When I was a young girl "Easter Vacation" started with Palm Sunday because it was the week before Easter. Somewhere along the way it became "Spring Break" and falls in March, but is no longer Easter Vacation. This year it falls the week before Palm Sunday. As I write this devotion many families are gone away with their children to celebrate a week together out in the sun. Of course where we live there is sun but the day begins with frost and often very cold. Did you know that a week off from school, originally began during the planting season? The farmers needed their children home to help with the planting!
Some say the triumphal entry and the palm branches recall the celebration of Jewish liberation as found in 1 Maccabees 13:51 It says; "On the 23rd day of the second month, in the 171st year, the Jews led by Maccabee, entered Jerusalem with praise and palm branches; with harps, cymbals and stringed instruments with hymns and song, because a great enemy had been crushed and removed from Israel."
It was a common custom in many lands in the ancient East to cover in some way, the path of someone thought worthy of the highest honor. In the book of John he mentions specifically the palm branches. These were a symbol of triumph and of victory in Jewish tradition. Because of this, the day the crowd greeted Jesus by waving the palm branches and laying their coats on the path, was given the name "Palm Sunday."
"When He drew near to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, He sent two of the disciples saying; 'Go into the village opposite where on entering, you will find a colt tied on which no one has ever yet sat;' untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you; Why are you untying it?; you shall say this; 'The Lord has need of it'!" Luke 19:29-31 The disciples did as Jesus asked and were amazed to find it just as He said they would.
"And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments on it and He sat upon it. Many spread their garments on the road and others spread leafy branches which they had cut from the fields. Those who went before and those who followed cried out; 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is coming! Hosanna in the highest'!" Mark 11:7-10
Palm Sunday was the fulfillment of the Prophets. Palm Sunday, was the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem; exactly one week before His resurrection. Some 450 years earlier it was written; "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey!" Zechariah 9:9
We commemorate this celebration where "He came to His own and His own did not receive Him." John 1:11 This crowd, over 2000 years ago, were crying out "Hosanna" and then just five days later cried out; "crucify Him!" How quickly they changed their minds! How fickle some were as they listened to the crowd and would chime right in with them. How perplexing it is to us who read His word and know the end of the story.
This week is called "The Passion" because of His suffering as He neared the place of His death. As we draw nearer to our memorial of His death, burial and resurrection we think about His suffering for us. While on the road to Emmaus Jesus says; "Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and entered into His glory?" Luke 24:26 We understand as we read God's plan; We understand this is God's grace. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/23/10
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
THE ROAD TO CALVARY! 3/27/10
When you begin planning a trip you first consider the cost and then you look at a map and consider the route you will take. Many times you make adjustments depending upon the date you have set and even how long the trip will take. You leave the packing to the last minute taking note not to forget anything. Some make lists with many revisions. Some just play it by ear! When the money is gone they go home!
Jim, Jennifer and I are planning a trip to Iowa where I was born and to see my brother and his family that never left. Money has been somehwat accounted for and Jennifer has been looking at maps and places we will stop on the trip going and the return trip, taking a different route. She loves planning; this is up her alley and so we best not deviate from the plan.
Jim tells the story of a ship that was heading for Singapore, once upon a time. The captain planned and plotted the course that would take him there. During the voyage a great storm came up and caused the captain to detour and take a different route. He was still headed for Singapore but now it looked like he was headed for somewhere else. After avoiding the storm, an ocean current pushed his ship off course and he had to correct his heading once again. It caused him to be back on course; headed for Singapore.
Many times we are headed in one direction with a destination in mind but circumstances come up and we discover our course of direction has changed; even to the point of a brand new destination. When these events cause our courses to change, we decide that perhaps this is God's will for us and we rest in His promises and set off with hope in our hearts.
"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God." John 1:1-2 There is come controversy about whether the road to Calvary was planned in the beginning before man appeared or if it was planned after man had sinned and it became more apparent to God that there was no other way for man to return to Him but through Christ's shed blood.
Personally, I believe the plan was already in place. The Old Testament became a school to teach right from wrong and the penalities for disobedience. After the flood and man found his way back into his sinful ways; God put His outline into focus and the path was being prepared through prophecy and their fulfillment.
"When the days drew near for Him to be received up to heaven, He set His face to go to Jerusalem." Luke 9:51 "Nevertheless I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem." Luke 13:33 Jesus was on the path and nothing would deter Him; His mind was set and His eyes were fixed on Jersalem. The place of the scull; the place called Golgotha; Calvary!
"And taking the twelve, He said to them; 'Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written of the Son of man by the prophets will be accomplished'." Luke 18:31 I can't imagine what went through the minds of the twelve. I can't imagine their frustration because of His determination to go to the place that surely meant death. I can't imagine!
