We finally got the entire group (well, most of the group) together at once. It was such a great blessing to see all the ladies enjoy the fellowship. It's amazing what a little R & R can do to a weary body. We had a little catching up to do, but it was so sweet.

If you are a caregiver who never takes a break from your caregiving duties, I would encourage you to make the effort. I know you are probably thinking, "When? How? I don't have the energy to even want to get out." Well, then you are just the candidate for a break. Someone shared that sometimes they don't even want to get out of the house. However, once you are out, even for a little while, it makes all the difference.

We are not meant to keep going 24/7. We are not like God who needs no sleep and no rest. We are human beings and if we keep going at a frantic pace, we will break down or shut down all together.

I know it has been a long time that I've written here, but I felt led to write this. Maybe I will write more? We will see how the LORD leads.

May you be strengthened and encouraged as you continue on this journey.

Caregiver's April (09) Fellowship

Only God knows the extent of the heavy hearts that walked through the doors of Ida's welcoming home. Laughter, tears, sighs, smiles, hugs, a gentle touch...all were and are a part of this incredible ministry. Only God knows the oasis these get togethers are for our weary souls and bodies. We had new faces, same faces and faces we hadn't seen in a while...we had a pretty big group - thank you Jesus! We shared a yummy meal together and an awesome dessert (thank you Diana!). We sang together and then we lifted our burdens to the LORD in prayer...does it get any better than that?! Ida shared with us from God's Word and from her heart.

Philemon 4-7 - I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers, hearing of your love and faith which you have toward the LORD Jesus and toward all the saints, that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgement of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother. (vv. 20-22)-Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the LORD; refresh my heart in the LORD. Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you.

What a beautiful picture of the love of the brethren. The care and concern for one another. That call, that card, that visit, those prayers - what an impact and lifting up of hearts that can do.

We all left, once again, encouraged, refreshed, knowing that we are not alone in this incredible journey. Knowing that we have the LORD and others who totally understand what we go through.

To walk on this journey along side these awesome ladies is quite a privilege.

Caregiver's March Fellowship - Devotional

From the Book “A Cup of Hope” by Emilie Barnes

The Gift of a Terrible Day

Not too many years ago, a children’s book by Judith Viorst appeared on the market and became an instant classic. It was called Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. To my knowledge, it has never been out of print – and there’s a reason for that. It’s because every one of us knows what it’s like to have that kind of awful day.

Maybe you’re in one now – or you remember one all too vividly. A day when you feel physically terrible…or worse. When money is running low and the bills are piling up. When you have a fight with someone you care about – or you feel like picking one! When chores loom or bad news bites and you’re not sure what fire to put out first…and you’re not sure you’re even interested in fighting fires.

“In this world you will have trouble,” Jesus told us. That means we all have our quota of “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad” days. And that’s not even to mention the “stop everything” kind of bad day when we sit at a deathbed or get the legal papers or hear the diagnosis.

Bad days are just a given in this fallen world. We might as well expect them. But can we find hope in them?

I honestly think so.

After all, one of two things is true about every bad day of our lives: Either we will live through it and be given a chance at another day…and that’s reason for hope. Or we won’t live through it, and we will have the opportunity to spend eternity with a heavenly Father who loves us. That, too, is reason for hope.

At different times of your life, bad days will be different. At some points of your life you look back at your previous bad days and think, Why did I ever let all that bother me? Or you might look back and think, What a horrible time in my life! How did I ever live through that? (But you did.)

Either way, what you’ll see is that all those bad days were temporary. They all came in day-sized portions, and they all ended with a second chance, an opportunity for better days to follow. (Even the longest string of bad days eventually comes to an end.) Many of the, in addition, came with a hidden blessing – a word of encouragement that blossomed later into a relationship, a life lesson that finally clicked into place, a final confirmation that something really needed to change.

The point is, we serve a God of new beginnings. The hope he has for us is fresh every morning. So we can end our terrible, horrible, no good, very bad days with the expectation that God always has something better for us.

So thank God for the hope-giving grace of this awful day. Ask for the strength and courage to endure it, the wisdom to get through it without making other people suffer, the courage to learn and grow. And here are some things I’ve found helpful in surviving and learning from my own terrible, horrible, no good, very bad days:

* Remind yourself that no matter what happens, twenty-four hours from now this day will be over! (Lamentations 3:22-24 – Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!”)

* Marinate your heart in Scripture and prayer – especially if you feel like you don’t want to or don’t have the time. Ask God to cut through your confusion and guide you step by step through the day.

