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March 2019 Archives

Printable Issue 3985  Today is Friday, March 1st, 2019; Karen's Korner #3985
Something written by Paul for the Thessalonians, which was good news for them.......and for us!


"I can tell you this directly from the Lord, that we who are still living when the Lord returns will not rise to meet Him ahead of those who are in their graves. For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a mighty shout and with the soul-stirring cry of the archangel and the great trumpet-call of God. And the believers who are dead will be the first to rise to meet the Lord. Then we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and remain with Him forever. So comfort and encourage each other with this good news."

~ 1 Thessalonians 5:15 - 18 LAB

*

Bible Commentary on these verses:  "Because Jesus Christ came back to life, so will all believers. All Christians including those living when He returns, will live with Jesus forever. Therefore, we need not despair when loved ones die or world events take a tragic turn. For God will turn our tragedies to triumphs; our poverty into riches; our pain to glory; and our defeat to victory. All believers throughout history will stand reunited in God's very presence, safe and secure. As Paul comforted the Thessalonians with the promise of the resurrection, so we should comfort and reassure one another with this great hope."

*****


Printable Issue 3986  Today is Tuesday, March 5th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3986

No Karen's Korner yesterday as I was away from my computer.

We have lots of snow in north central Iowa. It doesn't have to snow every day to be a problem, wind can cause problems too. Especially on our country roads. I was able to get out of my farm driveway and in to town on Sunday morning. Some weren't as fortunate. I had something that I wanted to do on Sunday evening, so I packed up a few clothes and my dog with plans to stay in town overnight. Which I did.

I called the neighbor yesterday morning.

"Could I get back in?"

"Yes," was his response.

By the time I got home, the snowplow had been by. Roads were good. But the pile of snow at the end of driveway! Could I get through it with my four-wheel drive pick up?

Maybe. Maybe not. I finally decided to try it.

I got stuck!

Called the same neighbor to help me out.

He took one look at my dilemma. Because I was off to the north side and because our turn-in is pretty wide, he decided he could drive passed me on the south side, into my yard, hook up his tow strap to get me out.

He 'believed' he could drive through the pile and did.

I wasn't so sure in my 'belief'.

I was stuck. He wasn't.

I wonder does what we believe somehow help to make a difference in our outcomes?

Some say 'seeing is believing'. God says 'by believing, you will see!'

At any rate, he pulled me out!

Dear Father in Heaven, You tell us so many things in Your Word. You love us so much and believe in us more than we believe in ourselves. Will you help me, and all of us, to believe more? Believe bigger? Thank You for all of Your promises to us. You have big plans for us all......if we just believe. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Printable Issue 3987  Today is Wednesday, March 6th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3987

Recently my sister Jan sent me a copy of a short article in the March Reader's Digest which she liked. I don't get the monthly publication.

The article was titled "To Any Soldier".

In part, the writer is Damian Bartholomew. He served as officer in both Korea and the Persian Gulf War. One night he was rummaging through a cardboard box with the words 'Any Soldier'. Contents:  a bag of stale chocolate chip cookies plus 20 cards signed by some school children with the their child-like graphics plus questions about some of his experiences of his service in both countries. 'For security reasons', he could sign only his name, when he wrote to thank the teacher for their kindness.

"Around 2013, I received a Facebook friend request from a woman with whom I shared no contacts. I replied that unless we were friends, I could not accept her request. She responded with one question:  'Are you 2LT Bartholomew?' I replied that I had been at one time. Her reply stuck with me.

'"Dear sir,' she wrote, 'We have never met, but in 1991 I was a second grade teach at a school in Ohio and our classroom sent a care package addressed to 'Any Service Member'. The thank you letter you composed was framed and has been posted on the wall of the school for more than 20 years. I wanted to thank you again for your service to our country. God bless you.'

"We never spoke again, but this gracious teacher reinforced my belief in doing what my mother always taught me:  Write thank you notes---you never know how many people your kindness can touch."

****

Printable Issue 3988  Today is Thursday, March 7th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3988
Another item on the copied page taken from March Reader's Digest and mailed to me by my sister Jan. (Yesterday's item was 'To Any Soldier).


