Juniper, Tiny Detail May = Great Rx

"But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree; and he requested for himself that he might die, and said, "It is enough; now, O LORD, take my life, for I am not better than my fathers."
I Kings 19:4 (New American Standard Bible)

He sat down under a juniper tree -- of what importance was the type of tree anyway that the author of I Kings was inspired to include this tidbit in his writing. That question jumped out at me as I studied I Kings 18 & 19 in preparation to lead the women's Sunday School class this week. The author's focus is "The Faith Test." (You may wish to read the account to refresh your memory on the details. The NIV calls it a broom tree, by the way. King James and New American Standard refer to a Juniper tree.)

Elijah's faith is certainly being put to the test here. He has just asked God to call down fire on the very wet offering in the showdown with Baal's followers. WOW! Has he ever seen some incredible proof of The Living God! So did all the Baal followers; and now Elijah's life is threatened. In just a few short verses we find him sitting under a tree bemoaning his condition to The Living God -- the same ONE. Eventually, Elijah did hear God in the midst of his life seemingly gone awry. . . but why under the Juniper tree?

Here comes the aromatherapist part of me seeking some insight. It's just no mere incidental that the author of I Kings was divinely inspired to include the make & model of the tree. Juniper has historically been used for physical and spiritual purification. It's aromatic influence is noted today for evoking feelings of health, love, and peace and may help to elevate one's spiritual awareness. Sounds like exactly the Rx Elijah needed. Isn't God's Word just full of amazing details!?!?!

Photo above, "Beautiful Tree at Echo Lake" is by Jessica Merz from the Every Stock Photo website.


If you would like to experience the benefits of juniper just as Elijah did, pure therapeutic grade Juniper Essential Oil and essential oils diffuser are available today from Young Living Essential Oils.

Are We All Wound Up Chasing the Robbers & Thieves???

Complementing previous post on following the voice of The Good Shepherd, Jesus, our ultimate protector, even the protector of our time. Praying this bit of graffiti enhances the lesson shared in my last post. Reference THE HOLY BIBLE -- John 10:1-10. Have a blessed and abundant day!!!

Don't Have Enough Time? Whose Voices are You Following?

"I Don't Have Enough Time!" How many times have you made that cry? In our 24/7, gadgetized techi world with all of its instant gratifcations whose expectations are we meeting or not meeting? Whose life is more stressed out? (Now that's one we could probably all claim 1st Place in the one-up-manship contest.

On the day I was having a BIGTIME "time" meltdown, I also agreed to help lead a women's Bible Study entitled, The Frazzled Female. What I didn't count on was teaching the lesson entitled "I Don't Have Enough Time!" In the book the author states,

In my seminars I ask the question, "What causes you to be frazzled?" "Not enough time" is always at the top of the list.

It's probably at the top of yours too.

The author (Cindi Wood) sent us to John 9-12, which included The Parable of the Good Shepherd. In this passage which I know so well, and in a time I made to pull away from everything else to hear from the LORD on this lesson, I believe He did reveal to me a whole new way to look at this Word from THE WORD.

In the story, Jesus begins by talking about sheep knowing their shepherd's voice. The sheep won't follow any other voices, because the know the shepherd will lay His life down for them to protect them. Jesus calls the other voices those of strangers, thieves and robbers wishing harm on the sheep. Of course, He speaks of Himself as THE GOOD SHEPHERD. His sheep hear His voice and follow Him rather than those that would mean them harm. In return the sheep experience abundant life.

When we consider all the possibilities of the day -- all the voices calling our name -- all the activities that seem so important -- and we say let the multi-tasking begin -- Just whose voices are we following anyway? The strangers, the thieves the liars and the cheaters wishing to steal our precious time and energy. They may not even be the big things (probably not). But how about all the little stuff that just isn't that important.

Personally, I spent about 4 hours the week of my time meltdown just shopping for a necklace for a certain outfit that I had a vision about and hoped to wear to an event this weekend. Was it worth it. I can say absolutely "NO." My mission was unsuccessful and in the whole big scheme of things it really doesn't matter. I have another that will be beautiful, and carries no additional cost of precious time and resources. Whose voice was I listening to? The vision of my own crazy flesh and a bit of ego, I'm sure. That voice was a thief. A thief of about 4 hours of my time. That's not a lot, but certainly could have been used in a much more productive way, with much less stress.

When the layers are peeled away -- when we truly give the long "to do" list to The Good Shepherd and follow His voice, I wonder how many items on that list are really that important? He may require us to make some tough choices, but if we follow THE SHEPHERD'S voice He promises,

They may have life, and have it abundantly. John 10:10 (NASB)

I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. John 10:10 (The Message)

An abundant, more, better than I ever dreamed of life. That sounds like more than enough time to me! WOW!!! Consider consulting THE GOOD SHEPHERD (JESUS) and listen for His voice when choosing how you use your time today. You may just have more than you ever dreamed of!