* Gripe a little bit to someone who cares – because the support and prayers of someone who knows what you’re going through can make all the difference.

* Count to ten before you respond to anyone. On bad days, your reactions tend to be off, and you could easily say something hurtful. (James 1:19-20 – Therefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.)

* Pay a little extra attention to caring for yourself on days when everything seems to go wrong. Try to get some exercise, to eat nutritious foods, to take your vitamins. And ask for help if you need it.

* Ask yourself, “Does God have something for me to learn on this terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day?”

~~~
Hope grows in a variety of circumstances – including rotten days!
~~~

Words of Hope – and Hope from the Word

When I went to bed, Nick took back the pillow he said I could keep. And the Mickey Mouse nightlight burned out and I bit my tongue. The cat wants to sleep with Anthony, not with me. It has been a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. My mom says some days are like that. Even in Australia. –-Judith Viorst

Every day has its own particular brand of holiness to discover and worship appropriately. –-Annie Dillard

I cry aloud to the LORD;
I lift up my voice to the LORD for mercy.
I pour out my complain before him;
before him I tell my trouble.
When my spirit grow faint within me,
It is you who know my way. –Psalm 142:1-3

But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. –1 Thessalonians 5:8

Let nothing disturb thee,
Let nothing affright thee.
All things are passing.
God never changes. –-St. Theresa of Avila

After reading this devotion I was able to see Philippians 4:4-9 (Rejoice in the LORD always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The LORD is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made know to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.) with a fresh pair of eyes. A new perspective. In pondering on this I realize how much things would change during our storms if we would simply stop for a moment, look to the heavens wherever we’re at and truly seek meaning in this passage. Sometimes all we have to do is look around us, look to His creations. We can find beauty in the wonders of the sky, the excellence in the detail and colors of the flowers, the softness of a baby’s skin. Our Father can take captive our thoughts and exchange them for the lovely things He has given. But we need to be still and notice His greatness. Never forget how mighty He is to save.

Ida

Caregiver's March Fellowship Pictures - 2

Caregiver's March Fellowship Pictures - 1

Caregiver's February Fellowship

Our Caregiver’s Fellowship was once again “what the doctor ordered”. Many of us needed this time of laughter, relaxation, camaraderie…a time of good-ol-down-time. I can only speak for myself when I say that there are those times that the simple fact of getting away from my caregiving duties is a hair-pulling-ordeal…yet, once I make the DECISION that I will try to make it, and actually make it to one of these get-togethers, I am the one totally-absolutely-blessed. As someone said, there are those times that “no-one-else” will understand aside than someone who is actually doing the same thing. There are those times that we, caregivers, might say things that actually sound “horrendous” to those who have no clue and we, caregivers, will actually be judged wrongly for even implying such a thing.

We also spoke about those times that some of us have been to “secular” support groups. And although they do serve a purpose in the whole scheme of things, we often come away feeling depressed, defeated and WITHOUT HOPE. We where all in agreement that in this kind of setting, we can rant and rave and complain and whatever, but when it all boils down we focus on God Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth who gives us all that we need for this journey…and we come away WITH HOPE.

Ida shared the following devotion which brought it all into perspective – eternal perspective:

Streams in the Desert

This thing is from Me (1Kings 12:24).

Life’s disappointments are veiled love’s appointments. Rev. C.A. Fox

My child, I have a message for you today; let me whisper it in your ear, that it may gild with glory any storm clouds which may arise, and smooth the rough places upon which you may have to tread. It is short, only five words, but let them sink into your inmost soul; use them as a pillow upon which to rest your weary head. This thing is from ME.

Have you ever thought of it, that all that concerns you concerns Me too? For, “he that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of mine eye” (Zech. 2:8). You are very precious in My sight (Isa. 43:4). Therefore, it is My special delight to educate you.

I would have you learn when temptations assail you, and the “enemy comes in like a flood,” that this thing is from Me, that your weakness needs My might, and your safety lies in letting Me fight for you.

Are you in difficult circumstances, surrounded by people who do not understand you, who never consult your taste, who put you in the background? This thing is from Me. I am the God of circumstances.

Thou camest not to thy place by accident, it is the very place God meant for thee.

Have you not asked to be made humble? See then, I have placed you in the very school where this lesson is taught; your surroundings and companions are only working out My will.

Are you in money difficulties? Is it hard to make both ends meet? This thing is from Me, for I am your purse-bearer and would have you draw from and depend upon Me. My supplies are limitless (Phil. 4:9). I would have you prove my promises. Let it not be said of you, “In this thing ye did not believe the Lord your God” (Deut. 1:32).

