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“Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Hymn History by Diana Leagh Matthews

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The Lord has really been testing and strengthening me lately, but I am reminded of how great His faithfulness is time and again.

The author of this hymn experienced many difficulties and health issues but the Lord remained faithful to him.

God wants to show us His faithfulness, but sometimes we must surrender all before He can prove He is faithful to us.

Great is Thy Faithfulness was written by Thomas Obadiah Chisholm as a “testament to God’s faithfulness through his very ordinary life.”

Chisholm was born in 1866 in a log cabin in Franklin, Kentucky to James Washington and Lucy Jane Mequire Chisholm.

He received his education in a rural schoolhouse in the area, but they were dirt poor and he never got past an elementary school education. However, by the age of sixteen he was a teacher.

Five years later, at the age of twenty-one, he was the associate editor of his hometown weekly newspaper, The Franklin Advocate.

In 1893, Henry Clay Morrison, the founder of Asbury College and Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, held a revival meeting in Franklin. Chisholm attended and accepted Jesus Christ into his heart and life.

Later, at Morrison’s invitation, Chisholm moved to Louisville, Kentucky and became an editor for the Pentecostal Herald.

In 1903, he became an ordained Methodist Minister. Sometime around 1903, he married Katherine Hambright Vandevere.

Due to ill health, Chisholm was only able to serve one year in the ministry. After leaving his ministry in Scottsville, Kentucky he and his wife relocated to Winona Lake, Indiana for the open air.

After a time in Indiana, he then moved to Vineland, New Jersey where he sold insurance.

He suffered from health issues the rest of his life and had periods of time when he was confined to bed and unable to work.

Thomas and Katherine Chisholm had two daughters, Ruth Elizabeth Chisholm was born in 1905 and Dorothy Chisholm was born in 1907.

Thomas was good friends with William Runyan and often exchanged the poems he’d written with the Moody Bible Institute musician.

Runyan was so moved by the poem Chisholm sent one day that he decided to compose a melody to go with the lyrics.

This poem was Great is Thy Faithfulness. Chisholm said of the poem, “My income has not been large at any time due to impaired health in the earlier years which has followed me on until now.

Although I must not fail to record here the unfailing faithfulness of a covenant-keeping God and He has given me many wonderful displays of His providing care, for which I am filled with astonishing gratefulness.”

Runyan wrote of the hymn: “This particular poem held such an appeal that I prayed most earnestly that my tune might carry over its message in a worthy way, and the subsequent history of its use indicates that God answered prayer. It was written in Baldwin, Kansas, in 1923, and was first published in my private song pamphlets.”

The song went unnoticed for many years until “it was discovered by a Moody Bible Institute professor who loved it so much and requested it sung so often at chapel services, that the song became the unofficial theme song of the college.”

In 1945, George Beverly Shea began to sing the song at the Billy Graham Crusades, and it gained exposure and popularity.

In 1953, Chisholm retired to the Methodist Retirement Community in Ocean Grove, New Jersey. Katherine, his wife, died the following year.

Even through retirement, he continued to write poems and hymns, as he had throughout his life. In total he wrote over 1200 poems and hymns, including Living for Jesus, He Was Wounded for Our Transgressions, Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart and O! To Be Like Thee.

His writings often appeared in religious periodicals such as the Sunday School Times, Moody Monthly, and Alliance Weekly.

Thomas Chisholm died in 1960 at the age of 93.

Chisholm, a lifelong Methodist, had the song appear in numerous hymnals and song books. However, it was not included in the Methodist hymnal until the 1989 hymnal was released.

In 2003, a Historical Roadside Marker was erected near his boyhood home in Simpson County, Kentucky.

We can only imagine how God used one of Chisholm’s favorite scriptures, Lamentations 3:22-23, to inspire this hymn.  “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness.”

How has the Lord been great in His faithfulness in your life?

To read more of Diana’s inspirational posts and hymn stories, visit her blog at http://www.dianaLeaghMatthews.com 

 

Diana Leagh Matthews writes, speaks and sings to bring glory to God.  She has been published in numerous anthologies, including many Moments books. In her day job, Leagh is a Nationally Certified Activities Director for a busy nursing facility. She takes great joy in family, friends and soaking in the beautiful wonders and promises of God. Leagh blogs about her faith and struggles on her  website  www.DianaLeaghMatthews.com and family history at www.ALookThruTime.com

“I’m a 2 Rule Girl” by Karon Phillips

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“Let’s make it simple. Let’s throw out the oversized rule book and get where we’ve wanted to get all along. Let’s follow the rules Jesus gave us – only 2 – and find a new way, a new peace, and a new life. Let’s start now.

“What is the most important command?” they asked Him. “Love God, love others,” Jesus said.

No list needed, no way to fail, nothing to fear.

We can relax, rest, and renew because when we follow these 2 rules, we follow all the others. We’ve all had enough of the “gotta-do-this,” “can’t-do-that “and “what’s-the-matter-with-you?” struggle that gets us nowhere. Come along today with Karon in simplicity, peace, joy and abundance:

  • love God and others in the moment, the mess and the majesty
  • develop the habits of a 2-Rule Girl
  • trust your “gratifence” and be who God made you to be
  • answer Jesus’ question: “what do you want?”

Deepen your trust to a place you’ve never known, discover and grow the wisdom you never thought you had. Know new strength, courage, power and grace.” * Study Guide and Resources included.

I’m a 2 Rule Girl is available from RUBY’S Reading Corner

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“Wonder” by Jane Hoppe

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They grow their gulls huge here, Deanna noted absently. Otherwise, this gull looked like every other gull she’d ever seen. She sighed. Today’s boredom seemed different somehow than the flat fact that most seagull and crashing-wave snapshots look alike.

Am I just getting old? Have I been on one too many beach vacations?

She plopped down on a weather worn wooden bench. Not yet crowded, the wharf would be a good place to let her mind meander through her current malaise. The early morning sun was warm, the air calm.

Back on the sand, a beachcomber lazily lingered, bent over potential treasures. In the quiet, a few artists had set up easels and canvases for perspectives they wanted to paint. The normally rambunctious, roaring Pacific lollygagged beneath the wharf.

Was this vacation just seagull déjà vu? No, she decided. Buried deep inside this boredom was a warning buzzer. The big fat gull cocked its head quizzically in her direction. Seeing no food forthcoming from Deanna’s fingers, it flew off to a more promising perch.

Deanna didn’t want to fly home without finding answers, or at least identifying the warning buzzer. Giving up on this quest too easily would condemn her to the life of that gull, flitting from piling to piling in search of scraps.

A few hours of reflection before her flight home would serve her well. Julian was in town shutter bugging bright pastel stucco buildings, so she’d have some time alone to think. Bright pastel … until this trip, she would have considered that an oxymoron.

But she could see them from the wharf—rows of villas gaily painted in rich colors and whimsically decorated. One was raspberry stucco with aqua curlicues above royal blue awnings; the next was aqua stucco accented with cobalt tiles; a peach-colored house had fanciful fuchsia fishes sculpted above a delft blue doorway.

They had spontaneity, a childlike playfulness, an uninhibited joy. Their perfect freshness was enhanced by nearby clumps of elegant pure-white calla lilies glistening with morning dew.

That’s what I was hoping this marriage to Julian would be like, Deanna mused, realizing her mind had just stumbled into the very danger zone she needed to explore. It disturbed her that the sparkle of their honeymoon a mere five months ago had been greatly tarnished on this trip.

As this week had progressed, she’d become more and more frightened that the rest of their marriage would be this boring. There. She’d identified the warning buzzer.

It wasn’t what they had done during this vacation week that was troubling, but how she and Julian had related.

The problem wasn’t one too many seagulls. It was too few engaging conversations. Too few of the electrifying soul connections they used to make. Not enough sense of adventure. And too few evidences of the partnership she’d hoped for.

Ah, unfulfilled expectations … that old, disagreeable friend of hers. The disappointments of her first marriage reared their ugly heads, like the persistent, grumbling demons that they were. No wonder her current discomfort felt familiar. It had been fourteen long, lonely years since her divorce.

But the loneliness of singleness had not been as painful as the loneliness of marriage. The new marriage had promised the loving companionship. In courtship, Julian had been completely different from her first husband. Now here was that pesky marriage loneliness again.

Although she wished Julian would change, she’d been down that dead-end street before. Changing Julian was not the answer. Changing herself, or her thinking, or something, was. But what—and how?

She left the bench and strolled to the end of the pier. Elbow on a piling, chin in her hand, Deanna lost herself in the spectacle before her. A few enterprising gulls dropped clams on the rocks to break them open for food.

Families of seals basked lazily on shiny, black rocks. Occasionally, one raised its whiskered nose and slid into the ocean to dive for food. Where seals found fish, gulls circled overhead.

Deanna’s mind drifted to a water cooler conversation she’d had with her coworker Jeanne, whose very soul always seemed so well-fed that she didn’t seem to wish her marriage were different.

When she’d asked Jeanne about her level of marital contentment, she’d explained that remembering Jesus’ unconditional love for her gave her the freedom to accept her husband as he was—in areas where he met her needs, as well as in areas where he disappointed her. “If Jesus’ other name is Love, His middle name is Freedom,” Jeanne had said, beaming.

Deanna remembered wondering if Jeanne had beamed with pleasure of clever wordplay or with sheer relief of the concept. Well, thought Deanna, don’t I completely accept Julian? Once again, she sank into her mental list of his shortcomings.

Her reverie was interrupted by a family drama nearby. “Honey, you have to unload your pockets.”

Deanna looked toward the young sunburnt dad explaining gently to his reluctant curly-haired toddler that he didn’t want to see her struggle so hard to walk.

Deanna saw stubbornness in the little cherub’s jaw, then sadness in her eyes, as she obediently drew one treasure after another from her pink corduroy overalls.

Finally, her bulging pockets fell flat. Then she sheepishly dug into rolled-up pant cuffs and pulled out some stones and pine cones and a red and white fishing bobber that her little fingers could barely grasp. Deanna had to smile. No wonder the child had been waddling precariously.

As the little one reached for her father’s hand and skipped beside him back down the pier, Deanna was curious to know what this child had found pretty enough to pick up. She wandered over to the treasures remaining on the wharf after a few had plunked through the cracks into the water below.

Seven lavender and rose scallops, one chestnut cowry, a purple olive shell, a smooth pebble of polished cobalt glass, a gull feather, a small grayish sand dollar, a pearly angel wing, two iridescent midnight-blue mussels … the little girl definitely had an eye for pretty things.

She must have gone to the same beachcombing school Deanna had gone to. But wait. Something was different. These were just broken pieces.

Deanna knew the names of these shells only because she had seen them whole and read their names in books. In all her years of beachcombing, she wouldn’t even waste the energy to bend down to pick up a seashell if it wasn’t whole. In the little girl’s treasure pile, however, not a single shell was whole.

Likely those innocent blue eyes had never seen a complete clam or live scallop or even the Shell gasoline logo. For that matter, Deanna had never seen the perfect marriage she grumbled about not having.

If childlike wisdom sees beauty in imperfection … if she became more like a child in this way … Maybe to bring wonder back to her marriage, she could leave a few expectations on that pier herself.

“Hey there. I’m glad I found you. It’s almost time to fly home.” Julian kissed her gently, then smiled. He looked different. Beautiful.

“Just a second.” She bent down and picked up a small scallop shard and the gull feather to tape in her prayer journal.

With those reminders in one hand and Julian’s warm hand in her other, she smiled—and even skipped a little as they walked together toward shore.

© 2018 Jane Hoppe

 

Jane Hoppe is an epiphany enthusiast. When writing fiction or nonfiction, she portrays discovery, insight, and growth. Especially when God teaches her something, she wants to share it through writing. Her debut novel, first in the Maria Beaumont series, is called Beyond Betrayal. She writes two blogs, www.aquajane-musings.blogspot.com, eclectic musings on life, accepting middle age, and lots of book reviews, and www.reflectionsoneldercare.com, reflections on elder care, loving Mom and Dad in their old age, along with caregiver resources. Jane’s website is www.janehoppe.com.

“Wherever He Leads I’ll Go” by Diana Leagh Matthews

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Wherever He Leads I'll Go

Lately, I have been wondering what God is up to in my life. For months so many parts of my life have been in upheaval while others are beginning to fall into place. But the one thing I know is I’ll follow my Christ who loves me so. Because wherever He leads I’ll go.

The popular invitational hymn was written by B.B. McKinney.

Baylus Benjamin McKinney was at the top of his career when he traveled to the Alabama Sunday School Convention in January 1936.  The year before the Heflin, Louisiana native was named editor for the Baptist Sunday School Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.

At the convention, the author of such hymns as “The Nail Scarred Hand,” “Speak to My Heart,” “Let Others See Jesus In Me,” and “Satisfied with Jesus, , met with his good friend of many years R. S. Jones.  Mr. Jones had been a missionary in Brazil.

As the two men visited and caught up over dinner, Mr. Jones revealed that his doctors would not allow him to return to South America due to his recent ill health. After a lifetime of serving God in Brazil, imagine how foreign a concept this must have been to the missionary.

“What will you do?” McKinney asked his friend.

“I don’t know, but wherever He leads I’ll go,” the missionary answered in earnest.

Baylus McKinney was unable to get his friend’s words out of his mind.  Before the convention session that evening, the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary alumni and faculty member had expanded his friend’s words to write both the lyrics and melody to the hymn, “Wherever He Leads I’ll Go.”

That evening, Mr. McKinney shared the previous conversation with the congregation.  He then premiered his new hymn as he began to sing, “Take up that cross and follow me.  I heard my Master say.”

Mr. McKinney also lived out a life that followed the words of his famous hymn.  When the Great Depression sent the seminary into a financial crisis, Mr. McKinney became the assistant pastor at Travis Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas.

On Sunday, September 7, 1952, Mr. McKinney had just left a conference in Ridgecrest, NC and was headed for another engagement in Gatlinburg, TN.  While near Bryson City, NC, Mr. McKinney was killed in a car accident.  In addition to his wife, two sons, and several brothers, he left behind a legacy that included numerous hymns.

Falls Creek Baptist Encampment in Davis, Oklahoma named their chapel in his honor.

His hometown of Heflin holds an annual McKinney song service each July to celebrate his 149 hymns and gospel songs.

According to the Baptist Press, Mr. Jones served on the Southern Baptist convention Foreign Mission Board for thirty-seven years. He and his wife served as missionaries to Brazil from 1920 until 1930.

He retired from a life of service in 1958, having served as treasurer to the Foreign Mission Board for the last decade of his service.

Will you go wherever He leads?

 

“Prayers before School” by Joan Leotta

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Mornings can be hectic, but there is one thing even more important than a healthy breakfast—prayers before school. In order to maximize prayer impact while respecting the likelihood that there will only be a few precious minutes in the morning, I have worked out a formula that was pretty effective at our house.

Of course homeschoolers, not having the need to commute, can use that time for prayer, without dividing the prayer time over several days.

The purpose of these morning prayers is to model for your children the worship of God through prayer, that we can rely on God for and in all things, big and small, and to instill these comforting verses in our hearts and those of our children so that throughout life these verses will emerge to help support them when they need it.

The system involves praying for the week ahead on Sundays for a longer time, using favorite verses of your choice and Ephesians 6:11 et al. Just as you would lay out clothes for the week, you should pray for the protection of God over each child’s week. During the year, you can add activities to this –draw the armor, begin to learn the passage, talk about what they mean.

Although you can do more preparation for the following day at family devotions, to best address the needs of each little heart in the family, wait for the moment when it is just the two of you at bedtime.

Then, add prayers and a verse for each child’s special needs for the following day—a test (maybe a verse on wisdom) meeting new people, how they can be salt and light in the classroom.

Pick a verse that meets that child’s needs. For instance, for my daughter, as for myself, Philippians 4:6-7 would be the verse.

Then a quick morning prayer to go with the quick kiss goodbye from you to remind them that no matter what happens, she need not be anxious about anything.