"And when He drew near and saw the city He wept over it, saying; 'Would that even today you knew the things that make for peace! But now they are hid from your eyes'." Luke 19:41-42 We know so much more than they did; we know more because the Word that became flesh is the book we live by. Jesus who was in the beginning; the Alpha and the Omega is present in us through the Holy Spirit. Easter is coming and the world celebrates eggs and bunnies. Easter is coming and we sing; "Hosanna, Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" Jesus and Calvary meet at the end of the road! Jane Ann Crensha 3/22/10
Jim, Jennifer and I are planning a trip to Iowa where I was born and to see my brother and his family that never left. Money has been somehwat accounted for and Jennifer has been looking at maps and places we will stop on the trip going and the return trip, taking a different route. She loves planning; this is up her alley and so we best not deviate from the plan.
Jim tells the story of a ship that was heading for Singapore, once upon a time. The captain planned and plotted the course that would take him there. During the voyage a great storm came up and caused the captain to detour and take a different route. He was still headed for Singapore but now it looked like he was headed for somewhere else. After avoiding the storm, an ocean current pushed his ship off course and he had to correct his heading once again. It caused him to be back on course; headed for Singapore.
Many times we are headed in one direction with a destination in mind but circumstances come up and we discover our course of direction has changed; even to the point of a brand new destination. When these events cause our courses to change, we decide that perhaps this is God's will for us and we rest in His promises and set off with hope in our hearts.
"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God." John 1:1-2 There is come controversy about whether the road to Calvary was planned in the beginning before man appeared or if it was planned after man had sinned and it became more apparent to God that there was no other way for man to return to Him but through Christ's shed blood.
Personally, I believe the plan was already in place. The Old Testament became a school to teach right from wrong and the penalities for disobedience. After the flood and man found his way back into his sinful ways; God put His outline into focus and the path was being prepared through prophecy and their fulfillment.
"When the days drew near for Him to be received up to heaven, He set His face to go to Jerusalem." Luke 9:51 "Nevertheless I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem." Luke 13:33 Jesus was on the path and nothing would deter Him; His mind was set and His eyes were fixed on Jersalem. The place of the scull; the place called Golgotha; Calvary!
"And taking the twelve, He said to them; 'Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written of the Son of man by the prophets will be accomplished'." Luke 18:31 I can't imagine what went through the minds of the twelve. I can't imagine their frustration because of His determination to go to the place that surely meant death. I can't imagine!
"And when He drew near and saw the city He wept over it, saying; 'Would that even today you knew the things that make for peace! But now they are hid from your eyes'." Luke 19:41-42 We know so much more than they did; we know more because the Word that became flesh is the book we live by. Jesus who was in the beginning; the Alpha and the Omega is present in us through the Holy Spirit. Easter is coming and the world celebrates eggs and bunnies. Easter is coming and we sing; "Hosanna, Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" Jesus and Calvary meet at the end of the road! Jane Ann Crensha 3/22/10
Sunday, March 21, 2010
THE KEY! 3/21/10
I have heard it said, that how many keys you carry, show your importance. How many keys do you have? I have a lot besides other stuff on my key chain which include our car keys of which I don't use because I seldom drive. However, I don't have one house key among the bunch and we have three doors. Go figure!
Why do we have to have so many keys? I suppose it could be one of the conveniences of our time. You have a key to get into your work place; the church; your cars; your house; your mother's house and so it goes. Key's are only good when they work. Jim recently had three new keys made for a new deadbolt. One of the keys didn't fit! He didn't return it so we have enough for Jim, my son and my daughter. A few days ago he bought new deadbolts for all three doors and they use the same key. What a concept; One key for all doors! I still don't have one!
It has been said that the key to success depends upon who you know. I guess I haven't known any of the right people; I've been happy, but not necessarily successful as the world determines success. I suppose success depends also upon your determination and perseverance of which I have had neither. I have never even asked for a raise! It has been said that to sing you have to be able to sing on key. Perhaps, but I have heard many sing, even professionally; who couldn't. I think those who said; "I can't carry a tune in a basket," are probably right!
Did you know that one of the key attributes of God is grace? It is among His being "merciful and gracious; long-suffering and abounding in goodness and truth." Exodus 34:6 Therefore, grace is almost always associated with these attributes in the Old Testament. God showed His grace through the redemption of the Hebrew people when He took them out of Egypt. This was not because of their perfections or merit but in spite of their imperfections. Even though God's grace is given freely it must not be taken for granted. It is a gift given by God to be received by man through repentance and faith. The Israelites learned the hard way!
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld His glory as the only Son from the Father." John 1:14 Jesus is the grace of God as revealed in His person and in His works. "God the Father embodied Jesus Christ with His grace so that it would appear for the salvation of all men. Training us to renounce godlessness and worldly passions; and to live sober, upright and Godly lives in this world." Titus 2:11-12
Jesus restored the broken fellowship between God and man through grace which took place upon the cross; His death and His resurrection. "But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus; just as they will." Acts 15:11 Here the Apostles were speaking to the counsel, setting them straight about the gospel being spread even by those who were not circumcised. We know that God's grace is offered to all!
