Gratifying Redemption

“You’ve been through faith, not your own doing, but by God’s grace." ~ Ephesians 2:8

The guilt still haunted him. He’d easily forgiven himself for other selfish, foolish decisions, but for some reason, he couldn’t forget the ethics exam nearly two decades ago.

As the corporate VP of Talent Development, Bryson found it increasingly hypocritical to speak of the importance of business integrity given his youthful indiscretion. Today he’d make amends.

Standing before a dated nameplate, dim light from under the door suggested his old professor might still be employed. Byson tapped gently and a voice inside called, “Come in.”

Dr. Velma Lewis’ silver-streaked hair left no doubt that she was a serious philosopher. She’d earned a reputation as a brilliant, yet selectively approachable professor.

“I have a confession to unburden today,” he began. “In your Business Ethics class eighteen years ago, I cheated on the final exam. I paid someone for the correct answers,” he mumbled, relieved and exhausted after his admission.

The septuagenarian furrowed her brow as the nervous executive waited for a response. This scene had played out before her dozens of times before, each penitent seeking a pardon to erase whatever emotional burden they carried.

Unfortunately for him, Bryson had caught her in one of her feistier moods.

“As I recalled Mr. Pfeifer, that was a large class,” she said staring quizzically over her bifocals. “That means you gained an unfair advantage over a hundred or so classmates. Can I assume you came here to make things right?”

He nodded, still wondering how she remembered him at all.

“I think the best solution would be to help 100 other students with their education. Provide them with an advantage to make up for the advantage you stole,” the shrewd educator offered.

“Now if there’s nothing else, I have a lecture,” she said abruptly. Then added, “Remember, actions speak louder than words.”

For weeks, he tried suppressing Lewis’ ridiculous assignment. But when his guilt couldn’t be extinguished, he swallowed his pride and decided to meet with the high school principal in one of the city’s poorest neighborhoods.

“How can I help, what are your biggest problems?” he asked. “I want to make a difference.”

The principal’s tired eyes narrowed on a printed list taped to the wall near her desk. “Those are the kids who keep me up at night - the dropouts. If you want to make a difference, get those kids back. If they don’t graduate high school, their lives will turn out a mess.”

Five years and one hundred successes later, Bryson presented Dr. Lewis with a large folder. It contained 100 pictures and a story about each student who dropped out of school and then returned and graduated.

“It’s okay,” he grinned. “You don’t have to say anything. Reactions speak louder than words too. Funny how that works.”

Heavenly Father, help me make amends for those I’ve hurt in my foolish and sinful past. Help me to love and grace those I’ve harmed as You have done for me. Help me live humbly, honestly, and tenderly with others. Amen

Old School

 “Honor God, love others, respect those given authority." ~ 1 Peter 2:17

Laurie was on her best behavior the week before the dance, not wanting to give her Dad any reason to change his mind. But when the night of the long-awaited event arrived, it finally sunk in that her father would not go back on his word.

He even approved of her high neck, vermillion-colored, midi dress that accented her long blond curls. But, as he’d done with both brothers, she didn’t leave the house without some advice.

“If a boy asks you to dance and you decline, then don't dance for the rest of the night.” He went on to explain that it was ok to refuse a request from a boy who was a thug or was known for “using” a girl sexually. But you should never reject a dance request from a boy just because he isn't your handsome ideal, only to dance with someone else later. That would be rude and hurt feelings.

Her brothers hadn’t escaped Dad’s old-school chivalry either. “Never cross the room to ask the prettiest girl to dance. It embarrasses the other girls. Choose the closest one. If she happens to be the most popular, then that’s your good luck. If not, treat her like the Belle of the Ball anyway.”

Dad’s Old School advice had nothing to do with his age. The term wasn’t derogatory. He still had many of the same beliefs and core values he’d been exposed to much earlier in his life. He simply savored traditions more than current trends.

While some things from days gone by are no longer practical or relevant, now Laurie has gained a profound appreciation for his traditional thinking while raising her own children.

She and Darin, her husband of 22 years, are teaching them to respect parents and anyone older or in positions of authority. Speak when spoken to. No cursing, swearing, or insulting others allowed.

