Hands - Mark 5:24-29

This was inspired by a painting "The Touch" by Connie Baten that my mom gave to me.

Hands – so many things are written in the grooves between the lines of hands. Hands mark the flow of life that breathes within. Hands reach for the love of a parent, grasp the companionship of a friend, and embrace the precious gift of a child - hands to keep warm, to hug and hold so many. Time glazes the warm cinnamon hands worn and rough as a remembrance of the many challenges and tragedies of a journey. Turned over, the soft hands show pathways of a life dedicated to tenderness and giving.

Illness claims to be an identity. People ask how “it” is, has “it” changed, is “it” leaving her alone? “It” robs her of moments of pleasure and peace. “It” is constantly with her.

Doctors try to relieve her of pain and discomfort with their many theories and hypothetical guesses. The pursuit of an answer places her as a pawn within a game of technique and strategy. Her name and identity are forgotten. The illness is the one who answers when called.


Herbs, special serums and complex concoctions offer a promise of hope but with no end of fulfillment. Ordered to go to this magical place or walk that distance in penance, or act this particular way leaves empty wishes in the dust which fall on the muddy dirt beneath her feet.


Sighing in a song of its own rhythm, she stands but weakness invades her body forcing her to cling to a wooden chair attempting to hold her decreasing strength.

The town is on the move. With much chatter many feet run towards the city center, the rustle of clothing filters through the wind - something is different about today. Echoes of delight cheer in the streets, “Jesus is here!”


She knows of His work around the communities of Galilee. He is a healer. He is a Savior. She believes that just by a touch of a hand, she will be healed.


The crowds are overwhelming – so many people block the way from seeing Him. The scarf tumbles and bending down to pick it up, realizes that she can see His leather sandals and His robe. She kneels in the dirt and reaches to hope. She touches his cloak with her longing hand. Energy trembles within her entire body. Transformed - the pain leaves. With one touch of a hand, He heals her.

So Happy

My sister, Kathy,  wrote a new song and these are a few lyrics I wrote to go with it.


You make me so happy
Even when skies are gray.
Angels sing a lullaby,
Words my heart can't say.
I hear in the silence -
Melody of Your song.
Move my spirit sweetly,
Make every verse Your song.

Love is the melody
Hope is the harmony
Faith is the lyric I sing
Peace is the final sound
Joy the eternal song
Love sings His song to me.

Joy comes in the morning,
I rise up in praise.
Thank you for Your presence
Making a brand new day.
When shadows cast darkness,
the Morning Star I see.
Walk with me in Your Sonshine,
Shine bright Your light in me.

Love is the melody
Hope is the harmony
Faith is the lyric I sing.
Peace is the final sound,
Joy the eternal song
Love sings His song to me.

I'll sing Your song,
Walking along,
I love You more each day.
I'll walk Your way,
Forever stay,
I love You more each day.

Love is the melody
Hope is the harmony
Faith is the lyric I sing.
Peace is the final sound,
Joy the eternal song,
Love sings His song to me.

Waters of Oblivion

This is the story of a painting  by John Martin, "Sadak in Search of the Waters of Oblivion" which was inspired by James Ridley's Tales of a Genii . . .

The shadow of light anxiously falls over the crimson and gold mountains. In the torrential scarlet torment of the skies, the clouds angle towards the heavens with their ashen fists. One solid ray of amber light willfully breaks through the violent auburn vapor. The fire toned mountains below steep in their twisted delight, arrogantly threaten their impassibility and dare to challenge any attempt to conquer them. Ridged jagged edges outline their cruelty and magnificence. Rough and uneven crags surround the distant ruby valley below.

Endless caverns scorn protection and lead to nowhere except to separation and darkness. The current strong and unyielding falls to an unknown unforgiving reservoir. Sadak clings to the rusty muddy clay between his fingers. Clinching with the last power within him, he rebelliously struggles to hang on to what feels to be the last moments of his life.

He fights for love. His task is known but he is unaware of the malicious plans of the Sultan. The menacing waters of oblivion threaten to take the sweet memories of the love of his life, Kalasrade. In a desperate attempt to free her from the bondage of enslavement, he willingly endures many trials of hardship and painful experiences.

His life hangs in the balance. His blood-red cloth is his only protection against the brutal elements of the merciless landscape. His legs dangle over the precipice of the eternal abyss of darkness beneath his feet. His sacrificial love urges him on in hope. He is alone in his quest. He alone can save her.

The journey is not yet over. He has not yet reached the top of the mountain. He still willingly surrenders the loss of his life for another with each movement towards his final purpose. In the end, he rescues and redeems the love which he desires with all his heart but has dearly cost him during his hours of tribulation. Kalasrade is atoned from her captor with the vile of the pure cleansing waters from the volcanic terrain. The Sultan condemned by his own evil with poetic justice falls victim to the powers of the water. In triumph, Sadak replaces him as king on the throne.

Hebrews 9:28 “So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people, and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him”.

The Helper

This is a true story about myself that happened awhile ago . . .

Walking out the door having hugged all that I have known, the little brown Citation sits in the driveway waiting for me. The trailer is so weighed down by a reckless packer; the car creeps in an upward angle as the back-end pleads for the road. My piano which I could not bear to leave a half a country behind is loaded towards the front creating a comical v shape of the two vehicles under the weight of its cargo.

So excited by the unknown possibilities of the Seattle skyline, I wave goodbye to the cold winters of Minnesota. I can hardly wait to reach the shore 2000 miles away.

