Karen's Korner - Daily Inspirational Stories by Karen Weld
Browse my Site
Home
Archives
Karen's Guestbook
Search my Site



Subscribe to Karens Korner on Mail Chimp
Subscribing to Karens Korner will give you a new issue in your Email box almost every day
rss RSS Feed
I'm Karen

January 2006 Archives

Printable Issue 706  Today is Monday, January 2nd, 2006; Karen's Korner #706

Yesterday Pat O'Brien gave a short communion meditation at church, as he asked us, "What did you get for Christmas?" He said that it was an easy answer for him, "I got a Savior. We got a Savior!" He said he wished he had the courage to state that more often and openly to others when he is asked that simple question. But the good news for all of us is at Christmas time, "we get a Savior". And like all the rest of our gifts, we can enjoy them throughout 2006!

BLESSINGS FOR THE NEW YEAR

At this time of new beginnings…
As we close the old year out…
We take a look at our feelings…
And just what life is all about…

Life is about love and friendship…
Leaving a part of us along the way…
Life is about caring for others…
As we live from day to day…

Time stands still for no one…
Whether pauper or a king…
Life keeps moving right along…
As if it sprouted wings…

So as we take time to reflect on the past...
And look at special things we've done…
I pray everything in this New Year...
Brings you good memories for years to come...

May you have an abundance of health and prosperity…
May you have nothing but joy and love ...
May your life be filled with happiness…
And the peace of the snow white dove…

Have A Blessed New Year!

~~ author unknown

Printable Issue 707  Today is Tuesday, January 3rd, 2006; Karen's Korner #707

Writing by Rev. T. D. Jakes, forwarded to me by Susie Chapman:

Let it go for 2006

By T. D. Jakes

There are people who can walk away from you. And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: let them walk.

I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you, loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you.

I mean hang up the phone.

When people can walk away from you let them walk. Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left. The Bible said that, they came out from us that it might be made manifest that they were not for us. For had they been of us, no doubt they would have continued with us. [1 John 2:19]

People leave you because they are not joined to you. And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay. Let them go.

And it doesn't mean that they are a bad person it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead. You've got to know when it's dead. You've got to know when it's over.

Let me tell you something. I've got the gift of good-bye. It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye. It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give it to me. And if it takes too much sweat I don't need it.

Stop begging people to stay. Let them go!!

If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to...... LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to past hurts and pains ...... LET IT GO!!!

If someone can't treat you right, love you back, and see your worth..... LET IT GO!!!

If someone has angered you ........ LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge...... LET IT GO!!!

If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction...... LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents LET IT GO!!!

If you have a bad attitude....... LET IT GO!!!

If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better...... LET IT GO!!!

If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in Him...... LET IT GO!!!

If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship....... LET IT GO!!!

If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves...... LET IT GO!!!

If you're feeling depressed and stressed ......... LET IT GO!!!

If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it," then you need to...... LET IT GO!!!

Let the past be the past. Forget the former things. GOD is doing a new thing for 2006!!!

SO LET IT GO!!!

The Battle isn't yours; it is the Lord's!

Printable Issue 708  Today is Wednesday, January 4th, 2006; Karen's Korner #708
On the front page of the first Des Moines Register of the new year were the photos of about nine people who were turning sixty in 2006. "The first of the baby boomers", the headlines said. President Bush, Cher, Bill Clinton were three of them.
 
I join that group this year! And since there are lot of us in that age category spread of more than a decade, I am sure that we are going to hear a lot more about aging in the media in the future.
 
Several years ago a New York Times best seller was titled "tuesdays with Morrie".  It was written by Mitch Albom who was a college student of Morrie, a professor of sociology.
 
Morrie was Mitch's favorite college professor, but life had a way of separating the two over the years. Until Mitch learned of Morrie's impending death due to Lou Gehrig's disease. For fourteen Tuesdays, Mitch would fly to Morrie's bedside to learn some other truth according to Morrie, as the elder man was learning more of life's lessons which he was being taught.
 