Are you passing though a night of sorrow? This thing is from Me. I am the Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief. I have let earthly comforters fail you, that by turning to Me you may obtain everlasting consolation (2 Thess. 2:16-17). Have you longed to do some great work for Me and instead have been laid aside on a bed of pain and weakness? This thing is from Me. I could not get your attention in your busy days and I want to teach you some of My deepest lessons. “They also serve who only stand and wait.” Some of My greatest workers are those shut out from active service, that they may learn to wield the weapon of all-prayer.

This day I place in your hand this pot of holy oil. Make use of it free, My child. Let every circumstance that arises, every word that pains you, every interruption that would make you impatient, every revelation of your weakness be anointed with it. The sting will go as you learn to see Me in all things. Laura A. Barter Snow

“This thing is from Me,” the Saviour said,
As bending low He kissed my brow,
“For One who loves you thus has led.
Just rest in Me, be patient now,
Your Father knows you have need of this,
Tho’, why perchance you cannot see –
Grieve not for things you’ve seemed to miss.
The thing I send is best for thee.”

Then, looking through my tears, I plead,
“Dear Lord, forgive, I did not know,
‘Twill not be hard since Thou dost tread,
Each path before me here below.
And for my good this thing must be,
His grace sufficient for each test.
So still I’ll sing, ‘Whatever be
God’s way for me is always best.’ ”

No need to add more…suffice it to say that God spoke and although they were hard words, they were comforting words…

Caregiver's January Fellowship

His Healing Oil

The Lord had given me some scriptures for this month’s gathering and as I pondered upon them they seem to fit right in with all that’s been going on since the beginning of the year. For myself, along with others I’ve spoken to, this has truly been a heavy and emotionally draining month. There have been many losses of loved ones, the heartache of prodigal children has increased, the trying illnesses, the painful words of loved ones, the weight of caregiving…the list is long. PRAISE GOD that we have refuge, comfort and strength in our Heavenly Father. Amen!?

Some trials and storms are much greater than others, but we must never let our flesh dictate the journey that God sets before us.

Acts 20:24 - But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to
myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received
from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.

It’s time to get angry; angry with Righteousness! We need to fight; fight hard on our knees. It’s time to ask others to come and fight with you! That’s what our fellow soldiers are there for.

Job 2:11b - …For they had made an appointment together to come and mourn with
him, and to comfort him.

This is what we can do for one another and it is twofold. Because when we look to comfort others, we take our eyes off of us and this is how sometimes God does the best work in us. This is the very tool He uses to touch us.

In speaking to my friend the other day, she shared with me of the wounds she endured by a loved one. She shared that her response was not a good one. Then she said this to me, “Satan made his way through a crack in my armor”. After I hung up, that visual stayed with me. As soldiers in Christ we are constantly facing a battle. Chances are that we are bound to miss a crack or two in our armor once in a while, when we forget to inspect our armor thoroughly. That is all the enemy needs - one small sliver to create havoc, destruction in our minds, our hearts and our very lives. We need to daily check our armor. Ephesians 6:13, Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

As I reflect back through every battle, I see and have experienced His healing oil upon His children, upon my soul. Thank you Jesus for Your loving kindness; thank You for Your Word that brings us such great comfort; thank You for Your healing oil.

Isaiah 61:3 - To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes,
the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;
That they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that
He may be glorified.

Ida

Handmade Gifts -2

Teresa's strudel (baking)

Susie's cross stitch

Meg's photography

Handmade Gifts

Margaret's crochet

Ida's jewelry

Diana's crochet

Caregiver's December Fellowship

This night was truly special in so many ways. We all came in with so many different things on our heart and mind – some spoken, some, o so deep that are not mentioned audibly. We were greeted with warmth from a wonderful home, smells of yummy food, a beautiful table, a glowing chimney…this all for us from Our Heavenly Father through His servant. Our God is so personal and knows exactly what we need…thank you Jesus!

We laughed, we shared and we enjoyed some good food (as always, thank you Ida for all the work). O, and yes, the desserts – we won’t go into the cake story, to protect the innocent – he! he! And Theresa’s goodies were o so yummy – who said we are on a diet anyway. We also exchanged “hand-made” gifts – there is a lot of talent around this group. All the gifts were precious and beautiful. Thank you ladies for all your hard work and all the love poured into each and every gift.