They want their kids to understand the difference between crass nationalism (“my country right or wrong, better than everyone else”) and a love of country - celebrating its traditions and trying to make our country better, more inclusive.

Her Dad’s WWII generation certainly knew the importance of self-sacrifice. They’ve tried to instill an energetic, grateful work ethic, whether it’s mowing the lawn, completing homework, or helping others. They’re changing the “all about me, what’s in it for me, and how little can I get away with doing” mentality.

Sit up straight. Look someone in the eye. Stand tall. There’s far too much slacking today. Old-school behavior goals include proper table manners and more moderate (less) consumption of food.

Sounds a whole lot like traditional Judeo/Christian values, doesn’t it? While they haven’t totally disappeared, they certainly need to make a comeback.

Dear Lord, we have so often gone along with the ways of the world, without even noticing. Forgive us for our sins of commission and omission. Wake us up to Your transformative power. We desperately need Your help. Amen

Pure Gold

 “Rainbows are God’s reminder of His endless covenant with every living creature.”~ Genesis 9:16

As a child, I became enamored by magical and mystical stories, always hoping they were true. For example, rainbows were God's painted graffiti, random perfection against gloomy skies. After a storm, I’d race my bike towards that seven-colored arch, hoping to find the end with the pot of gold; imagining what I could do with that newfound wealth.

I returned home disappointed every time.

Later I learned that a rainbow is an “optical illusion” only appearing when viewed from the right angle relative to its light source. Its nearly one million colors are impossible to differentiate with the human eye. Instead, we can only see Isaac Newton’s seven hues: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.

Several weeks ago, a fierce storm passed through, leaving a light, misting rain in its wake. A translucent arc dripping with pigments appeared, hovering gracefully against a vibrant blue palette. Indescribable beauty.

I gazed quizzically out the window. Its artistic banner stretched as open hands reaching into our backyard; a celestial bridge woven with threads of radiant light and dreamlike hues.

I hurried outside. Its magic still lived in my heart.

I’d be lying to you if I denied looking for that elusive pot at either end. But in my pointless search, a thought struck me like a thunderbolt. Rainbows have something better than material riches at the end. They represent the glory of God on Earth.

The rainbow gained popularity in recent years as certain ideological groups adopted it as their official logo. However, God already assigned meaning to this celestial stunner.

The very first mention of a “rainbow” in Western literature can be found in the Bible when God spoke to Noah after the great flood. In Genesis 9, He vowed to restrain His wrath, which must have provided needed reassurance to Noah and his family. It reminded them of His love and care for them, even during the most devastating of times.

The real lesson from the rainbow in my front yard made God’s promise real. Centuries later, we know that rainbows are still a sign of that ancient covenant. Those ethereal arches are meant to remind us of God’s grace, love, and forgiveness – believers and non-believers alike.

The brightest rainbows appear after the darkest storms. When we face a troubling challenge and think everything is upside down, He paints a joy-filled rainbow for us, just like He guided Noah and kept him safe through all the uncertainty on their voyage. We can turn to Him when we’re sad, frightened, or just not sure what to do.

Like the promise He made to Noah, He makes a rainbow promise to us in Jesus – that He will always forgive our sins and love us no matter what.

Father God, thank you for the vast array of promises we read in the Holy Scriptures. Your promises are inspirational, Your faithfulness unmatched. Thank you for the ways you care for us and remind us to stand on Your (and our own) promises. Amen

Finding Nimo

 “Always be joyful. Be thankful in all circumstances." ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16, 18

Fame and fortune blessed this artist in his early twenties.

Born in Los Angeles, his passion for music began in high school where he started casually writing and performing his own music. He’s seldom recognized for his prestigious college degree from the Wharton Business School or his successful career at a highly competitive Wall Street firm. His rise to stardom came as a rebellious twenty-something who left NYC’s financial district to pursue his real passion – music.

Along with a few college friends, Nimesh Patel (Nimo), started a band called Karmacy. Together they pioneered a tri-lingual form of rap music. Much to their surprise, their combination of hip-hop and soulful lyrics struck a deep chord and their popularity soared rapidly. But his story wouldn’t be complete if it ended there.