Morrie told his younger charge a story he had once heard:
 
"There was a little wave, bobbing along in the ocean, having a grand old time. He's enjoying the wind and the fresh air -- until he noticed the other waves in front of him, crashing against the shore. '
 
'This is terrible!'  the wave says, 'Look what's going to happen to me!'
 
Along comes another wave. It sees the first wave, looking grim and it says to him, 'Why do you look so sad?'
 
The first wave says, 'You don't understand! We're all going to crash!! All of us waves are going to be nothing! Isn't it terrible?'
 
The second wave says, 'No, you don't understand. You've not just a wave, you're part of the ocean!!'"
Printable Issue 709  Today is Thursday, January 5th, 2006; Karen's Korner #709
I have a new friend, Chris Lousias, who is also new to our community. Among other things I have learned that Chris is a marathon runner. I had the opportunity to read a portion of a journal on her run in the Detroit Marathon. I like the way she wrote there and asked her to write a Karen's Korner devotional to share.
 
So today, this is from Chris:
 
Ready... or Not?

Mark 13:35 -- "You, too, must keep watch! For you don't know when the master of
the household will return-in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at
daybreak."

DEVOTIONAL:

Training for a marathon can be invigorating, rewarding and just plain crazy!
  Seriously, after weeks of training and the date of the event draws near,
one has the feeling of invincibility, a freedom like no other, an
accomplishment beyond all reason.

One day, three weeks before the Detroit Marathon, I was in the middle of a
15 miler.  It was my last long run before my taper weeks.  I was in a hurry
that day as I had a meeting to go to, but it was crucial that I not miss my
long run.  I was forced to run at the YMCA on the "dreadmill" due to
inclement weather.

I was in the midst of mile six when I went to reach for my water bottle.  It
wasn't there.  In my haste, I had neglected to bring my water AND my
Powerbar.  On a long run, it is crucial to take a mid-run snack so as not to
"hit the wall".  I was running well, and I really didn't want to interrupt
my pace by going to the water fountain.  I made the decision to gut it out.

Of course, I was now conscious of the fact I was without any support.  All
of a sudden I felt thirstier than I had a few minutes ago.  On top of that,
I was certain that I was going to starve to death!  Now my concentration was
off and I was falling out of the "zone".  I managed to struggle through to
mile 10 with all the distractions of my thoughts.

A friend of mine was walking past and I asked her if she wouldn't do me a
favor.  I begged her to go to my vehicle and get my water and a Powerbar out
of my lunchbox for me.  She was delighted to help.

Without skipping a beat my footfalls were lighter and my disposition
improved.  Just knowing that I was soon going to be relieved of my
discomfort lifted my spirits.  I watched the entrance with anticipation and
eagerness.  My friend came through for me, brought me the water and the
energy relief I needed.  I finished the 15 miles in good time, but I felt
consternation toward myself for not being ready.

Are you ready?  His Word tells us forthright that He will be back.  We know
that to be true just like I knew I had 15 miles to run, but I wasn't
prepared.  In your daily haste, do you neglect little things like a friendly
smile or a kind word just because you think people won't notice or care? 
Let's all work toward the goal that the Lord portrayed in the servant in

Matthew 24:45-47:

"A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the
responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them.
If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there
will be a reward.  I tell you the truth; the master will put that servant
in charge of all he owns.

PRAYER:

El Olam , You are the God of Eternity.  You have given us Your Son so that
we may worship You.  You are the One who gives us a freedom that matches no
other; a freedom from sin and darkness.  On bended knee we ask the Holy
Spirit to provide us with the sustenance to get us through the race to You. 
We pray that we all wait and watch for You with anticipation and eagerness
and be ever vigilant for the coming of our Bridegroom.  We ask that You
guide us to be the faithful and sensible servants that Your Word teaches us.
  We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ.  Amen.
Printable Issue 710  Today is Friday, January 6th, 2006; Karen's Korner #710
Another favorite of mine from Jeff White. As many of you know, Jeff is a minister and writes these notes daily, five times per week. If anyone would like to be added to his email list, let me know:
 

Patience produces character, and
character produces hope. And this hope
will never disappoint us.