As we sat at the table we began to talk and share – funny how the Holy Spirit has been teaching us all the same thing, in different ways. The underlying thought “LESS IS MORE”. Teresa shared of the beautiful Christmases as she was growing up during World War II – talk about “less is more”…attitude and perspective is what it is all about (hey, wasn’t this on another post?). Teresa shared that her family knew Christmas was about Jesus. And that they were very grateful and content with God’s provisions. Teresa’s brother would collect the wood for the stove to make cookies, while her father would go on the hunt for a Christmas tree (and he wouldn’t go to a Christmas tree farm to look for a tree, he would go to the forest). He would chop one down and bring it home to his family. Their special family gift was time together, decorating the tree. Their Christmas tree decorations consisted of walnuts that they would wrap in aluminum to make them shiny, the cookies that they had previously made, that of course, they would later eat. They would light up the tree by putting little candles on the tree, yes, candles – wow! Is this creative or what? Do you get a sense of warmth and love as you here this story? Nothing to do with what we have made it out to be now.

Diana shared a beautiful song by Michael Card, named “The Basin and The Towel (Galatians 6:9 – So don’t get tired of doing what is good. Don’t get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time):

In an upstairs room a parable
Is just about to come alive.
And while they bicker about who’s best,
With a painful glance, He’ll silently rise.

Their Savior Servant must show them how
Through the will of the water
And the tenderness of the towel.

And the call is to community,
The impoverished power that sets the soul free.
In humility, to take the vow,
That day after day we must take up the basin and the towel.

In any ordinary place, on any ordinary, day,
The parable can live again
When one will kneel and one will yield.

Our Savior Servant must show us how
Through the will of the water
And the tenderness of the towel.

And the space between ourselves sometimes
Is more than the distance between the stars.
By the fragile bridge of the Servant’s bow
We take up the basin and the towel.

We read Luke 1:26-38 and Luke 2:7-14

We sang a different rendition of Silent Night:
Silent Night, Holy Night
All is calm, all is bright
Round young virgin, mother and child
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace

Silent Night, Holy Night
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glorious streams from heaven afar
Heavenly host sing alleluia
Christ the savior is born, Christ the savior is born

We worship Him, we honor Him
Born on this night, our God our true light
We worship Him, we honor Him
Jesus our Lord and our King

Silent Night, Holy Night
Son of God love pure light
Radiant beams from thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus Lord at thy birth, Jesus Lord at thy birth

We worship Him, we honor Him
Born on this night, our God our true light
We worship Him, we honor Him
Jesus our Lord and our King

Then Ida shared with us the following devotion:

Read Matthew 1:18-25

MARRED by David McCasland (Our
Daily Bread)

During an all-night festival in Paris, five young people,apparently drunk, broke into the Orsay Museum and left a 4-inch gash in a priceless painting by Claude Monet. Culture Minister Christine Albanel said the painting could be restored, but she was deeply disturbed at the damage done by “a purely criminal act.”

One news headline read: “Monet Masterpiece Marred.” To mar is to injure or damage; to spoil, disfigure, or impair. It’s an apt description of sin’s effect on us. We know well the results of our own choices made in ignorance or defiance of God.

As we approach Christmas, it’s good to remember why Jesus was born. The Son of God did not come to establish a nostalgic, family-oriented, commercially successful holiday. The angel told Joseph: “[Mary] will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).

Christmas began with a present from God to His sin damaged world: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

The masterpiece of God’s human creation, marred by turning away from Him, can be restored when we give our hearts to Christ.

Then we proceeded to prepare ourselves to take sweet communion together. We each read a Scripture:

Theresa – John 6:51, I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world.

Margaret – Matthew 26:26, And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.”

Sally – John 6:35, And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.”

Susie – John 6:32-33, My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.

Meg – John 6:27, Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.

Diana – John 6:56, 58, He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. This is the bread which came down from heaven not as your fathers at the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever.

Leti – Matthew 26:27-28, Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

Then we all took communion together…sweet time.

As always, the time flew by and the hugs and kisses began. God’s love and care flows through each and every lady. God has knitted us together with the common bond being Him. One of the ladies shared that in December (this month) was this ministry’s anniversary – 3 years!

To God be the glory for all that He has done and will continue to do.

Caregiver's November Fellowship

We had our monthly Caregiver's Fellowship (although maybe to be "politically correct" I need to call it something else - LOL!, inside yoke.) This time our fellowship began even as we drove over to Ida's. We all rode with Susie...good time girls! We were greeted by our wonderful hostess, Ida. Small talk, catching up, etc. - talk, talk, talk! As always, we had scrumptious food and wonderful fellowship and of course a wonderful meditation from God's Word.