I purchase a cheap car whose doors are covered in rust. Down at the local auto shop I find gold tinted paint to match my Chevrolet. For several hours, I naively cover all the rusted spots in hopes that no one will notice how old the Citation really is.

As the door creaks open, the metal clashes in tones of pain. The journey in the beginning is good. Not quite listening to my dad’s wise advice, I hear that I need to add a little more oil as well as gas. So I pass through Minnesota and construction in South Dakota as farmers in trucks wave to the traveling stranger. Each time I stop, I top-off my oil and gas.

By the time I hit Idaho, my car is acting a little strange. Arriving at the beautiful mountains before Coeur d’Alene, my car moans as it attempts to climb the hills. People honk and yell as they angrily pass me by. Eventually the car breathes its last breath as black smoke overwhelms the small brown potato.

A kind elderly man on his way to his maintenance shop that just happens to rent Uhauls, stops to help me. He tows my car for free and takes me out to lunch to visit at a local restaurant with his family. After discovering what I have done, he offers to buy my car for scrap because I have blown a head casket and to fix it is more than the car is worth.

As he grabs the handle of the door, the door falls off its hinges. He smiles at me and says “It’s all right, this will work”. An unknown stranger becomes a friend and I eventually find my way to Seattle.

Major Samuel's Choice - 1 Samuel 16

This is another re-telling of scripture in an SA setting . . .

It is the annual conference for the Northern Territory. Everyone from all around the country gathers for the commissioning of the cadets from the training school. It is so exciting to see all of them with the great music, the Saturday evening musical, the workshops, the fellowship of seeing everyone. There is nothing better to look forward to every June.

Now Major Samuel was a man of God. There has been a problem with the Commissioner and he needs to be replaced in his position. He noticed that many of the faithful leaders were now retiring and that there seemed to very little hope of inspiring leadership among the young recruits. He prayed every day and was a humble man.

One day God said to Major Samuel “How long are you going to mourn for the retiring of Commissioner Saul King? I want you to go to the Metro Citadel. I have someone in mind to replace Commissioner King. I will tell you who is when you get there. He is the son of Captain Jessie Field who is the grandson of my faithful servants, Majors Ruth & Boaz Field (as you know, everyone in the Army is related in one way or another).

So Major Samuel bought a plane ticket and headed to Metro Citadel many long hours away from the congress. Again God spoke to Major Samuel, “Do not consider height, good looks, obvious talent, for that is not what I am interested in. Man looks on the outside of how things appear to be, but I look on the heart.”

Major Samuel arrived at the corps and greeted Captain Jessie. I’m here to speak to your sons. God has told me that He wants to pick a new leader for the Northern Territory and it will be your son. Captain Jessie was so excited. He had seven sons and any of them would be a great leader for the territory. He first introduced his oldest son Mark. He was a fine man and nice-looking too. He had started many different Bible Study groups and was a great spiritual guide. But God told Major Samuel, “No – he is not the one”.

Next came in John. He was really into sports and athletic. He had started many sports Boys & Girls clubs in the city and was well-liked. But again God told Major Samuel, “No – he is not the one.” Next walking through the door came Matt. He had a talent for raising loads of money to help many of the various programs in the city. But God told Major Samuel, it was not him.

Peter was coming in the door after a rehearsal. He was very musically talented. He led the praise & worship band not only for the corps and division, but would often be asked to play at territorial gatherings. But again, God said no.

The next son was at the table reading. Luke was a great scholar and loved to read. He had earned his masters in theology in the shortest time possible because he had loved his classes so much that he took more than a full load at one time. But again, God said no.

Thomas was a natural mathematician. He was very good at analyzing figures for statistics, putting sound projects together. But again, God said no.

After meeting six of Major Jessie’s sons, Samuel was a bit confused. He was sure that God told him that he was to find the next commissioner from one of Jessie’s sons. All of these guys were wonderful, perfect choices each in their own way. But God had told him no. So finally Major Samuel turned to Captain Jessie, “Do you have any more sons?”

Yes, but he is just a boy of 18. He just graduated from high school not sure what he wants to do. He hasn’t applied for college yet. He’s a good kid but just looking for direction. He teaches the middle-school Sunday school class. He’s always running late and is out visiting in the neighborhood with his friends usually walking his dogs. He should be here already. Then it happened. In walked David. He was handsome. God spoke to Major Samuel, “This is the one. Rise and anoint him.” Major Samuel said to Jessie and to David. God has told me you are the one to replace Commissioner Saul King come back with me to THQ. Here is your commission and you are now an officer.

Into the Western Son - Luke 15:11-32

Now in west Texas life runs at a simple steady pace. Expectations are clear and can easily be understood. At the Crown Ranch one of the largest ranches in the country, there are so many longhorns that it is difficult to count in a day. The family owned Ranch spreads across the dry desert countryside for miles. As children, the two sons of the Ranch owner are often found spending their afternoons watching the horses be re-shoed by the over-heated wranglers wearing their beige colored Stetsons to protect them from the blazing sun.

The life of a wrangler is not an easy one. One of their responsibilities is to keep the herd from any type of danger. This is a 24-7 type of job in every kind of weather because of thieves, wolves and other local wild life that could cause potential danger to the cattle. Temperatures can be scorching and the hours can be very long as well as not very comfortable riding on a horse all day. The life of a ranch-hand is much further down the ladder of comfort. Cleaning up the barns, barreling hay, fixing stock gates and fences, sweeping out the left over residue of animals that have been cooped up without much flowing breeze are all daily duties of ranch-hand.