Of course, then we need to remind them that we will be in prayer for them all day. To keep that promise, I often write down the time of a special event.

When the day ends, be sure to follow up—in the after school talk and at the dinner table, unless it was a confidential request that your child wants to share only at bedtime.

Once they leave the house, it’s time for prayer from Mom to God on their behalf. Here are some of the things I prayed most often and that I still pray for our daughter even though she is long past school, and is out in the working world:

  1. Joy in learning (working), in the day and in the Lord—after all, each day is the day the Lord has made
  2. That she would be protected during the day from physical harm and spiritual aggression from evil—in any form, thought, word or deed. That she will put on the full armor of God.
  3. Prayer that the teacher (supervisor) will speak only the truth and if there is something contrary to God’s word taught, the children in the class will be protected from it.
  4. Prayer for her to be encouraged according to his or her abilities and needs.
  5. Prayer that she would be a blessing to others.
  6. Pray that the verses the child is learning will stay in your child’s heart all day, and …that he or she will be able to call up in moments of distress.
  7. Pray that you can encourage the teacher in some way.

After school time will be much richer if your child knows you have been participating via prayer in his or her day—it gives you more of an opening.

Morning prayer — a must, that can be easily inserted into a busy morning even without waking the child an extra twenty minutes early.

Joan Leotta

Joan Leotta has been playing with words since childhood. She is a poet, essayist, journalist, playwright, and author of several books both fiction and non-fiction for children and adults. She is also a performer and gives one-woman shows on historic figures and spoken word folklore shows as well as teaching writing and storytelling.

Joan lives in Calabash, NC where she walks the beach with husband, Joe. www.joanleotta.wordpress.com and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Joan-Leotta-Author-and-Story-Performer/188479350973

“Trouble on the Trail!” by Shara Bueler-Repka

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FROM THIS MONTH’S KIDS’ KORNER

“Be back before lunch!” Mom called out the front door. “I have a meeting early this afternoon.”

I frowned. “Seriously?” I sighed. “I thought we had the whole day to ride, Nocona,” I complained to my horse.

“OK, Mom,” I called back.

I pulled the saddle girth tight and gathered the reins.

“Well, at least we’ll be able to ride for a little while.”

My horse turned his head toward me and I patted his neck. Swinging into the saddle, I gently squeezed my calves against his sides and clucked to him. He moved forward and away we went!

I hummed a tune, enjoying the mountains that towered above and the whisper of the breeze through the saguaro cactus spines. We rode down several trails, stopping on various ridges to gaze across the valley floor and breathe in the unique, sweet fragrance of the desert flowers.

I checked my watch. I knew we should be heading back to the ranch, but the trails were too tempting. “We can explore just one more. We have plenty of time to make it,” I convinced myself.

We happily wandered down another exciting trail, and I lost track of time. After a good while, I finally glanced at my watch again… and caught my breath.

“Oh, no! It’s five minutes to 12:00!”

No matter how hard I tried to urge Nocona to move faster, he seemed content to walk along without a care in the world, oblivious to my problem.

In desperation, I dug my heels into his sides with a bit too much energy. Startled, he jumped to the edge of the trail… right into a cholla cactus!

Suddenly we entered our own little rodeo! He sailed into the air, kicking his hooves up as I hung on for dear life!

He spun and bucked again and again, trying to shake the cholla bulbs loose that were stuck in his back leg. With each leap, a cliff loomed in front of us.

“Jesus, help me!” I blurted at the top of my lungs.

Immediately, Nocona stopped in midair, landed, and calmly stood as I dismounted—like nothing was stuck in him at all! Looking around, I saw no trees to tie him to (only cacti—and that wasn’t happening).

So, pointing him straight ahead, I laid the reins over my arm and stepped toward his flank. My heart sank as I rummaged through my saddlebags. Where are my leather gloves? I gasped. I never leave home without those!

Have you ever been up close and personal with a cholla and its lovely, long, needle-sharp barbs? Yeah, I cringed too!

I took a deep breath, prayed, and yanked out the cactus. Surprisingly (and a miracle), the cholla bulbs pulled out easier than I expected. I didn’t get poked too badly, and Nocona wasn’t hurt.

I breathed a sigh of relief and wiped my hand across my damp face. Surveying the territory around us, I realized that we stood in the only clearing—there were no cacti or rocks, only soft sand and grass! Whew!

I swung into the saddle and headed for home. I didn’t want to look at my watch now. I knew I was way late!

I rode to the barn and pulled the saddle and bridle off Nocona. Quickly brushing him, I turned him loose in the pasture and slunk to the house.

The kitchen door creaked as I peeked through it. My mom stood at the sink, washing the lunch dishes and glaring out the window.

Oh, man. I am totally busted!

“What happened?” she asked.

“I kinda lost track of time,” I replied.

“Kind of?” she said, turning to face me.

I decided to ‘play the sympathy card’ so I told her about my adventure with the cactus, throwing in as much drama as possible. But, although she was relieved I was OK, she grounded me for a week.

As I lay on my bed in solitary confinement, staring at the ceiling, I recalled the events of that day.

Yep, I owned the fact that this whole thing was my fault—from being distracted and staying out too late, to my impatience in getting back and almost sailing over a cliff. And I shuddered when I thought of everything that could have happened.

But I had to smile too. Even though I’d blown it, Jesus still helped me when I was in trouble and hollered for his help. I wonder if He sent a big ole angel to calm my horse?

I guess maybe that’s what grace means—God helps us when we’re in trouble, even when it’s our fault. That’s pretty cool.

But I also learned my lesson today—being impatient never turns out good. But, more importantly? I decided to be more respectful toward my mom in doing what I’m told in the first place!

God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble—     Psalm 46:1

 

Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and award-winning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mail-base, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She also loves riding/ministering with her husband and their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry and writing about God’s grace in the various adventures on the trail less-traveled. Join the fun and be encouraged on their website: www.ponyexpressministry.com and her blog: www.trail-tails.blogspot.com, or come for a visit on Facebook.

“Betsy Ross: Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History-Part 2” by Kathryn Ross

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Did you know that the Declaration of Independence was not signed on July 4, 1776? Our Founding Fathers agreed to its precepts that day, but final draft and copies had to be prepared. One by one, they signed in secret over the next few weeks, throughout the month of August.

Meanwhile, Betsy Ross stepped center stage in American history. A recent widow at age 24 when an ammunitions explosion took the life of her new husband John, Betsy served her nation in a critical time, providently placed and prepared by God.

In the spring and summer of 1776, in her home located one block away from Independence Hall, a vital element necessary to secure American independence lay in her hands.

Read Part 1 of Betsy Ross: Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History in the July issue of RUBY Magazine.

When we last left Betsy, her husband’s uncle George Ross, Robert Morris, and the esteemed General George Washington surprised her with a visit one morning in May. Congress appointed them the Flag Committee, responsible to design and produce a national standard to take into the expected war with England. The esteemed committee had barely arrived when . . .

Scuffling sounds in the street, just outside the front door, hushed the group with a palatable tension. Betsy’s hand rose to her lips, stifling a gasp.

General Washington motioned for silence. He crept along the wall towards the window, shielding himself, to investigate the source of the noise.

Might spies have followed General Washington to her doorstep? Had the war Betsy feared for so long come to her own home?

Sudden boisterous yells shifted the foursome into high alert that their mission might have been discovered.

Silent and watching from the corner of the window, Washington motioned for stillness, until the bellows turned to laughter, and faded, passing by.

“Drunken youth,” he said, relaxing with a knowing frown.

A collective sigh melted the tense moment. “Back to business, Mrs. Ross.” Robert Morris returned their attention to the matter at hand.

“Can you make this battle flag?”

A collective sigh melted the tense moment. “Back to business, Mrs. Ross.” Robert Morris returned their attention to the matter at hand. “Can you make this battle flag?”

Betsy picked up the paper previously set before her and studied the hasty sketch of a flag design. “How soon would you want it?”

“Within a fortnight, if possible.” Washington said.

She studied the drawing. “By the end of the month, I daresay. Early June at the latest. But . . .” her voice trailed.

“You will be paid for the job, of course, my dear.” Uncle George said.

“Oh. Forgive me. No.” Betsy said. “My hesitation is not economy of money, but—”

“Yes? Speak freely, mistress.” Washington’s voice gently invited her opinion.

Betsy, an obliging woman, did not want to appear critical of anything agreed upon by such an august committee as those standing before her.

But, her expertise had been sought by them. She spoke her mind.

“I only hesitate because, I wonder why you have chosen a six-pointed star for the design rather than a five-pointed star.”

The men looked at each other, cut to the quick by her unexpected response. “Is that all?” Uncle George said. “Five or six points. Does it matter?”

Washington grinned. “Is not a six-pointed star easier to fashion with equal sides than one with five?”

Betsy smiled. “Well, if you’ll allow me to demonstrate, sir.” She crossed the room to a table strewn with fabric swatches and sewing notions—the tools of her trade at the ready. Taking a squared white muslin in hand, she folded it oddly.

Once, then twice, then again, and again. Holding fast the bundled fabric, she clipped one end of it with her shears, allowing the material to drop to the table, unfurling from their folds. She picked up one of the pieces and presented it for inspection. A perfectly cut five-pointed star.

“Astonishing!” Washington shook his head in disbelief.

“My lady, I applaud you. Five-pointed white stars it shall be, on a field of blue—thirteen all; against thirteen alternating red and white stripes.”

The committee agreed.

Discussion followed to determine the exact proportions and measurements of the flag, materials to be used, date of delivery, and payment.

They instructed Betsy to cut and sew it by hand in the privacy of her own bedchamber to protect herself and the decisive step the creation of a battle flag meant to the cause of independence.

The gentlemen stayed only as long as necessary, then made a polite exit.

Closing the door behind them, Betsy realized the implications of what she agreed to do. She felt an active partner with John’s patriotic decision to join the militia, taking a practical stand for what he believed to be true and just.

Though schooled in the use of a firearm, her weapon as a patriot would be needle and thread. John would be proud. Thinking on this brought him nearer to her.

Barely settling in her chair with a steaming cup of tea in hand, mulling over her new commission, she heard another rap at the door.

Mr. Samuel Wetherill, an old family friend, tipped his tricorn hat in greeting as she welcomed him. He brought mending and kind regards in her recent loss.

“But, my dear, are you unwell,” he said with a furrowed brow, observing her vexed expression. “You appear flushed and not quite yourself.” He noticed her trembling so soon after the flag committee’s visit.

“I am well.” She said and sipped her tea. An awkward silence followed.

Mr. Wetherill attempted to put her at ease with conversation. “I daresay, I saw General Washington in the street a bit ago. With your uncle and the good Mr. Morris. Your uncle looks well.”

The Wetherill family had known Betsy since her youth, the eighth child of seventeen, baptized Elizabeth Griscom.

When her pacifist Quaker family cut her off after she eloped with John, an Episcopalian, the Wetherills demonstrated Christ’s love and concern for her through that tumultuous season, welcoming the new Mr. and Mrs. Ross into the Episcopal Christ Church house of worship.

Mr. Wetherill had always proved himself a trusted friend. He discerned amiss. “My dear,” he repeated, “are you well?”

Betsy sighed. Clearly, Mr. Wetherill suspected something amiss. She paused before leaning forward with widened eyes to reveal her news.

“The truth is, Uncle George was just here within the hour accompanied by General Washington and Mr. Morris whom you saw in the street.”

Mr. Wetherill nodded. “Excellent! I hope they brought you good custom. Washington and his ruffles and Morris the same. New shirts ordered up, I suppose?”

“No,” said Betsy. She determined to bring Mr. Wetherill into her confidence. “I have been commissioned by the General to create a battle flag for the colonies. In secret, of course.”

Saying it aloud for the first time caused her to tremble at the gravity of it. “Oh, Mr. Wetherill. What is to become of us in these troubled days? I am commissioned to create a flag that, should the colonies prevail—would become the standard of a new nation.”

All light-heartedness in Wetherill’s manner disappeared. He touched her hand, gazing severely into her face. “My dear. You are an Esther, commissioned by One higher than Washington for such a time as this.

The God of the impossible calls nations into being and unseats them at His will and for His purposes.

History has been wrought in your front room this day. It is His Story! Play your part with confidence and allow God to use it as He will.”

Sudden purpose flooded Betsy’s heart. She crossed the room to the table where the pieces to the star she had cut lay.

“I even convinced the General that a five-pointed star was superior to a six-pointed star for its ease in making. I do it with a few folds and a snip of my shears. See here?” She handed the two pieces of cut fabric to Wetherill.

“I didn’t want to second guess General Washington, but truly—if I were to commit to making a flag with stars, I would rather the simplicity of five-pointed stars rather than six.” Betsy laughed.

“Well, I’m astonished,” said Wetherill, fingering the five-pointed star. “May I ask you—what did you plan to do with this star?”

The question perplexed her. “That star? Well, nothing. It was just a demonstration. I may be able to make use of the pieces in a quilt or patching.

Wetherill stood. “May I be permitted to keep it?”

“Keep it? Well . . . certainly. If you must. But, why?”

“For posterity, my girl.” Wetherill’s response—swift, almost mysterious—chilled her. He lowered his voice in foreboding. “The day may come when we shall need tangible reminders of turning point moments in our national independence story.”

Betsy Ross, indeed, delivered the General’s flag as agreed one month before the Congress voted for independence on July 4, 1776.

Printed dispatches of the formal Declaration of Independence circulated throughout the colonies calling patriots to arms.

As a nation at war, one year later, on June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress formally adopted the national flag to promote unity and national pride:

“Resolved: That the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

Betsy remained busy throughout the war, sewing more flags for the revolution in the secrecy of her bedchamber. Within a year, British soldiers took up rooms within her home when they occupied Philadelphia.

Perhaps, as she sewed in secret, she prayed and wondered about the husbands, fathers, brothers, and sons whose blood would spill under that banner for the cause of liberty and justice.

She married twice during the war—losing both husbands in battle. Growing strong through a season of storm-clouds and loss, she also made musket bullets in a secret cellar room to aid the constant need for ammunition. Right under Redcoat noses.

After the war she married, for the fourth time, a man named John Claypole. They raised five daughters and maintained a thriving upholstery and flag making business until her retirement in 1827 at the age of 75. She lived a quiet, devout Christian life until her death in 1836 at the age of 84.

Through the years she often spoke of the day General Washington came to call with the commission to create the first American flag of the United States.

Her firsthand account of the event passed down through her family as part of their oral history. In 1870, Betsy’s grandson, William J. Canby, encouraged efforts to purchase Betsy Ross’ house and designate it a historical landmark as the American Flag House and Betsy Ross Memorial.

A campaign launched to open it to the public through monies raised by an Association. Anyone could contribute and receive an elite document suitable for framing at a cost of only ten cents.

The document included a full color picture of the celebrated moment in history painted by association founder, Charles H. Weisberger. It is the same painting used in 1952 to mark Betsy’s 200th birthday with an official US Postage stamp. The house has been a living history museum open to the public since 1937.

But, the most amazing part of Betsy’s story happened in 1925 when the descendants of Samuel Wetherill opened the family safe to discover the star he had taken from Betsy’s house within hours of her visit with Washington on that May day in 1776.

He marked it with her name and did, indeed, seal it away for posterity. It remains a tangible slice of American history on display at Quaker Meeting House Museum located a block from the Betsy Ross House Museum in historic Philadelphia.

To learn more about Betsy Ross and the Betsy Ross House Museum, visit http://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/history/

Listen to a dramatization of the story on The Writer’s Reverie Podcast, by Kathryn Ross at www.thewritersreverie.com . Click Podcasts on the menu bar and scroll down to access Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History.