Sometimes it is difficult to understand God's gift of grace. Do we have grace to give as God gave to us or is it because of God's grace that we are able to receive the Spirit, who is called the Spirit of grace; the one who holds Christ to His people so that they can be forgiven, complete for adoption, as children of God and to receive a new life. It is said; "But grace was given each of us according to the measure of Christ's gift." Ephesians 4:7 His gift was abundant upon the cross and He suffered and died for all. So now; "They are justified by His grace as a gift, through redemption which is in Jesus Christ." Romans 3:24 This is talking about us; those who have accepted Christ as the Son of God. Those who recognize Jesus as their Savior.
I have heard God's grace being used without thought; but I believe that God's grace is what holds us all in the balance. Without it we are in darkness; with it we shine. Together we continue building the bridge that Jesus began. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/12/10
Why do we have to have so many keys? I suppose it could be one of the conveniences of our time. You have a key to get into your work place; the church; your cars; your house; your mother's house and so it goes. Key's are only good when they work. Jim recently had three new keys made for a new deadbolt. One of the keys didn't fit! He didn't return it so we have enough for Jim, my son and my daughter. A few days ago he bought new deadbolts for all three doors and they use the same key. What a concept; One key for all doors! I still don't have one!
It has been said that the key to success depends upon who you know. I guess I haven't known any of the right people; I've been happy, but not necessarily successful as the world determines success. I suppose success depends also upon your determination and perseverance of which I have had neither. I have never even asked for a raise! It has been said that to sing you have to be able to sing on key. Perhaps, but I have heard many sing, even professionally; who couldn't. I think those who said; "I can't carry a tune in a basket," are probably right!
Did you know that one of the key attributes of God is grace? It is among His being "merciful and gracious; long-suffering and abounding in goodness and truth." Exodus 34:6 Therefore, grace is almost always associated with these attributes in the Old Testament. God showed His grace through the redemption of the Hebrew people when He took them out of Egypt. This was not because of their perfections or merit but in spite of their imperfections. Even though God's grace is given freely it must not be taken for granted. It is a gift given by God to be received by man through repentance and faith. The Israelites learned the hard way!
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld His glory as the only Son from the Father." John 1:14 Jesus is the grace of God as revealed in His person and in His works. "God the Father embodied Jesus Christ with His grace so that it would appear for the salvation of all men. Training us to renounce godlessness and worldly passions; and to live sober, upright and Godly lives in this world." Titus 2:11-12
Jesus restored the broken fellowship between God and man through grace which took place upon the cross; His death and His resurrection. "But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus; just as they will." Acts 15:11 Here the Apostles were speaking to the counsel, setting them straight about the gospel being spread even by those who were not circumcised. We know that God's grace is offered to all!
Sometimes it is difficult to understand God's gift of grace. Do we have grace to give as God gave to us or is it because of God's grace that we are able to receive the Spirit, who is called the Spirit of grace; the one who holds Christ to His people so that they can be forgiven, complete for adoption, as children of God and to receive a new life. It is said; "But grace was given each of us according to the measure of Christ's gift." Ephesians 4:7 His gift was abundant upon the cross and He suffered and died for all. So now; "They are justified by His grace as a gift, through redemption which is in Jesus Christ." Romans 3:24 This is talking about us; those who have accepted Christ as the Son of God. Those who recognize Jesus as their Savior.
I have heard God's grace being used without thought; but I believe that God's grace is what holds us all in the balance. Without it we are in darkness; with it we shine. Together we continue building the bridge that Jesus began. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/12/10
Saturday, March 20, 2010
SPONTANEOUS CHARM! 3/20/10
Have you ever attended a beauty pageant? One where the judges took in account the ease, charm and the attractiveness of the contestant to the extent that one is better than all the others. A winner is chosen with a first and second runner up! All take a prize; and life goes on!
Most little girls grow up with the idea planted into their little heads that they should have gone to a charm school to learn how to be graceful and pleasing in all circumstances. Most little girls wanted to be tom boys but were always scholded with; Sit still; put your legs together; don't cross your legs; stand up tall; don't slump your shoulders and the worse of all; Act your age!
As adults we revere those who can be graceful; who dress with charm and walk in and out of all situations with ease. Many make comments like; "A woman of such grace and grandeur." "She has such grace and always does the proper thing." Oh to have such charm!
I have always like the idea of having a grace period. Payment is due on the 1st but you have a 15 day grace period. Of course today with all the bailing out of big business and allowing the government to become involved where they shouldn't, a lot of rules and regulations are changing within the finance world and the grace period could become a thing of the past.
Grace isn't usually a dinner topic but it is our topic this weekend. Grace in the world stands for posture; manners and a somehat sense of propriety. The name Grace is one of the top ten most favorite girls names of this generation. And why not; it is a beautiful name and means "God's favor!" In our church alone; there are at least 4, not to mention middle names.