"After Sunday School, my three-year-old, Kolby, exclaimed, 'i hate Jesus! Jesus is yucky!' I was mortified. Several minutes went by as we drove home and terrible thoughts filled my head. Where had we gone wrong? 'Tell me why you hate Jesus. He died on the cross for us.' Kolby tilted his head, and a perplexed look spread across his little face. This is it, I thought. He's going to reveal why he feels this way. 'Cheez-Its, Mom! I hate Cheez-Its!'"   (Submitted by Yvonne Ruff of Smithville, Missouri)

***

(As Jesus and His disciples were in a boat on a lake. Jesus was asleep.)


"A fierce storm developed that threatened to swamp them, and they were in real danger.
They rushed over and woke Him up.
'Master, Master, we are sinking!" they screamed.
So He spoke to the storm: 'Quiet down,' He said, and the wind and waves subsided and all was calm!
Then He asked them, 'Where is your faith?'"
(Luke 8:23 - 25 LAB)

*
Bible Commentary:  "When caught in the storms of life, it is easy to think that God has lost control and that we're at the mercy of the winds of fate. In reality, God is sovereign. He controls the history of the world and our personal destinies. Just as Jesus calmed the waves, He can calm whatever storms we may face."

***




Printable Issue 3989  Today is Friday, March 8th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3989

We Can Fear Less Tomorrow

By Max Lucado


"In Matthew 8:26, Jesus asks, 'Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?' That's a good question. Sometimes fear is healthy. It can keep a child from running across a busy road. It's the appropriate reaction to a burning building or a growling dog.

"Fear itself is not a sin. But it can lead to sin. If we medicate fear with angry outbursts, sullen withdrawals, or viselike control, we exclude God from the solution. Fear may fill our world, but it doesn't have to fill our hearts. It will always know on the door. Just don't invite it in for dinner. The promise of Jesus is simple. We can fear less tomorrow than we do today."


****

Printable Issue 3990  Today is Saturday, March 9th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3990

A Karen's Korner on Saturday, as I missed on Monday! Five each week, you know!


Today's entry from "Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence" by Sarah Young. Always good!


"Rest in My radiant presence. The world around you seems to spin faster and faster, till everything is a blur. Yet there is a cushion of calm at the center of your life, where you live in union with Me. Return to this soothing Center as often as you can, for this is where you are energized:  filled with My Love, Joy, and Peace.

"The world is a needy place; do not go there for sustenance. Instead, come to Me. Learn to depend on Me alone, and your weakness will become saturated with My Power. When you find your completeness in Me, you can help other people without using them to meet your own needs. Live in the Light of My Presence, and your light will shine brightly into the lives of others."

~ Galatians 5:22; 1 John 4:12

***

Printable Issue 3991  Today is Tuesday, March 12th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3991

Last week I missed Monday because I was snowed out. Yesterday, my computer wouldn't work! But today it works! Thanks to a computer person; I got a new mouse.

This is an inspirational thought which I received via email this morning from Max Lucado. When we first graduate from high school, we have lots of changes. New jobs. New friends. Different places to live. Then we settle down. Maybe get married. Find the job of our dreams; many times for decades. Probably live in the same places for extended periods of time.

Then comes our older life. Decisions to retire. Maybe move from a home where we have lived for a long time. Some change comes because we decide. Other changes come whether we like them or not.

Anyway, I thought this was a good one!


How to Love Growing Old

"The dawning of old age. Empty nest. Bifocals. Everything hurts when you wake up. And what doesn't hurt, doesn't work. Regret can become a major pastime and may lead to rebellion against whatever ties you down.

"Growing old can be dangerous, so you need to be prepared. Luke 17:33 advises, 'Whoever tries to keep his life safe will lose it, and the man who is prepared to lose his life will preserve it.' The wisest are not the ones with the most years in their lives, but the most life in their years.

"You can take the safe route, or you can hear the voice of God's adventure. Follow God's impulses. Adopt the child. Move overseas. Teach the class. Change careers. Make a difference. Your last chapters can be your best chapters. God's oldest have always been among his choicest."


Printable Issue 3992  Today is Wednesday, March 13th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3992

"And I assure you this:

I, the Messiah, will publicly honor you in the presence of God's angels,

if you publicly acknowledge me here on earth as your Friend.