Zach and Luke are your average local boys full of mischief and fun. Luke is a little older and more on the quiet side of life. Zach is always running into the center of things and stirring everyone up. He is a bit of a handful but affable and easy to be around. Luke spends many hours studying techniques to further improve the beef industry and dairy production of the ranch. Luke is a natural for business minded adventures.

As the boys grow older life begins to change for them. Zach is becoming more involved in the high school drama club and resents his hours having to spend doing chores that his father has assigned him to do. Understanding that his boys will one day take over the ranch for him, he wants them to work in every area of ranch life so they will understand and have empathy for each specific job on the ranch. Luke although he would like to be in an office analyzing procedures for his dad, still feels that perhaps there is a benefit to learning all sides of ranch life for the future.

As a senior, Zach is chosen as the lead in the high school musical. Many feel he has talent and are awed by his performance. He is charming and easily draws the audience into his character. It is the consensus of the senior class that if anybody is going to become famous, it will definitely be Zach. Luke is well-liked too and a good student. He applies himself and has very successful results. He was even class valedictorian the previous year.

Now Mr. Crown is very proud of both of his sons. Luke is in his first year of studies at Texas A & M and doing quite well. He is already making a name for himself. But as June is fast approaching, he is concerned that local fame has given his son, Zach, somewhat of an inflated ego. Mr. Crown created a trust fund for each boy the day that they were born. Diligently and faithfully he has added generously to both of these funds to lay a solid foundation for the boys’ future.

Upon graduation, Zach valiantly approaches his father about an announcement he wants to make. “I’m going to be famous.” His father reflectively thinks that this is probably a true statement. However Zach continues, “I’m not going to college to your alma mater, but instead I have decided to move to New York. Real actors don’t go to college. They don’t need degrees. I don’t need a degree.” His father quickly tries to dissuade him from what he feels is not a wise decision at this time in his life. Zach rebuts, “You don’t understand me. I know what is best for me.” After many arguments, his father spends hours evaluating the consequences of not allowing his son to at least try. He agrees to let his son go. The son begs to have his trust fund to live on while he is there in New York. His father thinks that perhaps it is best to let him have his money to live on so he can survive in the unknown Big Apple.

Zach immediately packs his bags and takes the first flight he can to Newark Airport. Upon arriving, he rides the train into Penn station. Exiting the train, he sees more people in one area than he’s ever seen in one place at a single time. There are musicians playing electric pianos, one on a recorder, another playing a guitar all asking for money as the crowd swiftly passes by. Zach thinks to himself, “You’ll never find me doing that. No one is paying attention to these guys. No one is going to ignore me.”

He finds quite an expensive place to live on 83rd street and Broadway. It is a rental apartment at an appalling price but has a great view with large windows. He buys new trendy furniture and lots of statues in ebony and class to decorate his home. He picks up a “Variety” paper at the local newsstand which lists all the places to audition for the latest established musicals as well as the up and coming on off-off Broadway.

Zach decides he will start his first audition with “Wicked!” Of course, the part is already filled before walking into the office. He then heads over to “Phantom”, “Mama Mia!” around the block to “Avenue Q” – but no luck. After a few months his cash allowance is getting a little low but not to worry it won’t be too much longer until he is “discovered” by an agent.

By this time he has met many great friends who like to party at his place. Music, girls, dancing, and every thing else is freely available. It is great to have such a life. One day though his manager calls him up. The bank has insufficient funds to pay his monthly rent. He decides it is time to get a job.

The only thing he is qualified to do is to be a bus boy at a local family Italian restaurant around the corner. One morning after a heavy night of partying, awaking in a dizzy haze he realizes that he has missed hearing the alarm clock scream the morning hour. On arriving late at work, he finds that he has been replaced. Since he does not make enough in tips and spends what little he has made to buy drinks for his parties, again he cannot make the monthly rent payment.

After a third month of this same routine, he is kicked out. He doesn’t want to call home. He will find another place to stay. But doors began to close when he tells his “friends” that he cannot foot the bill for any more parties. Steadily his friends dissipate. After a few more months even his closest friend kicks him out from staying on his couch when he can no longer chip in for groceries because he can’t hold down a job.

He finds himself staying at a men’s shelter just to have a place to keep out from the cold and rain. The volunteers provide a cold breakfast and warm dinner meal for free. But the days start drifting one into another. He is only 20 by now, but what has he gained in two years? He is living in a shelter and trying to make the next day quickly pass into another waiting for fame and fortune to strike.

One day a buddy at the shelter invites him to go “out” with him for the day. He tells him of a ‘hot spot’ where he has made more money than any one else. Zach agrees with this since the man seems to always have enough money for cigarettes and a new pair of shoes. He brings Zach to Penn Station where the man digs deep into the pockets of his fur bound coat. He first brings out a knitted dark blue cap which he tells Luke is to keep his ears and head warm in the cool moisture of the wind and also so he doesn’t catch a cold. Then he brings out a red and white striped six-inch harmonica. Just like an unwanted nightmare, the man begins to play. He chides Zach to join him in singing some of his Broadway tunes. Before he realizes it, Zach is singing “I’m Singing in the Rain” and “Don’t Rain on my Parade.”