Understanding our part in "grace" is to become involved within God's will. We grow in the grace of God by reading and doing His word. "Therefore, putting aside all malice and all guile and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babes long for the pure milk of the word; that by it you may grow in respect to salvation." 1 Peter 2:1 We begin with the milk; learning how to repent and to follow the Savior. From there we begin to know our God!
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen!" 2 Peter 3:18 We are walking in God's grace from here through eternity. Sounds ominous, but God says we can do this!
When we continue in growing in God's grace we can see how the Beatitudes can apply to us. "Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven; Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted; Blessed are the gentle for they shall inherit the earth; Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied; Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy; Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of me." Matthew 5:3-11 Can you see the results of God's grace? Do you understand what the cross did for us who are now called Christians?
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." Galatian 5:22-23 To paraphrase 2 Peter 1:5-11 When we make every effort to supplement our faith with; virture, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness and brotherly love; we keep from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Whoever lacks these things is blind and shortsighted and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. Those who do these things will be richly provided an entrance into the eternal kingdom.
We are walking in God's grace; not spontaneous charm. This is the Holy Spirit within us! The road we are on is the road to heaven by way of Calvary. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/11/10
Most little girls grow up with the idea planted into their little heads that they should have gone to a charm school to learn how to be graceful and pleasing in all circumstances. Most little girls wanted to be tom boys but were always scholded with; Sit still; put your legs together; don't cross your legs; stand up tall; don't slump your shoulders and the worse of all; Act your age!
As adults we revere those who can be graceful; who dress with charm and walk in and out of all situations with ease. Many make comments like; "A woman of such grace and grandeur." "She has such grace and always does the proper thing." Oh to have such charm!
I have always like the idea of having a grace period. Payment is due on the 1st but you have a 15 day grace period. Of course today with all the bailing out of big business and allowing the government to become involved where they shouldn't, a lot of rules and regulations are changing within the finance world and the grace period could become a thing of the past.
Grace isn't usually a dinner topic but it is our topic this weekend. Grace in the world stands for posture; manners and a somehat sense of propriety. The name Grace is one of the top ten most favorite girls names of this generation. And why not; it is a beautiful name and means "God's favor!" In our church alone; there are at least 4, not to mention middle names.
Understanding our part in "grace" is to become involved within God's will. We grow in the grace of God by reading and doing His word. "Therefore, putting aside all malice and all guile and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babes long for the pure milk of the word; that by it you may grow in respect to salvation." 1 Peter 2:1 We begin with the milk; learning how to repent and to follow the Savior. From there we begin to know our God!
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen!" 2 Peter 3:18 We are walking in God's grace from here through eternity. Sounds ominous, but God says we can do this!
When we continue in growing in God's grace we can see how the Beatitudes can apply to us. "Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven; Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted; Blessed are the gentle for they shall inherit the earth; Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied; Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy; Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of me." Matthew 5:3-11 Can you see the results of God's grace? Do you understand what the cross did for us who are now called Christians?
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." Galatian 5:22-23 To paraphrase 2 Peter 1:5-11 When we make every effort to supplement our faith with; virture, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness and brotherly love; we keep from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Whoever lacks these things is blind and shortsighted and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. Those who do these things will be richly provided an entrance into the eternal kingdom.
We are walking in God's grace; not spontaneous charm. This is the Holy Spirit within us! The road we are on is the road to heaven by way of Calvary. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/11/10
Sunday, March 14, 2010
SHADOW'S OF LIFE! 3/14/10
As a kid I remember listening to the radio and being mesmerized by "Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of man; the Shadow does!" In the days of radio we had great visual ability, more than we do today because the movies have brought it alive and instead of visualizing through words we can see the shadow moving about more clearly. We know what we see!
I remember walking home in the early evening when the sun was low in the sky and watching my shadow walking either before me and sometimes beside me. Sometimes I even tried to step on it. Have you ever done that? These kinds of shadows are figures of objects when it intercepts the light. However it is sometimes something that has no substance like in dreams, which are shadows of our sub conscience. We also use the term shadow when someone follows us around; a trace of something and even slight noticed movements, we call shadows in the darkness.
"Even though I walk in the valley of shadow of death; I will fear no evil for God is with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." Psalms 23:4 A comforting thought; a tried and true scripture often read at memorial services. I heard a preacher say that the 23rd Psalm is a happy passage. It is read at memorial services to cheer up those who are left behind.
"Now the serpent was more subtle than any other wild creature that the Lord God had made. he said to the woman; "Did God say, 'You shall not eat of any tree of the garden'?" And the woman said to the serpent; "We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden, but God said; 'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die'." But the serpent said to the woman; "You will not die." Genesis 3:1-3
Because we know the rest of the story; because we have seen our family and friends die we realize, we are all walking in the shadow of death! Eve succumbed to the temptation and ate; she gave it to Adam and he also ate. It is so easy to give into temptations isn't it! We can blame Adam and Eve all we want, but it is still our choice today, to sin.
