Lutheran Women in Mission

It was a crisp, cool morning in the Rockies, perfect for a walk. I always take my phone with me in case there’s anything I want to photograph. (That is the only reason I’d bring my phone, as there’s no cell service outside of the house.) I was almost back home when I realized I hadn’t taken any photos. I hadn’t seen any wildlife, and the wild flowers have mostly gone dormant. “I guess there was nothing photo worthy,” I thought to myself. What? Nothing photo worthy? I stopped right there and looked around. The sky was bright blue with a few fluffy clouds. The ponderosa pines looked deep green in the
foreground and the aspens were turning yellow and dropping their leaves. The ground beneath my feet was solid. It’s not dirt, but rather a coarse granite that, when you pick up a nugget, is a myriad of colors.

And my shadow — if I can see my shadow there must be light shining on me from some angle. At that moment I knew it was God’s light shining on me, and my body was casting the shadow. Often, when I hear the word “shadow,” I think of it in a negative way. And indeed, a shadow is an absence of light. Psalm 23: 4 comes to mind: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Even in the shadow of death, the Light is with me. Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).

Many times in my life, indeed in one short day of my life, shadows fall across my path. Troubles and darkness can only prevail if I turn away from the Light, if I run from the One who cares enough to walk with me. Let me always, by the grace of God, run to my Savior. Let me hide in the shadow of the cross, remembering what Jesus has done for me. When I saw my shadow, I stretched out my arms and my shadow formed a cross. He suffered because of me, for my sins. What immeasurable love is this?

And to think, I almost didn’t take time for a walk that morning. Too much to do. Oh, my Lord and my God, thank You for giving me this time in Your kingdom to feel Your peace and find Your promises working in my life! I took a photo of my shadow as I felt the sunlight on my back..

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

Each fall, since moving to Colorado, I have picked up pinecones. Our property is covered with ponderosa pines and the pinecones are plentiful and quite large. We use these to start our fires each morning from autumn until spring.

As I write this, I’m listening to news stories about the fires raging across the west coast and here in Colorado. I love a fire in the hearth but I have also felt the fear of forest fires too close to my home. Several years ago, it was Scott and I that had to evacuate as forest fires were within a mile of our ranch. Fire, like many things, is a blessing when it’s under control. But lose control and watch out.

So many things are not in our control. Actually, nothing is in our control, is it? God is in control of all things. Fire and rain are controlled by His hands. How do we react to not being in control? We need rain… we wish the rains would end. We love a campfire … we evacuate and run for our lives as the forest fire approaches. What is God thinking? How are we to understand His will when catastrophes occur? In whom do we put our trust?

While I was out picking pine cones, two deer with three fawns that were still covered with spots, walked by. I just stopped and watched them come within 20 yards of me. I listened to the chickadees and nuthatches in the branches above my head and heard a squirrel scolding me for getting too close. I breathed in the scent of pine and sage and took a moment to look at the mountains that surround me. How could I not praise God for this incredible creation? How could I not trust all that the Holy Scriptures
reveal to me?

Where am I going with all of this? I guess you’ve just witnessed the inner struggles of this sinful child of God. It’s easy to trust God when all is going according to my plan. But I pray that the Lord will remind me of His promises when challenging and frightening times come. Each time I ask, “Why God?” I pray that I look again to those promises and ask the Holy Spirit to give me the strength to trust God in all things.

If you have the opportunity to sit next to a fire in the hearth or outdoors I hope you enjoy the ambience and warmth the flames offer. I also pray that you feel His peace in all circumstances, even when you don’t understand.

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

On our Colorado ranch, those that live farther up the mountain call us the “low-landers” because we live at the base of this particular peak. It really is a matter of perspective. Our elevation is about 8,500 feet above sea level.

It amazes me how the flora and fauna change with the elevation. We have black (Abert’s) squirrels, and they entertain me on a daily basis. The babies were a delight all summer long. (Now, come winter, Scott is not too thrilled with them because they like to eat his carefully planned-out Christmas lights — but I think they’re worth the trouble.) Our neighbors farther up the mountain have very few squirrels, but are inundated with chipmunks. These little creatures cause an enormous amount of damage to wiring and
plants. I have not met anyone here who gives thanks to God for the chipmunks.