Romans 5:4–5

 

    God is often more patient with us than we are with ourselves. We assume that if we fall, we aren’t born again. If we stumble, then we aren’t truly converted. If we have the old desires, then we must not be a new creation.

If you are anxious about this, please remember, “God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again” (Phil. 1:6).

Printable Issue 711  Today is Monday, January 9th, 2006; Karen's Korner #711
Luke 8:1 - 3 -- "...He (Jesus) began a tour of the cities and villages of Galilee to announce the coming of the Kingdom of God, and took his twelve disciples with him. Some women went along, from whom he had cast out demons or whom he had healed; among them were Mary Magdalene....Joanna.......Susanna, and many others, who were contributing from their private means to the support of Jesus and his disciples."
 
Commentary -- "Jesus raised women from degradation and servitute to fellowship and service. In Jewish culture, women were not supposed to learn from rabbis. By allowing these women to travel with him, Jesus was showing that all people are equal under God. These women supported Jesus' minstry with their own money. They owed a great debt to him, for he had cast demons out of some and had healed others."
 
Karen's Comment - Jesus had a better place for women in His kingdom than the culture allowed at the time. And He continues the practice in to today. Man or woman, adult or child, all of us are very special to Jesus, His work, and His kingdom.
Printable Issue 712  Today is Tuesday, January 10th, 2006; Karen's Korner #712
This is something forwarded to me by Jeanne Russell: 

Resume of Jesus Christ
Address: Ephesians 1:20
 
Phone: Romans 10:13

Website:The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savoir, and Jesus

Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart.  Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications

                 * I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)

                  * I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)

                  * I breathed into mand the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)

                  * I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)

                  * The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

            Occupational Background

                * I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49)

              * I've never been tardy, abset, disobedient, slothful, or disrespectful. 

             * My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)


Skills Work Experiences

             ·   Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the      brokenhearted, setting  the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).        

        ·     *   I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33). Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)


Educational Background

·  I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6). In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).    My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a lamp unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105). I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).


Major Accomplishments

              ·   I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).    

            * I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15). 

                     *  I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).

    ·              * I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!

                    *  There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.


References

               ·   Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance.

Printable Issue 713  Today is Wednesday, January 11th, 2006; Karen's Korner #713
Dear Father in Heaven,
 
I sit here at my computer, concentrating on what I am doing, when I hear a familiar leap from the wooden chest in our dining room. Our dog, Lady, has spied her friend Tubby (aka Flash) outside. She runs to me with a soft little whine. Her message is clear to me as she does her little dance, leading me to the door. She wants to go outside this morning for a romp with the neighbor's dog.
 
I know what she wants and I give it to her. I open the door of our kitchen and she joyfully runs through it to the out-of-doors.
 
Father, sometimes my prayers aren't very eloquent. Sometimes the thoughts and words are about as clear as Lady's whine. But because You know my heart and my thoughts, You honor my simple communication.
 
Thank You that You give me what I need and want, because You know the desires of my heart and mind. Thank You for opening doors for me and allowing me to run out into the world to enjoy some of the people and places You have set aside for me. Thank You for caring for me, even better than I can care for myself, Amen.
Printable Issue 714  Today is Thursday, January 12th, 2006; Karen's Korner #714
I received this email from Dorothy Riekens yesterday. Hope you enjoy it:
 
 
There once was a king who offered a prize to the  artist
who would paint the best picture of peace.
Many artists tried. The  King looked at all the pictures,
but there were only two he really liked and  he had to
choose between them.
 
One picture was of a calm  lake. The lake was a perfect
mirror for peaceful towering mountains were all  around it.
Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. All who
saw  this picture thought that it was a perfect picture  of
peace.
 
The other picture had mountains too. But  these were
rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain
fell,  in which lightening played. Down the side of the
mountain tumbled a foaming  waterfall. This did not look
peaceful at all.
 
