In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea. "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Matthew 3:1-2
I've been thinking a lot lately of John the Baptist. Remember he's the one who baptized Jesus in the river Jordan and ate locusts and wild honey. We all know the story of Jesus' baptism, but do we think about how John the Baptist died? It's pretty gruesome, but King Herod ordered his soldiers to decapitate John in prison. John the Baptist was an extraordinary believer in God whose mother Elizabeth was a close relative of the Virgin Mary, who lived alone in the Judean wilderness, who loved God and prayed unceasingly, who knew Jesus was the Son of God, who was respected by the people in Israel as a prophet, yet was thrown into Herod's prison, had his head slashed off and that bloody head placed on a silver platter and presented to Herodias, Herod's latest female conquest who was his brother's wife. What horror to a beloved man of God!
I ask....did John feel abandoned by God?....did he feel abandoned by Jesus? What turmoil did his mind go through as he suffered in a dark, smelly, cold, stone cell with heavy chains clanking at his feet and little to eat but moldy pieces of bread and sloshes of water? Almighty God had called him to be part of His plan introducing the Messiah to the world, calling each person to repent of their sins and thereby usher in the Savior who would give people eternal life. And here John was....hopelessly and helplessly in prison.
Have you ever felt abandoned? ............ Have you ever felt totally hopeless?........Have you ever felt complete physical, mental, emotional helplessness?......
In our day and time we are trained, taught and encouraged to be self-sufficient, independent, self-reliant, positive individuals. "I can get myself out of tight situations....there is nothing that can prevent me from my goals....I can overcome any physical, emotional, financial hurdle....because...... I am strong!" Isn't that what we say?
Let me share what happened to me!...... If you've been reading my blog you know I was diagnosed with a 'lethal, aggressive, rare' cancer of the brain in July, 2010 and given 7 weeks to live. I was totally helpless.......physically, emotionally and mentally. I knew this cancer problem was the biggest challenge in my lifetime! I could hardly walk, could not use my right hand or arm, had trouble speaking, had nightmares, cried constantly, had difficulty thinking, had trouble sleeping.........and what was worse, I did NOT know what was wrong with me and could NOT fix it myself!
And in that state of complete helplessness and confusion, guess who took over? JESUS! In my total state of complete helplessness I desperately and willingly surrendered my body, heart, soul and mind to the Lord my God....and He took over! I surrendered my will to Him and He reached out to me and lovingly cared for me. Here I was...an independent, successful woman who had reached high levels of accomplishment...professional singer, mother of four super children, published author, strong happy marriage to a loving husband, and then in July, 2010....totally helpless, afraid of being alone in a hospital bed, unable to brush my teeth, mumbling words, struggling to move my right leg....so I surrendered to the One who was there all the time waiting for me. Instead of trying to fix the problem myself... I let Him fix it ...and He did!
I'm sure John the Baptist also knew that God was with him...even when he heard the soldiers approach his cell and saw them pull the long steel sword and force his head on the block. He knew...yes, he knew that Almighty God was there welcoming him to the joy and peace of Eternity....where never again would he feel abandoned, hopeless or helplessly alone. This physical life is only temporary. We have a Savior who gives us eternity in God's home, Heaven.
Yes, I learned so much going through the trauma of brain cancer because I surrendered myself to His plan for me. It's amazing how our helpless moments can result in triumphant rewards!
Psalm 119:33-35 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, And I shall keep it to the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law; Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it.
Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Friday, December 11, 2015
The Light of the World
Years ago one December, Dick and I visited Williamsburg, VA during one of my singing engagements. Williamsburg is a beautiful city, with rich colonial history dating back to the late 1600s and was the capital of Virginia during the 1700s. Our interest in the area of Williamsburg and Jamestown, VA (the first English settlement) centers around the amazing historical fact that the Weisiger family documents Pocahontas, the Indian maiden, in the Weisiger genealogy!
On our visit to Williamsburg that December, I remember being entranced by the display of lighted candles in every window of the quaint homes. The small candles gave a warm glow throughout the city welcoming visitors during the Christmas season. I was so enraptured with that quiet, gentle lighting that when we returned to our home in Wyckoff, NJ, I promptly bought individual candles for every window. I have continued the tradition as we've moved about and still love the delicate effect the lighted candles have during the month of December.
LIGHT! Yes, light has great meaning and the lighting of just one little candle makes us smile. Isn't it interesting that Jesus is referred to as 'the light of the world'. How often we read in scripture about light.....John 1:9 - "The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world." 1 Timothy 6:16 - " (15 b " the King of kings and Lord of lords,) who alone has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen." Acts 9:3-6 - "Now as he (Paul) journeyed he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed about him. And he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?' And he said, 'Who are you, Lord?' And he said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.'"
I am reminded of that amazing experience on the night of May 26, 2010, when Jesus appeared to me in a vision filled with light...shafts of over-powering sunlight, interspersed with radiating colors of the rainbow...so that I knew the vision was Jesus! His words to me that night told me I would be healed of lethal, aggressive, rare brain cancer...and I was healed!...defying all medical statistics. Yes, the radiance, glow, brightness and warmth of light indicates the presence of Jesus.