 

Writer-speaker, Kathryn Ross is Pageant Wagon Publishing—igniting God’s Word and biblical principles as a vibrant light of literacy and learning in the life of your Christian family. Inspired by the stillness of birdsong, silent reflection, antiques, and teatime, she filters her love of history, classic literature, and the arts through God’s Word, to inform her words. Her passion to equip women and families in developing a Family Literacy Lifestyle produces readers and thinkers who can engage the world from a biblical worldview. In addition, she mentors authors as a book shepherd, assisting them in the development, editing, design, and production of the book God has called them to write. Miss Kathy blogs and podcasts at www.thewritersreverie.com and www.pageantwagonpublishing.com.

“Forgotten God: Reversing our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit” by Francis Chan

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Holy Spirit Forgotten God by Francis Chan

Forgotten God: Reversing our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit

by Francis Chan

Book review by Carol Peterson

Every once in a while, you read a book that changes you. Forgotten God: Reversing our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit is one of those books for me. I read it years ago and again recently, having been asked lately by people on separate occasions, “Have you read Forgotten God?”

Chan’s basic premise is that, as Christians, we pay little attention to the Holy Spirit. We pray to God the Father and have a personal relationship with Jesus. We claim to believe that the Holy Spirit lives in us. But, Chan concludes, we pay little attention to that fact. We focus on the other two persons in the Trinity and avoid the issue that the Holy Spirit is there, right now, and always in us and ready to guide, direct, comfort and encourage us.

What I personally gained most from Chan’s book was that this reminder of the Spirit’s presence caused a desire to allow the Spirit to work in and through me. I wanted a relationship not just with Father God and my Savior Jesus.

Chan’s reminder that Jesus left the Holy Spirit’s presence as a gift for me (and you), instilled a deeper desire to have communion with my closest spiritual partner in life—the Holy Spirit.

What changed for me in a practical way? I began to be more open to the Spirit’s leading. I began to allow the Spirit to pray through me for people and circumstances I would not have thought to pray for on my own. I began to pray not only to Father God and my Jesus, but also to pray to the Spirit, thus opening my heart to the whole presence of God.

My journey of faith began to move forward. My sense of the power of the Spirit has grown—not because I somehow have “more” of the Spirit, but because I could more clearly sense His presence and leading. And then follow Him

I recommend Forgotten God to anyone who professes belief in the Trinity and seeks to allow the Holy Spirit to have more power in their lives. I pray the book will change and empower you.

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Forgotten God: Reversing our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit by Francis Chan is available from RUBY’S Reading Corner

 

Carol Peterson

Carol Peterson, Author  My mission as a writer is to educate, entertain and inspire–children, their teachers and parents, other writers, and readers of all genres. As a children’s writer I try to “Make Learning Fun” by helping busy teachers address curriculum accountability standards, and encouraging other writers to do the same. You can connect with Carol at her blog, Carol Peterson, Author Carol is a member of the Ruby Book Review Team.

Carols Book Club

Check out Carol’s Book Club in each issue of RUBY magazine for her latest book reviews!

 

 

NEW Titles from RUBY’S Reading Corner for August

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RUBY'S Reading Corner

Every month we are adding more titles to RUBY’S Reading Corner! Our little online book shop is filled with inspirational fiction and non-fiction books, Christian biographies and devotionals, family-friendly books on parenting and family life, Bible study books, gardening and craft books, home and garden books, and so much more!

Be sure to visit RUBY’S Reading Corner whenever you are shopping for books. All books from RUBY’S Reading Corner will be shipped directly to your home from Amazon, and even though you won’t pay any more for your purchase by shopping through RUBY’S Reading Corner, a small portion of each sale helps support the ministry of RUBY.

Please take a few minutes and check out the new titles this month at RUBY’S Reading Corner . . . . . 

Praying God's Promises by Linda Evans Shepherd

Praying God’s Promises

The Life-Changing Power of Praying the Scriptures

by Linda Evans Shepherd

The Scriptures tell us that when we pray the will of God, he delights to answer our prayers. But what is God’s will in any given situation? How can we know it? And if we don’t know it, how can we pray it?

Linda Evans Shepherd shows readers that God’s will is not a mystery–it’s clearly laid out in his Word through his many promises. Through stories, practical application, examples of prayers, and guided reflection, Shepherd leads readers toward a more powerful prayer life.

 

Forgotten God by Francis Chan

Forgotten God: Reversing our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit

by Francis Chan

Pastor Francis Chan offers a compelling invitation to understand, embrace, and follow the Holy Spirit’s direction in our lives.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and … the Holy Spirit. We pray in the name of all three, but how often do we live with an awareness of only the first two? As Jesus ascended into heaven, He promised to send the Holy Spirit—the Helper—so that we could be true and living witnesses for Christ. Unfortunately, today’s church has admired the gift but neglected to open it.

 

Just Open the Door by Jen Schmidt

Just Open the Door: How One Invitation Can Change a Generation

by Jen Schmidt

Change a generation with something as simple as an invitation.

For many of us, inviting people into our lives and homes feels more like inviting judgment on our entertaining skills and stress on our already maxed-out schedules. But what if you knew that opening your front door had the power to radically change the world? To make an impact and leave a legacy with everyday invitations?

Just Open the Door is a personal yes-you-can guide to offering the life-changing gift of invitation. Whether you’re a seasoned host looking for renewed inspiration or a nervous newbie not sure where to begin, these personal stories, practical ideas, and poignant insights will give you the confidence you need to see your home as the most likely location for changing the world around you, one open door at a time.

 

Visit RUBY’S Reading Corner to see all the new titles for August!

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The August 2018 issue of RUBY magazine has been published!

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AUGUST RUBY magazine AUGUST 2018

The August 2018 issue of RUBY magazine features inspirational articles, poetry, devotionals, book reviews, recipes, and kids’ activities that will be a great resource for you and your family on these late summer days. Thinking about the changing seasons that is just around the corner, the August issue of RUBY includes an article on back-to-school saving strategies by Jehn Kubiak, a collection of great blueberry recipes, a book review of Forgotten God: Reversing our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit by Francis Chan, reviewed by Carol Peterson, and an inspirational poem, “My Daughter Gave Me the Moon,” by Joan Leotta. And so much more!

We are now accepting submissions for the September 2018 issue of RUBY magazine, and we would love to hear from YOU! Send your submissions or inquiries to us at editor@rubyforwomen.com for all the details, or visit our submissions page for more information.

AUGUST Submissions for September 2018

 

And don’t forget . . . . you are invited to join us in the RUBY online community, too! Come on over to our Facebook group where you will discover groups where you can share prayer requests, tell us about your latest blog post or your current work in progress, share a recipe or a craft project with us, or just hang out in the RUBY cafe! We would love to connect with you there . . . come on along and join the conversation in the RUBY neighborhood.

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Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Now Accepting Submissions for the SEPTEMBER 2018 issue of RUBY magazine!

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Submissions for September 2018 RUBY magazine

 September 2018 Submissions

We are now accepting submissions for the SEPTEMBER 2018 issue of RUBY magazine and we would love to hear from YOU! Check out the suggestions below for inspirational and family-friendly articles, short stories, poetry, book reviews, craft tutorials, recipes, or children’s stories, crafts, puzzles, or coloring pages. You can email your September 2018 submissions to us at editor@rubyforwomen.com We’ll be watching your your email!

  • Labor Day

  • Grandparents day

  • First day of school

  • Budgeting for the new school year

  • How to schedule family time in the midst of school and work time

  • How to deal with homework

  • Lunch box and snack ideas

  • Problem solving (work or school)

  • Making new friends at school

  • Fall cleaning

  • Fall crafts

  • Fall craft fairs (write about your experience)

  • Fall family activities

  • Fall party ideas

  • Fall recipes

  • Columbus Day

  • Gearing up for the holidays

  • Fall home decorating tips

  • Preparing for winter

  • Fall gardening-prep for winter

  • Getting your home ‘winterized’

Submissions for September 2018 RUBY magazine

“A Passionate Hope – Hannah’s Story” by Jill Eileen Smith

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A Passionate Hope
Hannah’s Story
by Jill Eileen Smith

Series: Daughters of the Promised Land

Book review by Miriam Jacob

Can one childless woman’s prayers change the world?

Hannah and her husband, Elkanah loved each other deeply.

They also loved God fervently. Passionately longing for restoration, they prayed for a deliverer.

But as the long, wearisome years passed, nothing changed for the better. As Hannah was barren, Elkanah married Peninnah, who quickly bore children and cruelly taunted Hannah mercilessly.

Hannah’s tearful prayers went unanswered. Would Hannah’s devotion and kindness amount to nothing? Will God answer her heart’s cries and agonizing pleas?

In the dusty streets of Shiloh, Jill Eileen Smith vividly brings to life a story of hope, patience, and deliverance. Even the most broken and irretrievably lost of all relationships can be mercifully restored by God’s benevolent love.

A Passionate Hope is a novel about redeeming love, steeped in dramatic historical detail about real people, large as life, who suffering agonizing heartache, cry out to God and are transformed by the miracle of grace.

Impeccable research and vivid prose brings the characters of the Bible to life. The themes of heartache, saving grace, fiery faith, redemption, and healing are excitingly interwoven into a dramatic finish. This is a well-drawn love story with wistful imaginings and soulful heart cries.

Jill Eileen Smith writes intriguing, spirit-filled fiction, about inspiring women of sterling character, drawn from the dusty margins of Biblical history, to illuminate their achievements like the sun shining in full strength. Her richly detailed settings and gift of graphic description give readers a strong sense of what life was really like in ancient Israel.

You can find more inspiring book reviews by Miriam Jacob on her website.

Miriam Jacob is a reviewer at Oxford Academic, Oxford University Press; a blog reviewer at Revell Reads, Baker Publishing Group; member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid, Christian Authors Network and Ruby Book Review Team; Google Scholar and Researcher at Academia.edu; ebook author and poet; top reviewer at NetGalley, Christian Book Distributors, Barnes and Noble, Google Books and Goodreads. Miriam is a reviewer at Tyndale House Publishers; Moody Press; Barbour Books; Harvest House; New Hope Publishers; Penguin; HarperCollins Christian; Abingdon Press; WaterBrook & Multnomah; and Discovery House. Miriam’s articles and poems are published at Blogger, Faithwriters, PoemHunter, ProBoards, Weebly and WordPress. Her writings are published on her two blogs at www.miriamjacob.wordpress.com & www.authorsforchrist.blogspot.com

“The Art of Letting Go” by Nina Newton

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“What are you holding in your hands that you can’t let go?” I heard a recent sermon that asked this question. The conclusion was that we need to learn to hold everything that is in our hands loosely. This was a particularly poignant message as we had to “let go” of one of our friends from our church family just the other day. An unexpected relinquishment of a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who had been ill for quite some time, but things seemed to be getting better for him.

As I put my arms around his wife and she collapsed into broken sobs of despair, I realized again that one day we will all  need to “let go” of everything we hold in our hands and in our hearts. If we have our God to hold on to, and know that He is holding on to us, we can walk through those times of “letting go” a bit easier . . . although it will always be a time of great pain and sorrow, but we are not without hope.

In the midst of our days on earth, in the face of loss, we will all journey through the valley of grief and agony of spirit. That is normal, and grief has its own time line. If we love deeply we will grieve deeply over the loss of those we hold dear to our hearts. I have heard, and experienced in my own small way, that “love becomes a wound that bleeds.” You know this is true if you have lost someone who is a part of your very being, your soul, and your self.

But we know from God’s Word that this life on earth is only temporary and that those who have believed and trusted the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation, will live eternally in His presence. There is coming a day when all tears shall be dried, there will be no  more sorrow, no more pain, and no more death. But that is hard to imagine in our moments of deepest grief.

Today, I choose to focus on what God has given and not on what other people have taken away. I choose to hold tightly to His promises for restoration, redemption, and salvation. And I choose to accept the reality that I must develop the “art of letting go.”

I’ve often said, “If I was going to die of a broken heart, that would have happened a long time ago,” but in truth I believe that people can actually die from a broken heart. In the midst of the most crushing grief, we must remember that God will uphold us through it all, and He will give us hope so that we can learn to live again, to love again, and to seek His blessings. It is not easy, but it is possible.

The reality is that people have lived without an overabundance of material possessions throughout history. Many people, even today, live without the basic necessities of life. They struggle to find food, water, clothing, and shelter. When given the opportunity, we should consider sharing out of our abundance with those in need. There are many ways to do that, through charitable giving to volunteering at a local homeless shelter, to sponsoring a child in a third-world country, to adopting or providing foster care for orphans, among others.

But we can only do that if we learn the “art of letting go.” For some of us that begins right here at home, taking time and investing the energy needed to “let go” of some of the excess “stuff” in our homes, the hurtful resentments and grudges from an unforgiving heart, and the overwhelming time commitments that many of us struggle with.

I know some of you are thinking right now about the scene in “Frozen” where we are reminded to “Let it go.” But this is serious business! It’s time to reevaluate all of those things that are in our hands that we think we can’t live without. We need to examine our commitments, our values, and our possessions and turn it all over to God to do with as He chooses. We need to give Him our time, our finances, our possessions, our heart, our family, our home, and our whole being. If we let it go, God will redeem it, just as He did with Job: The LORD blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the first . . .

So, this week as we are sorting through piles of accumulated stuff that somehow finds its way into our house – when we moved into this house lots of boxes of “stuff” were just piled up in the garage waiting for the day when we would finally get around to looking at it again – I am reminded that I need to work on developing the “art of letting go.” After all, if all that “stuff” has been sitting in a box in the back of the garage for two years, what are the chances that I will EVER actually, really, truly NEED it?

And on closer inspection, I need to look into my heart and I’m sure I’ll find plenty of “stuff” in there that I need to get rid of, too. I’m pretty convinced that getting rid of excess baggage, either in our homes or in our hearts, will bring a sense of peace or order that will then be a good place for us to seek God’s presence, where we can hear His voice, and we can learn to depend on Him, and trust Him for the inevitable day when we will need to face more difficult losses.

Can we let it go? If we start now to clear out everything that is distracting us from seeking and walking with God, when that day comes, we will be so much better prepared to let our  most treasured possession go, knowing God will keep His promises and although  we might be “struck down . . . but we are not destroyed.” How are you doing on letting go? It’s not easy, but you will truly find God’s presence in the quiet, even in those moments of deepest despair, and you will know that He offers hope to the broken hearted.

I wish for you this summer, and all year long, the joy of His presence and the peace of His promises. I wish you times of reflection and heart-examination, and I wish for you the courage and the determination to “let go” of everything that is hindering you as you strive to walk with Him every day.

“Create Your Own DIY Patriotic Blocks” by Donna Powell

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Our home has a lot of patriotic themed décor.  Not only because I love the combination of red, white and blue together, but because my husband is a veteran.

Over the last twenty seven years of marriage, we have slowly collected patriotic artwork and décor with battle scenes of historic civil war battles, paratroopers, and our latest is a special edition print for the 278th Army Calvary Regiment which he served with in Iraq.

We display these things because it is so much more than just being an Army veteran, but it stems from a love of God, our country and honor for those who have served before him.

I love to decorate our home for the warmer summer months with little touches of red, white and blue.  Not only can you leave them up from Memorial Day until Labor Day, but they also provide a festive touch to regular family gatherings.

This month I have embarked on a creative endeavor to make a patriotic themed project for each week during the month..  A few are quick and easy projects but a couple require a bit more time, for instance, the Four Sided Patriotic Blocks I worked on this week.

For this project you will need:

  • Artminds™ Whittler’s Kit
  • Acrylic paints in Navy, White, and Red
  • Painters Pens in Navy, White, Red and Silver
  • Craft brushes in various sizes
  • Vinyl letters and stickers if desired
  • PolyAcrylic top coat in semi-gloss

I chose the Artminds™ Whittler’s Kit because it comes with three precut wood blocks in different sizes. No cutting or sawing required for three different sizes of blocks to stack together.  I painted each block entirely in one color of the red, white or blue. I found that this took several coats to get a nice paint cover.

The next step is entirely up to you. I chose to use a method of creating the words for the blocks on my computer, printing them out and then cutting out each individual word as a template.  Using colored chalk on the back of the word template, I then traced over the original side with a pencil on the wood to leave a chalk image of the word to fill in with paint.