But  when the King looked, he saw behind the waterfall
a tiny bush growing in a  crack in the rock.
 
In the bush a mother bird had built  her nest. There, in
the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother  bird
on her nest ... perfect peace.
 
Which picture do you think won the  prize?
 
The King chose the second picture.
 
Do you know  why?
 
"Because," explained the King, "peace does not  mean
to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard  work.
Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and
still be calm  in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace."

Printable Issue 715  Today is Friday, January 13th, 2006; Karen's Korner #715
I shared this memory with a friend several days ago and decided to share it with you today.
 
It was 1976 that Jim learned he was needing heart bypass surgery. He was just turning 37; I was still 30. Jamie and Merry were 5 and 3 respectively. The surgery wasn't as commom or as refined as it is today.
 
His first report was that he wouldn't be a candidate for the needed surgery. The news was devasting, as we attempted to sort out our future.
 
At the time I was reading through the Psalms. When times like that hit, I devour what the Bible might have to say. I was reading Psalms 49 and then 50, turning the page of the latter chapter; there was a verse (#15), in italics:
 
"I want you to trust me in your times of trouble;
so I can rescue you.
And you can give me glory."
 
That was all I needed to set my heart to singing. God wanted us to trust Him. We were going to be rescued. God would get the glory.
 
Doing a literal jig to see Jim in the hospital, I told him what I had read. Jim agreed we had no choice but to trust God. God would take care of us. We still didn't know the "how" we were going to be taken care of. God always has lots of choices. Our requirement was to have faith in Him; trust Him.
 
A couple of days later the cardiac chief of staff reviewed Jim's tests one more time and asked Jim's permission to try the surgery, not promising any positive outcomes. The surgery was scheduled one month later.
 
As they say, the rest is history! We have had other heart surgeries, hospitalizations, doctors, and medicines. But at the end of 2006, we will celebrate 30 years of rescue.
 
I just did a fast multiplication. That has been a few more than 10,600 days to date of rescue of Jim's life. And opportunities to give God glory!!
 
Printable Issue 716  Today is Monday, January 16th, 2006; Karen's Korner #716

I'll filling in for my mom as she and my dad are on vacation for a couple weeks.  They are on the plane to Hawaii as I write this.  I will try to have these posted in the mornings.  I hope to write a few of my own if time allows.  Please write me at jamie_champion1@yahoo.com if you have any questions.

Jamie

**************************

Psalms 56:9 –11 -- "The very day I call for help, the tide of battle turns. My enemies flee! This one thing I know: God is for me!! I am trusting God -- oh, praise his promises! I am not afraid of anything mere man can do to me! Yes, praise his promises. I will surely do what I have promised, Lord, and thank you for your help. For you have saved me from death and my feet from slipping, so that I can walk before the Lord in the land of the living."

Commentary:  Fear can cause physical problems and paralyze us from action. What could be more fearful than being surrounded by an enemy who is pressing in form all sides! Faced with this situation, David suggested several antidotes for fear: (1) remember that God is with you; (2) trust him, and (3) praise him for fulfilling his promises. When faced with persecution, insecurity, or insurmountable odds, use these to overcome your fear.

Printable Issue 717  Today is Tuesday, January 17th, 2006; Karen's Korner #717

I have been thinking about titles and categories that "define" us as people.  I have been and am many things.  Here is a partial list

I am a mom, wife, daughter, daughter-in-law, aunt, friend, neighbor, member of my church and some committees, a Stephen's Minister, book club member, volunteer and CHILD OF GOD

I have been a child, teenager, student, camp counselor, worker in several environments, Up with People and college alumni, member of a 4-H club, a athletic participant, choir member, and CHILD OF GOD.

Some day I hope to be a volunteer, grandmother, employee, world traveller, and Yes, a CHILD OF GOD!

Aren't we glad that some things never change.

...and Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me...."

Have a great day!