One scripture passage I love are the beautiful first five verses of the Gospel of John.
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:1-5
Lately verse five has really reverberated in my brain...."The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." The past few weeks and months we have been alarmed by the horrendous, murderous acts of radical Islamic terrorists. We are frightened, we are cautious, we feel helpless and we might even change travel or shopping plans. So when I repeat that verse 5, I am reminded of what it means. The 'darkness' is the enemy or Satan. We live in a fallen, sinful world and that 'darkness' wants to smother us with fear. But what is more powerful? Light! Light displaces darkness, light helps us 'see', light gives us protection, light makes us feel safe, light gives us warmth....and who is the source of that light? JESUS! "And the darkness has not overcome it" ......Jesus is more powerful than darkness! What a blessed thought these days.
As I travel around our town after the sun has set and the night darkness rapidly encroaches, Christmas lights joyously shine on houses and outside displays. Lighted candles gleam from windows, white twinkling lights dot trees and buildings. The message is strong....It is Christmastime and the lights are shining. We are reminded that we are celebrating the miracle of God's gift to our world...the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, in a humble stable in Bethlehem. Jesus, the light of the world has come to remind us that God has not forgotten us and that He loves us with glorious intensity.
This week we attended several concerts and programs filled with the message of Christmas. Singing the carols, viewing the re-enactment of the Christmas story complete with Mary, Joseph and the Babe plus the shepherds and the sheep, and the Wise Men bringing gifts.....candles lighting churches and worshippers holding lighted candles.....we are moved again by the presence of Almighty God who knows what we need this Christmas....His Presence! We are thankful He is here.
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory , glory as of the only Son from the Father." John 1:14
On our visit to Williamsburg that December, I remember being entranced by the display of lighted candles in every window of the quaint homes. The small candles gave a warm glow throughout the city welcoming visitors during the Christmas season. I was so enraptured with that quiet, gentle lighting that when we returned to our home in Wyckoff, NJ, I promptly bought individual candles for every window. I have continued the tradition as we've moved about and still love the delicate effect the lighted candles have during the month of December.
LIGHT! Yes, light has great meaning and the lighting of just one little candle makes us smile. Isn't it interesting that Jesus is referred to as 'the light of the world'. How often we read in scripture about light.....John 1:9 - "The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world." 1 Timothy 6:16 - " (15 b " the King of kings and Lord of lords,) who alone has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen." Acts 9:3-6 - "Now as he (Paul) journeyed he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed about him. And he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?' And he said, 'Who are you, Lord?' And he said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.'"
I am reminded of that amazing experience on the night of May 26, 2010, when Jesus appeared to me in a vision filled with light...shafts of over-powering sunlight, interspersed with radiating colors of the rainbow...so that I knew the vision was Jesus! His words to me that night told me I would be healed of lethal, aggressive, rare brain cancer...and I was healed!...defying all medical statistics. Yes, the radiance, glow, brightness and warmth of light indicates the presence of Jesus.
One scripture passage I love are the beautiful first five verses of the Gospel of John.
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:1-5
Lately verse five has really reverberated in my brain...."The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." The past few weeks and months we have been alarmed by the horrendous, murderous acts of radical Islamic terrorists. We are frightened, we are cautious, we feel helpless and we might even change travel or shopping plans. So when I repeat that verse 5, I am reminded of what it means. The 'darkness' is the enemy or Satan. We live in a fallen, sinful world and that 'darkness' wants to smother us with fear. But what is more powerful? Light! Light displaces darkness, light helps us 'see', light gives us protection, light makes us feel safe, light gives us warmth....and who is the source of that light? JESUS! "And the darkness has not overcome it" ......Jesus is more powerful than darkness! What a blessed thought these days.
As I travel around our town after the sun has set and the night darkness rapidly encroaches, Christmas lights joyously shine on houses and outside displays. Lighted candles gleam from windows, white twinkling lights dot trees and buildings. The message is strong....It is Christmastime and the lights are shining. We are reminded that we are celebrating the miracle of God's gift to our world...the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, in a humble stable in Bethlehem. Jesus, the light of the world has come to remind us that God has not forgotten us and that He loves us with glorious intensity.
This week we attended several concerts and programs filled with the message of Christmas. Singing the carols, viewing the re-enactment of the Christmas story complete with Mary, Joseph and the Babe plus the shepherds and the sheep, and the Wise Men bringing gifts.....candles lighting churches and worshippers holding lighted candles.....we are moved again by the presence of Almighty God who knows what we need this Christmas....His Presence! We are thankful He is here.
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory , glory as of the only Son from the Father." John 1:14
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Challenges give Opportunities
How amazing as I experience God working in my life to bless me, encourage me and heal me! November 6, 2015 held a momentous event. After not being able to drive since mid 2010, I PASSED the Michigan driver's test! HALLELUJAH!