We walk about in the shadows of sin; we peek around the corners to see if there are any shadows watching us and then we think we are safe enough and then we sin. The shadow of death! Sin is death! "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 This scripture gives us the Holy Spirit; the one who will encourage us not to sin. "For God so loved the world; that He gave His only begotton Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Going off to war doesn't place us any closer to the shadow of death; being a driver in the Indianapolis 500 doesn't place us any closer to the shadow of death; climbing Mount Everest doesn't place us any closer to the shadow of death. What places us closer to the shadow of death is life; especially a life of sin. With Christ as our Savior we face dying but we have already died to sin and the death we face is going to heaven. Billy Sunday, an old time preacher, was heard to say when threatened at gun point, to stop preaching; "Let me get this straight, you are threatening me with heaven?" Paul says; "For me to die is gain!"
Our Easter day is coming. Morning Glory is touching on what this means to us as Christians. Death; burial; resurrection! How do you look at this? Is it mostly pretty clothes, candy, big dinner or is it reflecting upon the GRACE OF GOD? I believe that Grace is God's son! It is through God's son that the bridge to God was given! The cross was the bridge Christ hung upon. God's Grace once and for all! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/9/10
I remember walking home in the early evening when the sun was low in the sky and watching my shadow walking either before me and sometimes beside me. Sometimes I even tried to step on it. Have you ever done that? These kinds of shadows are figures of objects when it intercepts the light. However it is sometimes something that has no substance like in dreams, which are shadows of our sub conscience. We also use the term shadow when someone follows us around; a trace of something and even slight noticed movements, we call shadows in the darkness.
"Even though I walk in the valley of shadow of death; I will fear no evil for God is with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." Psalms 23:4 A comforting thought; a tried and true scripture often read at memorial services. I heard a preacher say that the 23rd Psalm is a happy passage. It is read at memorial services to cheer up those who are left behind.
"Now the serpent was more subtle than any other wild creature that the Lord God had made. he said to the woman; "Did God say, 'You shall not eat of any tree of the garden'?" And the woman said to the serpent; "We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden, but God said; 'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die'." But the serpent said to the woman; "You will not die." Genesis 3:1-3
Because we know the rest of the story; because we have seen our family and friends die we realize, we are all walking in the shadow of death! Eve succumbed to the temptation and ate; she gave it to Adam and he also ate. It is so easy to give into temptations isn't it! We can blame Adam and Eve all we want, but it is still our choice today, to sin.
We walk about in the shadows of sin; we peek around the corners to see if there are any shadows watching us and then we think we are safe enough and then we sin. The shadow of death! Sin is death! "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 This scripture gives us the Holy Spirit; the one who will encourage us not to sin. "For God so loved the world; that He gave His only begotton Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Going off to war doesn't place us any closer to the shadow of death; being a driver in the Indianapolis 500 doesn't place us any closer to the shadow of death; climbing Mount Everest doesn't place us any closer to the shadow of death. What places us closer to the shadow of death is life; especially a life of sin. With Christ as our Savior we face dying but we have already died to sin and the death we face is going to heaven. Billy Sunday, an old time preacher, was heard to say when threatened at gun point, to stop preaching; "Let me get this straight, you are threatening me with heaven?" Paul says; "For me to die is gain!"
Our Easter day is coming. Morning Glory is touching on what this means to us as Christians. Death; burial; resurrection! How do you look at this? Is it mostly pretty clothes, candy, big dinner or is it reflecting upon the GRACE OF GOD? I believe that Grace is God's son! It is through God's son that the bridge to God was given! The cross was the bridge Christ hung upon. God's Grace once and for all! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/9/10
Saturday, March 13, 2010
STAGE 4? 3/13/10
Goodmorning! Last weekend and the weekends leading up to Easter our discussion is on what it means to have Christ in our lives through His death, burial and resurrection. What it means to us when we say; "I believe that He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God!"
What would you do if the Doctor said to you; "You are in stage 4 and have less than 3 months to live? What would you think? Would you be surprised or perhaps you had already come to the conclusion yourself! Stage 4 has touched many of our lives and if it hasn't, it will. Jim says that while in stage 4 we know stage 5 is near! Hallelujah!
I know of a man who was taken with tobacco, alcohol. self centeredness and turned into a man who welcomed Christ as his guest when praying at the table. I saw him fall in love with two young people that were hard for him to love when he first married their mother. He and his wife had two more children, but he eventually, considered all four of them as his. Circumstances caused him to look at his life and he knew he had to make some changes. He let the alcohol go except for the occasional wine. He quit smoking when he realized it was hurting him. He became a man that God was beginning to work in, using him as a witness and so much more. Some found it hard to see the changes, but we did!