Printable Issue 718  Today is Wednesday, January 18th, 2006; Karen's Korner #718

God’s Glory in Creation

Psalms 19:1-6

“How clearly the sky reveals God’s glory! How plainly it shows what he has done! Each day announces it to the following day; each night repeats it to the next. No speech or words are used, no sound is heard; yet their message goes out to all the world and is heard to the ends of the earth.

God made a home in the sky for the sun; it comes out in the morning like a happy bridegroom, like an athlete eager to run a race. It starts at one end of the sky and goes across to the other. Nothing can hide from its heat.:

Commentary:

“We are surrounded by fantastic displays of God’s craftsmanship—the heavens give dramatic evidence of his existence, his power, his love, his care. To say that the universe happened by chance is absurd—its intricacy and dependability give proof of a personally involved Creator. As you look at God’s craftsmanship in nature and the heavens, thank him for such magnificent beauty and the truth it reveals about the Creator.”

Printable Issue 719  Today is Thursday, January 19th, 2006; Karen's Korner #719

Here is something from a Chicken Soup for the Soul from several years ago.  It sounds quite a bit like my life right now.

Enjoy!  Jamie

***************************************

        Hands

Thank you Lord for dirty hands
That touch my stove and fridge;
For sticky little fingers that
Try to build a bridge.

For careless hands that go astray
In search of something new;
For hands to hold and show the way
As mothers often do.

For precious little hands in which
Great faith so abounds;
For silly little hands that reach
To touch a mother's frown.

And thank you for Your guiding hand
That leads me to the light;
That lifts me when I stumble
And points me to the right.

As little hands reach out to me
To show them what to do,
I'm steadied, reassured and loved
As I reach up to You.

    By Judith Peitsch

Printable Issue 720  Today is Friday, January 20th, 2006; Karen's Korner #720

Here is a story that I received from a friend.

*************************

Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation.

Every afternoon when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.

The man in the other bed began to live for those one hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside.

The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.

As the man by the window described all this in exquisite detail, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine the picturesque scene.

One warm afternoon the man by the window described a parade passing by.

Although the other man couldn't hear the band - he could see it. In his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.

Days and weeks passed.

One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep. She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away.

As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.

Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the real world outside.

He strained to slowly turn to look out the window beside the bed.

It faced a blank wall. The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate who had described such wonderful things outside this window

The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall.

She said, "Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you."

Printable Issue 721  Today is Monday, January 23rd, 2006; Karen's Korner #721
This is a great story and I hope you enjoy it as much
as I did.

A true story by Josh and Karen Zarandona 
Brenda was a young woman who was invited to go rock climbing. Although she was very scared, she went with her group
to a tremendous granite cliff. In spite of her fear, she put on the gear, took hold of the rope, and
started up the face of that rock.  Well, she got to a ledge where she could take a breather. 

As she was hanging on there, the safety rope snapped against Brenda's eye and knocked out her contact lens.
 Well, here she is, on a rock ledge, with hundreds of feet below her and hundreds of feet above her. Of
course, she looked and looked and looked, hoping it had landed on the ledge, but it just wasn't there.

Here she was, far from home, her sight now blurry. She was desperate and began to get upset, so she prayed to
the Lord to help her to find it. When she got to the top, a friend examined her eye and her clothing for
the lens, but there was no contact lens to be found. She sat down, despondent, with the rest of the party,
waiting for the rest of them to make it up the face of the cliff.

She looked out across range after range of mountains, thinking of that verse that says, "The eyes of the
Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth." 
She thought, "Lord, You can see all these mountains. You know every stone and leaf, and
You know exactly where my contact lens is. Please help me."

Finally, they walked down the trail to the bottom. At the bottom there was a new party of climbers just
starting up the face of the cliff.  One of them shouted out, "Hey, you guys! Anybody lose a
contact lens?"

Well, that would be start ling enough, but you know why the climber saw it?  An ant was moving slowly
across the face of the rock, carrying it on it's back.