But I will deny before the angels those who deny me here among men."

~ Luke 12:8, 9 LAB

*

Bible Commentary: "We deny Jesus when we: 1) hope no one will think we are Christians; 2) decide not to speak up for what is right; 3) are silent about our relationship with God; 4) blend into society; 5) accept our culture's non-Christian values. By contrast, we acknowledge Him when we: 1) live moral, upright, Christ-honoring lives; 2) look for opportunities to share our faith with others; 3) help others in need; 4) take a stand for justice; 5) love others; 6) acknowledge our loyalty to Him; 7) use our life and resources to carry out His desires rather than our own."

****


Printable Issue 3993  Today is Thursday, March 14th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3993

Some thoughts by Mother Teresa, taken from a flip calendar titled "Heart of Joy":


"We too often focus only on the negative aspect of life.

If we were willing to see the good and the beautiful things that surround us,

we would be able to transform our families,

From there, we would change our next-door neighbors

and then others who live in our neighborhood or city.

We would be able to bring peace and love to our world

which hungers so much for these things."

*

"Communion with Christ gives us

our strength, our joy, and our love."

*

"As we received freely, we give freely.

This is a beautiful gift from God."

*

"God wants our will and our desire to be for him,

for our family, for our children,

for our brethren, and for the poor."

*

"He is the Life that I want to live.

He is the Light that I want to radiate.

He is the Way to the Father.

He is the Love with which I want to love.

He is the Joy that I want to share.

Jesus is Everything to me.

Without him, I can do nothing."

****


Printable Issue 3994  Today is Friday, March 15th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3994

A look at some Bible verses as we are in Lenten season:


"But they shouted louder and louder for Jesus' death,

and their voices prevailed.

So Pilate sentenced Jesus to die as they demanded."

~ Luke 23:23 & 24 LAB

*

Bible Commentary:  "Pilate did not want to give Jesus the death sentence. He thought the Jewish leaders were simply jealous and wanted to get rid of a rival. When they threatened to report Pilate to Caesar, however, Pilate became frightened. Historic records indicate that Pilate had already been warned by Roman authorities about tensions in this region. The last thing he needed was a riot in Jerusalem at Passover time, when the city was crowded with Jews from all over the Empire. So he turned Jesus over to the mob to do with as they pleased."

****


Printable Issue 3995  Today is Monday, March 18th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3995

(This is the last Karen's Korner until next Monday. First away from my computer because of snow; then computer troubles last Monday. Now I am traveling for a few days with granddaughters over spring break).

An ecumenical group of gals here just started a multi-week Bible study by Beth Moore titled "The Quest". It is in depth. It's going to be hard to get the full impact of what Moore is sharing, but it is good.

The first lesson had 'student's asking themselves five questions which God and Jesus asked people with whom they talked. Same questions which are asked, spiritually speaking:

"WHERE are you?  Was asked by God to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden after they had eaten forbidden fruit. (Genesis 3:9)

"WHO told you that?  When Adam and Eve told God they were naked, God in turn asked them 'who told you that?  (Genesis 3:11)

"WHAT are you seeking?   Jesus asked that question of the first handful of what would be His disciples, as they began following Him.  (John 1:38)

"WHY are you afraid?   The boat on which Jesus and His disciples was caught in a storm. Jesus asked them this question.  (Matthew 8:26)

"HOW much more.......?  Jesus illustration of a friend knocking and re-knocking, on another friend's door at midnight, with the friend eventually getting up and answering it. He said so it is with prayer and telling those who were listening how much more a perfect and loving Heavenly Father will do for us.  (Luke 11:13)


When things bombard our lives or thoughts, we need to ask ourselves, one or all of these questions:  'who told you that?' or 'why are you afraid?' The same God and Jesus who posed those questions to others in the Bible, are the same Ones who ask the questions of us.

Our response has to be 'what do I/we believe'?

Printable Issue 3996  Today is Monday, March 25th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3996

Back after a week away. Traveled for parts of five days with two granddaughters to Florida to see some of the sights and sounds during their spring break. It was a good one!

We should always be in awe of God and His creation! Too many times we take what we see for granted. But just the last few days, I have been impressed!