Suddenly Zach realizes that this wasn’t the life he has dreamed of. If this is all there is going to be, he wants no part of it. This brings him to his senses. Even the wranglers on his father’s ranch get three meals a day. They have homemade biscuits & gravy for breakfast with grits. Dinner is usually some of the choicest T-bone steak and fully loaded baked potatoes with bacon bits just about every night. There has to be more to life than this. His buddy was right that his is a good location. His pal splits the profits with him which is enough for Zach to buy a Greyhound bus ticket back to Texas.

Boarding the midnight express, Zach thinks about all the angry words he said to his father when he left. In anguish Zach wonders if his father will even want to see him. But even if he is hired as a ranch-hand it will be better than what he is experiencing on the streets of the city.

Upon arriving he takes the local bus to the nearest stop from the ranch which is about a mile away. After pulling out his worn-out creased cowboy boots from his faded backpack, Zach decides he will walk the rest of the way towards home.

Earlier in the day, Mr. Crown has been asked to check on an automatic feeding trough that is having some issues functioning properly. It is near the outskirts of the property line. While Zach is walking far in the distance by the wood barbed wire fence, his father wipes the sweat from his brow and rubs his eyes to make sure that what he is seeing is real. He has ached and longed to see his son for two very long years. Zach hasn’t called, emailed, text, or anything – just silence. Could it be? Could it really be?

It is Zach! He is coming home! Mr. Crown takes off as fast as an old man can and heartily embraces his precious son. All Zach can repetitively respond to his father is “I’m sorry dad, so sorry!” When he can breathe for a moment between his sobs, Zach tells his father “you don’t have to call me son. I’ve spent everything you gave to me. I’ll work for you. I’ll be a ranch-hand if you will just let me stay.” But his dad isn’t listening. He is sending out orders, “Invite everyone around! Find the prize steer, bring the best in our chicken coops, bake some home-made pies, we’re having a hoe-down! My son is home!”

Now Luke has been helping the wranglers that day on the opposite far corner of the ranch. He has helped in every facet of the ranch as he has every single day in between his college classes while Zach has been gone. Luke has been learning every branch and avenue of the family business. He has been consistent in his loyalty to his father and to the ranch.

As Luke arrives back at the ranch house also affectionately known as the Hacienda, he hears loud dance music and voices of laughter which is completely different than any other time in the last two years. Running outside to fetch more supplies from the cellar, Luke asks the ranch-hand what the ruckus is all about. Then to his disgust, he understands the reason for the festivities. His lazy brother who has betrayed the family is now home.

Luke stalks off in an angry sulk. He refuses to join in the party. His Father comes outside looking for him. Walking directly up to Luke, his son asks “Why have you not thrown a party for me or my friends? You waste our best heifer on this toad stool of a brother! He spends all your money on women, beer, and who knows what else and now you’re throwing a party like he is some ‘gift from God’ on him?”

Gently and compassionately his Father replies, “All I have is yours and will always be yours. But celebrate with me for at this moment, your brother is lost and now he is found!”

Marsha's ATM - Exodus 3:1-14

This was written for a class.  It is a modern retelling of scripture in a contemporary setting . . . I tried to be a neutral as possible in a SA setting . . .

(Narrator) Now Marsha Median is a faithful assistant officer of the Dirt Creek corps in West Texas. She had originally been raised by foster parents in the Southeast division but has decided to return to her roots in Texas where she has met and married her husband. She is currently assisting her father-in-law, Major Jet Median at the local corps.


Enjoying the country side and wide open spaces, she decides to drive out in her old blue Dodge Caravan to Armadillo for the upcoming regional human resources conference at Camp Three Twigs.


(Marsha) It’s such a great summer day! It must be about 97 degrees today with no wind, and a lot of humidity. I just love the effervescent beauty of the dry arid highway of the desert. The lovely blue bonnets and cornflowers are in full bloom along the edges of the withered road. In just a little bit I will reach the state capital surrounded by the beautiful azure mountains.


Oh no . . . ! It looks like I’m on empty and I need to get some gas very soon. Well, I don’t see anything. Oh look . . . there’s a blue information sign. It looks like I’m in luck. How amazing! There’s an Exxon station in the middle of nowhere. I can just pull off here for a few minutes and fill up my tank.


Can you believe it? There is no attendant and this gas station only takes cash at the pumps – no credit cards. The only block of Main street that I can see is vacant and deserted. My pocketbook is empty. Where am I going to find a bank around here?
What’s that? Oh look! There’s an ATM across the street. No way! It looks like its on fire! The flames are shooting across the street! I need to find out what’s going on and see what I can do about it!


Hey what a minute, what’s this? The ATM is engulfed in flames and its not burning! It’s not even melting!


(Narrator) Now the Lord sees that Marsha is quickly running over to look at the burning ATM, God calls out to her speaking from the depths of the ATM machine.


(God) “Marsha! Marsha!”


(Marsha) I don’t see anybody. It doesn’t look like anyone is around me . . . Could this machine be talking to me? Hmmmm “uhh . . . Here I am.”


(God) Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are now standing is holy ground. I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob.


(Narrator) Internally acknowledging that God is speaking directly to her, Marsha immediately raises her arm to shield her face from God because she is afraid to look at God.


(God) Marsha, I have seen the misery of my officers in the Northern Territory. I’ve heard them crying out because of their difficult city commanders, insensitive advisory boards, and corrupt leaders, and I am concerned about their suffering.


So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of their current leadership and to bring them out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with honesty, integrity, respect and appreciation.