We have lived here for three years and have never seen a chipmunk on our property. About a month ago, they appeared and have dug in my gardens and like to spend time under Scott’s truck. They have not been a welcome addition, and I saw a chipmunk today that is, without a doubt, pregnant.

Do we get to choose what we thank God for in this world? I don’t think so. Ephesians 5:20 reads: giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Really? Do you give thanks to God for pests, pain, and problems?

I remember reading the book The Hiding Place, by Corrie ten Boom. During World War II, Corrie and her sister, Betsie, found themselves prisoners at Ravensbruck Concentration Camp. Betsie said they must thank God for all things, including the fleas that infested their dorm. As time progressed it became apparent that, because of the fleas, the guards would not enter their dorm. They were free to read their Bible and pray together.

Our Lord wants us to offer Him our thanks and praise for everything and to trust Him at all times. As I hear from my sisters in Christ who endured the force of Hurricane Laura and from those who evacuated because of fires, I read how they gave thanks to the Lord for sparing their lives, for the hope they have, and the faith they rely on. And so we will thank God — for all He has created and for everything He does to sustain and uplift us. So — I will do my best to thank God for everything. Join me in praising Him today!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

Just When I Need It

Do you have “down” days, days where you feel lifeless and a little despondent? I’ve had a few of those these last couple of weeks. It’s just so disappointing when plans don’t work out. I’ve done my best to look for opportunities in all the challenges the world has thrown at us this year, but my optimism seemed to wear thin as the LWML Board of Directors and I made the difficult decision to cancel more in-person events.

Then just when I need it, I receive a card, a phone call, or an email from a Christian friend, uplifting me with kind words and Scripture passages. I receive cards every week with messages of love and encouragement, and I treasure each and every one. I thank God for the faithful women and men who surround me with His love and keep me accountable to my faith. I don’t think even one of these messages happens by chance. The Holy Spirit is working in the hearts of His people, spurring them to share His love with others who need it, and I know I am one of those people at times in my life.

A while ago I was walking and encountered a red-winged black bird that accosted me, as I must have gotten too close to her nest. She swooped and caught my hair. I have to say I was startled. I think sometimes that’s what the Holy Spirit does to me! He swoops in and startles me, gaining my attention and bringing me back to focus on what God’s plans are for my life, just when I need it most.

So today I thank God for sending the Holy Spirit to swoop in and bring me renewed energy and focus. And I thank God for each friend who reaches out, just when I need it! Swoop away, Holy Spirit!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

I wear my purple (of course!) mask in public. It’s mandated in Colorado. I wear it because it’s the right thing to do, it protects others, and it reminds me not to touch everything in sight! Many of my sisters in Christ have made and distributed masks. Thank you all! This is a new and challenging world for us, and we are all doing what we can to safeguard ourselves, our families, and those with whom we come in contact.

Scott and I made a trip to Colorado Springs (an hour over the mountain pass) this last week. We picked up the windows for the shop he is constructing, and we ran other errands. Everywhere, people wore masks. It was entertaining to see all of the different styles and colors. “I do hope this ends soon, though,” I thought to myself.

Then I thought about how we tend to wear masks of a different kind. I certainly am guilty of wearing masks for the wrong reasons at times in my life. Have I worn a mask of apathy when I should disagree with what is being said or done? Do I wear a mask of conformity to the standards of this world when I should be protesting violence, hatred, and opposition to the standards of our Lord?

Sometimes it may seem easier to hide behind my own personal beliefs and my own ideas of what is right and wrong rather than to look to God for guidance. I searched for the word “mask” in the Bible — nothing. I searched for the words “conceal” or “cover up” and these verses, among others, came up:

In the meantime, when so many thousands of the people had gathered together that they were trampling one another, he began to say to his disciples first, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered inprivate rooms shall be proclaimed on the housetops (Luke 12:1-3).

Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy (Proverbs 28:13).

It made me think and, I hope, it will make me more aware of the times when I wear a mask that does not reflect Christ. Each morning, I ask the Lord to give me the strength to be the person He wants me to be, to say the things He would want me to say. I think I will add to that prayer that I always reflect His love and stand strong in His truth.

I looked up “mask” in the thesaurus, and some of the synonyms were to “shield, cover, camouflage, and disguise.” The masks we are now wearing in public are to shield and protect those around us. But I will seek my Lord’s guidance as I do my best not to wear masks that hide my Christianity.