Doesn't it just blow your mind how well ordered everything is? We go from winter cold and snow storms on toward melting snow, warm temperatures, and spring! All without missing a beat. Forecasters can set their clocks to the minute to when the sun will rise and set each day. And it happens!

We spent one day at the beach while away. First, we can't park at New Smyrna Beach (Atlantic side) because the tide was too high. We were there for part of an hour, when vehicles could park on it. More time passed and there was room for two lanes of traffic to drive as they meet one another! By the time we left, water-seekers had to walk at least fifty yards to get to the ocean. It was changing right before or eyes, as if on cue!

I know that it is nothing new, but sometimes we need to take time to be impressed by His hands and designs!

Psalm 19:1 says, "The heavens are telling the glory of God; they are a marvelous display of His craftsmanship." (read the rest of the chapter today if you have time! It's a good one!)

Father God in Heaven, may we never take You and Your handiwork for grant. Help us to really see You all around us! We celebrate You today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Printable Issue 3997  Today is Tuesday, March 26th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3997

"But with the help of God,

we shall do mighty acts of valor.

For He treads down our foes."

~ Psalm 108:13

*

Bible Commentary: "Do our prayers end with requests just to make it through stressful situations? David prayed not just for rescue, but for victory. With God's help, we can claim more than just survival, we can claim victory. Look for ways God can use your distress as an opportunity to show His mighty power."


***


Printable Issue 3998  Today is Wednesday, March 27th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3998

Today's daily inspirational thought from Anne Graham Lotz:


The Silence of God

"He who trusts in the Lord, mercy shall surround him."

~ Psalm 32:10 NKJV


"Is God silent in your life? What prayers has He not answered for you?

"At a time of unanswered prayer in my life years ago, my mother taught me the verse to a hymn that I still quote when I am totally baffled by events that seem to careen out of the orbit of what I have asked:


"Trust Him when dark doubts assail thee,

"Trust Him when they strength is small,

"Trust Him when to simply trust Him,

"Seems the hardest thing of all.


"Is your focus on your immediate need blinding you to a greater purpose that God is working out? Would you choose to be patient and simply trust Him? Sometimes God does not answer our immediate prayer because He has something greater in store for us."


*****



Printable Issue 3999  Today is Thursday, March 28th, 2019; Karen's Korner #3999

As we get closer and closer to celebrating Easter 2019 and Jesus completing his life here on earth.

Toward the end of the book of John, it says, 'Jesus prays for His disciples. And prays for future believers."

Us!


"I am not praying for these alone, but also for future believers who will come to me

because of the testimony of these.

My prayer for all of them is that they will be of one heart and mind,

just as you and I are, Father--

that just as you are in me and I am in you, so they will be in us,

and the world will believe you sent me."

~John 17:20 & 21 LAB


***

Printable Issue 4000  Today is Friday, March 29th, 2019; Karen's Korner #4000

Wow! Look at the number of today's Karen's Korner! #4000! I just looked back and I started this venture in March 2003; 16 years ago this month! Who knew?

Writing, editing, sharing these weekday thoughts began because of our daughter Merry. I had nine leftover emails from her plus a had a handful of thoughts I had near the time of her death that I didn't want to lose nor forget. Thus Karen's Korner started!

Thanks to my son-in-law Tim who helped me with my web site and for you as faithful readers; some who have been along for the ride since it began. Thanks to God who keeps me focused and grounded. Where would we be without Him?

So as a tribute to Merry and in celebration of this milestone, I am sharing one of her nine forwarded emails, sent to us a week almost to the minute before she died:


"A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, 'Who would like this $20 bill?' Hands started going up. He said, 'I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this.'

"He proceeded to crumple the bill up. He then asked, 'Who still wants it?' Still the hands were up in the air.

"'Well,' he replied, 'What if I do this?' And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now all crumpled and dirty. 'Now who still wants it?' Still the hands went into the air.

"'My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value in God's eyes. To Him, dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still preciously to Him."


"Psalm 17:8 states that God will keep us, 'as the apple of His eye'.

"THOUGHT:  'The worth of our lives come not in what we do nor who we are but by WHOSE WE ARE!'

"You are special. Have a great day!!"

***