About a year ago my physiatrist at Mary Free Bed rehab facility said, "Janet, you should take the driver rehab course so you can safely drive again. It will make you feel productive and independent." I remember thinking, "Sounds good, but, can I do it?"
So, in April, 2015 I took the initial evaluation at Mary Free Bed and was told that indeed I could be driver trained BUT I would need a special pedal for my left foot to accelerate and brake and a 'knob' steering device on the steering wheel. These two devices would provide safe driving in spite of my right leg and arm weakness. I then decided to wait until September to enroll in the 4-6 week drive rehab program because we were scheduled to leave for our Canadian lake house the beginning of May.
In September I began the rehab program. To my amazement my right foot and leg had significantly healed over the summer so that my driver instructor decided I did not need the special pedal for the left foot! Another miracle! During the training sessions it was exciting to drive again as I maneuvered through aggressive, busy traffic in Grand Rapids. How thankful I was that in years past I had driven countless times in Manhattan, New York City, battling aggressive taxi cabs and crazy driving during my singing career.
Since I could not use my right arm and hand, the knob on the steering wheel provided safe accurate turning around street corners...amazing! I also began to realize driving was more mental than physical...thinking 'defensively', following 'rules' of the road, knowing where I was and where I was going. I began to think, "Yes, Janet, you CAN do this"!
The day of the test I started doubting. "Janet, you have severe physical limitations." "Janet, you have enough trouble just getting into a car...what makes you think you can drive?" "Oh, just forget about driving...let Dick continue being your chauffeur and be dependent on others to give you a ride." Yes, the enemy was discouraging me. As I sat at the breakfast table, I opened my daily devotional and read Exodus 4:10-17. My spirit leaped with joy! The scripture spoke to me.
The Lord had called Moses to deliver the Jews from Egypt and how did Moses respond? "Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." And what did the Lord say to Moses? "Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say."
Immediately I knew God was sending me a powerful message. Janet, who gave you arms and legs? Who gave you a mind to think? Janet, I am with you. I will be in that car with you, helping you to move that right leg and foot on the accelerator and the brake. I will guide your left hand on that steering wheel knob. I will help you to remember all the rules of the road. So, Janet, what are you worried about?
God was with me and I passed the Michigan driver's test. The knob steering wheel is now installed and I'm on the road!
Thank you Lord for answering my need and thank you Lord for your continual presence as I face challenges in my life. You have shown me again that my challenges are Your opportunities to display Your loving power in my life. What an amazing God!
About a year ago my physiatrist at Mary Free Bed rehab facility said, "Janet, you should take the driver rehab course so you can safely drive again. It will make you feel productive and independent." I remember thinking, "Sounds good, but, can I do it?"
So, in April, 2015 I took the initial evaluation at Mary Free Bed and was told that indeed I could be driver trained BUT I would need a special pedal for my left foot to accelerate and brake and a 'knob' steering device on the steering wheel. These two devices would provide safe driving in spite of my right leg and arm weakness. I then decided to wait until September to enroll in the 4-6 week drive rehab program because we were scheduled to leave for our Canadian lake house the beginning of May.
In September I began the rehab program. To my amazement my right foot and leg had significantly healed over the summer so that my driver instructor decided I did not need the special pedal for the left foot! Another miracle! During the training sessions it was exciting to drive again as I maneuvered through aggressive, busy traffic in Grand Rapids. How thankful I was that in years past I had driven countless times in Manhattan, New York City, battling aggressive taxi cabs and crazy driving during my singing career.
Since I could not use my right arm and hand, the knob on the steering wheel provided safe accurate turning around street corners...amazing! I also began to realize driving was more mental than physical...thinking 'defensively', following 'rules' of the road, knowing where I was and where I was going. I began to think, "Yes, Janet, you CAN do this"!
The day of the test I started doubting. "Janet, you have severe physical limitations." "Janet, you have enough trouble just getting into a car...what makes you think you can drive?" "Oh, just forget about driving...let Dick continue being your chauffeur and be dependent on others to give you a ride." Yes, the enemy was discouraging me. As I sat at the breakfast table, I opened my daily devotional and read Exodus 4:10-17. My spirit leaped with joy! The scripture spoke to me.
The Lord had called Moses to deliver the Jews from Egypt and how did Moses respond? "Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." And what did the Lord say to Moses? "Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say."
Immediately I knew God was sending me a powerful message. Janet, who gave you arms and legs? Who gave you a mind to think? Janet, I am with you. I will be in that car with you, helping you to move that right leg and foot on the accelerator and the brake. I will guide your left hand on that steering wheel knob. I will help you to remember all the rules of the road. So, Janet, what are you worried about?
God was with me and I passed the Michigan driver's test. The knob steering wheel is now installed and I'm on the road!
Thank you Lord for answering my need and thank you Lord for your continual presence as I face challenges in my life. You have shown me again that my challenges are Your opportunities to display Your loving power in my life. What an amazing God!
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Control!
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3: 5-6
It is our human nature to want to control. Whether it is our personal safety, our health, our careers, our family activities, our daily schedules, our future lives, our finances, our children's behaviors...we strive to control. Or, as we so popularly state.."Don't lose control!"