During the next ten years, Nimo’s journey would take a series of unexpected twists, forcing him to reexamine his goals. Despite his full-throttle lifestyle and millions of adoring MTV fans worldwide, he found himself gravely unsatisfied.

Seeking answers to life’s most important question, Nimo walked away from it all – his fame, fortune, even his music. On a quest for deeper truths, he sought the counsel of saintly teachers, meditated in the Himalayas, and drastically simplified his life, his diet, and his mindset.

Instead of the next big idea, he focused on doing small acts of service, volunteering with children in the slums of Ahmedabad, India. Mahatma Gandhi had spent 13 years of his life there also, spreading the gospel of truth, love, and non-violence.

He began to understand what it meant to align his head, hands, and heart. “Those kids possessed a richness that far outstripped material wealth,” he said.

Eventually, Nimo embraced his musical gifts again. The work was the same, but he had changed.

He started “Empty Hands Music,” a 501c3, to extend kindness and encourage gratitude throughout the world through “selfless service, music and love.” “We arrive on this planet empty-handed,” stated Nimo, “and we will all leave empty-handed, So then, how and in what spirit do we want to spend the time in between?”

Recently, he teamed up with an old pal, Daniel Nahmod, and brought together dozens of people from around the world to create a beautiful, soul-stirring music video called “Grateful.” View it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sO2o98Zpzg8

“All that I am, All that I see, All that I’ve been, and all that I’ll ever be is a blessing. It’s so amazing and I’m grateful for it all.“ ~ Nimo Patel and Daniel Nahmod

Inspired by the 21-Day Gratitude Challenge, the song celebrates the human spirit and all of life’s blessings. For the three weeks, over 11,000 participants from 118 countries learned that gratitude is a habit cultivated consciously and a muscle built over time.

Lord, today I offer You a heart of thanksgiving and praise in all my daily experiences. Inspire me to be joyful in all circumstances, to pray continually, and to always give thanks to You. I’m grateful for it all. Amen

Take the Plunge

“When anxious, through prayer and thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” ~ Philippians 4:6

Adrenalin junkie would never be a phrase describing her. But after playful ribbing from her teens, she reluctantly agreed to try the towering water slide.

Climbing to the top of “Echo Falls,” Erin felt the rush of excitement that brought memories of much younger days on her school playground.

The sun shined brilliantly. August heat amplified screams of giddy laughter as the mother of three readied herself for the frightening descent into the aquamarine pool seven stories below.

She glanced down the severe descent, swallowed her fear, and took the plunge, accelerating downward at a frightening speed.

It wouldn’t have been so bad except… Erin couldn’t swim.

She anticipated safely dropping off the end of the slide into shallow water. Instead, she found herself breathless underwater, fighting a suffocating state of panic and fear.

She struggled to keep her head above the watery grave that waited to swallow her whole. Fighting desperately for her last gulp of air, Erin sucked in a mouthful of water instead and choked violently. Cold water filled her lungs; blood pounded behind her eyes. She desperately wanted to cry out for help but couldn’t breathe enough air. Once-flailing arms and legs quickly weakened.

“This is it. This is how my life is going to end!” she thought.

Through the muffled sound of the water, Erin heard a lifeguard’s screeching whistle. An arm appeared and heroically pulled her safely out of danger. Panting rapidly and coughing heavily, Erin thanked the lifeguard, who looked at her quizzically.

He then pointed to the inscription on the side of the pool that read ‘Depth 3 feet.’ “All you had to do was stand up,” he said with a sympathetic voice.

Isn’t that how life happens sometimes? It's like we’re drowning. We feel overwhelmed by too many responsibilities, major life changes, or overinflated expectations that can lead to many physical and mental symptoms.

I’m not sure what’s currently happening in your life, or what overwhelming situations you may face, but we will all face unexpected challenges and heartaches. But in the midst of it all, we have a God who, like that lifeguard, stands ready and willing to rescue us. Remember:

No matter how unqualified you feel for the tasks ahead, God equips us with all we need.

No matter how rapidly you’re gliding down life’s slippery slope, God will always bring hope.

No matter how overwhelmed your feelings, God will never let you drown.

