Today’s Thought “An Anthology of Gratitude” G. Ward

“Even to your old age I will be the same,
And even to your graying years I will bear you!
I have done it, and I will carry you;
And I will bear you and I will deliver you.” Isaiah 46:4

 

Salt and Pepper, no longer thought of primarily as a set of basic spices for every table; it’s become the color of my beard and moustache. Morning, afternoon and evening aches so sporadic that medication isn’t a contemplation because immediate reprieve is really what’s necessary. A longing to engage a loved one who has passed from this life to the next; grieving their death (no matter the number of years in their death anniversary) while celebrating the positive impact on us personally.

Many of us are either seated at the head table of the family reunion (as the elder states-people of the family) or on the brink of pinch hitting for the team. Contrary to how it may appear I’m really enjoying this autumn of life. I most certainly don’t long to return unto youth. For me, my 20’s, 30’s and 40’s offered more self absorption than knowing contentment in all circumstances (cf. Phil.4:11-12). Prior to the passing of my father, he shared an abrupt reality for the aged; losing friends unto eternity. Before I should depart from this life, you’ll need to know I cared so much about you and value your impact on my life. Thank you for teaching me the essence of interdependence. Blessings!

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Unpopular” G. Ward

 

 ^“For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.” 1 Timothy 2:5-6

 

Our world is over-flowing with a plethora of gods. A god may be defined as anything contemplated a great preponderance of any given day. It can also be that in what you spend the majority of time with. Matthew 6:21 says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” In other words, the heart will reveal where your worship lies.

My personal worship of Holy God should not begin when the music plays; nor should it always begin with a song. I desire my contemplations to embrace the gift given me, Jesus (cf. Mt.5:16). Moreover, with greater intentionality, I’ll not neglect the intimacy intended (i.e. between God and man)… Thank God for Jesus!

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Subordinate” G. Ward

“If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. But if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.” 1 Corinthians 14:37-38

In the early years of anyone’s life there’s a great amount of instruction given by those in authority over them. That instruction (should) always seeks to present both future/current hazards for the young and impressionable. I believe the child’s first word is “No” because they hear it so much. By the time adolescence occurs, this word (No) could be perceived as entirely negative (you think?). In my generation, “No” stood alone (upon a parent’s admonishing). Rarely would a parent engage you on the particulars of why. They (parents) would simply exacerbate a notion of old; “because I said so” and “just do as I say.” Seemingly, as a result of perceived bondage, young people may be plagued with a sense of subliminal rebellion that carries forth into adulthood. Without cognizance, their attitudes demands freedom from submission unto most authorities. Audaciously, they become excellent students of the democratization in American law (that protectant, while neglecting a holistic connotation of any predecessors (historically) receiving scourging along with a multitude of abuse, so they can be free.

Our Savior (Christ), is well acquainted with man’s rebellion (cf.Ro.3:10, 5:8) and desires from us a practice (Ro.12:2) that HE established long ago. Unlike many parent’s instruction, HE so graciously extends many examples of potential hazards because HE loves us so (2 Ti.3:16-17)…

Happy Monday!