Yes, we never want to admit 'losing control'. In our human, self absorbed entities we passionately think we know what is best for ourselves. We think we are clever enough, wise enough, and certainly able enough to control our own lives. But isn't that the essence of self centered worship?
I know I constantly struggle with this concept and it makes me realize that is my basic sinful nature. God reminds us to trust Him...to surrender to Him. He repeatedly tells us to let Him control our lives because He knows what is best for us. But I know I forget, I slip...and there I go again, thinking I should 'control'.
It is interesting that I discovered when I was at my weakest, most vulnerable state, it was then that I allowed God to be in total control. I was dying, I was helpless, I was in deep physical distress unable to fight by my self. That is when I had no choice. I totally surrendered my entire physical body, my mind, my heart...to Jesus! What did I discover? Jesus knew what I needed. He spoke to me, put His arms around me, took total control over my life and chose to miraculously heal me.
My cancer experience was a blessing! My days of declaring self-sufficiency were over! I totally depended on His presence and the blessings He sent my way! During my most sickly days and nights I would silently call out to Him, "Here I am Lord! I know You are with me. My life and my heart are Yours!" And His presence sustained me. His presence promised me healing. His presence assured me of eternal life. He sent me blessings of a devoted husband and family, of friends who prayed and cared for me. All during those ugly days of struggling with cancer He never left my side.
Now as I look back on the past 5 1/2 years since my CNS lymphoma diagnosis, I suddenly catch myself as I struggle with that dangerous tendency to control. My MRIs and blood work show no cancer, my mind is clear, my memory accurate...and here I am wanting to control my life again. And even worse, wanting to control the lives of others around me. All this makes me fully aware of my own sinful nature. Sin is part of me, lies submerged, but rears its ugly head at an opportune time!
Now I realize how vitally important are my prayers. Those petitions, those confessions, those thankful praises that I picture rising to the throne of God like sweet incense and placed in containers of priceless gold constitute my precious communication with the Lord Almighty. My conversations with my Lord tighten the relationship. He hears and I listen. I ask and He decides. I await and He solves. I confess and He forgives. I give all to Him and He controls. Those messages and those moments strongly remind me that I am nothing without my God. He is in control of my life and may I never forget!
It is our human nature to want to control. Whether it is our personal safety, our health, our careers, our family activities, our daily schedules, our future lives, our finances, our children's behaviors...we strive to control. Or, as we so popularly state.."Don't lose control!"
Yes, we never want to admit 'losing control'. In our human, self absorbed entities we passionately think we know what is best for ourselves. We think we are clever enough, wise enough, and certainly able enough to control our own lives. But isn't that the essence of self centered worship?
I know I constantly struggle with this concept and it makes me realize that is my basic sinful nature. God reminds us to trust Him...to surrender to Him. He repeatedly tells us to let Him control our lives because He knows what is best for us. But I know I forget, I slip...and there I go again, thinking I should 'control'.
It is interesting that I discovered when I was at my weakest, most vulnerable state, it was then that I allowed God to be in total control. I was dying, I was helpless, I was in deep physical distress unable to fight by my self. That is when I had no choice. I totally surrendered my entire physical body, my mind, my heart...to Jesus! What did I discover? Jesus knew what I needed. He spoke to me, put His arms around me, took total control over my life and chose to miraculously heal me.
My cancer experience was a blessing! My days of declaring self-sufficiency were over! I totally depended on His presence and the blessings He sent my way! During my most sickly days and nights I would silently call out to Him, "Here I am Lord! I know You are with me. My life and my heart are Yours!" And His presence sustained me. His presence promised me healing. His presence assured me of eternal life. He sent me blessings of a devoted husband and family, of friends who prayed and cared for me. All during those ugly days of struggling with cancer He never left my side.
Now as I look back on the past 5 1/2 years since my CNS lymphoma diagnosis, I suddenly catch myself as I struggle with that dangerous tendency to control. My MRIs and blood work show no cancer, my mind is clear, my memory accurate...and here I am wanting to control my life again. And even worse, wanting to control the lives of others around me. All this makes me fully aware of my own sinful nature. Sin is part of me, lies submerged, but rears its ugly head at an opportune time!
Now I realize how vitally important are my prayers. Those petitions, those confessions, those thankful praises that I picture rising to the throne of God like sweet incense and placed in containers of priceless gold constitute my precious communication with the Lord Almighty. My conversations with my Lord tighten the relationship. He hears and I listen. I ask and He decides. I await and He solves. I confess and He forgives. I give all to Him and He controls. Those messages and those moments strongly remind me that I am nothing without my God. He is in control of my life and may I never forget!
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
All in this life is temporary!
All in this life is temporary! Wow! When I heard that statement from a visiting pastor last week it really gave me pause to think. He's right, I realized. As I looked back on my 79 years of life, thoughts ran through my mind. Remembering my childhood years, then pre-teen, then rapidly teen, then the 20s, the 30s, 40s and on and on. Each phase of my life was temporary as my physical body swiftly changed, my mental capacities grew and changed, parents died, friends came and left, geographical changes occurred as we moved, even cultural changes happen that continue to effect my faith . Truly, nothing in this physical world stays the same from one year to the next. Everything in this earthly life is temporary.