Brenda told me that her father is a cartoonist. When she told him the incredible story of the ant, the
prayer, and the contact lens, he drew a picture of an ant lugging that contact lens with the 
words, "Lord, I don't know why You want me to carry this thing. I can't eat it, and it's awfully heavy.
But if this is what You want me to do, I'll carry it for You."

I think it would probably do some of us good to occasionally say, "God, I don't know why you want me
to carry this load. I can see no good in it and it's awfully heavy. But, if you want
me to carry it, I will."

God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called. 
Printable Issue 722  Today is Tuesday, January 24th, 2006; Karen's Korner #722
Noah's Ark Everything I need to know, I learned from Noah's Ark: 

 1.  Don't miss the boat.

 2.  Remember that we are all in the same boat.

 3.  Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.

 4.  Stay fit. When you're 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.

 5.  Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.

 6.  Build your future on high ground.

 7.  For safety's sake, travel in pairs.

 8.  Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.

 9.  When you're stressed, float awhile.

 10. Don't be too afraid to try.  Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.

 11. No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting. 
 
12. Look before you leap, or at least send out a dove to make sure it's safe. 
Printable Issue 723  Today is Wednesday, January 25th, 2006; Karen's Korner #723

A Chicken Soup for the Soul -

His Special Gifts 
By Debbie Hollandsworth

     During the summer of 1998, my eleven-year-old daughter Liz moved up from a pony to her first horse, and she named him Koda.  As is the case with many little girls and their first horses, Liz and Koda immediately bonded and became inseparable. 
     That fall, after a ride with a friend, Liz did not get the gate latched all the way and the following morning she found that Koda had gotten into the grain.  He didn't show any signs of developing founder - an internal deformity of the hoof that is the end result of a complex series of events triggered by overeating.  But he had eaten a great deal, so we thought it best to call the veterinarian and take him in to be checked over.  Koda was sent home with instructions to keep him moving.  If he didn't founder by the weekend, he would be all right. 
     The weekend came and we thought we were home free.  Think again.  Sunday morning, Koda was stiff and sore and could not get around.  He had foundered.  The veterinarian was called, and this time we had medicine to administer, and orders to walk him every two hours and give him shots every four hours. 
     Liz was devastated.  Her horse was dangerously ill and it was because of something careless she had done.  She slept with Koda while we took turns on the couch, getting up every two hours.  When it rained, she walked him inside the barn.  She did everything in her little-girl powers to encourage him to eat.  But he steadily got worse. 
     Neither Liz nor this little horse would give up.  He responded only to her.  Only she could get him to lift his head or stand.  He would nicker for her when she was not there.  I would look out the window to see him lying in the yard with his head in her lap and her tears falling on his face.  I prayed to God to please not separate these two. 
     After two weeks and no sign of improvement, our veterinarian suggested that we put Koda down.  My daughter was hysterical and I asked him if there was anything else we could do.  He told us about a Mennonite horseshoer by the name of Mr. Martin, who lived three hours away and who was known to have had some success saving foundered horses. 
     After talking it over with Liz's grandpa, we called Mr. Martin and described the devotion of this little girl to her horse, and how hard both were trying.  We explained that he was our last hope for pulling Koda through.  Without hesitating, Mr. Martin simply said, "Bring him down and let me take a look at him." 
     The next day, my daughter met her hero.  When we arrived at Mr. Martin's, Koda wasn't able to stand in the trailer.  The kind horseshoer looked Koda over carefully and in words that were music to our ears, said that he thought he could save this horse.  He explained to Liz that she had to be willing to work hard because things were going to get worse before they got better.  Liz told him that she would do whatever it would take and, given the sacrifices she already had made, I had no doubt that she would. 
     With Liz's commitment made, Mr. Martin and his sons welded metal plates onto the bottom of the horseshoes.  They applied a homemade concoction to Koda's hooves, then packed them with cotton and nailed on the shoes.  Koda was hauled to Mr. Martin's every two weeks for his hooves to be trimmed and the procedure to be repeated.  This biweekly regimen went on for three months, then it became every four weeks, then every six weeks for an entire year. 
     Liz followed every instruction that Mr. Martin gave her, and Koda did everything that Liz wanted him to.  With time and lots of love, Koda healed completely and you would never know that he had foundered.  Mr. Martin now admits that he wasn't sure Koda was going to make it.  What he did know without a doubt, was that Koda would give it his best to stay with his girl. 
     I think God has a special place in his heart for a mother's prayers and little girls and their horses.  He's given men like Mr. Martin extraordinary knowledge and empathy to do good work, and he's blessed us with the power of love.  Because of his special gifts, Liz and Koda are inseparable to this day.