And now the cries of the soldiers and officers have reached me, and I have seen the way that the current leadership oppresses them. So now, go. I am sending you to the Territorial Commander to speak on behalf of the officers and bring them out from under the suffering that they are currently enduring in their appointments due to the unfair harsh treatment of their leaders.


(Marsha) Who am I? I’m just a new lieutenant. I’ve only been commissioned for a couple of years. I’m the low-gal on the totem pole. Why do you want me to go speak to the Territorial Commander two thousand miles away?


(God) I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you. When the officers are released from their oppression, they will be encouraged. They will worship and fellowship together - united as one body of believers.


(Marsha) What if I go to my fellow session mates and Army friends and say that God has sent me to speak on their behalf and they ask me, “Who do you think you are?” What do you want me to tell them?


(God) I Am who I Am. This is what you need to say, “I Am” has sent me to you.

A Smart Moment

Nostalgic momentos from the Cold War era of Control have all been encased in a museum set in the scenic political arena of Washington, DC. Maxwell Smart’s red convertible is the center focus of the display along with his shoe phone and sharp looking suit. As he enters the building, he looks to both sides and then quietly slips behind the wall to follow through a series of heavy metal sliding doors with massive creative locks to keep the curious outsiders out.

He finds his secret escape to this new underworld through an old red telephone booth. After sliding a quarter in the slot, he suddenly deeply drops to hidden floors below.

Eager to become a real agent he has studied and prepared well for an executive gathering of top agents. He enters the board room confidently. He is respected by the most qualified Agent 23 even though the other agents may be less than enthusiastic to hear his 101 page report. His top secret news is that he has kept two Russian agents under satellite radio surveillance at a Russian Bakery in Moscow. He lets them listen to a clip of their mindless discussion in regards to the tastiness of coffee and muffins at the shop.

The agents are quite bored with his seemingly trivial information of an everyday dialog between two friends. After being interrupted by an agent making a cell phone text, he continues that the point for this illustration was to remind the agents that although Chaos is evil, the counter agents are still human. He reminds them that who they are - is not evil, but what they do is evil.

Soon Agent 99 is arranged as his partner after a series of mishaps and loss of agents. They find themselves in Moscow in a life threatening situation at a bakery in the middle of the city. Fire breaks out and they rush to the roof to save themselves, but are quickly trapped by the bodyguard of Chaos’ leader, Siegfried.

Both Agent 99 and Max (now Agent 83) are thrown about in very painful interludes and interruptions. On hearing the voice of the bodyguard, he remembers him from ease dropping session many miles away. He shares with him that he likes Ryan Seacrest too and other events, but it isn’t until just at the moment of death’s door that Max with a twist of kindness offers to help him repair his relationship with his wife. Offering courageous and courteous advice to go home during lunch and to take his wife along on killing sprees, she will appreciate him more. This act of kindness and empathy saves both his life and Agent 99. The bodyguard gives Max a gentle and thoughtful hug of thanks.

Sometimes it is easy to label a person and reject them for what they have done rather than looking within the person. Each of us have been designed and created by God. God’s arms are continually open to hold and embrace us.

Spring Roses

This is a true love story of my friend . . .

Kay love to spend time in the garden among all of her beautiful flowers. Azaleas, tulips, daffodils, carnations, but her roses were especially dear to her. As a young teen she had won many competitions in the local county fair for the color, tint, scent and beauty of her roses. She spent many long hours of work attending to her garden.

One day she met a young man at the fair and fell in love. He was the most charming man she had ever spent time with. As they spent time together, their love continued to grow. Eventually he asked her to marry him.

On that grand day of hope and promise, Kay’s future mother-in-law told her that she had a special gift to celebrate the union of her marriage. So after all of the good-bys following the reception just before they were to leave, the mother-in-law handed a plant to Kay.

She told Kay that this plant represented Kay’s love for her husband. Just as she remembers to water and care for her garden, this is to be a reminder to love and care for her husband.

So, Kay took the rose bush and planted it next to the front door of her newlywed home that her husband had built for her. As the years past and their love matured, the roses would bloom. They were beautiful, magnificent roses. The petals were strong and did not wither for a very long time. Each year new blooms would appear.

After many years of a happy life together, Kay’s husband went to be with Jesus. The rose bush was a constant reminder of their lifetime of love together. They had truly been soul mates.

In 2003, great winds began to blow around her home. The air was turbulent. They lived by the river and slowly the torrential rains came down. A terrible tropical storm was damaging their home. Water flooded into the front living room. It was already in the engines of their vehicles. Kay’s son arrived just in time to rescue them from impending danger.

After several days had past, Kay returned to look at what damage had been done to her home. Water had settled into the walls, mold had begun to grow. Her furniture and appliances destroyed. The carpet smelled of a hideous odor.

But what hurt Kay the most was that her lovely rose bush that had been faithful to bloom for over fifty years had been washed away. All that remained was a small root and bloom of its former majesty.

Kay took the root back to the place where she was staying. She loved and cared for it more tenderly than she ever had before. Slowly day by day, she would nurture the gentle shoot in hopes that it would again take root.

After about two years, Kay’s home had finally been restored. The mold had been professionally removed. The appliances, carpet, and furniture had been purchased and replaced.

The bush - although it had grown - had not bloomed. In great expectation, Kay planted her rose bush again where it had been planted before by her front door. As the roots grounded themselves in the rich soil, the bush flourished.