Lately I have become more aware of the intense grief and pain facing someone losing a spouse, especially after many years of marriage. The man or woman is left alone...rarely do both die at the same time. Yes, those years of living together as man and wife come to an abrupt end. Truly, a marriage relationship ends up being 'temporary'. In fact, any death of a loved one, whether spouse, child, sibling or parent makes one realize the temporary existence and relationship of that loved one. They are gone from our physical life forever.
But, as a believer in Jesus Christ, I know that is not the end of the story. Our first baby, a girl, was suddenly stillborn in 1961. The delivery room staff (I heard them say "She is beautiful!") did not let me see her or hold her......the theory at that time denied life before birth and thought I would 'forget' her. Since scripture tells me she is now with Jesus, I will see her and hug her one day in Heaven. Yes, all things in this present physical world are temporary.
How do I know all this? Because I have experienced the reality of the spiritual world during my cancer experience. I know that Jesus is real! I know because he appeared to me in that vision I had on May 26, 2010, six weeks before my diagnosis of brain cancer and told me I would be healed. And I am healed! The spiritual world is right here with us, yet our scientific, technical, physical minds ignore or deny that Jesus is here with us, that the Holy Spirit empowers us and that God oversees everything. When we read in the Bible about 'eternity' it is hard for our finite minds to grasp the meaning. Eternity is forever and ever and ever. Does anyone live on this earth in a physical body forever and ever? No.
Therefore, I rejoice that my temporary physical life on this planet earth will come to an end.....a life of great joy, accomplishments and happiness but also with a large amount of emotional pain, recent physical challenges, frustration and grief. Yes my earthly life is only temporary because at my graduation into heaven, I will experience an even more joyful existence....a life in eternity forever and ever, without tears, pain and sorrow because I will be with Jesus. I love that verse in John 14:6 when Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me." Yes, His way is for our good, His truth is reality and His life proved victory over death. Only through believing and surrendering to Jesus are we guaranteed eternity in Heaven. How simple a decision! And what a promise! What security!
At this point in time, we are staying in Canada about four months. Yes, only temporarily! We leave here to return to Holland, MI on Saturday, September 12. It has been a beautiful summer with friends, family and wildlife. We finally saw a big black bear (probably about 400 pounds) several weeks ago about 2 miles from our house. We knew the bears were around but had never seen one. Now we can add 'bear' to our list of wildlife including porcupine, mink, otter, fisher, wolf/coyote, deer, loon, heron, eagle and on and on! We plan to return to our beloved lake house next May, 2016, in time for planting flowers. But all in this life is temporary and God in His wisdom is in control.
Lately I have become more aware of the intense grief and pain facing someone losing a spouse, especially after many years of marriage. The man or woman is left alone...rarely do both die at the same time. Yes, those years of living together as man and wife come to an abrupt end. Truly, a marriage relationship ends up being 'temporary'. In fact, any death of a loved one, whether spouse, child, sibling or parent makes one realize the temporary existence and relationship of that loved one. They are gone from our physical life forever.
But, as a believer in Jesus Christ, I know that is not the end of the story. Our first baby, a girl, was suddenly stillborn in 1961. The delivery room staff (I heard them say "She is beautiful!") did not let me see her or hold her......the theory at that time denied life before birth and thought I would 'forget' her. Since scripture tells me she is now with Jesus, I will see her and hug her one day in Heaven. Yes, all things in this present physical world are temporary.
How do I know all this? Because I have experienced the reality of the spiritual world during my cancer experience. I know that Jesus is real! I know because he appeared to me in that vision I had on May 26, 2010, six weeks before my diagnosis of brain cancer and told me I would be healed. And I am healed! The spiritual world is right here with us, yet our scientific, technical, physical minds ignore or deny that Jesus is here with us, that the Holy Spirit empowers us and that God oversees everything. When we read in the Bible about 'eternity' it is hard for our finite minds to grasp the meaning. Eternity is forever and ever and ever. Does anyone live on this earth in a physical body forever and ever? No.
Therefore, I rejoice that my temporary physical life on this planet earth will come to an end.....a life of great joy, accomplishments and happiness but also with a large amount of emotional pain, recent physical challenges, frustration and grief. Yes my earthly life is only temporary because at my graduation into heaven, I will experience an even more joyful existence....a life in eternity forever and ever, without tears, pain and sorrow because I will be with Jesus. I love that verse in John 14:6 when Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me." Yes, His way is for our good, His truth is reality and His life proved victory over death. Only through believing and surrendering to Jesus are we guaranteed eternity in Heaven. How simple a decision! And what a promise! What security!