Printable Issue 724  Today is Thursday, January 26th, 2006; Karen's Korner #724

Still Jamie working on the Karens Korners.  I have spoken with my parents and they are having a great time.  I'm sure that she'll have a story or two to share in the upcoming weeks.  Today you will get a couple thoughts from me.

Tim, Molly (5 months), Luke (almost 2) and I went out for dinner this week to a mexican restaurant near our house.  It's a busy time with two small kids but they were both great.  We used a great many napkins and got a lot of assistance from our great waitress.  As we were paying our check, she asked if Luke could have a balloon.  We said yes and the first one popped on the ceiling of the restaurant.  The replacement came just as we were leaving and Luke was thrilled.

When we arrived home, I asked Luke if I could hold onto his balloon until we got inside our house.  He said, "No, Luke do it."  Not everything has to be a power struggle so I let him  decide.  We hadn't even left our detached garage when he accidently let go and the purple balloon floated to the ceiling. 

Instantly, the sad, crying face took over.  He wanted his balloon.  Tim was able to get a ladder and reach the balloon easily.  Luke and I were inside watching every move.  Such PEACE and JOY overtook Luke's face when he saw dad walk to the door with the balloon.  He said thank you and hugged him before playing with it and other toys until bedtime.

When I watch Luke, I think about my thoughts and emotions.  They may not be as obvious but they matter to God.  He rescues my treasures and returns them to me after I think that they are lost and out of reach.  I am so thankful for His goodness and faithfulness to me.  Hey, maybe I'm not so different than a 2 year old in God's eyes!

Have a great day!

 

Printable Issue 725  Today is Friday, January 27th, 2006; Karen's Korner #725

I'LL DO BETTER TOMORROW, I PROMISE

Dear God, are You still awake?
Have You got a minute or two?
You're pretty good at understanding,
And I really need to talk to You.

You see, Mommy came to tuck me in,
Like she does every night.
I was trying to play a trick on her,
Since she can't see without the light.

I was going to close my eyes
And pretend to be asleep.
But when I heard her crying,
I didn't dare let out a peep.

She started talking to you, God.
Did You hear the things she said?
Could You hear what she was saying
As she stood beside my bed?

Why would Mommy be so sad?
I wondered just what I had done,
And then I began to remember it all
As she named them one by one ...

This morning we worked in the garden,
But, honest, I really didn't know
That if I picked all those little yellow blooms
The tomatoes wouldn't grow!

Charlie and I were trying to be helpers,
'Cause I know that's what Mommy needs,
But I don't think she was too happy with us
When we pulled up carrots instead of weeds.

Mommy said we should stop for the day,
She decided we had helped quite enough.
I sure had worked up an appetite ...
I didn't know gardening was so tough!

We had peanut-butter and jelly for lunch,
And I shared too much, I guess ...
But I didn't realize until I was done
That Charlie had made such a mess.

Mommy said she needed a nap,
She had one of her headaches today.
She told me to keep an eye on my sister
And find something quiet to play.

Well, God, do You remember all those curls
You gave my little sister Jenny?
We played barber shop ... very quietly ...
And now, well, she doesn't have any.

Boy, was Mommy mad at me ...
I had to go sit on my bed.
She said never to cut "people hair" again.
I guess I'll practice on Charlie instead.

We sat and watched poor old Albert,
I just knew he must be so bored
Going round and round in the same place all day,
Wouldn't You think so, Lord?