This spring, her bush bloomed again the most gorgeous red, pink, and blended roses that I have ever seen! They were so large and full. The scent was transcendent of beauty. Once again the bush reminded Kay of how much love she and her husband shared in their beautiful life together.

Her bush continued to grow, with so many roses and in a variety of colors and tints. Kay will always have a tender reminder of a special relationship she shared with her husband.

Starcups - Skit

This was written with a couple of my class mates at Trevecca.

Sometimes as Christians, we miss the point  . . .

Narrator: Gathering for their weekly meeting at the local Starcups are three faithful members of the non-denominational Christian Bible Study and Fellowship.


(all three have a cup of coffee and their wireless laptops in front of them)


Joy: Hi again everyone!


For those of you who don’t know, my name is “Joy”


which is short for “Jesus on your side” – but the S is silent.




Jim: Hi guys! My name is James . . . just James – like the disciple. (Bond style)




Bob: Hi! My name is Bob.


Joy & Jim: Hi Bob . . . (in a monotone response)


Bob: Well, it is good to see everyone here. I know that I’m extremely busy leading the choir, singing in the praise team, teaching a Sunday school class, leading a home Bible study, and participating in the Church Board as well as driving the church school bus.
Joy: Busy, Busy, Busy – buzz, buzz, buzz . . .



Jim: That looks like a good caramel macchiato.



Joy: Yes, it’s diet unfortunately. I’m fasting this week. I like doing double duty.


I lose weight at the same time while in denial.


Bob: Has anyone seen Paul this week?






Jim: Well, it’s like this . . .


A promotion was coming up between Paul and me.


I felt it was better if I let our boss know of a small incident


that happened 17 years ago so he would know that


Paul is not a reliable character.


Paul may be a little sore he didn’t get the promotion.




Bob: Oh well. Let’s get started, we’re here to talk about Acts 15: 1- 21, Romans 6:1-11, Galations 5: 1-15, and Mark 2:23-38






Jim: I have my latest copy of the Shack, Purpose Driven Life, Purpose Driven Church,


all in the car with me but I seem to have misplaced my Bible.


(to the side leaning into Joy) . . . Actually I haven’t seen it for weeks – I can’t remember where I last saw it.






Joy: What about Prayer of Jabez ?


– I heard that is a really good book too!






Jim: I have a copy of that book. As a constant reminder I keep the motto on a rock paperweight in my office.






Bob: As we get started I want you to know that there are many ways we can serve the Lord.


Take me for instance, as the music pastor I always say:


“God may have given me the talent, but I am the one who developed it”.






Jim: Isn’t that a bit self-centered? On my car I try to reach out to others.


Look at my bumper sticker on my white Cadillac Escalade that says, “Real men are Christians”,


I keep a Greek fish on the license plate cover where it will get the most notice, and I wear a tie with crosses all over it to make sure there is no mistake that I’m a Christian.


See, how do you like my new cross cufflinks?






Bob: That seems like a lot to do.






Jim: I’m only trying to be an example, so they know how to be a good person.


I write a BIG check every week so everyone can see it.


I also play golf with the pastor on Tuesdays too.






Bob: I suppose that seems like a good thing to do.


But you know I think that it’s best if everyone finds their own congregation to participate in.






Joy: What do you mean by that?






Bob: Lately, our church has been trying to reach out to the local community and be more multi-dynamic in its outreach.


The praise team has been adding so many gospel songs lately - David Crowder style.


We’re getting too much “soul” in our music.


They don’t even watch the service anymore because they’ve got their eyes closed and arms raised above their heads.






Jim: What’s wrong with that?






Bob: All eyes need to be on me! (Does the V back and forth from his eyes to everyone in the group)






As all of you know I try to be a good example too.


However, I do wish that because I am doing this job for free,


I could at least be recognized and thanked during the service.


I don’t mean the “little” thank you in the office.


It should be in front of everyone. You know what I mean?






Joy: Oh, come on now. I think it is time for a group cheer!






P – P-o – P – o –s-i-t-i-v-e


(claps hands in rhythm like a cheerleader repeats)






Bob: My . . . you’re awfully bubbly today.






Joy: I always try to think positively just like my favorite pastor - you know, on channel 777.






Jim: I think I’ve seen him on TV once or twice.






Joy: He is just so gorgeous. My friends Maggie, Jane, Martie and Lisa all agree he has the best bedroom eyes, black shiny hair, why – he’s the epitome of my tall, dark, and handsome.


He is all about positive thinking.


I remind myself everyday just like he does, “If you just think positive thoughts you’ll be wealthy, powerful, and happy”.



Bob: Hey, what’s that noise?






Joy: What . . . what I don’t hear anything (in total denial)






Jim: Can’t you hear it . . . its coming from the phone next to you.






Joy: No, no, NO! I don’t hear anything (shrugging her shoulders and shakes her head)






Bob: Yes, that’s your phone! (adamantly)






Joy: No, it’s not!






Bob: Yes, it is.






Joy: No, no it’s not! You’re mistaken!






Jim: (grabs phone) Here look, it’s the same number that my financial company uses for debt collectors.






Joy: Oh yes, well, they’re always calling me asking for a donation.






Jim: I guess it’s always nice to have little extra money. I just sold a copier to the church. It’s bigger than the church really needed but God has surely blessed me through the huge commission I received.






Bob: That reminds me we need to take food to Nancy this week, the one who filed for bankruptcy. You know - the one whose brother just went to jail for having a meth lab. I think she really needs a friend right now.