At this point in time, we are staying in Canada about four months. Yes, only temporarily! We leave here to return to Holland, MI on Saturday, September 12. It has been a beautiful summer with friends, family and wildlife. We finally saw a big black bear (probably about 400 pounds) several weeks ago about 2 miles from our house. We knew the bears were around but had never seen one. Now we can add 'bear' to our list of wildlife including porcupine, mink, otter, fisher, wolf/coyote, deer, loon, heron, eagle and on and on! We plan to return to our beloved lake house next May, 2016, in time for planting flowers. But all in this life is temporary and God in His wisdom is in control.
Monday, August 10, 2015
Revival is needed!
This summer on our beloved Sand Lake here in Ontario has been wonderful! The weather, for the most, has been warm and sunny with enough rain to keep my flowers blooming. The wild flowers in the fields and on the roadsides have been non-stop color....pink, yellow, orange, blue, white. Made me think of the early settlers who had not planted gardens but were treated to God's amazing gift of natural flowers. How they must have enjoyed all that color as they walked along the country roads.
I thank the Lord that I have increased energy, more healing in my arm and leg so that I can accomplish household chores like cleaning bathrooms, dusting, vacuuming as well as cooking meals and baking yummy desserts.
We've had lots of company...friends from Michigan, New Jersey and locally as well as family (21 here the last week of June - Whew!) Our grandkids continue to delight and impress us as they range in age from senior in college to second grade!
One project this summer has been sifting and sorting through 'stuff' accumulated over the past 25 years since Dick's retirement! It's unbelievable how much we save! As I sifted, I came across an article I had written in September, 2001 which was published in the Canadian papers -Kingston Whig Standard, Brockville Recorder/Times and Westport Review/Mirror. I share it today with you........
Thank you Canada for being a neighbour and friend
September 11, 2001, a day when the world changed. A day when we all watched with horror as evil invaded our lives. A day when our minds could not begin to comprehend the reality unfolding on our television screens. A day when unspeakable horror pierced not only the lives of thousands from New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C. and Virginia, but also friends and family from every state across America and every country around the world.
I am an American living on the Rideau Waterway of Canada. As I watched the Day of Remembrance Service from the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., I saw in a corner of my screen the service held at Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
I saw thousands of Canadians weeping for America. I saw our neighbour and friend, the country of Canada, grieving with the United States in our darkest hour.
Thank you Canada! Thank you for crying tears with us. Thank you for feeling our pain.
Thank you, Canada! Thank you for always providing a place of retreat as thousands of Americans enjoy your beautiful lakes, rivers and mountains.
Thank you, Canada! Thank you for giving us a place of refuge. Your embassy provided a safe haven during the Iranian crisis. Last week your airports harboured our citizens by giving safe landing for our commercial aircraft.
Yes, thank you, Canada for your quiet, supportive presence. Thank you for the billboard messages in Brockville, "God Bless America!" "Remember to pray for our U.S. friends!" Thank you for your flags at half mast.
Our town in New Jersey views the great skyline of New York City. We have lost personal friends in this tragedy. But we have also heard miraculous stories of unbelievable deliverance. The news of over 5,000 deaths is staggering, yet we know through personal contacts with our friends that the death toll could have been upwards of 50,000.
God is love and love is greater than hate. The fact that thousands ran out of the Twin Towers proves that God was working even in the midst of evil.
We are now hearing of hatred and suspicion shown to our Muslim neighbours. If we as Americans and Canadians display such hate, then we are no better than the evil terrorists. If love is greater than hate, we must show that love to every neighbour and friend, no matter what their appearance.
Long ago the apostle John stated, "Little children. love one another."
We are all children of God. Let us love one another. Through our tears, through our pain, let us hug one another. In our grief let us reach out to touch each other. Only then we will know the love of God. Janet Baird Weisiger Elgin, Ontario
The anniversary of September 11 is only a month away. How have we changed? Is the world a safer place? Is there peace and tranquility? Do we trust other countries? Is our nation in turmoil?
Remember how we reacted immediately after 9/11? We flocked to our churches. Attendance soared. We grieved and sought comfort. We were shocked and sought stability. We were in fear and sought protection. We were confused and sought leadership. God was there to answer and God continues to be present with His abiding love. But where are we now??? Are we ignoring Him? Are we complacently sitting in our comfort zones absorbing all the riches our culture has to give us?
Look at history. People turn from God and judgment follows. Time after time. Ancient history had the Babylonian invasion, then the Roman conquest, and skipping to the 20th Century - the Holocaust. If only we would realize God wants us to turn to Him - rely on Him, trust Him, believe Him and praise Him.
That is why we need REVIVAL! Scripture puts it so plainly in 2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
Join with me in praying that God will revive our families, communities, nation and our hearts.
I thank the Lord that I have increased energy, more healing in my arm and leg so that I can accomplish household chores like cleaning bathrooms, dusting, vacuuming as well as cooking meals and baking yummy desserts.
We've had lots of company...friends from Michigan, New Jersey and locally as well as family (21 here the last week of June - Whew!) Our grandkids continue to delight and impress us as they range in age from senior in college to second grade!