So, take the plunge. Prayerfully and gratefully ask God for guidance and support. Put aside your pride and let God work His magic. We simply need to trust that He’s got this. The more that we let go and give Him control, the easier the challenging times will be.

Lord, even though I’m easily overcome by life’s challenges, I thank You for always being there for me. Remind me that by the power of Your Word, I’m well-equipped for the journey You’ve prepared me for. Amen

A Sweet Reminder

 “True friends honor each other above themselves." ~ Romans 12:10

It began under the most unusual circumstances, neighbors imprisoned by the pandemic and fearing isolation. Benjamin, an energetic two-year-old, and Mary, with decades of stories to tell, found each other just when they needed friendship the most.

Ben hadn’t any playmates to socialize with for more than half of his young life. At 99, Mary lived alone and completely autonomous. But her grand and great-grandchildren all lived out of state. They soon became friends at the fence that separated their homes.

Ben’s laughter radiated outward, like the ripples from a skipping stone. His exuberance gave Mary new life and reminded her of what it was like to be young again.

For her part, she offered the little boy cookies, a box full of used Tonka trucks, and the kind of warmth and attention only someone with a century of life could.

Their bond provides a sweet reminder of the simple pleasures of human connection.

During a period when the world felt so isolated, their friendship provided a beacon of trust and joy. Mary’s days got a bit brighter with Benjamin around, while he got a glimpse into a world of wisdom and patience that no school could teach.

Research has shown that the single most important determinant of well-being and longevity is social interaction.

It’s all about finding friendship in unexpected places and the magical moments that can happen right in our backyards. Their story should inspire all of us to look beyond differences or situations and perhaps discover a friend waiting on the other side.

Today, there are more of us older than sixty in the U.S. than under eighteen, raising legitimate concerns of a “gray wave” brought on by declining fertility rates and prolonged life expectancies. As this demographic shock unfolds, it spells increased healthcare costs, greater transportation and housing needs, and fewer young workers contributing to Social Security. Some fear a looming tension between kids and “canes.”

For those of us in the senior generation, we must accept that life is a journey with a beginning, a middle, and an end. Choosing how we want to be remembered and acting accordingly is really about the small life choices we make every day. We then have the chance to see past the fantasy of remaining young forever, foster some creative ideas, pass on what we’ve learned, and nurture hope in the teenage and younger generations.

Whatever you choose, do so with fervor and love. Seeding, tending, and leaving our best to future generations is our human responsibility. Our task isn’t to try to be young but to be there for those who are. Embracing this may be the only way we can survive as an older-than-younger society and bring happiness and fulfillment to all.

Lord, grant us the wisdom, strength, and understanding to faithfully mentor young people by our actions and example. Help us guide our youth in making the right decisions and in understanding Your will for their lives. Amen

Notes To My Younger Self

 “Don't worry, stay healthy. Adolescence goes by so quickly.” ~ Ecclesiastes 11:10

Dear younger me:

As write this letter to 10-year-old me, I’m flooded with memories of our past and the adventures that led us here. If allowed to throw out a couple of the lousy ones and keep the best ones, you will do just fine over the next several decades.

Every step you’ll take, and every experience you’ll have, will shape the person you will eventually become. So, listen closely to the words I’m sharing from the future.

Resist the urge to grow up too fast. Be patient, God has much planned for you. Enjoy this time in your life because youth and vitality don’t last forever.

You are unique. Embrace your individuality, your quirks, and your passions; each will make your journey extraordinary. Don’t let others define you. Remember that you’re awesome in God’s eyes and nothing you achieve or bomb in life will change His love for you.

It's perfectly natural to feel unsure and doubt yourself. Life is a series of discoveries; each challenge you face presents a chance to learn and mature. Don’t hide your pain or isolate yourself. Use your story to help others feel less alone in theirs. Know that asking for help and guidance reflects strength, not weakness.

When you stumble or encounter setbacks, give yourself grace. Never let failures define you. Pick yourself up, push forward, and treat yourself with the compassion you’d offer a friend suffering tough times. You’re stronger, braver, and more resilient than you can imagine.

Believe in yourself. Trust your instincts. Embrace the trials and savor the moments of pure bliss. Keep your heart open and your mind curious. Always stay true to your values.