Joy, could she sit with you during the church service next week?




Joy: Oh . . .umm . . no. I think Melanie would fit with her “personality” better than me. (uses finger “ ”)


You know -- a divorcee with four kids and that pregnant teen (rolling eyes).






Jim: You might be right, she drives an old ’83 Gremlin, it doesn’t look very nice next my Escalade. Perhaps we should refer her to the Bonnet Army down the street. She might be more comfortable there for worship services. We have a great team of greeters who help people find the place they need to be.






Joy: Bob, did you hear that Promise Holder’s bowling has been cancelled for next week?






Bob: Oh no! I’ve just got to find another meeting to go to!


I want to make sure to meet my quota for this next week.


Every year I’ve received a 100% attendance certificate.






Joy: They have a prayer meeting on Wednesday nights –


if you’re into that sort-of-thing (rather disgusted).






Jim: Or, you could always help with the soup kitchen . . .






Bob: I’d rather go feed the homeless.


That “prayer thing” I’m really not into.






Joy: Oh look at the time!! I’m going to be late for “Fashion for Jesus” with the women’s league!


We’re going to the Galleria. I can hardly wait!!


My Gucci purse will look so great with a new outfit!






Jim: I think that I’m going to head over to Hooters for lunch. It has a nice family atmosphere. I try to get there at least once a week, I’m addicted to their “wings”. Do you want to go with me Bob?






Bob: Maybe I should help out in the soup kitchen.






Jim: Nah, come on with me. You can be my accountability partner. You won’t want to miss this!






Bob: Oh wait a minute. Paul just sent an email message to me in Facebook.






(reads aloud)


“Hi Bob! I’m sorry I can’t be with you today. I’m doing some prison ministry with some friends of mine. But I wanted to share some scripture with you that has been on my mind lately as a word of encouragement.”






- He’s left a verse for me from Galations 5:6






“For if we are in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love.” (amplified)






Joy: Hey! He wrote me too! Everyone knows, I’m one of his good friends.






Bob: Yes, Joy we all know that.






Joy: My passage for today is from Acts 15:7






“And God who can’t be fooled by any pretense on our part but always knows a person’s thoughts, He gave them the Holy Spirit exactly as He gave Him to us. He treated the outsiders exactly as he treated us, beginning at the very center of who they were and working from that center outward, cleaning up their lives as they trusted and believed him” (the message)










Jim: What do you know? He wrote me too.






To Jim – here are a few verses from Romans 6:1,2,4, and11 that I want to share with you.


1What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?
2By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
6For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with,[that we should no longer be slaves to sin—
11In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus” (NIV)

The Mantle

In the earthen blanket
Which hovers land to sea
Many journeys trodding
A pilgrimmage to seek


In the cosmos' canopy
Bright crystals beam with light
Hope's sure direction leads
One Star to guide the wise


Among the white draped fields
Wild flowers lay their dreams
Soft angelic voices sing
With Love's test - a Savior/ King


Sheltered in a quiet barn
The animals rest in peace
Hope sleeps in a manger born
Where Sacrifice and Love meet

Mary's Steps

As the smooth coffee colored sandals shuffle across the cool beige and gray block stones, her heart is heavy. The days have been so long lately. There have been many hard and difficult days in her life but nothing like she has experienced before like this one. Even the leaves on the olive trees lining the walkway seem to mourn in the wind for that they are asked to carry. Yes, it has been a long night . . .


She makes her familiar way along the city streets that are so quiet this morning. Eyes heavy that are difficult to focus from the lack of sleep and from the many tears of crying, she longs to be with someone she knows, a well-known friend with whom she can “be” and not have to speak to explain herself.


Minutes feel more like slow passing hours. She passes the bakery where the bread is starting to rise and the aroma fills and consumes the air that she breathes. Sabbath is finished. It ended when three stars rose in the sky last night. The market shops will be opening soon and the hurry and bustle of life will begin as it always does, but it will never feel the same for her.


He has been her friend -- her companion -- her comforter -- her life. Thoughts leap and flash through her mind of all the time they spent together eating, laughing, sharing, learning and being. Knowing and connected to everything that he said he was. Why did he have to leave her?


People can be so cruel and make so many harsh decisions based on fear that they will be looked over or forgotten. Yet, he never overlooked anyone. His hand was held, his robed touched, and still his heart moved. There will never again be anyone like him.


The archways of the alley streets seem to mockingly wind and bend this early morning as she heads to the home of the mother of her well-known friend. Every step seems to ache because of its created intended slope. She quietly knocks at the well-worn carved wooden door to the small dark and gray basalt rock home. It is quiet. The knock echoes down the street through the homes lined in their season one after the other.


Slowly the door creeks and opens, her friend’s mother takes her hand and she offers a comforting hug. Gently placing her arm around her friend’s shoulder, they start to walk together towards one of his favorite places.


It has so quickly got around town especially since Joseph is of such noble rank that he is a member of the Jewish High Council. It is such a peculiar thing . . . He sits among the group that cast the death sentence on her friend but Joseph was willing to disagree with and not participate in the actions of the High Council. Everyone in town knows him well. Joseph’s hometown is the village of Aramethia. He is a wealthy wine industrialist although is known to be a man of good heart and impeccable character. Resolved, Joseph even had the nerve to go to the governor, Pilate, and request for the body. It was such a generous gift to offer his own place of eternal rest to someone that was so hated and despised by his peers.