Why I Do What I Do Everyday

"What's my reason for getting up in the morning and do what I do every day?" I just came across the question being asked by the author of another blog . . . Live Your Dreams The author is hoping that others would leave their answer. I wasn't quite sure how to do that, but believed it might be an interesting question for a quick blog entry of my own.

From my profile, you know that I'm committed to living my life for Jesus every day. . . a Scripture from Ephesians says it all:

For by grace are you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God -- not because of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10

We're so precious to God that He gave everything for our salvation. He created us for the plans He had for us before the beginning of time. What a privilege to get up and do whatever He has called us to each and every day!

The hot air balloon at the top of the post (and the one in my profile as well) are one of my dreams . . . No, they have nothing to do with this post except that I was responding to the LIVE YOUR DREAMS question . . . so included one of mine here!!! Someday I'll be up, up, and away in one these . . . I pray it's one day soon!!!

Earth Day -- This Week

Earth Day is celebrated this week. Over the years I've had various reactions to the attitudes and types of people that might celebrate this day. . . . some more honorable than others I'll have to admit. As I've contemplated the position I choose to take about the earth and how we live upon on it as its caretakers my only honest conclusions come from the words of the ONE BOOK I truly believe to be the very basis of truths that man is wise to live and follow. Everyone may not agree. It doesn't make it any less GOD'S TRUTH, and I choose for myself to follow Him to Eternity.

So, what words are found on this subject in The Bible? I'm so glad you asked. Well, even if you didn't -- I'll be sharing any way. Here they are.

Genesis 1:27-29 (The Message)*
26-28 God spoke: "Let us make human beings in our image, make them
reflecting our nature
So they can be responsible for the fish in the sea,
the birds in the air, the cattle,
And, yes, Earth itself,
and every animal that moves on the face of Earth."
God created human beings;
he created them godlike,
Reflecting God's nature.
He created them male and female.
God blessed them:
"Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge!
Be responsible for fish in the sea and birds in the air,
for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth."

29-30 Then God said, "I've given you
every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth
And every kind of fruit-bearing tree,
given them to you for food.
To all animals and all birds,
everything that moves and breathes,
I give whatever grows out of the ground for food."
And there it was.

These words speak of human being's responsibility to care for the planet where we eat, breathe, and live. To care for the planet and all of its forms of life seems to mean cultivating the gifts we've been given here on the planet to sustain life that is created in the Image of God, and reflecting His nature.

Personally, I've come to believe that means doing what is in my power to use up less of our natural resources, share resources when possible, and use the least amount of toxic products that add to the pollution of the environment we call home (your home, your community, your country, your world, your universe). To the best of my ability, and a little more each day, I look for the least invasive means to health & wellness; the foods that are grown with loving care and the resources of nature rather than man-made chemicals that are harmful to our health and environment; opportunities to recycle; purchase locally produced foods and goods; and more.

I believe these are the type of choices our Creator is pleased for us to make. I believe He is honored when we choose to use His provisions with wisdom and care!







The Message, Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson [The Message at Navpress] [NavPress]

Clipart Graphic from KABOOSE

See How THE King Comes!!!

"The next day the huge crowd that had arrived for the Feast heard that Jesus was entering Jerusalem. They broke off palm branches and went out to meet him. And they cheered:

Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in God's name!

Yes! The King of Israel!
Jesus got a young donkey and rode it, just as the Scripture has it:

No fear, Daughter Zion:
See how your king comes, riding a donkey's colt.

The disciples didn't notice the fulfillment of many Scriptures at the time, but after Jesus was glorified, they remembered that what was written about him matched what was done to him.

The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, was there giving eyewitness accounts. It was because they had spread the word of this latest God-sign that the crowd swelled to a welcoming parade. The Pharisees took one look and threw up their hands: "It's out of control. The world's in a stampede after him." John 12:12-19 THE MESSAGE

Watch for insights into this most Holy Week in the life of the Believer -- The week of special remembrance of Jesus death and subsequent resurrection -- His suffering and His Glory -- All for each of us -- freely given that we may be ALIVE! eternally with Him. We'll be traveling from Hosanna to Hallelujah!!!

Horton Hears a Who -- Horton Gets a Clue

WOW!!! That's the only word that came to my mind as I read through this incredible article -- plus an overwhelming sense of the Holy Spirit all over this one. "WHO" would have ever thought that Dr. Seuss in 1954 would be speaking prophetically to us today in 2008 -- over 50 years later.

What I recognized immediately as a friendly children's flick appearing on the big screen all over America this weekend, has just become a "must see" moment in time.