Friends will come and go; some last a lifetime, others leave inedible marks in a mere flash. Cherish all the connections you make and the family you’re born into. Tell them how much you love them as often as you can.

Be grateful for the abundance of blessings surrounding you. If you search prayerfully, you’ll find them everywhere. Never stop believing that you can change this world. By setting a Christ-like example, you will make a difference in the lives of many.

Take life seriously, but don’t let that dwarf the simple moments of joy and laughter. Have fun: dance like nobody’s watching, sing like no one’s listening, and explore the world with childlike curiosity.

I wish I could take your hand and guide you through the journey ahead. But that’s God’s job and He has great plans for you. Every step you take, every choice you make, will lead you to where I am now. And though the path isn’t always easy, it’s shaping you into someone I’m already proud of.

Love always, your much older you.

Open the warmth of my heart, Lord. Teach me to be Your disciple and a humble example for the lost people in my daily walks. Give me boldness and clarity as I speak of Your love and mighty works in my conversations and writings. Amen

Faithfulness

 “God’s loving compassion renews every morning." ~ Lamentations 3:22-23

Thomas Chisholm was born in a Kentucky log cabin in 1866. Amid the turbulent post-Civil War times, people relied heavily on their spirituality for survival.

He received his education in a one-room schoolhouse, and at age 16 started teaching at the same school. He became a Christian at age 27, and with no college or seminary training, he became a pastor nine years later where he developed a knack for writing poetry.

There in 1903, he married Catherine, the love of his life and they started a family. It seemed his life was going according to God’s plan.

Frail health proved otherwise. After six years of deteriorating fragility that often left him bedridden, he left the ministry and spent the rest of his life selling life insurance in New Jersey. Thomas found great comfort in the Scriptures and the fact that God faithfully carried him in times of illness, weakness, and financial stress.

He said about his meager and difficult life, “God has given me many wonderful displays of His love which fill me with astonishing gratefulness.” Thomas could now spend more time writing poetry and with his family. His routine job allowed them to stay (barely) ahead of the bills.

Despite health and financial struggles, Thomas’s positive outlook never faltered. In 1923, he even wrote his most famous poem:

“Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided - great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me."

He sent the poem to a fellow pastor, William Runyan, a musician and editor of Hope Publishing Company. Runyan loved the poem and prayed that God would reveal a tune worthy of the lyrics.

When he found a suitable tune, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” as a hymn was born in 1923. But it didn’t become popular until a certain preacher heard it and began using it in his evangelistic crusades in 1945. What began as a simple poem from a humble salesperson suddenly reached Billy Graham’s audiences worldwide and has continued to do so ever since.

Until his retirement, Chisholm remained working in his New Jersey office. He continued to express his love for God until his death at age 94, writing nearly 1,200 poems throughout his life, taking most of his ideas directly from God's Word.

Thomas Chisholm was not out to win the world or make a splash. He didn’t go to college, failed to finish his preaching ministry due to illness, and worked an ordinary job as an insurance agent. “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” a testament to God’s unchanging and compassionate nature, was written by a man who suffered prolonged trials in life yet chose to see God’s faithfulness through it all. This hymn continues to inspire and bless those who sing it.

God our Father, “Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth; Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide. Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow; blessings all mine with 10,000 beside.” Great is Your faithfulness. Amen

Quiet Faith

 “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." ~ 1 Peter 5:6

He’s one of the most well-known actors in Hollywood, but a side of him has been kept private for years: his enduring Christian faith and life of service.

Born in Detroit, he grew up in a quiet, middle-class family. Seeking both better forecasts and prospects, the family moved to the San Fernando Valley in 1948. With dashing good looks and fabulous athletic abilities, high tuition fees delayed his dream of attending college.

He paid his own way through junior college and ultimately won a basketball scholarship to USC, where he studied business. It was there that a drama coach suggested he try acting.

After graduation, he joined the National Guard, serving part-time in the 160th Infantry Regiment for six years. The lessons and values he learned from the US Military shaped him into a man of integrity. To this day, he remains proud of his military service and supports a variety of veteran charities.