This method is fairly easy but took much longer than I had planned.  And it did not give me clean crisp lines for the letters that I wanted.  But I had already committed myself too far in to this process to change it at the last minute. If I ever make a set for another holiday or for inspiration, I will shop for vinyl letters in different fonts and colors to stick to the blocks. This would also be less time consuming than painting each individual letter and word.

I chose to create four sides to each block to be able to create several different patriotic sayings to display and change as I liked throughout the summer months.

“Pray for our Troops”

“God Bless America”

“Pray for America”

“God for America”

“Faith Family Freedom”

“Home of the Brave”

“Pray for Freedom”

“God Bless our Troops”

Any combination of words and sayings can be painted on each side of the blocks. The trick is to plan them out beforehand on which side of the block so that you get the words in the right order when stacked.

I can already imagine making a set of these blocks with portions of Bible verses or daily reminders of God’s love, faithfulness and provision. Every day you can rearrange the blocks for new inspiration. 

I may leave this set of blocks out all year!

 

 

Donna Powell is a Christian wife and mother, and a Certified Interior Designer.  After leaving a demanding career to take care of her father, Donna now spends most of her time blogging about home decor and renovating her mid-century modern home located in the hills of East Tennessee.  Her blog can be found at www.modernonmonticello.com  She has been married to Brian for 27 years, an Army veteran and Physician Assistant working in Neurosurgery.  Donna and Brian have two grown children.  When they aren’t renovating their rental property or planning a future in flipping houses, they also take in abused and rescue animals and currently have four dogs, a cat, and a rabbit.

For more inspirational articles and creative inspiration, visit Donna at Modern on Monticello

“The Price of Freedom” by Norma C. Mezoe

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Image via Wikipedia

The gray uniform of the Confederacy hung in the display case in the Civil War museum.  The left leg had been cut away high above the knee.  Nearby was a picture of the soldier who had worn the uniform.  Only nineteen years of age, his face was almost child-like.  His stature was slender and boyish.

How his mother’s heart must have ached as she hugged her son and said, “Good-bye.”  Her burning desire was to hold on to him and prevent him from leaving the relative safety of their simple country home.  But she knew she had to release him to do what he believed was his duty.

The young man’s father stood nearby; hands in pockets and his head bowed low.  He wanted to tell his son how much he loved him, but the words could not push past the lump sticking in his throat.   Finally, he thrust out his hand and clasped his son’s hand…firmly, but yet gently.  His grasp spoke of the love he could not speak.

Then off marched the son, along with others of his small village.  Mom and Dad watched the road until he was long out of sight.  Then, gathering up the broken pieces of their hearts, they returned home to resume a semblance of living.

Far away, battles raged.  Often brother fought against brother; each man believing his convictions were the right ones.  Then came the battle of Chancellorsville.  Robert E. Lee led the Confederacy against the Union.  Dressed in his grey woolen uniform, the nineteen year old joined his comrades in fighting the enemy.  But a bullet found its mark, shattering the young man’s thigh.

Taken to a makeshift operating room, his leg was amputated.  The surgery was futile. After much pain and endless suffering, the young soldier died.  Mom and Dad would wait hopelessly for their son to return home.

Now, the uniform hanging in the museum is mute evidence of the tragedies of war and of homes torn apart by battles.

Throughout the history of America, wars have been fought to gain and to preserve our freedom.  Many men and women have given their lives in order to insure that our liberty will remain.  Others have suffered injuries and will carry the result of these throughout their lives.    The sacrifices have been numberless throughout the history of our beautiful land.    We are thankful and indebted to each of these individuals.

As Christians celebrate on the Fourth of July, we are blessed with two kinds of freedom.  Not only do we observe our country’s independence, we can also be thankful for the freedom Jesus Christ gives.  Because of his suffering, dying and resurrection, we have been given an eternal freedom that can never be taken away.

As our families gather for picnics and cookouts, fireworks and parades, may we pause to give heartfelt thanks to those who have sacrificed for America’s freedom and to Jesus Christ for his sacrificial gift of spiritual freedom.

 

Norma C. Mezoe began writing after a crisis in her life. She has been a published writer for thirty years. Her writing has appeared in books, devotionals, take-home papers and magazines. She lives in the tiny town of Sandborn, Indiana where she is active in her church as clerk, teacher and bulletin maker. Contact at: normacm@tds.net

Betsy Ross: Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History, Part 1 by Kathryn Ross

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As we mark the defining moment in history celebrated on July 4, 1776, when 55 men burdened with the responsibility to decide the course of America—tyranny or liberty; monarchy or independence—it is important to remember their decisions were not made lightly or in their own power.

They each acknowledged the providence of God in their crucial time. They sought to follow His Will to whatever end it might be, out of obedience to what they understood as biblical principles of liberty and justice.

Their choices produced a Constitutional Republic governmental system that had never been seen in the world. A Judeo-Christian, entrepreneurial capitalist society of self-governed people who grew to become the greatest nation in world history, impacting all nations with the proliferation of God’s Word and the principles of freedom.

Patriots, all.

And many of those patriots wore petticoats.

Meet Betsy Ross, a young woman providently placed and prepared by God to serve her nation in a critical time.

Her story reminds us to be ever ready to answer God’s call to play our part in His providential plan for our lives, and the lives He has called us to impact with our choices and actions.

Not since the inception of our Republic has this call been so vital, as our Republic is under full assault by its enemies to destroy it from within and supplant it with the very opposite of freedom—a socialist regime.

Welcome to Betsy’s world:

The bell in the Christ Church tower called the colonists to worship through the crisp winter air in early January. John and Betsy Ross slid into their pew across the aisle from General Washington’s empty box with a reverent nod in its direction. News of his battle in Boston on New Year’s Day had reached Philadelphia.

The year 1776, ushered in with canon and musket fire, promised more of the same to come. Escalating tensions with England produced challenges on all fronts for American colonists and the Ross’ were no exception.

The couple, married barely four years, enjoyed precious little time together as husband and wife with the rumblings of war and independence troubling their bliss.

In fact, to make ends meet, John was forced to join the Pennsylvania militia once their upholstery shop felt the financial impact of scarce materials and job competition because of the war.

But, on the Lord’s Day hope supplants fear. Civilians, officers, and enlisted gather as one family to worship He who commands Heaven’s armies. Class distinctions dissipate when saints gather to pray. In the throes of revolutionary unrest, petitions of both the high-born and the low-born rage fervent. Every word from every lip avails much.

Christ Church, centered on the street a block from the Ross’ home in one direction and the government meeting house in the other, filled to overflow when members of the Continental Congress gathered to govern in Philadelphia.

On Sunday morning, statesmen sought the Lord’s wisdom for the historic decisions they had the responsibility to make. Betsy glanced about the congregation recognizing many distinguished men destined for immortalization in history books.

She breathed a silent prayer on their behalf. They carried a great burden. With a loving squeeze of John’s hand, she met his eyes, betraying in her weak smile a sense of pride mingled with fear, then turned her attention to the hymn book.

Patriots, citizens, soldiers, and seamstresses raised their voices as one in praise and petition to the strains of Amazing Grace.

John and Betsy never shared a pew or sang in worship together again.

Within a fortnight that January, while Congress argued secession from the tyrannical government over-reach, exorbitant taxes, and crushing regulations of the English king, John Ross became an early casualty of a war yet to be formally declared.

Suffering mortal wounds in an ammunitions storehouse explosion, Betsy’s hopes for a happily-ever-after life with him, shattered to pieces. A widow at age 24, she remained to navigate a tenuous future alone, taking any work related to needle and thread.

Battle losses prior to an actual declaration of war increased throughout the colonies—especially in the New England states. Representative John Adams of the Massachusetts colony, a fire-brand advocate for independence, made quite a name for himself in the congressional debates.

New England saw more than its share of confrontations, becoming a hot-bed of dissention due to the influx of taxes required, and freedoms stripped, from the colonists there. Redcoat armies took violent stands to quell the masses. The scene played out with more regularity, spreading like a plague throughout the colonies.

The colonists, seeking to live peaceable lives under an oppressive rule, spiraled toward a historic moment from which there would be no turning back. The crisis of birth to bring forth new life is not simply the domain of women. Nations are birthed through crisis, too.

And in just such a critical moment of history, a widowed young woman would soon make a lasting mark in the birth of a nation through divine providential circumstances.

In February, General Washington arrived in Philadelphia to discuss the need for the colonies’ standard under which to muster the troops. A number of flags existed, raised by colonists as part of the campaign towards revolution.

For instance, the popular image of a rattlesnake captioned with the challenging tag line “Don’t Tread on Me” effectively stirred crowds to the purpose.

But, emotionally charged mantras and imagery seemed hardly appropriate for a united battlefield banner.

A new flag must be designed to distinctly represent all thirteen colonies banded together for independence. This would set the colonists apart from the British Union Jack in battle and become a new nation’s patriotic emblem.

To the purpose, the Continental Congress designated a Secret Flag Committee made up of General Washington; Robert Morris, the wealthiest man in the colonies; and George Ross, John and Betsy’s uncle. By spring, they drafted an idea for the colors and design—red, white, and blue, in stars and stripes.

“But, who can fashion such a thing?” Washington asked.

It had been a couple of months since George Ross lost his nephew in the explosion. He knew Betsy’s skill and her need for work. He also knew her to be a patriot.

“I think my niece, Betsy Ross, at the upholstery shop across from Christ Church may be of use there.” he suggested.

“You’ve had her mend and fashion some of your shirts, General.”

Washington nodded. He knew the quality of her work, and from Sunday worship was aware she had recently lost her husband to the cause. The committee agreed. Washington, Morris, and George Ross would pay a visit to Betsy Ross.

Their errand involved some risk should news of their plan fall into British hands. They chanced arrest for treason, putting Betsy in harm’s way, and had every reason to be concerned for secrecy and stealth in meeting.

“The good mistress has lost her husband of late,” said Morris.

“Perhaps we raise the subject of the flag on the pretext of a condolence visit from her uncle and his two friends. In daylight. To avoid suspicion.”

Loyalists to the crown were prevalent in Philadelphia. Spies might be the harmless neighbor next door. John Ross’ tragic death appeared as an advantage now, shielding a military meeting behind the veil of a social sympathy call.

On an early spring day in May, Betsy sat in her front room mending petticoats when she heard a gentle rap on the door. She slid her needle into the fabric to keep her place and set the sewing aside to see who may have come to call.

“Uncle George!” she smiled with delight and a reverent curtsy. “How kind of you to visit.” The last time Uncle George came to her door was shortly after the news of her husband’s death.

She weakened for a moment, remembering the few days she tried to nurse John through his wounds to no avail. Uncle George had always been charitable to her. She spoke with him last when they laid John to rest in the Christ Church cemetery.

Blinking the sun from her eyes, she strained to see the two men standing behind him. A cloud drifted into place to cover the mid-day glare, allowing her to focus on the familiar faces of General Washington and Mr. Morris, men of note and accomplishment.

Something told her this was not a mere social call with her uncle. A business call, perhaps? Swiftly, she ushered them into her home.

Light pleasantries exchanged between the lady and her visitors, with formal greetings and condolences paid as planned. Betsy shrank in the presence of the three dignitaries.

They brought no parcel of clothes for mending. What could their mission be? To simply offer condolences? Surely not. Was the General in the habit of such a thing with so many militia families having experienced similar losses in Philadelphia?

Furtive glances passed between the men before the General nodded. “We shall get straight to the business, Mrs. Ross.” He spoke with a soft, yet commanding voice, motioning her to sit. She did so.

“You see, Betsy, dear,” started Uncle George, “We have need of your services. Your needle and thread.”

Betsy relaxed. “Oh. I see. You have some uniforms, perhaps, that need mending? General Washington, more ruffles for your shirts?”

“Not quite uniforms. And, no—no ruffles this time.” General Washington drew a small sheet of paper from his inner overcoat pocket and unfolded it on the table next to Betsy. “A flag, Mrs. Ross. A battle flag.”

Scuffling sounds in the street, just outside the front door, hushed the group with a palatable tension. Betsy’s hand rose to her lips, stifling a gasp. General Washington motioned for silence. He crept along the wall towards the window, shielding himself, to investigate the source of the noise.

Might spies have followed General Washington to her doorstep? Had the war Betsy feared for so long come to her own home?

******************************

Watch for Part Two of Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History in the August issue of RUBY Magazine! To learn more about Betsy Ross and the Betsy Ross House Museum, visit http://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/history/

Listen to a dramatization of the whole story on The Writer’s Reverie Podcast, by Kathryn Ross at www.thewritersreverie.com. Click Podcasts on the menu bar and scroll down to access Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History.

 

Looking for guidance on writing and publishing your book? Contact Kathryn Ross and ask about her Book Shepherd Publishing Services at Pageant Wagon Publishing.

Writer-speaker, Kathryn Ross is Pageant Wagon Publishing—igniting God’s Word and biblical principles as a vibrant light of literacy and learning in the life of your Christian family. Inspired by the stillness of birdsong, silent reflection, antiques, and teatime, she filters her love of history, classic literature, and the arts through God’s Word, to inform her words. Her passion to equip women and families in developing a Family Literacy Lifestyle produces readers and thinkers who can engage the world from a biblical worldview. In addition, she mentors authors as a book shepherd, assisting them in the development, editing, design, and production of the book God has called them to write. Miss Kathy blogs and podcasts at www.thewritersreverie.com and www.pageantwagonpublishing.com

 

“After The Storm” by Pat Jeanne Davis

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The weather forecast called for a sunny, dry day, so my husband and I and our son decided to go on a picnic. Later, while walking a favorite trail along the creek, a storm arose. My family dashed for the car, thankful for its protection.

We drove out of the valley and onto the main highway, homeward bound. As we got closer, the sky revealed a spectacular rainbow in front of us. “The sign of the covenant God made, a promise to never again destroy with a flood,” my son said from the backseat.

The weather forecaster had gotten it wrong. Our Heavenly Father’s predictions, however, are never in error. The summer storm, with its destructive potential of lightening, thunder, strong winds, and heavy downpour, is comparable to the darkening times in which we live.

As I looked into the clearing sky and gazed upon that rainbow of promise, the word “hope” sprang to mind—the certainty that what God has promised is true, has occurred, and will happen in accordance with His Word.

In 2 Corinthians 1:20, the Apostle Paul says, “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen. . . .”

Hope is never a static or passive thing. Look up the word, and you will find reference after reference pointing out the active results in the lives of those who truly have a biblical hope and live accordingly. Such a hope doesn’t leave us idle, drifting or throwing up our hands.

Be Hopeful 

A biblical hope is not an escape from reality or from our problems. At times a stressful situation is not of our making and is out of our control.

Perhaps your family, your business, your own hopes and dreams are crumbling around you.

These are days when we must place our hope in God alone. Belief in a sovereign, loving God gives us the insight to know what is true, and we do not lose hope amid life’s disappointments and setbacks. Our hope will be based on God’s promises. It will be dynamic and life sustaining.

Today, as in the days of Noah, wickedness is rampant; warnings are refused. Waywardness will be recompensed. But if we dwell on the news that is so readily available, we can become disheartened by the extent of evil. The fabric of society appears to be ripping apart, a time foretold in God’s Word (2 Timothy 3; Luke 21:25, 26).

As the world self-destructs, its violence born from Godless roots, we can turn to Psalm 91:5 for assurance: “You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day. . . .”

Only when we call to mind the Word of the Lord do we find peace and hope for the future. The Prophet Jeremiah knew this source of hope: “O the Hope of Israel, his Savior in time of trouble . . .” (Jeremiah 14:8).

Be Obedient

Jeremiah had a most difficult message to deliver. He loved Judah, but he loved God much more. The Book of Jeremiah records the final prophecies to Judah, warning of oncoming destruction if the nation did not repent. The prophet calls out for the people to turn back to God, “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear . . .” (7:24). He recognized the inevitability of Judah’s destruction due to its unrepentant idolatry and immorality.

