprise for me. Wants me to trust him. What’d he mean?” Cing pumped with her legs. The swing arced high as the sky.

“Cing. Time to go.” 

"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 he invite them? She peeped up. Grandfather watched her. He winked. She sighed but held his hand.

After dropping off the Gray kids later that afternoon, Cing turned to him. 

“Best Birthday ever. Thank you, Grandfather.” She grinned.

“The hiking trip—great fun but know what I loved best? Angie's 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.”

“Ah, but Cing. That’s what trust is.” 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. “That’s what my Sunday School teacher says. It’s hard 'cause I can't see Him.” 

“You're right. The Bible teaches He has a plan for my life—way too difficult for me to understand. But I do understand He loves me so much He died on the cross in my place for my sins. Not only that, He rose from the dead and lives so when I invited Him into my life, He promised never to leave me. So I choose to put my trust in Him.”

“I want to put my trust in Him, too, Grandfather.” Her hands on each side of his face, she whispered. 

“If He's kind like you, and loves me like you do, 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. 

HIS TOUCH!

 “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'd He ask if they thought He was able?” 

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 came to you for help." Timmy grinned and you said, ’Sure you think I can fix this?'"

"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 so much and wants us to come to Him, not for what we can get from Him. He wants us to love Him because He is Love. We share His Love because we know His amazing love never fails."

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

"Absolutely, son. We 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. 

THE PERFECT LINK!

 “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”  2 Corinthians 5:21. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, what are you making?”

“A chain.” He held it up. Janie's fingers covered her mouth.

“That chain—?”

“Yes?” He examined it. “Perfect, right?”

“It’s. It’s.” She rolled her lips. "The links don’t match. One’s rusted.”

“Yes. But look at this one. Heavy-duty steel. Should do the trick and hold the other links together.” 

Hand on her hips, she shook her head. “Okay, what are you teaching me today?” 

He grinned. “Some links are strong, some weak. If I hold this chain high, how many will fall when the most fragile breaks?”

“All that hang on the weak link.”

“Would you choose this chain for your safety if you dangle over a cliff?”

“No way. I'd want one with every link of heavy-duty steel.”

“Smart girl.” He tilted his head. “We all have weak links or sin in our lives. My link may be one thing, yours another. Get the picture?” She nodded.

“We need Someone with a perfect chain to cover us with His. One who guarantees He'll keep us safe.” He lifted his left eyebrow.

“The Lord Jesus?”

“Absolutely. He promised and He keeps His promises. We can depend on Him.”

Janie tilted her head. “Grandfather, that’s kind of crazy. Why would anyone choose a weak chain?” 

“Why indeed?” 

“Because no one told them about the the perfect chain?” She whispered.

“You’re right. So we—“ 

“We need to tell others about the Lord Jesus and that He can make their link new?” 

“Couldn’t have said it better myself.” 

Kingdom Thinking. My chain of life is filled with weak links. I choose to put my faith in the Lord Jesus because He loves me and promises never to leave me. His chain is unbreakable and He's the One who holds me and makes me new. How about you? Won't you put your trust in Him?

LITTLE CHILD! LOUD VOICE!

  

“Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’” Matthew 19:13,14. (NKJV).

"I need food." Timmy grabbed his rumbling tummy. On his knees he watched the passengers deplane. Their flight landed ahead of schedule at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia. 

"I really am hungry, Grandfather." The stewardess stopped by Grandfather’s seat. 

“Your flight won’t be called for another thirty minutes—plenty of time to enjoy a snack and stretch your legs.”

“Thank you. Ready, Timmy?” He grinned at another tummy growl. 

“There, across the way. Let’s head to that restaurant.”

“What would you like?” Grandfather said as Timmy scooted into a booth. 

“Give him a beer,” a gravelly voice at the bar, hollered.

“I’d like a hot dog with catsup and a Sprite, please.” 

Grandfather gave their orders, picked up their food, then spread it on the table.

“Can I have the blessing?” 

“Of course, son.” Grandfather bowed his head.

“The Lord is good to me and so I praise the Lord. For giving me the things I need. The sun and the rain and the apple seed. The Lord is good to me. Amen.” He lifted his head, a pleased expression on his face.

In the deafening silence, Grandfather looked around. At the bar, heads were bowed, hats off.

“Takes a little child, with a loud voice, to bring quiet to this place.” Grandfather chuckled, took a bite of his hot dog. "Eat up, son. Don't want to miss our flight.”

A few minutes later, he gathered his trash. “Thank you, Grandfather. That was good.” 

“My pleasure, son.” And thank you, Lord, for a child’s loud voice.

Kingdom Thinking. The actions of a child can speak louder than words. The Lord Jesus promises He'll never leave nor forsake me when people yell or try to discourage me. He loves me with an everlasting love. He says, “Come to Me.” The invitation includes you. Won’t you come?

GOOD MEDICINE!

 “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 yellow fur zipped under his elbow, snagged his steak, and fled. Stunned for a nano-second, he leaped from his chair 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 can. 

"’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. 

“’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. Good Medicine. Which would you choose? A merry heart or dried-up bones?” 

“Good medicine—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 good medicine. He promises the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?

ANYONE THIRSTY?

 “On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”John 7:37-38. (NKJV).

The little guy picked up a plastic water bottle, tipped it up. A few drops landed on his outstretched tongue. He dropped it into a shopping bag.

“Hey,” Timmy called. “Thirsty?" He held up a bottle of water.

“I'm Timmy," he pointed to the gentleman to his left. “This's Grandfather.” He handed the bottle to the boy. He chugged half of it.

"Name's Jake. Mine to keep?" 

“Yours to keep. We’re headed to get breakfast. Welcome to join us.” 

The boy peeped at Grandfather through half-closed lids. 

“If you’re not hungry, it’s okay." 

“Can I bring this?” He held his bag. At Grandfather’s nod, he slung it over his shoulder.

Seated, the waitress brought menus. “Mr. Sterling, Timmy." She pulled back. "Jake? What’re you doing here?”

“He’s my guest and needs a menu, Sally.” She hesitated, handed one to him. “Thank you. What’ll you have this morning, boys?” Grandfather winked at Timmy.

After a breakfast of blueberry pancakes and sausages, Jake put down his empty milk glass. “Y’all must eat here a lot. She knows your name.”

“Our Saturday morning treat. But Jake, I’ve not seen you before.”

“Just moved. She lives on my street.” Jake nodded to the waitress. “I’ve got to go. Thanks for breakfast.”

"Join us anytime." He smiled at Grandfather, grabbed his bag, and left.

“Think he’ll come again? He loved those pancakes.” 

Grandfather smiled. “I believe he will. He knows he's welcome with us.”

“Besides, we know his name.” 

“Indeed we do.” 

Timmy tilted his head. “Maybe after he gets to know us, we can offer him sips of living water?” 

Grandfather grinned. “Sounds like a plan to me.” He high-fived his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. Like Jake, I drank water that couldn’t satisfy. Then Lord Jesus invited me to come to Him and drink living water. He promises never to leave me and to love me with an everlasting love. He promises the same to you. He knows your name. Are you thirsty?