First we had wonderful worship:





GOD'S WORD:

"A Passion for Jesus" Daily Devotion with CC Pastors' Wives

COURAGE

The trees of the LORD are full of sap. Psalm 104:16

Blessed is the an who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8

As I mulled this passage over in my mind, my thoughts wandered to all the disappointments in ministry here in Utah, and it occurred to me how much like the disciples I am. Jesus said, "Let us cross over to the other side" (Mark 4:35). They all got into the boat and then a raging storm came. They thought they were going to die, like I have thought so many times since we moved here. Jesus rebuked the storm but said, "Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?" (Matthew 8:26 KJV). What did Jesus mean by that? Did He simply want them to endure the storm and know they would make it? Definitely it was an experience for them to learn from and remember.

So when the Lord says to me, "O ye of little faith," He is saying, "Everything I have promised I will bring to pass; but don't let the storm - discouragements, disappointments, impossible finances, or other circumstances - keep you from believing what I have said." He doesn't guarantee a problem-free ride on the way there. I am to totally depend on Him to accomplish His purpose. So maybe in that storm the disciples should have just joined Jesus in the hull for a nap! I wonder if He would have laughed with delight.

Lord, help me today to choose faith in You over my circumstances.

Karen Ellis (Calvary Chapel Park City, Park City, Utah)

As I pondered on this verse the word "Drought" really stood out to me...there is a drought going on isn't there? A drought in our nation, a drought in the churches, a drought in the homes, a drought in the hearts; even within our Christian families.

You know, like many I was saddened by the outcome of the election and it is grieving every time you turn on the TV and all you see is thousands of people marching and protesting for something that is so wrong. But I certainly don't let it take me down because my hope, our hope does not come from man it is in Christ Jesus. Amen!?

I chose to take that as an opportunity to pray for them instead of getting angry. And for as long as I can pray I will pray because this is the only way to have victory in these battles we face today. We need to be in deep prayer, in His Word more than ever...we need those roots to spread out into that river to get that nourishment, that strength, that empowering of the Holy Spirit that will carry us through these storms.

And not just the storms that we face with this nation but the storms in our hearts, the storms in our homes, the storms with out children, the storms in caregiving, the storms with our health. We are facing difficult times and it will get worse but as Karen Ellis put it so perfectly, "Lord, help us to choose faith in You over our circumstances."

Psalm 20 - May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob defend you; may He send you help from the sanctuary, and strengthen you out of Zion; may He remember all your offerings, and accept your burn sacrifice. Selah

May He grant you according to your heart's desire, and fulfill all your purpose. We will rejoice in your salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners! May the LORD fulfill all your petitions.

Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed, He will answer him from His holy heaven with the saving strength of His right hand.

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. They have bowed down and fallen; but we have risen and stand upright.

Save, LORD! May the King answer us when we call.

Ida

Caregiver's October Fellowship

“A Passion for Jesus” (page 291)

NO WAY OUT ?

Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. Exodus 14:13

As Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, they came to a place where there seemed to be no way out. The Egyptian army was behind them and the Red Sea was before them. They were afraid. With their natural eyes they had every reason to be afraid. God spoke to Moses and told him to lift up his rod over the sea and it would be divided.

Faith enabled Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea, and in doing so, he could
see the Lord holding back the waters on each side, making a way out for them.
Faith enabled Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea, and in doing so, he
could see the Lord holding back the waters on each side, making a way out for
them. Faith brought Moses and the children of Israel safely through on dry
ground.

When we face impossible situations where there seems to be no way out, we must look to the Lord and have faith to believe that God can and will bring us safely through. The Lord fights for us...If we “stand still,” trusting Him, we will see His salvation!

By: Karin Kyle, CCModesto

Hebrews 11:24-29 - By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

What stops you from having this kind of faith and peace in trusting Jesus with your trial, your pain, and your struggles? My pastor said last weekend; “ask the Lord to help you seek your heart and find what it is that’s hindering you from having peace in that particular situation“. Our Lord wants nothing more than for us to hand it over and leave it there! He wants to do our biding; He will fight for us! This is how we get to witness His amazing power in our lives. Ask Him for that...ask for the empowering of the Holy Spirit. Like the song says, Savior He can move the mountains, my God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save!

Isaiah 35:3-8 - Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heat, be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes. And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.

...amazing what God can do with a foolish but willing heart. Amen?