One project this summer has been sifting and sorting through 'stuff' accumulated over the past 25 years since Dick's retirement! It's unbelievable how much we save! As I sifted, I came across an article I had written in September, 2001 which was published in the Canadian papers -Kingston Whig Standard, Brockville Recorder/Times and Westport Review/Mirror. I share it today with you........
Thank you Canada for being a neighbour and friend
September 11, 2001, a day when the world changed. A day when we all watched with horror as evil invaded our lives. A day when our minds could not begin to comprehend the reality unfolding on our television screens. A day when unspeakable horror pierced not only the lives of thousands from New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C. and Virginia, but also friends and family from every state across America and every country around the world.
I am an American living on the Rideau Waterway of Canada. As I watched the Day of Remembrance Service from the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., I saw in a corner of my screen the service held at Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
I saw thousands of Canadians weeping for America. I saw our neighbour and friend, the country of Canada, grieving with the United States in our darkest hour.
Thank you Canada! Thank you for crying tears with us. Thank you for feeling our pain.
Thank you, Canada! Thank you for always providing a place of retreat as thousands of Americans enjoy your beautiful lakes, rivers and mountains.
Thank you, Canada! Thank you for giving us a place of refuge. Your embassy provided a safe haven during the Iranian crisis. Last week your airports harboured our citizens by giving safe landing for our commercial aircraft.
Yes, thank you, Canada for your quiet, supportive presence. Thank you for the billboard messages in Brockville, "God Bless America!" "Remember to pray for our U.S. friends!" Thank you for your flags at half mast.
Our town in New Jersey views the great skyline of New York City. We have lost personal friends in this tragedy. But we have also heard miraculous stories of unbelievable deliverance. The news of over 5,000 deaths is staggering, yet we know through personal contacts with our friends that the death toll could have been upwards of 50,000.
God is love and love is greater than hate. The fact that thousands ran out of the Twin Towers proves that God was working even in the midst of evil.
We are now hearing of hatred and suspicion shown to our Muslim neighbours. If we as Americans and Canadians display such hate, then we are no better than the evil terrorists. If love is greater than hate, we must show that love to every neighbour and friend, no matter what their appearance.
Long ago the apostle John stated, "Little children. love one another."
We are all children of God. Let us love one another. Through our tears, through our pain, let us hug one another. In our grief let us reach out to touch each other. Only then we will know the love of God. Janet Baird Weisiger Elgin, Ontario
The anniversary of September 11 is only a month away. How have we changed? Is the world a safer place? Is there peace and tranquility? Do we trust other countries? Is our nation in turmoil?
Remember how we reacted immediately after 9/11? We flocked to our churches. Attendance soared. We grieved and sought comfort. We were shocked and sought stability. We were in fear and sought protection. We were confused and sought leadership. God was there to answer and God continues to be present with His abiding love. But where are we now??? Are we ignoring Him? Are we complacently sitting in our comfort zones absorbing all the riches our culture has to give us?
Look at history. People turn from God and judgment follows. Time after time. Ancient history had the Babylonian invasion, then the Roman conquest, and skipping to the 20th Century - the Holocaust. If only we would realize God wants us to turn to Him - rely on Him, trust Him, believe Him and praise Him.
That is why we need REVIVAL! Scripture puts it so plainly in 2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
Join with me in praying that God will revive our families, communities, nation and our hearts.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Aging
Aging seems to be a negative word. Seniors deny it, ignore it, refuse to talk about it or laugh about it. But we all get older, we all age and the physical body deteriorates. The problem is our minds want to do things, want to accomplish tasks that were easy when we were 30 or 40 years old but suddenly we discover the energy isn't there.
Aging is a challenge! Of course, as I look back on my life I realize there were many 'challenging' episodes. I remember 'aging' as being that unknown far future hazy time that would eventually happen but certainly would not be a negative. When you are immersed in the busyness of working, family and social activities, you somehow hold on to the idea that life will always be that way.
I remember not too many years back, when Dick's parents hit their mid-eighties, that our doctor friend stated, "During the eighties the body rapidly starts to fall apart as the aging process manifests itself." I remember thinking, "Oh, I'll have to remind myself of that when I turn 80."
Well, here we are...Dick turned 85 the end of December, 2014 and I turned 79 this April. So, how do we handle aging?
First of all, I am thankful! The Lord has healed me of a "rare, lethal, aggressive brain cancer". Instead of dying of CNS lymphoma in 2010, I continue to live a vibrant life. My life has been filled with extraordinary experiences... singing multiple evangelistic concerts across the US and beyond... four wonderful, healthy adult kids... twelve super grandchildren... a loving husband of 56 years... productive jobs...traveling...and on and on! I am especially thankful that I've grown spiritually and know my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on an intimate basis....as the years flew by He has made Himself so very close to me.... I am humbled!
But all that does not negate the fact that I become frustrated and impatient with the changes in my physical body. Of course my post cancer right-sided weakness is a powerful negative and compounding that problem with the general fatigue of aging leaves me with huge challenges! When I think of what I could normally accomplish in one day as a mother of four young children plus all the other multiple tasks and pleasures performed during one day without being 'tired', I am astonished with my 79 year old fatigue and realize with absolute certainty that I am 'slowing down'.
