Strength for the Storm

Last night we experienced storms in our area—much needed storms! I am not sure how much rain we had, but our crepe myrtles were victims of the downpour. After my husband’s extensive trimming last winter, they developed a large number of new limbs that grew long rather than thick. Two dozen or more of these weak branches broke off last night from the weight of the rain.

Some time ago I encountered a storm in my personal life that would have broken me if I had not been strong enough to weather it. Without knowing what was coming, I had the support needed to persevere through the difficulties. How did that happen?

Time to Celebrate!

The people of Dallas celebrated the NBA Champion Mavericks in style yesterday with a downtown parade which drew about a quarter of a million people. The fans cheered and danced together in honor of the first Maverick’s championship. For those of us not present, we had live coverage on all the local channels. It seemed there was no other news in the world if you watched the local broadcasts last evening since the parade was the only conversation piece.

Doing What Comes Natural!

About eight o’clock last night I went into my backyard with my two terriers. As soon as they exited the door, they started running wild. They appeared to be chasing something in our yard and teaming up against it. Soon Maggie came out of the bushes carrying something in her mouth. Oh no, it was a baby rabbit! How could my sweet dogs have done such a thing? They simply did what comes natural, being bred to grab ground critters. I look forward to Christ’s return when even the animal kingdom is at peace. I cry over dead bunnies!

Even worse, is what happens when we humans do what comes natural. Brokenness and death follow our selfish actions and hurtful words. Jesus called his followers to live differently from the rest of the world by living supernaturally. How do we live out his teachings to love our enemies, to turn the other cheek, to forgive, and to seek what is best for others rather than ourselves?

I can only share what helps me move toward Christlikeness instead of doing what comes naturally:

The Power of Dirk!

Even if you aren’t a basketball fan, you have likely heard about the numerous comeback wins in this year’s NBA playoffs by the Dallas Mavericks. Their star player Dirk Nowitzki has led the charge from behind game after game. It seems unbelievable that he has been able to rally the Mavs so many times with his own brilliant play and determination to win a championship.

What can we learn from Dirk as Christ-followers?

My Stupidity and God's Sovereignty

I believe that the mighty Creator is also Ruler of all. Nothing happens to me without his approval. My actions are fenced in according to his will. Yet, my choices are mine, and my stupid mistakes are my own fault. I can only blame myself when I mess-up. However, I take comfort in knowing that God allowed me to blow it because of his purposes, even when I can't figure them out!

I traveled home from Los Angeles almost two weeks ago now. Stupidly, I left my laptop in the security area and never realized it until I was safely home.