NOTE: So far since this Ministry began each and everyone of these gatherings have been unique and very special. By 9:30 in the morning I began to wonder if this was going to be the first time no one attends. All but one person had cancelled. Right away I thought well this is different, what is this going to be like? Not knowing what God’s plan was for the day, I started to frown and doubt. I looked out the window and wondered if the rain would stop Margaret from coming...Hmmm. So I gave her a call...no answer! Was I being tested? Hmmm, Yup! So in faith I proceeded to cook and prepare a cozy spot by the window for Margaret and I. God knew exactly what type of evening we were going to have. It was WONDERFUL! We talked about all kinds of things but the main topic was our children, which for myself was well needed and appreciated. The Lord used Margaret to encourage me...Thank you Margaret!

We had some good laughter and sweet fellowship. And of course as usual it all ended much too quickly. After she left, I thought about how quickly I am ready to doubt and let my thoughts run forgetting for even a moment that God can take any and all situations with great purpose and do wonderful things. Not to mention (DAH!!!) the devotion He had given me to share, as if that wasn‘t enough for me to learn from. Once again He demonstrated what He could do...with a foolish and willing heart!

Thank you Jesus for your unfailing love and faithfulness, you are worthy to be praised!

Ida

Caregiver's August Fellowship

“Moments of Peace from the Psalms”

“WIGHTY CHALLENGES”

Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden. Psalm 68:19NASB

Loads get heavier the longer you carry them. This is true of both physical weight and emotional responsibilities. The more time you contend with them, the more fatigued you become.

You may believe that you’ve gotten accustomed to your burdens – that you can handle them – but they’re still draining you. You know that because of how difficult it is for you to deal with new challenges. When you stop having joy, it’s obvious you’re not managing your problems successfully.

Friend, you don’t have to be self-sufficient. God is happy to carry your burdens. He’ll be your unfailing strength and will use the weight to help you grow. Trust him with your concerns.

God, I’m not quite sure how to give my burdens to you – please show me how. I truly want to trust you with them. AMEN.

How true this is - I’ve been guilty of thinking I’ve become accustomed to my burdens and before I knew it, it had sucked the life out of me. This type of thinking can cause us to waver from fellowship, going to church, reading the Word which are all the very things that we need to strengthen us, to be the lifter of our heads, to empower us. We have to be careful and aware of not taking on these burdens. So many times we think we have the answer or the solution and all the time our Lord is there waiting for us to hand it over and ease our load. Our relief, our comfort, our strength and joy through trials are in Jesus Christ no one else can do this for us. We need to constantly be looking to Him for all things. His grace is sufficient.

(We each read a Scripture)

Rest
Psalm 62:1 – Truly my soul silently waits for God; From Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved.

Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Power
2 Timothy 1:7 – For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 – And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Weakness
Romans 8:26 – Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Weary
Psalm 55:22 – Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

Isaiah 40:28-31 – Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

Galatians 6:9 – And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Galatians 6:2 – Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Encouragement
Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – mediate on these things.

Caregiver's July Fellowship

“Moments of Peace from the Psalms”

RESTORATIVE HOPE

My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectations if from Him. Psalm 62:5

Have you gotten to the point that you feel you can’t continue? Sometimes this is because of legitimately strenuous tasks. But more often than not, this happens when you handle your responsibilities in your own strength.

You keep working and pushing – feeling that if you fail, everything will fall apart. You trust yourself for success rather than God – and it’s wearing you out.

Friend, you need to rest and trust that God will reenergize and inspire you. He’ll show you how to work smarter – instead of harder – and accomplish everything in His strength.

So take a break and let Him restore you. He’ll fill you with His wisdom and empower you for all your tasks.

In God is my salvation and my glory; The rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Psalm 62:7-8

“Feeling that if you fail, everything will fall apart” – so often we tend to put that kind of pressure on ourselves, sometimes we don’t even see it. When we really should be handing it all to the Lord and going to Him for the help that’s required and the strength we need.

It says here “trust that God will reenergize and inspire you”. “He’ll show you how to work smarter – instead of harder and accomplish everything in His strength”. When we ask this of the Lord we may not see or feel this physically in that very moment but at the end of the day when you look back and see all that you’ve done and wonder how did I do that as tired and weary as I was? God had already restored you supernaturally. Here’s the bottom line when you find rest in Jesus you will find rest for your weary soul, in caregiving, selling your house, sickness, trials with our children, the death of a loved one whatever it is we need to trust Him.

Sisters we are certainly not alone, how wonderful that the Lord has left us a heritage to look back and read about. We can never say no one know how I feel. God already knew we would feel and say things like that. That’s why we have His Word, His promises to lean on, to learn and draw strength from.