After several minor film and TV parts, the 26-year-old actor won the lead role in the Magnum P I detective series - one that gained a People’s Choice Award in 1981. It also changed Tom Selleck’s life forever, propelling him into Hollywood stardom and a star on the Walk of Fame in 1986.

As Selleck’s career took off, he continued to have a strong, personal faith in God. “As good as this business has been to me, life is about much more important things. I’m not particularly religious, but I believe Almighty God guides us through life’s journey.”

He expresses his faith more subtly, letting his actions speak for him. As a humble Christian, Tom takes his earthly vocation seriously, but friends reveal there’s no doubt about the seriousness of his Christian faith.

Jillie Joan Mack, his wife of over 35 years, remains his leading lady, his co-star in life’s grandest production. For him, the most enchanting aspect of their romance is their enduring friendship. It is a bond as unbreakable as the Hollywood Hills.

The 78-year-actor, in perhaps his final season of “Blue Bloods,” has been secretly battling severe arthritis. He’s said to be “riddled with pain so severe” that he’s forced to use a stunt double on the show to film ordinary scenes, such as getting out of his police car. Yet he “soldiers” on.

Like Jesus, who the night before His death prayed fervently to God the Father as sweat and blood dripped from His face, Tom doesn’t complain or get excited! A lack of animation doesn’t mean a heart that lacks passion. Sometimes it means the heart is actively listening to God’s gentle whisper out of the public’s view.

We certainly need more stand-up folks like Tom Selleck in Hollywood!

Lord Jesus, we’re a culture that’s so arrogant and self-centered. Help me become more aware of what I say and do. Help me to let my actions reflect the love I have for You and the love I have for others. Amen

Labor Day

 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as if working for the Lord." ~ Col. 3:23

She rocked on her back porch in the early morning sun pondering younger times. Amid the wheat and the golden ears, the wind orchestrated the prairie’s fresh air, loamy soil, and delicate birdsongs.

Life on the farm in the 1940s brought many gifts - exercise, responsibility, and passion, love, and respect for its land and animals (like a pet rooster named Cockeye). Farmers were a unique group of people not found anywhere else. Marie learned to think critically and to solve problems with ingenuity. She enjoyed farm work, it never seemed routine or mundane.

Marie, now in her 80s, recalled a childhood of sweat, dirt, and manure. Everyone had chores. The hardest was picking corn by hand, but it was honest, noble, and character-building. 

The day Dad bought a tractor-drawn, single-row picker freed them from trudging through wet, cold leaves to pick and husk the ears. Finally, they could retire those husking gloves. 

Summer days began in light jackets. By day’s end, an old shirt with cut-off sleeves kept her cool.

After leaving the field, they unhitched the wagon, tended to the horses, and precisely stored the halters so that they wouldn’t waste time untangling them when they returned to work after dark.

The worst was having to go back to a full wagon - after the evening meal, after chores, after milking, after caring for the horses - to shovel out the corn. She didn’t mind though, Marie didn’t have to punch a clock, be stuck within four walls, and serve bosses who took themselves seriously.

Finally, after a satisfying day of strenuous labor, she dropped into bed and fell fast asleep knowing the day’s job got done. They’d start the whole back-breaking process over again the next morning, long before sunrise by hand-milking the cows and feeding the chickens.

Everyone bathed on Saturday evenings in the big tin tub. Bath order was youngest to oldest. Dad always went last in the dingiest, coldest water.

Restaurants, soft drinks, and packaged goods were not part of their family menu. But those were wonderful times, and happy memories. Marie knew that her kids were all positively influenced by the great people who surrounded them as they matured.

There was simply no place like the farm.

COVID taught us to honor Labor Day in a new way. A whole group of workers became recognized as essential: truck drivers, grocery stockers, mechanics, and hospital dishwashers to name a few.

We’ve not forgotten to thank police and firefighters, nurses and doctors, and first responders; but COVID forced us to honor people who’ve never made more than minimum wage yet suddenly became irreplaceable - nurses’ aides, teachers, and now farmers.

On this day that we celebrate labor, let's not forget these invaluable people again.

Almighty God and our planet’s Chief Architect, thank You for the work You provide to each of us. Thank You also for the enrichment we get through working for noble purposes and diverting our minds from selfish desires. Amen