I was there when after many days and tests, the Doctor came into his hopsital room where he was sitting up on his bed. She went through some of the results of tests and then said; "you know you have cancer and are in stage 4!" His wife, his daughter-in-law and I watched as he sighed. It was almost like he was relieved. He already knew this in his heart but now it has finally been said. He now knows for sure and so does everyone else. The first thing he asked was; "When can I go home!" The Doctor suggested he stay with them a little longer so that they could walk him through the days ahead; and to introduce Hospice, who would be in to get him set up for their visits and care. But he was restless, he wanted to get on with the rest of his life and he wanted to do it at home. He was calm, cool and collected! But anxious all the same. This man was amazing as he showed us in the following weeks, how to die. He was ready!
The inevitability of death and taxes is something people like to say but when it happens it is as though it was not expected. A man who did prison ministry visited an inmate who said; "You know I am dying!" The minister said; "Well, so am I; we all are dying!" I am sure the man in our story thought he could do a lot in three months, but he did it in less. He visited with everyone he could. He sent emails; went to church carrying his oxygen tank; and encouraged all.
He was moving a little slower each day but he was keeping on with every bit of energy he had.
A special celebration of life happened on Saturday night. It wasn't advertised, but as people heard about it, they came. Those who knew and loved this man were there. The Gospel Hymns Quartet came out of retirement; of course they were family. Other family members gave their praise and worship; lots of praising going on! Many spoke including Bud; family and friends. What a special time to say "I love you." What an opportunity for Bud to share his changed life in the Lord, with those who were there. On the following Wednesday he entered stage 5.
1 Corinthians 13:12 says; "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall understand fully, even as I have been fully understood." What a fantastic afternoon Bud had on Wednesday! Our God is "awesome!" "Bud was a amazing!" "Simon Peter asked Him; "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus replied; "Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later." John 13:36 When we die we enter stage 5; a new beginning in our eternal life. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/9/10
What would you do if the Doctor said to you; "You are in stage 4 and have less than 3 months to live? What would you think? Would you be surprised or perhaps you had already come to the conclusion yourself! Stage 4 has touched many of our lives and if it hasn't, it will. Jim says that while in stage 4 we know stage 5 is near! Hallelujah!
I know of a man who was taken with tobacco, alcohol. self centeredness and turned into a man who welcomed Christ as his guest when praying at the table. I saw him fall in love with two young people that were hard for him to love when he first married their mother. He and his wife had two more children, but he eventually, considered all four of them as his. Circumstances caused him to look at his life and he knew he had to make some changes. He let the alcohol go except for the occasional wine. He quit smoking when he realized it was hurting him. He became a man that God was beginning to work in, using him as a witness and so much more. Some found it hard to see the changes, but we did!
I was there when after many days and tests, the Doctor came into his hopsital room where he was sitting up on his bed. She went through some of the results of tests and then said; "you know you have cancer and are in stage 4!" His wife, his daughter-in-law and I watched as he sighed. It was almost like he was relieved. He already knew this in his heart but now it has finally been said. He now knows for sure and so does everyone else. The first thing he asked was; "When can I go home!" The Doctor suggested he stay with them a little longer so that they could walk him through the days ahead; and to introduce Hospice, who would be in to get him set up for their visits and care. But he was restless, he wanted to get on with the rest of his life and he wanted to do it at home. He was calm, cool and collected! But anxious all the same. This man was amazing as he showed us in the following weeks, how to die. He was ready!
The inevitability of death and taxes is something people like to say but when it happens it is as though it was not expected. A man who did prison ministry visited an inmate who said; "You know I am dying!" The minister said; "Well, so am I; we all are dying!" I am sure the man in our story thought he could do a lot in three months, but he did it in less. He visited with everyone he could. He sent emails; went to church carrying his oxygen tank; and encouraged all.
He was moving a little slower each day but he was keeping on with every bit of energy he had.
A special celebration of life happened on Saturday night. It wasn't advertised, but as people heard about it, they came. Those who knew and loved this man were there. The Gospel Hymns Quartet came out of retirement; of course they were family. Other family members gave their praise and worship; lots of praising going on! Many spoke including Bud; family and friends. What a special time to say "I love you." What an opportunity for Bud to share his changed life in the Lord, with those who were there. On the following Wednesday he entered stage 5.
1 Corinthians 13:12 says; "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall understand fully, even as I have been fully understood." What a fantastic afternoon Bud had on Wednesday! Our God is "awesome!" "Bud was a amazing!" "Simon Peter asked Him; "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus replied; "Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later." John 13:36 When we die we enter stage 5; a new beginning in our eternal life. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/9/10
Sunday, March 7, 2010
GREATEST MOMENTS! 3/7/10
As always, when I begin a new thought I ask Jim a few questions. This morning I asked him what was his greatest moment. He began with a question; "Like, when I was playing ball or what?" I said; "Your greatest moment up to now!" He quickly responded with; "When you said yes!" That surprised me, but thrilled me at the same time. What would you say is your greatest moment up to now?