I didn't think it would hurt to let him out for awhile.
I mean, mice need exercise, too.
By the way, have You seen Albert lately?
He's been sort of missing since two.

Mommy sent us outside for the rest of the day.
She said we needed fresh air.
But when Daddy came home she told him
She was trying to get something out of her hair.

We thought Mommy needed cheering up,
So we decided to brighten her day.
But, God, did You see the look on her face
When we gave her that pretty bouquet?

We had gotten a little bit dirty,
So Mommy said to get in the tub.
"Use soap this time," she reminded,
"And please don't forget to scrub."

Charlie didn't like the water too much,
But I lathered up real good.
I knew Mommy would be so proud of me
For cleaning up like I should.

I went downstairs to the table,
But during dinner it started to rain ...
I'd forgotten to turn off the water, it seems,
And I hadn't unplugged the drain!

I decided right then it was just about time
To start getting ready for bed,
When Mommy said, "It's sure been a long day,"
And her face began turning all red.

I lay there listening to Mommy
As she told You about our day.
I thought about all of the things I had done
And I wondered what I should say.

I was just about to tell her
That I'd been awake all along,
And ask her to please forgive me
For all of those thing I'd done wrong.

When suddenly, I heard her whisper,
"God, forgive me for today ...
For not being more understanding
When those problems came my way ...

For not handling situations
In the way You wanted me to ...
For getting angry and losing my temper,
Things I know You don't want me to do.

And, God, please give me more patience,
Help me make it through another day,
I'll do better tomorrow, I promise ...
In Jesus' name I pray."

Wiping her eyes, she kissed me
And knelt here beside my bed.
She stroked my hair for a little while ...
"I love you, precious," Mommy said.

She left the room without ever knowing
That I'd been awake all the time.
And God, could we make it our little secret?
You know, just Yours and mine?

I'm sorry I was so much trouble today,
I really didn't mean to be ...
Daddy says it's tough being a kid sometimes,
But I think it's harder on Mommy than me.

Well, goodnight, God. Thanks for listening.
It's sure nice to know You're there.
I feel so much better when I talk to You
'Cause You always hear my prayer.

And I'll do better tomorrow, I promise ...
Just You wait and see!
I'll try not to be so much trouble again,
But, God, please give more patience to Mommy ...

... just in case!

Printable Issue 726  Today is Monday, January 30th, 2006; Karen's Korner #726

Here are two small forwarded emails that I had in my in box for a while. 

They make me smile and laugh as I hope they do to you.

********************************

Today...
I wish you a day of ordinary miracles----
A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself.
An unexpected phone call from an old friend.
Green stoplights on your way to work or shop.
I wish you a day of little things to rejoice in...
The fastest line at the grocery store.
A good sing-along song on the radio.
Your keys right where you look.
I wish you a day of happiness and perfection---
little bite-size pieces of perfection that give you the funny feeling
that the Lord is smiling on you, holding you so gently because you
are someone special and rare.

**************************
Potholes:

After a hardy Kentucky rainstorm filled all the potholes in the streets
and alleys, a young mother watched her two little boys playing in the
puddle through her kitchen window.

The older of the two, a five year old lad, grabbed his sibling by the back
of his head and shoved his face into the water hole. As the boy recovered
and stood laughing and dripping, the mother runs to the yard in a panic.

"Why on earth did you do that to your little brother?!" she says as she
shook the older boy in anger.

"We were just playing 'church' mommy," he said. "I was baptizing him in
the name of the Father, the Son and in the hole-he-goes."

Printable Issue 727  Today is Tuesday, January 31st, 2006; Karen's Korner #727

Another favorite from Jeff White:

Remember, O Lord,
Your tender mercies and Your lovingkindnesses,
for they are from of old.

Psalm 25:6

 

     I was frustrated earlier this week.  Something had happened and it really saddened me.  The first thing I did was call my dad.  As soon as he answered I told him I just needed to talk.

     This is what the psalmist is saying, don’t forget me God.  When I need you, I need you immediately.  Don’t forget me just as you’ve remembered everyone else since the beginning of time.