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

I spent all last week in Roanoke, Virginia. This has been the first time I’ve ventured into an airport since the COVID-19 pandemic caused a shutdown of travel and effectively isolated all of us. I felt totally safe and feel the airports and airlines are taking precautions that will help slow the spread of this virus.

I made this trip to spend time with my Mom, MaryAnn Young. Mom, who is 90 years young, has been staying with my youngest sister and her family for the past several years. She normally goes back to the farm in North Dakota each summer, but this has not been a normal year!

My sister’s husband’s family gets together at a lakeside resort in Minnesota each summer for their vacation. Mom has been experiencing severe pain due to a much-needed hip replacement and didn’t want to travel, so my sister asked me to spend the week with her in Virginia. This was not in my plans. Actually, my grandson was to visit us in Colorado, and many plans and schedules had to be changed. God, of course, already knew this — He just hadn’t shared His plans with me. Mom and I made meals together, played cards, enjoyed movies (Hallmark Christmas movies, if you can believe it!), sat on the deck filled with herbs and flowers, and slept late each morning. I guess it was a vacation for me, too!

My Mom cherishes her large photograph collection. She loves taking pictures and receiving them. At the farm she has countless albums, each sorted by years. Many of her favorite photos have been scanned
onto her iPad, and she loves the memories they awaken. It’s good to look back and remember, and it’s good to make new memories. That’s what Mom and I did last week. We laughed and we cried. Sometimes we just sat in silence and listened to the birds. What a gift this week was for me!

Today, I remember last week with Mom. I thank God for a safe and wonderful trip, and I look forward to the next time I get to be with Mom. Isn’t it interesting that everything works as God planned it?

Thank you, Father, for Your plans for my life. How good it is to know You are always with me!
Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

I’m tired of COVID-19. I’d love it if we could go back to meeting in public places, hugging, and eating in crowded restaurants. I wish we didn’t have to make difficult decisions about getting together or traveling. I want a cure for the Coronavirus or a vaccine — now. Yes, I may be having a pity party!

A while back, my good friend Jan Schmidt wrote a devotion about finding a cure and referenced Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Syria (2 Kings 5). He had wealth, he had power, he had servants, he had it all except his health. He was a leper. She also talked about the Roman army centurion who had a valued servant who was dying (Matthew 8:5). Both Biblical accounts give witness to God’s power to heal.

In this world and at this time, we also are looking for vaccinations or cures, particularly for COVID-19. Many companies and scientists are racing to find a vaccine. But let’s remember, only God has the power to cure.

I thank God for providing the knowledge needed for developing vaccines. I thank God for providing for
us as we live on this earth and I praise Him for providing the ultimate cure — the cure from eternal damnation caused by my own sin. Jesus Christ is the cure and we don’t need to ‘find’ Him. He seeks us out.

I am tired of COVID-19. I want everything to go back to normal but I need to remember that normal for many is dealing with poverty, depression, cancer, or other diseases that are chronic or terminal. Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33b). I hope this blog isn’t a downer for you. I hope, in the midst of your tribulations you find refuge in the arms and promises of our Savior. By God’s grace, I will call upon the Lord and ask that He give me
patience (I need a lot of that!) and I will trust in Him and seek His will.

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

As drivers approach Woodland Park, Colorado, from the west, there is a warning light that is activated and says, “Be Prepared to Stop” if the traffic light ahead is red. Because of a hill and a curve, drivers cannot see the upcoming traffic light so this is an important notification.

As we passed this warning light on the way to town today, I thought about other ways we are reminded to be prepared. During this pandemic, we are reminded to bring our mask and wear it while in public. Throughout the winter months, here in the mountains, we are reminded to check the weather report before traveling. Our wonderful LWML president at Faith Lutheran, Woodland Park, reminds us to bring our Bible and mite offerings to our local Bible study gatherings.

Every day I prepare in many ways. As I leave home to buy groceries, I put a cooler in the car (for the 30-minute ride home). I check to make sure I have my sunglasses and my grocery list. I prepare when I have an LWML event. I plan my wardrobe, print my agenda and any travel documents I need, and I make sure I have my laptop and phone chargers packed. When I prepare
a meal, I plan it out so everything is ready at the same time.

How do I prepare for the day I leave this world and meet Jesus face-to-face? I think I do this by living for Christ each day. Paul, in Philippians, stated his desire to leave this world and be with Christ, but he knew his time on earth produced fruitful labor to the glory of God. He said, For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21). I pray that this would be my heart’s desire also but, I must confess, I am very often not that noble.