As we age we make a decision. Do I choose to spend my latter years feeling sorry for myself, whining and crying for attention or do I keep a contented smile on my face and relish in the interpersonal relationships of friends and family around me? Do I regret how I lived my life or do I celebrate those myriad memories? Do I cling to my physical body or do I anticipate with wonder and joy my resurrected body in the presence of the Lord?
Why is it so hard to 'slow down'? Why is it so hard to admit I am 'aging'? I've concluded pride has a lot to do with it, but also the very obvious fact that our culture worships 'youth'. Do we honor our senior citizens in our families, in our communities, in our nation or do we ignore seniors? Do we rejoice in longevity or do we consider it an inconvenience?
Interesting fact....new assisted living facilities and new nursing homes are being built at a rapid pace to accommodate ever increasing numbers of seniors needing care. A century ago most people died before they reached 50 years. Also, grandmothers and grandfathers lived with their families as they grew older. Now with the medications and health care available to all of us, we are all living longer. For some, that is a beautiful fact. For others, it is a drawn out slow torture.
All these questions...all these human reflections...all these worries and fears. Yet who is the One who will sustain us? Who is the One who stands by our side, holds us in His arms and protects us?
Psalm 71:9-10 "Do not cast me off in the time of old age; Do not forsake me when my strength fails."
Psalm 91 starts with verses 1 and 2 -"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust'. And ends with verses 14-16 which is the Lord's pledge to us believers. "Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation".
Psalm 92:14 "They shall bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing".
The Lord is always with us...in every challenging moment of our lives....whether we are young, middle-age or aging! It is simple. We believe in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit with all our heart, totally surrendering our lives to Him and we will be cared for.... no matter what!
Aging is a challenge! Of course, as I look back on my life I realize there were many 'challenging' episodes. I remember 'aging' as being that unknown far future hazy time that would eventually happen but certainly would not be a negative. When you are immersed in the busyness of working, family and social activities, you somehow hold on to the idea that life will always be that way.
I remember not too many years back, when Dick's parents hit their mid-eighties, that our doctor friend stated, "During the eighties the body rapidly starts to fall apart as the aging process manifests itself." I remember thinking, "Oh, I'll have to remind myself of that when I turn 80."
Well, here we are...Dick turned 85 the end of December, 2014 and I turned 79 this April. So, how do we handle aging?
First of all, I am thankful! The Lord has healed me of a "rare, lethal, aggressive brain cancer". Instead of dying of CNS lymphoma in 2010, I continue to live a vibrant life. My life has been filled with extraordinary experiences... singing multiple evangelistic concerts across the US and beyond... four wonderful, healthy adult kids... twelve super grandchildren... a loving husband of 56 years... productive jobs...traveling...and on and on! I am especially thankful that I've grown spiritually and know my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on an intimate basis....as the years flew by He has made Himself so very close to me.... I am humbled!
But all that does not negate the fact that I become frustrated and impatient with the changes in my physical body. Of course my post cancer right-sided weakness is a powerful negative and compounding that problem with the general fatigue of aging leaves me with huge challenges! When I think of what I could normally accomplish in one day as a mother of four young children plus all the other multiple tasks and pleasures performed during one day without being 'tired', I am astonished with my 79 year old fatigue and realize with absolute certainty that I am 'slowing down'.
As we age we make a decision. Do I choose to spend my latter years feeling sorry for myself, whining and crying for attention or do I keep a contented smile on my face and relish in the interpersonal relationships of friends and family around me? Do I regret how I lived my life or do I celebrate those myriad memories? Do I cling to my physical body or do I anticipate with wonder and joy my resurrected body in the presence of the Lord?
Why is it so hard to 'slow down'? Why is it so hard to admit I am 'aging'? I've concluded pride has a lot to do with it, but also the very obvious fact that our culture worships 'youth'. Do we honor our senior citizens in our families, in our communities, in our nation or do we ignore seniors? Do we rejoice in longevity or do we consider it an inconvenience?
Interesting fact....new assisted living facilities and new nursing homes are being built at a rapid pace to accommodate ever increasing numbers of seniors needing care. A century ago most people died before they reached 50 years. Also, grandmothers and grandfathers lived with their families as they grew older. Now with the medications and health care available to all of us, we are all living longer. For some, that is a beautiful fact. For others, it is a drawn out slow torture.
All these questions...all these human reflections...all these worries and fears. Yet who is the One who will sustain us? Who is the One who stands by our side, holds us in His arms and protects us?
Psalm 71:9-10 "Do not cast me off in the time of old age; Do not forsake me when my strength fails."
Psalm 91 starts with verses 1 and 2 -"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust'. And ends with verses 14-16 which is the Lord's pledge to us believers. "Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation".
Psalm 92:14 "They shall bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing".
The Lord is always with us...in every challenging moment of our lives....whether we are young, middle-age or aging! It is simple. We believe in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit with all our heart, totally surrendering our lives to Him and we will be cared for.... no matter what!
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