As painful as it was for Jeremiah to deliver a consistent message of judgment to his own people, he obeyed what God told him to do and say. We too are to obey even when it is difficult to trust in God’s perfect plan.

Jeremiah reminds us, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord . . .” (17:7).

Be Praising

The consequences of sin and disobedience were severe for Israel. God allowed the Babylonians to besiege, plunder, and destroy the city of Jerusalem. Solomon’s Temple, which had stood approximately four hundred years, was burned to the ground. God reveals through this story that a lifestyle apart from His commands leaves us destitute and lost.

Jeremiah, an eyewitness to these events, is credited with writing Lamentations. This book consists of five heart-wrenching cries of anguish because the Chaldeans had broken down the terraces and completely destroyed the walls of Jerusalem.

The third lament stands alone as a song of praise in the midst of misery and crumbling ruins. There in the middle of the book is Jeremiah’s song of hope: Jerusalem would be rebuilt because God’s mercy and compassion never fail; they are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22, 24).

Be Expectant

Today the consequences of sin and disobedience surround us. The systems of this world are not based on Christ’s righteousness. We live in a time when institutions, including the family, are falling apart around us. These are desolate times. We too weep for the destruction and loss of life we see.

But the Lord is not slack concerning his promises. Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophecy in Jeremiah 23:5, 6. The prophet describes Him as a Branch from the house of David, the King who would reign in wisdom and righteousness. Just as Jeremiah did, we must place our hope in God. His great faithfulness will carry us through this great time of trouble upon the earth.

When our Lord’s disciples inquired as to what would be the sign of His coming, Jesus describes all the things that must come to pass before the end of the age (Matthew 24). Our Lord instructs us to watch and pray so that day does not take us unawares.

While we await the further revealing of God’s purposes, we can say with a strong and confident expectation, “Nevertheless, we, according to His promise, look for a new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). And while we wait for the storm to clear, we can live as we should—expecting, praising, obeying, and hoping.

Pat Jeanne Davis

Pat Jeanne Davis writes from her home in Philadelphia, Pa. She is married and mom to two sons. Pat loves to work in her flower garden and travel. She has completed two historical inspirational novels and is represented by Leslie H. Stobbe and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She loves to hear from her readers. Please visit her atwww.patjeannedavis.com

The Accidental Editor, Nina Newton, RUBY magazine

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The Accidental Editor, Nina Newton, Sr. Editor, RUBY magazine

A few weeks ago, one of our regular contributors to RUBY magazine, Joan Leotta, suggested that we include an article about me. Me? Who would be interested in knowing about me?

But after I thought about it a while, I realized that we probably do have lots of readers and some of our writers who don’t know the history of RUBY magazine and how this ministry came about.

So, here is Joan’s interview with me, Nina Newton, Sr. Editor, RUBY magazine.

I hope you enjoy learning a bit about RUBY!

When did you start RUBY Magazine?

Actually, I didn’t start RUBY magazine. It was started back in 2007 or 2008 by another woman who began with a newsletter that she created for her friends and family. The name of her newsletter was Ruby Women, and it included devotionals, craft and quilt patterns, recipes, and humorous articles.

I connected with her in 2009 after I lost my job at a local bank when they closed all of the branches in our area, and she asked me if I would be interested in helping her do some marketing and promotion for her little “ezine.” At that time, it was a PDF file that she would create and send to the people on her mailing list.

At the time, that sounded like a good thing to do, in light of the fact that I was not working away from home, and I kind of like to write and do that kind of stuff – so I agreed to help out.

Within just a few weeks, however, she emailed me and said that she was having some health issues and would no longer be able to keep the Ruby Women ezine going unless she could find someone who would be interested in taking on the full responsibility of publishing it.

Well, why not, I thought.

So in 2009 I took over as the senior editor for Ruby Women ezine. It didn’t take long for it to begin to grow and develop into a full-fledged online magazine with writers from all across the USA as well as several other English-speaking countries.

In September of 2009 we expanded our readership when we began publishing RUBY as a digital document, available on the RUBY blog, as a monthly publication.

The ministry of RUBY continued to grow with more and more writers and readers until in the summer of 2016 we began making RUBY magazine available as a print publication. It is still published monthly, and we have over 120 writers who have contributed to our magazine as well as over 600,000 impressions over the lifetime of our publication.

RUBY magazine is a small publication, with limited resources, but God has continued to use this ministry to reach and touch the lives of thousands of women around the world. Today we continue to publish both the online digital document as well as a print publication every month.

The digital document is always available for FREE to read online on the RUBY blog, and the print publication is available for purchase through Amazon each month.

The Accidental Editor, Nina Newton, Sr. Editor, RUBY magazine

Did it grow out of your other business? (Tell us a little about that too)

No, it was quite unexpected that this ministry opportunity presented itself to me when I wasn’t looking! My other businesses include free-lance writing, editing, and teaching as well as adjunct instructor of writing at a local Christian university.

In addition I have recently started working as an ESL teacher for children in China. That is a perfect job for me, as it allows me to work from home where I continue to be a “stay-at-home-mom” with our two teen-age daughters.

I also have an Etsy shop where I design and create refashioned garments, shoes, and accessories for women and children. Along with a few other “hobbies” which keep me busy most days!

What is the editorial philosophy of the magazine? How does the magazine’s philosophy line up with your Christian world view?

That’s a great question! Since this was all quite unexpected for me, I just picked up where the other editor left off . . . devotionals, short stories, crafts, recipes, book reviews, inspirational articles, and humorous pieces. As things have evolved, I have felt very comfortable with the direction RUBY magazine has taken.

I like to describe RUBY as a Christian Women’s Day magazine. We offer advice, encouragement, and inspiration primarily for the woman in her home, for whom the primary ministry in life is her family.

Of course we have readers who are single, and women who are not mothers, women who are moms and grandmas, and all different ages. But our focus is on the traditional woman who finds her greatest joy and fulfillment in her ministry within her home and family. 

The Accidental Editor, Nina Newton, Sr. Editor, RUBY magazine

What do you want readers to see in the magazine? Is it a tool to help them grow closer to Christ?

Our primary objective is to encourage women to realize that their ministry within their home and with their family, for many, is the greatest service they can offer to God.

So, we want our readers to grow closer to Christ through the inspirational articles and devotionals, and offer all Christian women a voice where they can tell their own stories. It is primarily a platform for Christian women to express the stories that God has given them to be a blessing to other women. 

The magazine is beautiful. What made you decide to go to a four-color magazine?

Because the original magazine / newsletter was designed to be not only informational but inspirational, it just seemed natural to go with a full-color design. In the beginning, when RUBY was an online digital publication, it was easy to create it with an artistic feel.

When we decided to put the magazine into print, having an aesthetically attractive publication was a consideration that was important for the continuity of the image of RUBY.

I think the answer to this question is . . . . because I think it’s pretty like this!

Where do you get your art? Do you work with specific artists? Do you do the art placement (layouts) and cover design yourself?

Again, many things have come together out of necessity, including the art work. I have found numerous websites where I can obtain images for free, sometimes I purchase art work, and frequently we have contributors who send in art work.

I try to find just the right image for every article that we include in each issue, so that our writers know that their work is respected and appreciated.

Yes, I create the layout of each issue myself. I choose the cover image and do all of the text placement.

It might be interesting to note that I am not a trained graphic designer, so I’m pretty sure there are easier ways of doing what I do each month to create RUBY magazine, but I do the best I can with my experience and resourcefulness, and I think it usually turns out pretty good!

The Accidental Editor, Nina Newton, Sr. Editor, RUBY magazine

I know you have a basic core of freelancers, but are you open to other submissions as well?

Absolutely! We are always open to new contributors, especially because our primary focus and reason for existence is to offer Christian women a voice.

Our vision is somewhat different from other publications, as I’ve discovered over the past several years of attending writers’ conferences and connecting with other writers, some traditionally published and some just getting started.

We are not looking for “perfection.” We are listening to stories. Every woman has a story, and often times those stories are lost when the voice doesn’t quite measure up to some standard that some editor somewhere has determined to be good enough.

 

So, we want to hear every woman’s story, even if she has not achieved a high level of eloquent expression, grammatically correct sentence structure, syntactically excellent phrasing, or an artistic turn of phrase.

 

I teach college students to write, and I have also edited numerous fiction books, so I understand how important all of these technical skills are for a writer. But if we don’t capture the stories, we truly miss so much of our heritage.

Are you the only editor?

Yes, at the minute I am. I have had help from assistant editors in the past, for which I am truly grateful, but it is a lot of work and a lot of time commitment, and since we do not have any funding sources, these have not been paid positions.

I have been designing and creating RUBY magazine for over nine years and I have never received any financial compensation. All of the expenses for keeping the ministry of RUBY going have come directly from my family’s household budget.

So we keep expenses low, and pray that God will bring someone along who shares the vision for this work and who also shares the passion that I have for providing a platform for Christian women to tell their stories.

The Accidental Editor, Nina Newton, Sr. Editor, RUBY magazine

You publish articles, devotionals, poetry, reviews, food articles, DIY, crafts,  and even some fiction—how do you select the mix for each issue?

Another great question! Each month I encourage writers of all ages and writing skill levels to submit articles for an upcoming issue. Then I go with what comes in.

Usually we have several inspirational articles, a couple of book reviews, several poems, sometimes a short story or two, and occasionally an article on fun things to do with a family or a few recipes or a new craft project.

That’s one of the things I enjoy the most about putting each issue together. There is such a variety of articles that we receive, and that keeps it interesting, I think, for our readers. 

What advice would you give to a writer of any particular type who wants to publish their work with you? In addition to the guidelines, of course.

The most important thing when submitting an article for publication in RUBY magazine is to just send it in! I know that writers are afraid of rejection, but here at RUBY magazine we WANT to hear your story. We have a place for YOUR voice, so send me an email and let’s talk! I love to meet new writers. You can always email me at editor@rubyforwomen.com

Do you have an editorial calendar? Themed issues?

Nothing that is rigid. We, of course, go with the flow of the seasons, so the December issue will always focus on Christmas, and the May issue will always focus on Mother’s Day, and the September issue will always include back-to-school articles as well as harvest recipes. That kind of thing.

We really are rather low-key and if something comes in that isn’t quite right for one issue, we’ll save it for another issue.

What do you look for in a writer?

As previously mentioned, I am looking for an honest, heartfelt, sincere story. That’s the main ingredient for getting an article published in RUBY magazine. I’m an editor. That’s what I do. I can help a writer with things like split infinitives, dangling participles, and prepositional phrases.

What I can’t create on my own is YOUR story.

Everyone has a story, and that’s what we’re looking for in a writer. Someone who feels God has called them to share their story with other women so that in our struggles we might be an encouragement to one another. 

What publishing organizations do you belong to in order to promote the magazine?

The only place other than our own social media sites that we promote the magazine is www.christianwriters.com  And even then I am not always able to keep up with the promotional aspects of this project.

Sharmelle Olson continues to help me with that by keeping the RUBY Facebook group and community updated, but I have not had time to do as much promotion and marketing as I would like.

That’s another area of this ministry that needs someone else to come along side and share the vision and the goals of RUBY. 

What are some other ways you promote the magazine?

Primarily we promote the magazine on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Google+.

Right now, Ruby is free—do you intend to sell ads at some point?

RUBY is free to read online. It always has been and, as long as I am the editor, it always will be. The objective is to get the stories and the words of encouragement and hope into the hearts and minds of as many women as possible.

The print publication, however, is available for purchase each month from Amazon. It is typically priced at $8.99 which covers the cost of publication. There is no profit in the sale of RUBY magazine.

We do have opportunities for advertisers in RUBY magazine, of course for family-friendly businesses, but this again is an area that I have not had time to pursue.

I would love to have a few advertisers each month to help offset the cost of publication, but at this time that would require more “woman power” than I currently have available.

The Accidental Editor, Nina Newton, Sr. Editor, RUBY magazine

How many subscribers to you have? How has the number of subscriptions / readers grown since the magazine began?

We do not have subscribers for a couple of reasons. One reason is that it would be difficult to encourage people to subscribe to a magazine that they can’t see ahead of time.

When you go into a grocery store and pick up a magazine, you might decide to purchase it once you see what is in it and see that there are articles that interest you.

Because RUBY is a digital document, on the one hand, it doesn’t seem that people would subscribe to our magazine if we restricted it only to those who paid for it.

On the other hand, to set up a system for subscriptions to the print publication would, again, require more time, energy, and expense than we have available at this time.

It would require keeping track of all the subscribers, and then purchasing the magazines and paying shipping costs to my office, and then repackaging each magazine to the individual subscriber, and then paying shipping costs again to send out the individual magazines.

I’ve given it a lot of thought, but right now subscriptions are just not a possibility.

Thank you, Joan, for suggesting this interview. There is a lot of information here about the ministry of RUBY magazine and community; I hope our readers find it interesting!

“Waiting for Retreat” by Helen Ellis

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May is one of my favorite months of the year. Moms know that Mother’s Day is the singular day when they are celebrated, pampered, praised and given gifts, flowers and cards. I certainly acknowledge that I look forward to my children – who are young adults now – showing their love and appreciation for me.

Two of my daughters were born in May so that’s another reason to celebrate the month when tulips and daffodils are in full bloom and warm weather sticks around. But, I also admit that my number one reason for loving May is our church’s’ annual women’s retreat.

From a Thursday afternoon until midday on Saturday, the women of our church unplug from our routines, come apart and come together to be refreshed by the Lord.

My first retreat was about six years ago. I really didn’t know anyone from my church too well and I admit I possessed a degree of apprehension. After all, I’ve known Christian women who have been clique-ish, prone to gossip and sometimes downright mean.

I have a few close women friends, but none of them attend my church. I’d driven up to the Christian camp where the retreat was being held and bounced around in my Saturn along a rut-pocked dirt road. Signs pointed the way to our cabin and I parked the car and heaved a sigh.

I prayed, “Lord you know I don’t know what to expect, but I’m here. My expectation is from You. Touch my heart. Heal me. I pray that everyone here will embrace each other as sisters in Christ, as we gather to worship and hear Your word – in Jesus name.” Then I went in.

I greeted my sisters who’d already arrived with a grin and a bear hug.

After putting my things in my room, I came out to the kitchen and joined a game of Scrabble already begun. Women slowly trickled in and found their rooms. Laughter rang out from different parts of our cabin and I began to exhale.

A couple of ladies invited me to walk down to the lake. We sauntered down the road in the cool of the late afternoon to a glistening lake and just lingered there. The lake was lovely and to my amazement there were no street noises, just birds chirping and cicadas buzzing (or making whatever sound they make).

I closed my eyes and allowed the breeze to blow through my hair and caress my skin. There was a calm serenity there as we sat drinking in the silence of the moment.

Our pastor’s wife led us in worship that evening, strumming her guitar and singing love songs to Jesus. There were about 20 women – young and middle-aged, single and married, all there to be refreshed and recharged in God’s presence.

We sang from our hearts and many shed tears as our hearts opened like flower petals to the sun. She asked, “Did the Lord speak anything to you as we worshipped?” Many talked of feeling God’s presence, others spoke of God calming their fears, and many just wept, overwhelmed by it all. We were still for a time.

Then our leader ministered the word of God, speaking to us from Psalm 23, about our God being our Shepherd. There was so much truth and such valuable insight into a very familiar passage of scripture.

We spent about 36 hours together worshipping God, sharing from our life experiences as we learned more about how much God loves us. And we talked.

We don’t often get the chance to really talk during church or even at a church event. But we were able to talk to each other, unhurried without kids to pick up or rushing off somewhere.  And all of us need someone to really hear us.

We chatted as we ate our meals together, we sat up late in our pajamas gabbing, we played “Quelf,” a truly kooky, fun game!

We laughed so hard that our stomachs ached and tears streamed down our faces.  I got to pray with many of my sisters and my sisters prayed for me.