I have had so many great moments in my life that to specify one, I have to think about it. I could say when I got my first job; when I finally got a driver's license and a car; when I dicovered someone loved me and wanted to marry me; when we became home owners for the first time. However, it was when I gave birth to Danny and then Jennifer. Becoming a mother, filled my heart and my life with so much pleasure it has to have been two of my greatest moments. But then I think, heaven could be my greatest moment; and yours!
I use to go to the movies. I use to watch the Academy Awards. I have heard many recipients of this prestigious honor say; "This is my greatest moment of all time." I can't imagaine how pretending to be someone else by portraying the realities of life in a wicked and perverse world could bring about these moments of desired accolades. However it is their life work and these awards declare their worth as actors.
I know of a man that holds the record of great moments. The world is still holding onto their vote but it doesn't matter because He has had so many great moments in the lives of those that know Him, that the world and their achievements pale in comparison. His brith was so profound that a multitude of Angels came to announce it. He confounded the Priests in the temple when He was only twelve. When He wasn't even ready, He turned water into wine. Compared to us these were great moments and yet not His greatest.
He became involved with all walks of life during a miraculous journey of such magnitude that caused the blind to see; the lame to walk; the leper to become clean; the dumb to speak and the demons to flee. He fed large crowds with just a prayer of thanks; calmed the sea and a raging storm by bringing the wind under control. Defied gravity and walked on water! You and I would consider these to be great moments; He considered them only a beginning
In the beginning His band of followers started with the twelve, and how they grew. They spread throughout the world but not until they witnessed His greatest moment. "And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments on it and He sat upon it. And many spread their garments on the road and others spread leafy branches which they had cut from the fields. They cried out; Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" Mark 11:7-9 What a great moment, a celebration, the people loved Him! Jesus didn't consider this great; He cried!
"So they took Jesus and He went out bearing His own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew; Golgotha. There they crucified Him!" John 19:17-18a A death with thieves; a shameful end! Was there anything great about this? This moment was great because it fulfilled the requirement and the statement made by John the Baptist; "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29b But was this His greatest?
My heart cries and sings at the same time when I read; "And the angel said to them, "Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here; see the place where they laid him." Mark 16:6 Could this be His greatest moment? "So then the Lord Jesus, after He had spoken to them was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God." Mark 19:19 Returning to His Father, with His earthly work completed; could this be His finest hour; His greatest moment? What do you think? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/5/10
I have had so many great moments in my life that to specify one, I have to think about it. I could say when I got my first job; when I finally got a driver's license and a car; when I dicovered someone loved me and wanted to marry me; when we became home owners for the first time. However, it was when I gave birth to Danny and then Jennifer. Becoming a mother, filled my heart and my life with so much pleasure it has to have been two of my greatest moments. But then I think, heaven could be my greatest moment; and yours!
I use to go to the movies. I use to watch the Academy Awards. I have heard many recipients of this prestigious honor say; "This is my greatest moment of all time." I can't imagaine how pretending to be someone else by portraying the realities of life in a wicked and perverse world could bring about these moments of desired accolades. However it is their life work and these awards declare their worth as actors.
I know of a man that holds the record of great moments. The world is still holding onto their vote but it doesn't matter because He has had so many great moments in the lives of those that know Him, that the world and their achievements pale in comparison. His brith was so profound that a multitude of Angels came to announce it. He confounded the Priests in the temple when He was only twelve. When He wasn't even ready, He turned water into wine. Compared to us these were great moments and yet not His greatest.
He became involved with all walks of life during a miraculous journey of such magnitude that caused the blind to see; the lame to walk; the leper to become clean; the dumb to speak and the demons to flee. He fed large crowds with just a prayer of thanks; calmed the sea and a raging storm by bringing the wind under control. Defied gravity and walked on water! You and I would consider these to be great moments; He considered them only a beginning
In the beginning His band of followers started with the twelve, and how they grew. They spread throughout the world but not until they witnessed His greatest moment. "And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments on it and He sat upon it. And many spread their garments on the road and others spread leafy branches which they had cut from the fields. They cried out; Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" Mark 11:7-9 What a great moment, a celebration, the people loved Him! Jesus didn't consider this great; He cried!
"So they took Jesus and He went out bearing His own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew; Golgotha. There they crucified Him!" John 19:17-18a A death with thieves; a shameful end! Was there anything great about this? This moment was great because it fulfilled the requirement and the statement made by John the Baptist; "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29b But was this His greatest?
My heart cries and sings at the same time when I read; "And the angel said to them, "Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here; see the place where they laid him." Mark 16:6 Could this be His greatest moment? "So then the Lord Jesus, after He had spoken to them was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God." Mark 19:19 Returning to His Father, with His earthly work completed; could this be His finest hour; His greatest moment? What do you think? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/5/10
Saturday, March 6, 2010
NEVER ALONE! 3/6/10
Because I grew up in such a large family I can honestly say that I have never been alone. On occasion I have wanted to be alone and would play hooky from work just so I could stay at home all alone. It wasn't so I could accomplish any one thing but primarily just to have time to myself. Time to focus on me; my desires; my purpose or perhaps to get control of where I needed to be! I am not very good at that but it is something that is necessary in each of our lives. Our personal relations are relative. Haven't you ever wonderd who you are? Who you were? Who you could be in Jesus Christ?