Psalm 61 – “A Prayer When Overwhelmed”
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
I will abide in thy tabernacle forever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.
Thou wilt prolong the king’s life: and his years as many generations.
He shall abide before God forever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.
So will I sing praise unto thy name forever, that I may daily perform my vows.

Ida

June Caregiver's Fellowship

This month we decided on a picnic-caregiver’s fellowship. Things have been chaotic in many of our lives, and so this respite was a real welcome in our hurried world. We sat, we chatted we laughed. Our table had enough food to feed a troop. Everyone out did themselves. And Margaret, well - she wasn’t able to stay, but she was so sweet and brought us “authentic Scottish shortbread”! – what love! Thank you Margaret.

Lots of things were shared and mentioned that will make their way into individual posts. They are helpful and relevant to all caregivers – watch for them.

Ida’s devotion was wonderful – the LORD is always faithful to His Word:

“Quiet Pool” from Come Away My Beloved
Wait upon ME.
Let your life be as a deep, quiet pool.
Let your heart rest in My hand as a bird in a nest.
Let your eyes be still. Let your hands be free.
(Ida’s note: This is where we are able to hear Him the best.)
For then I shall fill all your vision, and then I shall take your hands into Mine and My power shall flow forth into you.

If you would only make yourself a place apart, yes, removed
from the pressure and turmoil, and there I will meet you. Yes, I wait for your
coming. For I long to pour out My blessings upon you, and I long to give you My
fullness(Ida’s note: No one or thing can offer this). Only be still before Me.
Never let the toils and cares of the day rob you of this sweet fellowship with
Me.(Ida’s note: He desires to meet with us all the time!)

(Ida's note: love story) For I know what you need, and I am concerned abut your duties and responsibilities.
You will find your cares vanish, and your load is
lightened by an unseen hand: I would have you bring Me your love, and even as
you are bringing Me your love, I shall in turn bring to you My power, so that I
work for you in a twofold measure.

I will give you the power to discharge your duties with greater efficiency. I am actively engaged in working for you in ways you cannot see, to make your path clear, and to bring about things you could never accomplish, and which would otherwise absorb your energies and wear out your patience. (Ida’s note: we are not in control.)

So I say again…Rest in Me. Wait upon Me.
Come apart with Me. Seek My
face. Seek My fellowship.

O Lord, what shame that You should need to beg
us thus! Better that others might find us unavailable because of our occupation
with You, rather than for us to be so slow to come, so dull to hear, so cold of
heart, so indolent of soul. (Ida’s note: Where are our priorities?)

O God, spare us Your wrath!
Do not let Your anger be kindled against us.
Let us ask only one thing more, and do not turn away.

Grant this one prayer more, O Lord, that You would give us all that is lacking in us; intensify our hunger and fire our devotion (Ida’s note: during a storm!) take the
indifference from our spirits; and have within us Your wonderful way and perfect
will (Ida’s note: our daily prayer), O God, we pray. Amen.

(After reading the above Ida continued with her thoughts) We need to practice this quiet place, because when our thoughts are flooded and our hearts are pounding it is very difficult to hear our Father’s voice. He has so much to
tell us, to show us. No one or thing on this earth can offer the fullness that
He has to give. He desires to meet with us, every minute of the day. That blows
me away, I don’t know anyone that wants to put up with me to that degree! He is
concerned with what worries us, what hurts us and He wants to take it away, make
it “vanish” as the book says. Wow!

(Mark 4:35-41) He (Jesus) slept so peacefully in the midst of the storm. He had such great faith that our Father had it all under control. Often we hear ourselves say, “God’s in control”, but how often do our actions express it? I know that whenever I try to take control of things I fall right on my face.

God should never have to call on us to get our attention, we should be running! Running to Him for all things. If we would daily attempt to be in His perfect will our devotion with Him would become intensified, we will be hungry and on fire for Him. And the amount of time we spend with Him will show when those storms come. How are we handling it? Are we freaking out? Or is there peace and calmness?

Psalm 55:16-18, 22 – As for me, I will call upon God, and the LORD shall save me. Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice. He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me…Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

Psalm 37:7 – Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him
(something I do not always find easy to do – wait patiently.)

So once again we walked away refreshed, renewed and ready for the journey ahead.

May Caregivers Fellowship

This month we decided to pull up a chair and sit in the garden. It was so relaxing and refreshing. In fact, I was so relaxed that I didn't take any pictures - sorry, no slideshow this month:(

We ate, we talked we laughed, in fact, the LORD even blessed us with a serenade. This birdie came by and sang its heart away - it was so beautiful.