There was no rivalry, conflict, jealousy or gossip – but a genuine, heartfelt fellowship centered in Jesus Christ. And the Lord truly was at the center of it all.

My mind often goes back to that first retreat. I’ve attended many since then. Each retreat is different, unique and so special. Our God, the Lover of our souls, knits our hearts together and makes us one.  He meets each of us, at the point of our need.

This month, we’ll meet at a beach house in Old Lyme, CT. We’ll worship together and study the Bible. And the Lord Jesus will meet us there. He always does.

 

Minister Helen Ellis, wife and mother of 4 great kids, has preached and taught in prisons in NJ and CT for more than 15 years. An avid painter, she specializes in oils, acrylics and watercolors. She and her husband Andrew live with their family in Norwich, CT.

“The Back of the Closet” by Sharon L. Patterson

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The Back of the Closet LG

Just recently, not long ago

in the middle of a teary-eyed flow,

the Lord made clear

what He wished me to know

about the past anguished year

.

Astonished at what He revealed

concerning the layers he needed to peel,

but the analogy shown

was truly something I could own –

something I could feel.

I am a lover of order to a fault,

always cleaning even when I ought

to quit and take some rest ~

another project, a further quest ~

almost like a battle fought.

But the year that had just passed

was even harder than the last,

and all I could do was cry

and wait for the Lord to answer my

pain-filled prayers that I cast.

Into the waves of the storm

that did not let up at night or morn –

every hope seemed dashed,

my boat of expectation crashed

with my soul disheveled and torn.

What came up out of me

reflected a grief I could not see,

and disappointment from days gone by.

Somewhere beyond my conscious eye~

at the back of the closet they hid quietly.

Until the moment God had chosen

to bring to light what was frozen –

in a heap I had not seen –

and had missed every time that I cleaned

the front of my closet’s emotion.

Only God knew what was there

and only He could share

what needed to be cleared

at the back of the closet beyond my fear.

His hand reached with knowing care –

to thoroughly clean and sweep

that putrid and loathsome heap.

I was dry as dead bones in the desert wind

yet, He breathed me back to life again:

the storm calmed and I could sleep.

I was asked what was different now

and exactly how

had I been restored to hope?

What I could not bear I could now cope

and my woeful story turned to wow!

When God cleaned the back of the closet!

 

Click HERE to read another one of Sharon Patterson’s blog posts here at RUBY magazine and community.

 

Sharon Patterson

Sharon Patterson, retired educator, career military wife, and leader in women’s ministry, has written inspirational encouragement in various forms from greeting cards to short stories, poetry, and Bible studies for over thirty years. She has authored three books, and is a contributing author for several of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books. She and her husband Garry live in Round Rock, Texas. They have three sons and five grandchildren.

 

 

“Raindrops from Heaven” by Twila Belk Book Review by Miriam Jacob

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“Raindrops from Heaven” by Twila Belk gives us inspiring, hope-filled devotionals for each new day. Twila Belk skillfully weaves her amazing gift of words with biblical truths combined with thought-provoking questions. It is a special date with God to bestow life-giving words of hope for each day’s troubles.

It shines light on Jesus whose grace is sufficient for all our needs. This precious book of gentle reminders of God’s love is a beacon of hope for the day and a lamp of comfort at night. The devotionals make a perfect start to the day, for all those going through tough times, with troubles that overwhelm beyond imagination.

Twila’s passion to share her love for God shines brightly on every page. Her words speak to our hearts each day with a gentle touch of God’s spirit to refresh, encourage and inspire us. This is a beautiful book with short, to-the-point readings of one thought and one application to start your day with God and His Word.

It is for everyone who needs a quick, easy-to-read devotional to get spiritually inspired. “Raindrops from Heaven” is Twila’s “voice” to speak words of hope to a troubled world desperately in need of God’s love. Here is precious refreshment for our souls, to receive encouragement in the sunshine and thoughts to ponder on a rainy day.

Raindrops from Heaven by Twila Belk is now available from RUBY’S Reading Corner!

RUBY’S Reading Corner where you will find a wide variety of daily devotional books


“Just Do It” by Jennifer Workman

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What is faith? The Bible tells us expressively that faith is the substance of things hoped and the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1, NIV).

For those of us that aren’t familiar with Biblical lingo or terminology, we may ask the question, “What does that mean?” In other words, it means believing irrespective of seeing and then responding accordingly.

For example, in I Samuel chapter 14 during the early days of King Saul’s rule, the Philistines controlled the western border of Israel and the battle lines were drawn at the pass of Micmash. Saul seemed to be lackadaisical and inactive, but Johnathan wanted to be proactive and on the front line.

Come, let’s go over to the Philistine outpost on the other side (I Samuel 14:1, NIV).

If Johnathan became too preoccupied with his feelings and the outlook of the situation, he would have been faithless and fearful, and he would not have moved forward.

But faith requires moving past our fears and moving into the unknown with assurance and trusting that God is in full control and will guide us on toward a victorious outcome. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf (I Samuel 14:6, NIV).

Johnathan had to do as the Nike slogan states, “Just Do It.”

And just doing it requires:

Matthew 17:20 Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.

Faith and trusting God is essential to having a victorious life. You must believe him and take him at his word and move according to your faith and trust in him alone!

So, what obstacles are you facing today? Whatever the case maybe, don’t be deterred by the situation, just do it!

Believe that God is sovereign and that you are well able to overcome any opposition or storm that is in front of you today because Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world (I John 4:4, NIV).

The devil wants you to shrink back in fear and think that it is all over for you but “the devil is a liar!” Remember that you are not fighting your battles alone for the battle isn’t yours but the Lord’s (I Samuel 17:47, NIV).

Let God take the wheel! Let him lead and direct your steps today for God is competent and able to handle what you can’t. Come on, climb right behind me, Johnathan said to his armor bearer, For the Lord will help us defeat them (v. 12).

Again, Johnathan recognized God’s sovereignty and that if “he couldn’t do it, it couldn’t be done” and if God gave him the victory in his situation, if you trust him today he will do the same for you.

So the word for you today is, Just Do It!

 

Jennifer Workman is the founder of Simply Victorious Ministries, a ministry founded on the infallible Word of God. She has been actively involved in ministry all of her life and has ministered to seminary students, the religious community, high school students and female prison inmates. Jennifer has more than fifteen years in the radio, television and publications arena. She is the Inspirational Host and Producer of “Simply Victorious for Life,” a monthly inspirational podcast aired via Faith Filled Family and Family Filled Youth. Contact Jennifer at http://simplyvic.webs.com or http://jyworkman.wix.com/jennifer

The Hannah Experience: When Nothing seems to be Producing the Desired Effect

by Jennifer Workman

“This book extends inspiration to every bibliophile to press forward in prayer and trust God unequivocally despite what they may encounter in life and trust that God is the way and that he will ultimately supply their needs and bring them to their final destination at the appointed time.”

Now available from RUBY’S Reading Corner

“No Crown of Thorns Could Take the Love of Jesus” by Rejetta Morse

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No crown of thorns could take the love

Of Jesus for our souls,

And on the cross woody sharp thorns

Digs deep with many holes.

No drops of tears will hide his vision

He has for you and me.

Within three days, he will arise

And all the world will see.

No more pain, “It is finished” –

He drops his head and died.

As blood and waters flow as soldiers

Pierced him on his side.

And rocks split open – the earth shatters

While tombs start to open –

The curtain of the temple rips.  His

Word came true as he had spoken.

No doubt he was the son of God –

He never did complain

They pluck the long thorns from his head –

“Will Jesus rise again?”

Yes – he lives. He has risen from the

tomb where no one laid,

And now he wears a golden crown –

The debt for all he paid.

 

Rejetta Morse enjoys writing poetry so she can write about God and how He speaks through nature. Writing poetry is a new found purpose and hobby she discovered over recent years which brings her joy, peace, and encouragement. She also enjoys reading poetry and is working to learn more about the craft of poetry. She spends her free time singing with her church choir and listening to gospel music, watching biographical movies, and encouraging other people.

“The Sound of a Silent Soul” by Suzane Avadiar

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In the Quiet HEADER

Here are a few questions to ponder on before you read any further…

Are you still or are you restless? Is your soul pillowed in peace or wallowing in worry? Are you nestled deep in your Father’s embrace or wandering alone?

Is your soul silent? Is your heart quiet? Is your mind peaceful?

When there is quiet within us, there is stillness and rest in all we do. We feel the peace of God inside us and we can almost hear the rest that comes from His peace. We exhale.

But stillness does not magically appear within us. Ironically enough, it requires an active involvement on our part…

To be still requires trust in God; we must trust that His Presence follows us, that God is sovereign, and that He loves us. Psalm 46:10 tells us to “Be still and know that I am God” – when your heart is fully convinced of all of this, it settles in quietness.

When your soul is silent, it is devoid of anxiousness and turmoil; God’s peace permeates within you. Rest will follow.

Being still means to release everything in your mind and heart to God. It means to silence the noise of the world to quiet your soul. It means to wait and listen for His whispers.

Being still means coming to a place of rest in His presence so that you experience God in your heart – not just know Him in your head.

Jesus epitomized stillness. He did everything from a place of rest and quiet trust in His Father. He showed us that the one sure way to achieve this stillness is to sit in solitude with God. Jesus enjoyed solitude.

Despite His very public ministry, Jesus often sought solitude – not because He did not want to be with the people but because He wanted to be with His Father more. Jesus knew the importance of rest and being alone – to recharge and renew His strength in quiet prayer with God.

Throughout the gospel, we are shown that Jesus continually withdrew from daily life to be in seclusion and silence to deal with the constant demands of His ministry – “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed” (Mark 1:35).

In Matthew 14:13, “When Jesus heard [that John the Baptist had been beheaded], he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.”

Hours before His death, Jesus again used His quiet communion with God to prepare Himself in prayer (Mark 14:32-42).

Stillness and solitude went hand in hand to play an important role throughout Jesus’ life and ministry here on earth. He often urged His disciples to do the same, especially after spending days ministering to others.

There is power in seclusion when we use it to silence our soul and seek God, free of distraction. Solitude can infuse us with greater strength from God, fill us with deeper trust in God and help us build a stronger relationship with God.

When we choose to continually withdraw to be alone with God, as Jesus did, we allow God to minister to our soul for a deeper intimacy with Him.

It is only from the secret place of stillness with God that we can thrive amidst the noise of our daily lives with the world.

A silent soul may be quiet but it is never passive. Instead, a silent soul produces and leads you to be an instrument of God’s peace. When you are still within, it overflows out of you into all areas of your life.

A silent soul is recognizable because it leads you closer to God and creates more room for Him in your life.

Christ is always revealed through a silent soul – even amidst any turbulence that may invade your life.

You see, when your soul is still in Him you will always remember His promise in Exodus 14:14 that “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

In your stillness, you will allow faith to rise up so you can let your Lord of Hosts take His rightful place at the frontlines of any battle.

A silent soul stays rooted in His stronghold of peace and remains anchored in the ark of His presence. It leads you to sleep on a cushion, just as Jesus did in Mark 4:37-40 when “a furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat” so that you too can command to the storms and waves in your life to “Quiet! Be still!”

So today, think about what you can do to silence your soul. What do you need to trust God with? Perhaps you can start by telling Him tonight, at the end of your day, to take it all.

Ask for God’s peace to lull you to sleep through the storm so you awake with the sound of a silent soul. Rest, your heavenly Father is with you.

Suzane Avadiar is a freelance writer, cat-lover and avid traveler. Over the last 16 years, she has written extensively for various publications and companies in the global marketplace. Writing is not only her full-time job but also her passion and instrument of worship. She now writes solely about her faith and has a deep desire to reveal the heart of God through her writings. Suzane writes daily devotions on social media for her church, C3 Subang and is currently completing her first book, Sent to Journey – a Devotional for Travelers. She blogs at www.senttojourney.wordpress.com and resides in Malaysia.

Suzane Avadiar BANNER

 

“HE CALLS YOU Beautiful” by Dee Brestin – Book Review by Miriam Jacob

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“HE CALLS YOU Beautiful – Hearing the Voice of Jesus in the Song of Songs”

by Dee Brestin

Book Review by Miriam Jacob

“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.” God loves you with divine passion. Jesus Christ wrote a love song to you, signed with His life-giving blood, for you to taste His love in a most intimate, heart to heart way!

The Song of Songs, one of the most love-revealing books of the Bible, illuminates with a divine spotlight, the best love story of all time, the intense, personal love God has us, His dearly beloved children. In He Calls You Beautiful, Dee Brestin teaches us life-transforming truths with deep insight and understanding, as she illustrates how God uses the divine art of poetry and the most exquisite imagery to illuminate the unique intimacy Christ has for each one of us.

God calls you to know His love in your heart. He sings over you a song of selfless love and undying devotion. A passionate Song of Songs, sung personally to you, and only for you, by the divine Creator of your soul. Jesus loves you, and He calls you beautiful.

Dee Brestin’s writing voice blends in with the lyrical beauty of the Song of Songs, as she captures our five senses to taste the breathtaking love of God. Her sheer passion for Him captivates our hearts until we are swept up in His divine embrace. He Calls You Beautiful. He writes it on your heart with His life’s Blood. Here is what you always long for, your very own personal love story, to be loved, honored and cherished. God will make you feel inexplicably, indescribably and undeniably loved, for yourself alone. The Song of Songs melts our hearts with the beauty of Christ, inspiring us to be more intimate with Him, the Lover of our souls.

The Song of Songs is the best lens to understand God’s heart in all of Scripture. Dee Brestin poignantly weaves the tapestry of Biblical truths to illustrate God’s enraptured heart for His people. The Song of Songs illustrates an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, in a glowing illustration of Christ and His bride, the Church. We will understand the depths of Jesus’s tender love for us and how He transforms our lives into His glory.

He Calls You Beautiful plumbs the exquisite beauty and awesome wonder of intimate love with God, and the glory of His unique design in creating you, as He welcomes you into the heart of intimacy with Christ!

He Calls You Beautiful by Dee Brestin is available from RUBY’S Reading Corner at http://rubyforwomen.com/rubys-reading-corner-2/

 

Miriam Jacob

Miriam Jacob is a reviewer at Oxford Academic, Oxford University Press; a blog reviewer at Revell Reads, Baker Publishing Group; member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid, Christian Authors Network and Ruby Book Review Team; Google Scholar and Researcher at Academia.edu; ebook author and poet; top reviewer at NetGalley, Christian Book Distributors, Barnes and Noble, Google Books and Goodreads. Miriam is a reviewer at Tyndale House Publishers; Moody Press; Barbour Books; Harvest House; New Hope Publishers; Penguin; HarperCollins Christian; Abingdon Press; WaterBrook & Multnomah; and Discovery House. Miriam’s articles and poems are published at Blogger, Faithwriters, PoemHunter, ProBoards, Weebly and WordPress. Her writings are published on her two blogs at www.miriamjacob.wordpress.com & www.authorsforchrist.blogspot.com

“Until Then” by Stuart Hamblen – History of Hymns by Diana Leagh Matthews

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Billy Graham’s funeral served as a beautiful reminder of the life mission and ministry of this humble man, who gave all the honor and glory to God.

The first song performed at his funeral, “Until Then,” is a beautiful, but lesser known song reminding us to joyful carry on in God’s work until we “behold that Golden City”.

While this was a new song to many, this was not a new song to me. I accompanied Daddy many times over the years as he performed this beautiful song. I’ve continued to sing the song, since his home going. What did surprise me was how many people researched the song and landed on my website where I share hymn histories each Sunday. Amazingly, while Billy Graham was inspired by the lyrics in the song, “Until Then,” the songwriter was brought to his knees and a relationship with God through a Billy Graham crusade.

“Until Then” is one of the songs that can climb into my head and remain for days. I can’t help but sing the lyrics when they are placed on my heart. “Until Then,” also sometimes referred to as “My Heart Can Sing When I Pause to Remember,” was written by Carl Stuart Hamblen.