This is just more confirmation to me that it has been God speaking to me about using my reflexology skills and gifting in a pro-life center in my community. The contacts were made weeks ago. I now have a copy of a textbook on the subject of maternity and reflexology. When I learned of the book in early January, I had no idea it would take me over 2 months to actually obtain a copy -- especially in our instant gratification society. I'm also trusting the right doors will open for me to participate in a very specific maternity and reflexology advanced training this fall. All of that before I ever read this article this morning.

Praying you will take the time to read the whole article at the link above. Copies of the book may be ordered from The Elijah List or through Amazon at the link to the right on this page. What steps will you take to get involved in the cure for this epidemic, bringing God's light for these precious unheard "Little Whos?"

Lush Meadows and Drink from Quiet Pools

Surrounded by so much chaos . . . stress and frustrations on the left and on the right . . . in front and rear too . . . take the time to sit . . . and rest . . . focusing your eyes on the one who securely holds your hand . . . perhaps meditate on the words penned by a famous shepherd . . . they may tickle sweet emotions long forgotten . . . speak soothing life to your parched spirit . . . If these words of the 23rd Psalm sound a little different, they are . . . smile! Take a fresh look . . .

From THE MESSAGE -- Psalm 23

GOD, my shepherd! I don't need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows; you find me quiet pools to drink from.

True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction.

Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I'm not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd's crook makes me feel secure.

You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing.

Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I'm back home in the house of GOD for the rest of my life.

I pray you will find your lush meadow and quiet pools today.

Photo courtesy of BigFoto.

Why Do We Expect God to Bless America?

Everyday in America we here someone somewhere asking, "God Bless America!" I'm wondering why it is we expect Him to do that. The craziness circus (in my opinion) of an election year that is well underway . . . A happy and blessed nation would do well to heed and follow Godly Biblical views on a number of the BIG issues. Where do the candidates stand on that? I'm not one to wish to debate politics on this blog (And I won't! Don't even think about posting political ads -- They'll be rejected). I'd love to hear comments on "Why this is our expectation in the light of the way we treat God?"

What I pray that we would see as a nation is the respect and blessing we withhold from the God who has blessed us with way more than we'll ever deserve. The following passage from Malachi speaks to us today, as well. . . and "NO" it's not just about money. It is about repentance and seeking HIM and serving HIM. It's ALL HIS!! It's ALL ABOUT GOD. . . It's NOT about us. However, the incredible God I serve does "pour out blessings beyond your wildest dreams." When the nation HUMBLES itself and turns to HIM, I believe we may continue to rise from our sinking state and once again "be voted 'Happiest Nation,'. . . and experience what it's like to be a country of grace"

The Master You've Been Looking For
1 "Look! I'm sending my messenger on ahead to clear the way for me. Suddenly, out of the blue, the Leader you've been looking for will enter his Temple—yes, the Messenger of the Covenant, the one you've been waiting for. Look! He's on his way!" A Message from the mouth of God-of-the-Angel-Armies.

2-4But who will be able to stand up to that coming? Who can survive his appearance?

He'll be like white-hot fire from the smelter's furnace. He'll be like the strongest lye soap at the laundry. He'll take his place as a refiner of silver, as a cleanser of dirty clothes. He'll scrub the Levite priests clean, refine them like gold and silver, until they're fit for God, fit to present offerings of righteousness. Then, and only then, will Judah and Jerusalem be fit and pleasing to God, as they used to be in the years long ago.

5"Yes, I'm on my way to visit you with Judgment. I'll present compelling evidence against sorcerers, adulterers, liars, those who exploit workers, those who take advantage of widows and orphans, those who are inhospitable to the homeless—anyone and everyone who doesn't honor me." A Message from God-of-the-Angel-Armies.

6-7"I am God—yes, I Am. I haven't changed. And because I haven't changed, you, the descendants of Jacob, haven't been destroyed. You have a long history of ignoring my commands. You haven't done a thing I've told you. Return to me so I can return to you," says God-of-the-Angel-Armies.

"You ask, 'But how do we return?'

8-11"Begin by being honest. Do honest people rob God? But you rob me day after day.

"You ask, 'How have we robbed you?'

"The tithe and the offering—that's how! And now you're under a curse —the whole lot of you—because you're robbing me. Bring your full tithe to the Temple treasury so there will be ample provisions in my Temple. Test me in this and see if I don't open up heaven itself to you and pour out blessings beyond your wildest dreams. For my part, I will defend you against marauders, protect your wheat fields and vegetable gardens against plunderers." The Message of God-of-the-Angel-Armies.

12"You'll be voted 'Happiest Nation.' You'll experience what it's like to be a country of grace." God-of-the-Angel-Armies says so.
Malachi 3:1-12 The Message

A bit preachy? Perhaps. I still had the need to share my thoughts on this. I pray that as a nation we will really look at how we are robbing God, humble ourselves to repent, and turn to serve Him. I believe we will be blessed again beyond our wildest dreams.