I do find comfort and strength in God’s Word. I find understanding and direction when I go to the Lord in prayer. If I live each day to Christ’s glory, I believe I am prepared and eager to meet Jesus face-to-face. In Luther’s Morning Prayer, I pray that God keep me from sin and evil so my
very life and all that I do may please Him. I remember when I first realized that when I spoke those words, I was literally giving my life and day to God and to His glory.

As sisters and brothers in Christ, let’s continue to encourage one another, holding each other accountable as Christians. The busier our lives, the more time we need to spend in prayer and in the Word. When we look forward to an upcoming event, we prepare with pleasure. Can any event be more important than our eternal life? I am ready and eager to meet this day, whatever my Lord has planned.

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

Luther’s Morning Prayer

I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may
have no power over me. Amen.

I probably don’t garden like most of you do this time of year. First, I live at 8,500 feet above sea level in the middle of the Rocky Mountains, and just last week (June 9), we received four inches of snow. Second, it’s very dry here, and watering a garden every day is not an option unless I want to run our well dry. Third, we have deer. Lots and lots of deer, and they love almost anything that grows in this soil.

I decided several years ago to grow plants that the deer will leave alone and that can survive in this climate. I’ve planted several different grasses, a variety of ground covers, irises, lavender, and marigolds. I am rewarded with green plants and splashes of color.

I do miss all the flowers I was able to enjoy in my garden in North Dakota, but I don’t want to fight the deer. I have seen flowers and flowering shrubs surrounded by tall fences to keep the deer at bay, but the flowers lose their appeal if you can’t get close enough to enjoy their scents. I prefer to work in harmony with these deer.

I wondered what God had to say about harmony so I looked it up.

Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all (Romans 12:15-17).

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 15:5-6).

And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony (Colossians 3:14).

No, I do not believe God was referring to harmony between animals and people in these passages. I do believe that the pleasure I receive from my garden would be diminished if I was constantly upset over a deer’s dinner. So I prefer harmony with nature.

I pray for harmony amidst this tragedy of racial injustice. I pray we look to Jesus and follow His examples of love and grace. I pray, and sometimes my emotions can’t be expressed in words so the Holy Spirit intervenes for me. I pray for harmony. Please pray with me!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

I did laundry again yesterday and, as I was putting clothes away in our closet, I saw that the hamper was already half full. Hmmm, how do two people amass so much laundry? I’ve been known to wear a pair of jeans for 3–4 days in a row, because I can think of many ways to spend my day other than doing laundry. My husband, on the other hand, wears a pair of pants and promptly throws them in the laundry at the end of the day. “I get dirty working outside,” he reasons. Yes, he does, and dirty clothes must be washed before they can be worn again.

I get spiritually “dirty” in this world every day. Each morning I start out fresh, thanking God for forgiving this penitent sinner. I ask Him for the opportunity to serve Him another day. Then I receive a request for something that I may not want to do or that I feel will take too much of my
time, and a little bit of “dirt” sticks to me and gnaws at my soul. As the day progresses, I sin in thought, word, and deed. I am dirty laundry, a sinner inside and out.

I also know that every single sin has been paid for in full by my Savior, Jesus Christ. I am washed clean by the blood of the Lamb. How absolutely amazing is that? Forgiveness is the grace of God washing away our sins. Forgiveness is a gift given out of love. And forgiveness is a treasure God gives us to share with others.

Again and again, I sin. Again and again, I go to the foot of the cross and seek His forgiveness. He cleanses me of my iniquities.

I am God’s laundry. You are God’s laundry. In Scripture, David prays to the Lord, wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow (Psalm 51:7b). Only Christ can forgive sins and promise eternal life in heaven but I can share Jesus’ mercy and grace with others. If it is the Lord’s will, the Holy
Spirit will work in their lives and they will understand that Jesus is their Savior too. Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Laundry day — it’s looking better all the time!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

Nothing Photo Worthy — Really?

Picking up Pinecones

Squirrels and Chipmunks

Just When I Need It

Mask — to Safeguard or to Conceal?

Time with Mom

Finding a Cure

Be Prepared

Luther’s Morning Prayer

Marigolds and Lavender

Laundry Day

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