Stuart Hamblen was born on October 20th, 1908 in Kellyville, Texas. He was the son of a traveling Methodist minister. His career began in 1926, when he became the first singing cowboy on the radio in Fort Worth and Dallas Texas radio stations.

By 1931, he was on the radio from Hollywood, CA as “Cowboy Joe.” For the next 21 years, he would have three radio shows that stayed at the top of the charts. They were “Covered Wagon Jubilee”; “Stuart Hamblen and His Lucky Stars,” and the “Cowboy Church of the Air.” He wrote numerous western songs for the radio during this time.

Hamblen also began to star in motion pictures alongside more well-known names such as Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and John Wayne. In 1933, he married Veeva Ellen Daniels, whom he would nickname “My Suzy.” Hamblen became the first artist signed to Decca records in 1934.

He made history in 1945, when he became the first man to fly his racing horse, El Lobo, for a race. The horse won, and he flew him back home. In 1949, he met evangelist Billy Graham and encouraged his listeners to attend the Billy Graham Crusades that were being held in the area.

He promised to be there, and his wife Suzy kept him to his word. During this time God began to knock on the door of his heart and while he tried to run away, eventually he surrendered his life to God.

In the early 1950s, Hamblen’s radio show was in national syndication when his sponsors tried to force him to allow his commercial spots to promote alcoholic products. Hamblen refused, and his show was canceled, but not before Hamblen had the opportunity to tell his listeners why he was leaving the airways.

Always one for an adventure, he ran for President of the United States in 1952. He ran on the Prohibition Party and came in 4th to Dwight Eisenhower.

Stuart and his wife Suzy lived on their ranch in Santa Clarita, CA. There they raised both of their daughters, Veeva and Lisa Obee, and watched the expansion of their family with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. On the ranch he bred Peruvian Paso Horses. His horse, AEV Oro Negro+, was a U.S. National Champion of Champions three times.

Hamblen died on March 8, 1989. He and Suzy were married for fifty-five years. She would die on June 2, 2008 at the age of 101.

“Until Then” was originally published by Hamblen’s publishing company in 1958. Hamblen wrote other hits such as “It is no secret what God can do,” “Teach Me, Lord, to Wait,” and “Beyond the Sunset”. He has been inducted into numerous Halls of Fame, including the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Western Music Hall of Fame, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  “Until Then” has been published in at least four hymnals and various other songbooks and remains a song that reminds us of how glorious it will one day be to “behold that city when God calls us home.”

When we arrive in that glorious city, we will behold our Savior and Lord and we will find a rock on the edge of a stream to sit and share with Billy {as he preferred to be called} all the ways in which he ministered to our hearts and drew us closer to God.

Billy Graham shared how he looked forward to arriving in heaven. Billy is quoted as saying, “My home is in heaven. I’m just traveling through this world,” and “Someday you will read or hear that Billy Graham is dead. Don’t you believe a word of it; I shall be more alive than I am now. I will just have changed my address. I will have gone into the presence of God.”

His children often shared in the last few years of his life that he shared more and more often with them how he longed to go to heaven and join his beloved wife, Ruth. But, “Until Then” we should learn from the life of Billy Graham that “with joy I will carry on.”

After all, the Apostle Paul reminded us “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”  {Romans 15:13}

As we pause to remember the life and legacy of Billy Graham, do you carry on with joy and a heart that is singing for the kingdom of God?

 

Diana Leagh Matthews writes, speaks and sings to bring glory to God.  She has been published in numerous anthologies, including many Moments books. In her day job, Leagh is a Nationally Certified Activities Director for a busy nursing facility.

She takes great joy in family, friends and soaking in the beautiful wonders and promises of God. Leagh blogs about her faith and struggles on her website www.DianaLeaghMatthews.com and family history at www.ALookThruTime.com

Images courtesy of Diana Leagh Matthews, Christian Headlines, and YouTube

“Better than Baseball Season” by Lisa J. Radcliff

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Ah, April—trees budding, flowers blooming, birds returning to their home parks: Blue Jays to Rogers Centre, Orioles to Camden Yards, Cardinals to Busch Stadium. Yup, it’s Baseball Season.

I am a sports nut, but growing up, I hated baseball.  In my opinion, it was the most boring game of all. Then I gave birth to three boys. They all loved baseball, and they were good at it.

When our first son started playing Little League, I gave in, bought myself a rule book, and set out to learn the game of baseball. With a little one to cheer on, it didn’t take long for me to become a full-fledged baseball mom.

Three years later our middle boy showed extraordinary natural ability. From his first day of practice, as an 8-yr-old, Timmy wanted to be a pitcher. He let his coach know, but his coach had three 9-yr-old pitchers, so he kept putting Timmy off with, “maybe next practice.”

Timmy finally wore him down and after practice one day, the coach gave in. “All right, let’s see what you’ve got.” Timmy threw pitch after pitch right to the coach’s glove. When they were done, the coach told Timmy he did great and it was good to know that he had another pitcher if he needed one.

The very next game, Timmy got his chance. After three innings, our three pitchers were all out of the game after each one had hit multiple batters. Our team was down 10-0.

With nothing to lose and no other pitchers on the bench, the coach put Timmy in. He took the mound with the excitement of, well, an 8-yr-old about to pitch in his first game.

He struck out the first three batters he faced. Then our team started hitting the ball and scoring runs.

Over the next two innings, Timmy only allowed one base runner and no runs. The team rallied around Timmy’s performance and racked up hit after hit.

They were up 13-10 when Timmy struck out the last batter. His coach ran out onto the field, threw Timmy in the air, and swung him around. It was hard to tell which of them had the bigger smile. From then on, Timmy was a starting pitcher for every team on which he played.

As he got older and bigger, he got better. He developed different pitches and became known for his slider. Even if a batter knew it was coming, they rarely hit it. Usually, they looked silly trying.

His first year of high school, Tim pitched for the JV team. They won eight games that season—the eight that Tim pitched. The following year, Tim looked forward to trying out for the varsity team.

The morning of tryouts, Tim woke up early with abdominal pain. He tried self-medicating with a donut and chocolate milk, but, believe it or not, that didn’t help.

Being the patient boy that he is, he waited until his dad was up and ready to go to the hospital for work to let him know about his problem.

His dad woke me and let me know that he was pretty sure Tim had appendicitis (Dad is an OR nurse). He was taking him to the hospital, and I should come as soon as I was ready.

It’s nice to have a nurse for a husband and a thoughtful son who holds his emergencies until a decent hour.

I arrived at the hospital just after the appendicitis diagnosis was confirmed. He would need surgery right away.

I wondered if Tim remembered what day it was: varsity pitching tryouts. He did.  As he laid in the emergency room, awaiting surgery, he realized he would not only miss tryouts, but even if he made the team, he would miss a few weeks of games.

He turned to me and said, “I guess God wants me to do something else with my life than baseball.” I didn’t know it at the time, but it was in that emergency room that God first started calling Tim to the ministry.

Surgery went fine. Tim recovered very quickly and was back on the field in two weeks. Because of his stats and known ability, he was put on the varsity team without trying out.

He didn’t get a lot of playing time, but always shined whenever he was called on to pitch. He was recruited to play for a Division III team in college. Following college, God’s call on his life was more evident.

The “what if” question, though, still lingered. What if he had pursued baseball? Could he have made the big leagues? He got an opportunity to find out. Tim went to a major league tryout.

While they were impressed with his slider, his fastball didn’t quite hit 90 mph. And then there was his age. At 24, he was too old to take a chance on. If he had had the proper training and coaching, he probably could have been drafted and maybe even made the big leagues.

Better than Baseball Season QUOTE

But his time had passed.

 

Last year, Tim was ordained as a minister of the gospel in the Bible Fellowship Church. Some might say he missed his chance at the big leagues, but did he really?  As his mom, I was always proud of his performance on the mound.

 

But I was truly moved at his ordination service, realizing that God had called him to something very special, much more special than major league baseball.

Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. (2 Peter 1:10)

As opening day approaches, Rev. Tim and I will enjoy the crack of the bat, the peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and all that the baseball season has to offer. After all, it is America’s pastime (passes the time until football season ~ fly, Eagles, fly!).

Lisa Radcliff

Lisa Radcliff is a writer, speaker, women’s Bible study teacher, and a 35-year volunteer youth worker, residing in Pennsburg, PA. She is a wife, mom, and mom-mom who loves God’s Word but also loves football, chocolate, shoes, and Maine. Her hobbies include quilting, shopping, cooking, and raising Seeing Eye puppies. You can reach her at lisajradcliff@gmail.com.

“I Lie For a Reason” by R.G. Sharpe

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As springtime approaches I recall the struggle of rebuilding my life after divorce. In the throes of healing a few years ago, I was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write this piece. It is my prayer that you will find hope in the Savior today.

The difference is, I lie for a reason.

The smile on my face freezes as I hesitate momentarily and suck in a quick breath of air. A thousand thoughts rush through my mind at the unspoken question lingering in the air.

The question that naturally arises as I share a tale about my six-year-old daughter. The curious glance that spikes my blood pressure, unbeknownst to my audience, as I grasp at straws on how to answer the simple inquisition:

Are you married?

The answer is no, so the obvious solution to my precarious situation is to merely state my response matter-of-factly and graciously change the subject to a more a comfortable topic.

If only it were that simple.

Instead, I tilt my head slightly aside, swallow, size up my listener, and brace myself for their reaction. I maintain my composure as I give a nervous shake of my head and allow my eyelids to shut for a brief instant before I cautiously admit that, “No, I’m not married.”

I’m never quite sure what to say after that. I’m a writer, so I’m certain that I could come up with a quick script on the spot to find my great escape. And yet I find myself continually taken off-guard as words and explanations elude me.

I pray for the courage to remain silent and let the urge to justify my past dissipate, even as I attempt to change the subject.

I can’t deny that I am not married. I can even utter the fragmented truth that I’m divorced. What I can’t come to terms with is the fact that I am, in fact, twice divorced.  Married twice. Divorced twice. And the man from whom I was most recently divorced is not my daughter’s father.

These thoughts swirl around my soul as I fight the impulse to bring peace to these eyes staring back at me that flicker with questions. What shame, guilt, and condemnation lay within my heart and soul to hold onto this disgraceful reality about what I’ve done and who I’ve become.

It makes me crumble inside to think that I’ve failed. The fears that entail when people ask me, “Are you married?” How do I express the pain of omitting the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?

I confess I have a newfound contempt for those little checkboxes on intake forms to confirm your marital status. I purse my lips and roll my eyes as my shoulders hunch, and my pen places a big, fat “X” next to “divorced.”

I suddenly notice my fingernails and unkempt cuticles as I divert my attention from having to write down my previous name.  Which alias do I need to write down? One or both?  My most recent married name or my first?

Perhaps I should start using initials next to my full name: RaChelle Glauser, S.B. Would that be an acceptable form of identification? Let’s just lay it all out on bare on the table. Let’s get this over with!

And then I think of a Carpenter, a man exactly my age who did precisely that. He laid his clothes aside to walk naked for miles with a crown of thorns upon His head and a tree upon His back. He was whipped, beaten, spat upon, mocked, and ridiculed, and for what purpose? He was blameless, the spotless Lamb of God, the One who knew no sin.

He did this for me.

He already knew I would make mistakes and fall short of the glory of God. He knew I would rebel against my family, look out for my own selfish desires, and lose myself in a world full of chaos and confusion.

Two thousand years ago this Son of God made a choice to shed His innocent blood, and in doing so washed away all my faults, all my fears, and all my failures. He carried the weight of my guilt and my shame so that I don’t have to. He experienced my heartache and insecurities so that I can walk with my head held high in victory.

And so I lie.

I lie at the foot of the cross.

I lie for a reason.

I am redeemed.

RG Sharpe

R.G. Sharpe is a freelance writer bringing faith and fortitude to blended families. She is happily remarried with five beautiful children now ranging in ages seven to fourteen. She is a co-author of two devotionals and is currently writing a children’s book to help young readers process their emotions after their parents’ separation and divorce. You can learn more and subscribe for updates at www.rgsharpe.com.

“Two are Better: Midlife Newlyweds Bicycle Coast to Coast” Interview with Tim and Debbie Bishop

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Two are Better

At age 52, with no prior experience in either bicycle touring or marriage, midlife newlyweds Tim and Debbie Bishop pedal away from the Oregon coast to discover their new life together. The odyssey that follows on their self-supported honeymoon across America will bring smiles, chuckles, and tears. Here’s our interview with Tim and Debbie:

RUBY: Tell us about your work, your ministry, and your writing.

Tim and Debbie: God has blessed Debbie and me with a wonderful testimony to His goodness, which we’ve been sharing creatively in hopes of touching the otherwise unreachable. I’m curious where God is going to take us on this journey. It’s not over yet!

Before I married Debbie, I was entrenched in corporate finance. Yet I felt God was preparing me for something else. I was restless. And things around me were swirling. I wasn’t sure about my purpose, but stepping out of the lifeboat was one way to find out.

I left that job and married Debbie. It was a huge change after 26 years in the same company and 52 years single. I also left Maine, my beloved home for most of my life. God was up to something.

Debbie and I went for a very long bicycle ride after our wedding. A few months following our return, I was laid up on the couch for weeks with a blood clot. How ironic! I was in the best shape I’d been in for years.

My immobility presented me with an easy choice. I could watch daytime television or begin to write. Writing had been a strong interest for years. With a digital picture frame displaying photos from our wedding and bicycle trip in clear view, I had to share what God had done in our lives.

Now I spend most of my time writing and publishing, but Debbie and I have had the privilege of coaching people with life issues on the internet. I never imagined God could make this finance guy into a hope coach, but that’s what He did.

RUBY:  I’m intrigued by your book, Two Are Better, and would love to hear your story of how God brought you together. And I would love to hear all about your bicycling honeymoon!

Tim and Debbie: Debbie and I met online (users beware!) in 2003 and in person the following summer for a bicycle ride. Wow, was that activity ever foreshadowing! We lived five hours, two states, and a culture apart. For several years, we corresponded as email pen pals, and a meaningful friendship budded.

From the keyboard, I “saw” Debbie through two broken relationships. (Ha, God knew all along!) Meanwhile, good ole Tim had his nose to the grindstone with his eye out for Mrs. Bishop. She was nowhere to be found in Bangor, Maine.

God’s timing and provision were undeniable when I left conventional employment and the single life. Two Are Better tells all about it!

The honeymoon adventure was indescribable, but we wrote about it anyway. Blend two lifelong singles 24/7, sprinkle in the rigors of a 3,500-mile bicycle tour, beat thoroughly with a heaping helping of life change, and heat with the thrill of a new life in tasty places with fresh faces. It’s the perfect recipe for Two Are Better: Midlife Newlyweds Bicycle Coast to Coast.

Wheels of Wisdom by Tim and Debbie Bishop

RUBY: Tell us about your other book, Wheels of Wisdom. What prompted you to write it and what message are you sharing with your readers in this book?

Tim and Debbie: After our honeymoon tour across America, Debbie and I had caught the bicycle-touring bug. In 2012, we set out from Naples, Florida, where Debbie’s mother lived, to Houlton, Maine, on the Mom-to-Mom Tour. We expected it to be our last long excursion because I had accepted a job offer.

Relocation and another new life awaited us at journey’s end. Shortly after the trip, however, the job fell through. I continued working on the Two Are Better project and wrote a business book.

Two years later, we decided to go all out on a fundraising tour for a ministry we held dear. The 4,300-mile endeavor was intense. Not only did we cycle but we also blogged, pitched media, and solicited support. People’s prayers—and God’s presence—were palpable. We were so overwhelmed with “God moments” that we would have been derelict not to share them. Two first-place awards for this book attest to God’s imprint on its inspirational content.

Wheels of Wisdom is a thought-provoking devotional with longer stories than the traditional norm. The adventuresome and dual narrative help hook people who want more out of life but may be reluctant to consider how God can help.

