Saturday, July 31, 2010

Memories of Mom's Ministries

As we watched The Secrets of Mr. Sperry, my husband said Mr. Sperry reminds him of my mother and her ministries with young people. Children really do need someone to invest in their lives. I'm glad Mom was willing not only to impact her own children but also a host of others. Mom worked with Child Evangelism Fellowship in their Good News Clubs and Five Day Clubs. She helped with vacation Bible schools, too. I was fascinated with the flannel board figures and backgrounds she used to tell the Bible stories. She made memorizing scripture verses fun. Her illustrated songs helped us remember them easily. She donated her Chevrolet to pull the "Chapel on Wheels," a trailer set up like a tiny church. Later Dr. Dahlberg hired Mom to do the children's church for the First Presbyterian Church. Before they moved to their current location, she used their chapel. I remember her creative efforts: Peter (aka son-in-law Mark) with his fishing boat on the shore of the lake, a simulated jet ride to Africa, and elaborate sets for special puppet shows, to name a few. At their new location, Mom continued using special effects and guest appearances by Bible characters, a pirate, and clowns. She always made sure to teach Bible truths instead of focusing on entertainment. Years later, young adults or their parents would stop by to express their thanks for the solid Bible foundation they received. Mom even visited the Christian fellowship clubs at my public school and my husband's Christian school. Each school year, she would volunteer in my classes so she could pick out a troubled child who needed a mentor. Like Mr. Sperry, Mom made a difference in the lives of countless children. It reminds me of someone dropping a pebble in a pond. It may be a small action, but the effects keep rippling out farther and farther away.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Glenn Beck, a Radical Guy

I prefer to listen to music on the radio, not talking. But when my husband drives, he chooses. I haven't heard Glenn Beck in a long time, but it was good to hear him today. He said that he has been reading Jeremiah lately. He believes Jeremiah's words could just as well be for America today. I love how Glenn talked about God getting our attention. First He uses mild means. But if we continue to ignore Him, He continues to use stronger methods. I had to smile at Glenn's description of this process, for God has had to knock me down more than once. It's a hard lesson, but well worth it. I still remember the Christmas program a few years back in which Glenn shared a story about his sweater gift. I may not agree 100% with his political views, but I admire the way He talks about the Lord. No apologies offered. May God bless and protect Glenn Beck.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Rest

The Lord knew what He was doing when He set up a day of rest each week. Life in the fast lane can burn out an engine. God longs to share some quiet time with me. But I rarely get quiet, much less want to spend time with Him. I am faithful to the television set, cell phone, and computer screen. Misplaced loyalty, to be sure. I should be less like Martha and more like Mary. How refreshing it could be to sit at the feet of Jesus and just listen a while! "Be still, and know that I am God."--Psalm 46:10a

Saturday, July 24, 2010

How will I fill this day?

It's a new day. Here's a fresh page. How will I fill it? Lord, help me to be more conscious of your plans for my life. When I reach for the director's baton, the music doesn't sound as sweet. I want my life to be full of your majesty. I want to bring a smile to the face of someone who needs you today.