If a young man, and you were an athlete, you would go off by yourself. Your head would be filled with dreams of becoming the next Babe Ruth. You would draw a circle on the fence and stand back and throw as many balls as you could, aiming always for the middle of the circle. Your batter's box; your bulls eye. However, with no catcher you had to collect that single baseball, that you threw over and over again.
I remember as an early teen standing in the arch of the rose arbor with a baseball glove on my left hand. My brother Layton, would throw without mercy and I would catch his hard ball over and over again. I never screamed or cried but I did say; "I'm sorry" a lot, because each time I would drop or miss the ball, I would feel bad.
Practice makes perfect, or so we are told. But often we need a little time to ourselves to work out the kinks so that we could perfect who we are. Even after perfecting our stand; our position; our style we still need moments to see if our directions are correct; if we are headed in the right way and if we are able to stay the course.
"And in the morning, a great while before day; He rose and went out to a lonely place and there He prayed." Mark 1:35 When Jesus began His first preaching tour in Galilee, there were moments when He needed to be alone. In verse 37 Peter tells Jesus; "Every one is searching for you." Jesus needed time alone. Jesus needed those moments with the Father, just as we do!
When my babies were small the only place I could find to be alone was in the bathroom. We have a picture of Danny, about 14 months old, standing outside the bathroom door with tears streaming down his cheeks. I didn't go in there to get away from him; it was just the only place where I was alone. I know most mothers know exactly what I am saying.
"But so much more, the report went abroad concerning Him, and great multitudes gathered to hear and to be healed of their infirmities. But He withdrew to the wilderness and prayed." Luke 5:15-16 We know the story by heart, when Jesus prayed in the garden. His friends would fall alseep while waiting for Him. Jesus knew the importance of having His time alone with the Father to restore His purpose, His strength; to remember why His path had been made straight. Do you remember why? Do you remember why He prayed?" Was it for strength?
As a young mother, I remember those days of playing hooky reading God's word; praying for the directions I needed for my son and daughter; directions on how to become a better mother and an understanding wife. I latched onto the scripture where Jesus says; "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33 This passage was talking about overcoming anxiety and worrying about many things.
I posted this scripture on my refrigerator, until it became second nature to me. Each time God would renew my strength and even though I considered myself alone, I have never been alone! "Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it." Genesis 28:16b I love the idea that God is where I am. He can be with you also! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/2/10
If a young man, and you were an athlete, you would go off by yourself. Your head would be filled with dreams of becoming the next Babe Ruth. You would draw a circle on the fence and stand back and throw as many balls as you could, aiming always for the middle of the circle. Your batter's box; your bulls eye. However, with no catcher you had to collect that single baseball, that you threw over and over again.
I remember as an early teen standing in the arch of the rose arbor with a baseball glove on my left hand. My brother Layton, would throw without mercy and I would catch his hard ball over and over again. I never screamed or cried but I did say; "I'm sorry" a lot, because each time I would drop or miss the ball, I would feel bad.
Practice makes perfect, or so we are told. But often we need a little time to ourselves to work out the kinks so that we could perfect who we are. Even after perfecting our stand; our position; our style we still need moments to see if our directions are correct; if we are headed in the right way and if we are able to stay the course.
"And in the morning, a great while before day; He rose and went out to a lonely place and there He prayed." Mark 1:35 When Jesus began His first preaching tour in Galilee, there were moments when He needed to be alone. In verse 37 Peter tells Jesus; "Every one is searching for you." Jesus needed time alone. Jesus needed those moments with the Father, just as we do!
When my babies were small the only place I could find to be alone was in the bathroom. We have a picture of Danny, about 14 months old, standing outside the bathroom door with tears streaming down his cheeks. I didn't go in there to get away from him; it was just the only place where I was alone. I know most mothers know exactly what I am saying.
"But so much more, the report went abroad concerning Him, and great multitudes gathered to hear and to be healed of their infirmities. But He withdrew to the wilderness and prayed." Luke 5:15-16 We know the story by heart, when Jesus prayed in the garden. His friends would fall alseep while waiting for Him. Jesus knew the importance of having His time alone with the Father to restore His purpose, His strength; to remember why His path had been made straight. Do you remember why? Do you remember why He prayed?" Was it for strength?
As a young mother, I remember those days of playing hooky reading God's word; praying for the directions I needed for my son and daughter; directions on how to become a better mother and an understanding wife. I latched onto the scripture where Jesus says; "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33 This passage was talking about overcoming anxiety and worrying about many things.
I posted this scripture on my refrigerator, until it became second nature to me. Each time God would renew my strength and even though I considered myself alone, I have never been alone! "Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it." Genesis 28:16b I love the idea that God is where I am. He can be with you also! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 3/2/10
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