The book’s bottom line? God is active in our lives even though we may not always see it or believe. A reviewer, Stacey Louiso, characterized the book as “a unique perspective of how God makes His presence known.”

RUBY: I’m really interested in Debbie’s story! I hear she has returned to college as a “non-traditional” student. I can relate to that as I also completed my college experience as a mom with four kids at home. Tell us about her journey.

Tim and Debbie:  Debbie is amazing. She still yearns to learn and loves to read. Her interest in new things makes living with her delightful. And her outlook certainly contributes to our exciting bicycle travels.

She studied psychology in college, but her vocation has been teaching. As a junior high home economics teacher years ago, she recognized that some of her students had difficulty reading. She went back to school and earned a master’s degree in literacy to help children read.

In 2013, she transitioned from full-time to part-time teaching. She recently felt an urge to apply her psychology background and her past recovery from addictions to counsel people. Therefore, she began studying Christian counseling online through Liberty University. I think anyone who starts a master’s program at age 60 qualifies as a lifelong learner. More power to her!

 

Tim and Debbie Bishop

Join Tim and Debbie Bishop on their Coast-to-Coast Bicycle Journey as Newlyweds in Two are Better

At age 52, with no prior experience in either bicycle touring or marriage, midlife newlyweds Tim and Debbie Bishop pedal away from the Oregon coast to discover their new life together. The odyssey that follows on their self-supported honeymoon across America will bring smiles, chuckles, and tears.

Two Are Better is a unique and entertaining story that proves it’s never too late to make your dreams come true. Purchase to find out why the Midwest Book Review called Two Are Better “insightful and charming.”

Tim and Debbie’s Books are now available from RUBY’S Reading Corner!

Wheels of Wisdom: Life Lessons for the Restless Spirit

Two are Better: Midlife Newlyweds Bicycle Coast to Coast

 

“Looking to the Future, Remembering the Past” by Norma C. Mezoe

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“Looking to the Future, Remembering the Past” by Norma C. Mezoe

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him…. –Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)

Early this morning I was examining an African violet which has been struggling to grow for many months. Suddenly it slipped from my hands and dirt flew in all directions. The violet was violently uprooted from its home.  As I cleaned dirt from counter tops, the sink, and stove, I sensed God was teaching me a valuable lesson.

It seemed that perhaps God was telling me this is how my life had been. Even though I had been a Christian for many years, my growth was stunted. Then I experienced a crisis in my life. As with the little plant, my roots were torn from their safe surroundings. My world was changed overnight and my life was broken into many pieces.

Then, just as I had cleaned all the bits of dirt from my kitchen and placed them back into the flower pot, so God had tenderly taken all the scattered pieces of my life and had begun remolding them. He placed each piece lovingly and perfectly into its proper place and molded me tenderly into a fresh and new vessel. Since then my life has begun to grow and bloom as never before.

Perhaps we need occasionally to have our roots shaken and branches pruned so God can perform the miracle of spiritual growth in our lives.

The devotion above was published thirty years ago.  The crisis I wrote about had occurred three years earlier. My husband of twenty-seven years had left me for another woman.

The months and years which followed have been times of spiritual growing, intermingled with dealing with other crises, including financial needs and health concerns.

When my faith has weakened and anxieties threatened to tear at my peace and shred my joy, I have remembered my past.

It is not wise to live in the past and dwell on what might have been. However, it is helpful to look to our pasts and remember the way our Lord walked with us through the heartaches, cares, and concerns life had thrown upon us.

It is encouraging to recall how my needs were met, sometimes in unexpected ways. God didn’t always take away my problems, but he walked with me through them.

As I live my life, I have confidence that as God guided my past, he will also walk with me today and will be there as I step into the future.   Like the violet, my roots have been shaken, but now they are firmly rooted in the soil of God’s love.

 

Norma C. Mezoe began writing after a crisis in her life. She has been a published writer for thirty years. Her writing has appeared in books, devotionals, take-home papers and magazines. She lives in the tiny town of Sandborn, Indiana where she is active in her church as clerk, teacher and bulletin maker. Contact at: normacm@tds.net

“Lions and Lambs” by Joan Leotta

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“In like a lion, out like a lamb.” So while I know that this old saying refers to the weather, mostly in the Northeast, I look at March as a month bracketed by two of my favorite animals.

In ancient times March was the beginning of the year—spring was the first season of the year.

In Biblical iconography, lions can represent courage and strength, or they can be outside forces waiting to devour the children of God. But there is no ambiguity when it comes to the lamb.

Lambs are a sacrificial animal (as well as a useful one) and the lamb stands in often for Jesus, who, as the Lamb of God, made the ultimate sacrifice of His life for our sins, who conquered death with that sacrifice and made possible eternal life with Him, for us.

Keeping that in mind, this year, March literally goes like a lamb—the last days of March include Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, the eve of Easter.

These past weeks of Lent, I have been thinking—as a follower of Christ, do I literally, go “out like a lamb” when I go into the world in person or via my writing?

Do I model Christ’s love for others, His willingness to serve, to save?

Am I a new creature in Christ, content to have given up my old self so that others may know Christ through me?

Sadly, I cannot say this is always true. I must admit I am often the blustering lion, looking to worldly praise for my work.

However, thanks to that ultimate sacrifice of Christ Himself, I can start each morning again, confess my sins, repent, and renew my commitment to live for Christ.

I do not need to look for large things to do to “prove” my love for the Lamb. He asks that I offer Him my heart—sacrifices do not delight Him.

He wants the small, everyday bits and pieces of my life. Am I kind to my husband? Do I meet my commitments? How do I answer those who disagree with me? Do I do all in love?

This is the lesson of March. Live like the Lamb.

In the Quiet… by Suzane Avadiar

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In the Quiet HEADER

THE VOICE IN THE WORD

(part 1)

God’s Word is His voice.

How often do you hear it? Do you believe He wants to speak to you?

The truth is, God wants to reveal “great and hidden things that you have not know” (Jeremiah 33:3), if you call out to Him. In fact, He longs for you to be able to hear Him. Isn’t that amazing?

The God who created the universe wants YOU to hear His voice! All because He loves you.

 Just take a moment and let that sink in deeper into you; God WANTS you to know Him more.

Jesus said in John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” But to hear Him, we have to first switch off the distractions of the world. We need to dial down the white noise so that we can tune into the right frequency of His voice.

God is always waiting to speak; to tell us about His plans, how He feels – no different than how a close friend would. He is waiting to “instruct you and teach you in the way you should go” (Psalm 32:8).

The question is are we listening?

Do we really know His voice? How well do we really know God? If we don’t know God, then we won’t recognize His voice.

While it’s true that God sometimes speaks to us through whispers in our soul when we commune with Him in the quiet, God’s voice is most powerfully heard in His Word.

The Voice in The Word belongs to God. It’s where He wants us to go to know Him more. God desires His children to know Him intimately.

In one of His most heartfelt prayers for us, Jesus said to the Father in John 17:3, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

Jesus’ heart cry was for us to know our Father so that we live in deep communion with God’s enduring love for us. That is the key to knowing who God is because above everything else, God is Love.

This is Jesus’ longest recorded prayer to God and it is an intercession for us. It paints one of the most poignant portraits of Jesus and the Father. It reveals true intimacy and gives us the perfect glimpse of the kind of relationship God wants to have with His children.

In this one chapter, Jesus’ complete character is captured. As a man filled with anguish, staring at the face of death, Jesus prays and talks to His Father about eternal love and life. Here, Jesus’ divinity and unconditional love comes alive. His thoughts are consumed, not with the crucifixion awaiting Him – as any man would, but with the people He is leaving behind.

Jesus’ heart is broken and filled with compassion for His disciples, and all believers. He prays for the safety of His disciples so that God “keeps them from the evil one” (John 17:15). Then He prays for those who are yet to believe – with a conviction that they will return to their Father – through the coming works and words of His disciples.

Jesus discloses the desires of His grieving heart to the Father – speaking very plainly and openly.

It shows us a perfect picture of how we ourselves can sit in ONENESS before God to bare our hearts and desires to Him.

And it is THROUGH the Word of God that we are shown Jesus’ heart and nature. It is IN the Word that His voice speaks very plainly and reveals the stark nature of who He is.

He is the Voice in The Word and He spoke so we know Him more.

Can you imagine how much we can gain if we heard only His voice in every challenging circumstance? How would our lives be different if we turned to God’s Word to hear His voice to guide us in ALL that we do? How often do we really do that?

Imagine how your day would be if you allowed ONLY the Word of God to define who you are. Not the world. Not even yourself. Only who God says you are.

To build a strong identity in God, we must first understand who He is. When we know who God truly is, then we will know who we are.

The Word of God is the ultimate guide to truly become intimate with the nature of God. The Word of God brings God’s voice to life and “those who hear will live” (John 5:25). It not only gives us a clear picture of His personality but also reveals to us who He has made us to be. He is The Voice in The Word.

What can you do today to dig deeper into God’s Word to hear His Voice? What new thing can you do to allow the Voice in The Word to define and strengthen you?

**Come back next week to read Part 2 of ‘The Voice in The Word’ and discover how the Word of God can help you delve deeper into God’s Heart…

“Tribute to Billy Graham” by Cindy J. Evans

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In Memory of Billy Graham

Thank you, Lord, for Billy Graham’s life

and the impact it had on me.

I pray You keep growing and flourishing

that long-ago planted seed.

Thank you for his wife, Ruth,

and her beautiful poetry,

pointing me to You,

helping me see more eternally.

Bless his family as they grieve,

bless and multiply his legacy…

May it result in much more ministry,

All, Lord, for Your glory!

 

Cindy Evans

Cindy Evans is a published poet living in the greater Atlanta area. When she’s not
writing, you may find her a faith-based movie with her husband, making trail mix
or serving at the local Christian hospice.

“February: A Time for Reflection” Nina Newton

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It’s a late winter day, but there is hope in the air! The snow is flying outside my office window, and the wind is howling this afternoon, shaking and rattling the doors to our deck. As I watch the snow swirling around and dumping piles and drifts just outside our front door, I am sometimes tempted to feel a bit blue. This time of year has a way of slowing us down (if for no other reason than we simply can’t get out of the driveway!), and it is not uncommon for lots of us to feel kind of sad and discouraged. I’ve heard from one of my RUBY writing buddies that this can be caused by something called SAD: Seasonal Affective Disorder.

I guess if you don’t get enough sunlight, which causes your melatonin and serotonin to be depleted, then it causes physical and emotional stress on your body. Some people claim that light therapy has helped them, and people in the Scandinavian countries have used giant mirrors to reflect the limited sunshine that is available so that it is intensified, thus offering more exposure to the benefits of sunshine.

I have always enjoyed wintertime, but the cold does present some challenges to getting around and accomplishing our daily tasks. So even though in the middle of winter, we all tend to have less energy or perhaps have bouts of sadness or discouragement, one thing that has helped me get through the long, dark days of winter is to refocus my energy and time on planning for the future. A time of reflection, so to speak, where I contemplate the events of the past year and, now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays is completely in the rearview mirror, I look ahead. And eagerly anticipate spring!

This is a time that some of us, as writers and artists, find the solitude conducive to a bit more creativity. It seems that I mostly feel motivated to write a poem or two on the days when I am forced to slow down long enough to hear my own thoughts and the beating of my own heart. That’s not always easy to do, because we frequently don’t want to remember things from the past, or we don’t want to dwell on what God is speaking to our heart.

This year, during the cold, dark, blustery days of late winter, I am choosing to stop avoiding those times of reflection, and embrace the truth and even the pain and sadness of remembering. One of my goals this year is to return to the regular practice of journaling. Gratitude journaling is the perfect way to refocus our sad thoughts to praising God for all of His good gifts. Be sure to read the article by Theresa Begin in this issue, “How to Start and Keep a Gratitude Journal.” Lots of great tips and encouragement to get started!

If you are struggling through these days of limited sunlight, long, cold, dark nights, loneliness, sadness, discouragement, or despair, why not try journaling? If you have one of those SAD light contraptions, lots of people have been helped by them, so it is definitely worth a try. But whatever you are doing on these seemingly endless gloomy days of winter, always remember that you are never alone. God’s Word tells us that He “. . . will never leave you nor forsake you” Hebrews 13:5. If we trust His grace and forgiveness, praying with thanksgiving for all of His blessings, “. . . the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7]

Let these days of winter be a time of reflection, and a time of seeking God’s love, comfort, encouragement, and blessing. Start that gratitude journal today, and you’ll see what I mean!

“More than a Romantic Evening” by Joan Leotta

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More than a Romantic Evening

“More than a Romantic Evening” by Joan Leotta

When we lived in Virginia, I was often called upon to talk to the ESL classes (English as a Second Language) sponsored by our church.

My job was to tell a folk tale or other story to illustrate the meaning of the holiday in the US cultural context and then explain the Christian connection or a way of celebrating the holiday that would honor God, and recognize that it is about more than a romantic evening.

This helped our students—from all over the world and from many religious backgrounds, better understand the holiday for themselves.

In addition, it put them in a position to explain some things about the origin of the holiday to their children who were coming home from school with “new” ideas about holidays; to be knowledgeable before these little ones who might be thinking they knew more about US customs than their parents.

With St Valentine’s Day, I explained how St Valentine got started providing dowries for poor girls.

This resonated with many in the group who came from countries where arranged marriages and dowries were still very much a present tradition. I then explained about love of God, brotherly love, a general love for people, and of course, the holiday’s tie to romantic love, as a Christian would celebrate it.

I tried to give a Bible verse for each type and after the performance, answered some questions and the teachers followed up on how best to present God to them through all of this.

When thinking about the Christian side of romance, I often hark back to my first Valentine’s Day as a married woman. We went out to a favorite neighborhood restaurant. Valentine’s Day is a crowded time for eating out, but many like to do so.

Maybe it is because a restaurant meal frees your mind from every day cares. Your senses are heightened by the good food (and libations) and you are able to focus on your beloved.

Perhaps this is why many people get engaged on Valentine’s Day over a lovely meal or their loved one presents them with a wonderful, romantic gift.

On that first Valentine’s Day as a married couple, just after the waiter cleared the table, while we were waiting for dessert, my husband upped the romance game several notches.

He reached across the table to hand me a gold necklace. Definitely, a Cary Grant moment on his part that made me feel like a movie star!

We have now been married for forty Valentine’s Days. Each one has been better than the one before. No, this does not mean I have a collection of gold chains.

One Valentine’s Day, we were both sick! On another, after dropping the kids at a church party, we headed for a neighborhood restaurant and it was full—we had neglected to make reservations. We wound up having our Valentine’s dinner at Roy Rogers.

My husband still makes romantic gestures—but they are far more meaningful than giving jewelry. He empties the dishwasher. He is there when I get rejection notices and says, each time I announce one, “I never reject you.”

He shows his love in countless concrete actions (and I hope I do the same for him!). We have suffered loss and sadness together and have basked in the joy of many blessings—together.

For us, Valentine’s Day is a time to remember all of the little things and big things we love about each other.

We usually eat in now, to avoid crowds. Being Italian, a meal is a part of every holiday. We celebrate with what has become, for us, this holiday’s signature meal we cook together now that he is retired.

He makes the steak. I make the side dishes and dessert—unless we can find our fave Italian pastries (sfogliatelle).

One of the best parts of the meal is remembering and thanking God for past, memorable celebrations—the golden chain, eating our meal at Roy Rogers, and the time we were both sick and realizing that it is God’s grace that has brought us this far and it will be his Amazing Grace that will bring us home, no matter where or with what we celebrate our future Valentine’s Days.

 

Joan Leotta

Joan Leotta has been playing with words since childhood. She is a poet, essayist, journalist, playwright, and author of several books both fiction and non-fiction for children and adults. She is also a performer and gives one-woman shows on historic figures and spoken word folklore shows as well as teaching writing and storytelling. Joan lives in Calabash, NC where she walks the beach with husband, Joe. www.joanleotta.wordpress.com and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Joan-Leotta-Author-and-Story-Performer/188479350973