The LORD encouraged us to press forward, that He sees everything we do even when no one else does. He is the One we are to please.

We read the following from His Princes, Love Letters from Your King, by Sheri Rose Shepherd:

See I am coming soon and my reward is with me to repay all according to their deeds. Revelation 22:12

My Princess...You Will Be Greatly Rewarded

I see you when no one else does. I see you meet others needs when no one is looking. I know when you give generously when there is no spotlight. Your name may never be on a plaque for the world to notice, but I see you, My faithful one. I know you need to be appreciated for who you are and all you do. But don't give up. I will bring you a reward that can't be bought in a store or found in the praises of people. I can't wait to celebrate in heaven all you have done to further My kingdom. I'm so pleased with your dedication and good works. Until that great day - when I exalt you and your good works for the whole world to see - let Me give you a taste of those blessings here on earth. Thank you for your faithfulness, My princes. The best is yet to come.

Love,
Your King and your Rewarder

Once again we each left having taken time away from the caregiving routine and renewed to carry on. This gathering do so much for us, once again reminding us that we are not alone and that we are not meant to walk this journey alone.

April Fellowship

We had our monthly caregivers meeting on Saturday. It was great, as always. It seemed as if we had not seen each other forever. Our fellowship was so sweet. It just feels good to sit and relax and share your burdens with others who truly do understand. Fellowship was awesome, worship was refreshing and God's word to us was so appropriate.

From "Moments of Peace from the Psalms" - SHIFTING THE PILE

Pile your troubles on God's shoulders - he'll carry your load, he'll help you
out. He'll never let good people topple into ruin. Psalm 55:22 MSG
--- You should always make your loved ones a priority in your life. Yet
you must also understand that sometimes God will use circumstances to prevent
you from helping them when they're struggling.

Whether it's because of distance, health, responsibilities, or even
relational barriers, God may have allowed the separation to keep you from
interfering in what he's teaching them. You may want to shoulder a burden
that only he can carry for them. Or perhaps he is refining their character
through their troubles.

Whatever the case, you must shift your worries about them to God.
Always remember that he's able to care for them better than you are. Just
keep praying and let him work.

God, it's rough seeing love ones making bad decisions or suffering, but I
trust you to work in the. I pray they'll depend on you. Amen.

Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear
my voice. He has redeemed my soul in peace. Psalm 55:17-18 NKJV

Then Ida share her heart with us and encouraged us to lean and trust in God and God alone, friends are good, but it should be God the one you call first before anyone else. She gave us encouragement and God's word to carry us through. Jeremiah 14:13c, 15:15; Proverbs 11:14b; Mathew 18:19-20; Psalm 31:15a; Daniel 10:18-19.

Once again we were blessed and encouraged. We laughed, we cried, we shared, we worshipped, we enjoyed each others company. In fact, we even celebrated some birthdays. The cake was yummy and our earrings and necklaces were gorgeous. For a moment in time all seemed "normal".

Thank you Jesus for the brethren. Bless my sisters and bring others to be refreshed by YOU.

December Fellowship

"Send out your light and your truth; let them guide me. Let them lead me to your holy mountain, to the place where you live. Psalm 43:3NLT

It's not about coming up with ways to serve God - what pleases Him is that you obey Him. He doesn't want a relationship with you based on regulations - rather, He expects its foundation to be love. Though it's easier to follow a set of spiritual rules, that's not what God has called you to. That's why sometimes when you're doing everything "right," God sets you on a darkened path - he's showing you how to rely upon Him completely."

Today we had a wonderful time, once again, at our monthly caregivers get together. The above is partly what Ida shared as our devotional. Yes, God spoke...God moved...we were refreshed. We had a wonderful time of eating, drinking and fellowshipping. Once again, this proves that "isolation" is not what God intended for any one of us, but that we fellowship and carry each others burdens. We missed some of the "regulars", but welcomed a new member. Prayerfully in the coming year we will be able to see more caregivers come and be refreshed by the Lord and each other.

November Fellowship

We had our monthly "Caregivers" get together. We laughed, we cried, we shared. The Lord knows how we all needed this time away from the routine. The Lord tells us not to forsake the gathering together of the brethren, because He knows how much we all need it and benefit from it. So often we isolate ourselves and give room for our thoughts to run rampant and the enemy to bring havoc into our lives. As we gather together, we find that there truly is nothing new under the sun. The same woes that another is going through are so similar to those that I am going through. The encouragement that comes from these gatherings is PRICELESS. And what is more important than all this is that we get the Word of God, which is the only thing that will get us through whatever comes next.