The Vineyards belong to Joseph and are cut into the rock quarry of Mt. Moriah. This is the same mountain where the first Temple was built by Solomon. As she learned in many stories as a child, Abraham first offered his promised son Isaac on this mountain, but God provided another sacrifice.


The solemn tomb is located to the side in the beautiful garden setting. Many gray stone olive presses, well-worn shaded trees, an array of colorful flowers, and vineyards protectively surround where he has been placed. It is such a lovely, picturesque, aesthetic location and dwelling.


Joseph, although such a man of high status and wealth, took him down from the cross at Golgotha – the place of the skull - in front of everyone along the busy traveler’s road to Jerusalem for Passover. The eleven best and closest friends that her friend had left were long gone and scattered throughout the city and in hiding. He risked his reputation for kindness to someone he didn’t even know that well. Joseph gently wrapped him in new white linen cloth as a mother would have her own child. His act of mercy was while everyone else, easily forgetting the events of the day, were quickly heading back to their homes, buying flowers, ending errands, and finishing preparing the supper as Sabbath was about to begin.


She had stood at a distance and watched Joseph and admired his capacity for empathy and compassion. Keeping vigil of each event and trial of her beloved friend was almost more than she could bare but of which nothing she could have done to prevent. As Joseph carried and placed her protected guardian’s body in the tomb, she had openly grieved in her wailing and sobbing. It had been such a long night . . .


As her friend’s mother unlocked and fearfully opened the gate to the garden spring, she stands still while reflecting for a moment. At one time, he had opened a door for her that she thought would have been closed forever -- a door to life and hope. She had been betrayed, used, and abandoned many times. It was a recurrent theme in her relationships. Life had been ripped from her, and she was now bruised and scarred. She had experienced very little tenderness in her few years of living. Life had been cruel, humiliating, and painful. When she met him, she had very few friends even though she had grown up in the village of Magdala near the costal region of Lake Genneserett, or the Sea of Galilee as it is also commonly known. Afraid that a little compassion or understanding would sully their public reputations, people had shunned her amongst their friends. But - he was different. He cared. Over time, she would grow to deeply love him and know that he loved her too.
Her friend’s mother said that she was tired and would like to rest. She found a molded rock that would provide some comfort underneath the shade of the wide curvy branched olive trees that had recently bloomed in their magnificence. As she looked down and walked along the flower and rock-lined path, she saw rows of teal wormwood, ivory alyssums, rose myrtle and pearl lilies symbolizing torment, love, majesty, and worth beyond beauty. The garden brings to life her own true feelings about her friend.


Keeping her eyes focused on the ground to contemplate her great loss, she arrives at the tomb and surrendering to the grief, falls to her knees as she weeps. Her eyes are sore and swollen from her tears, but she thinks that she must see him just one more time even if it only means in death.


Light is dawning in fuchsia, turquoise, crimson, violet, and amber hues on the crescent of the hill of Golgotha just above where the tomb is located. As shadows of dawn are cast over her face, she notices the large round smooth-solid stone that is meant to protect the body from theft has been rolled away to the side. She slowly rises and pears into the right side window of the tomb as tears fall freely without force or will down her tear-stained cheeks.


What is this? What is this light? The bright white light is cascading all around her. The mother of her friend has climbed the hill. The light is jointly enveloping them. Who are these two men? Why are they there? Why are they wearing robes of white? Why is one sitting where the head of her friend should be? Why is the other sitting where his feet should be resting? Where have they taken her precious teacher and friend?


Other women now have joined the mother of her friend; they are bowing down in worship, awestruck by what they are seeing.


Then, the one-in-light speaks to her, “Woman, why do you weep?” She can’t respond right a way. How could they not know? Everyone knows. But she hears herself explain, “They took my master and I don’t know where they have placed him.”


The one-in-light speaks to her again, “Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery?” Although she is confused he continues speaking to her, “He is not here. He has been raised up. Remember how He told you when you were still back in Galilee that He had to be handed over to sinners. Then he would be killed on a cross. In three days He WOULD rise up again.”


It was at that moment, her thoughts remembered the voice of her friend speaking these same words to her. Thinking to herself that she desires to be in the moment of her sorrow, she turns her head away to reflect on what this man-in-light has told her.


While looking down, another man stands in front of her blocking her way. This is all too overwhelming! She needs to find who has taken her friend and this still silent Gardner is preventing her from letting his other friends know what has happened. But -- perhaps this Gardner saw something and knows what has happened to the body of her friend. Again she speaks pleadingly through her tears, “Mister, if you took him, lead me where you put him so I can care for him!”


Then in an oh-so-familiar comforting, well-known and loved voice speaks her name, “Mary.” How many times has she heard Him speak her name before - the tone, the lilt, the energy – such a wonderful gift that has greeted her at her door so many times in the past. It’s Him! Using the intimate conversational word for Great Master-teacher, she excitedly exclaims “Rabboni!”


But He says to her, “Don’t cling to me. I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go to my brothers and tell them, “I ascend to my Father and your Father, my God and Your God.”


Letting go and with every source of energy available as her friends of women join along behind her, she quickly runs down the stone patterned path to Peter’s home to tell him and his other friends who have congregated there after a long night. She can hardly contain her enthusiasm to tell them whom she has just talked to and seen again. As she rushes through the opened door embracing her friends, she shouts with joy, “Morning has come! Jesus is Alive!”

The Traveler - Genesis 12-17

The breezy wind randomly parts his wavy chestnut hair. It is hot and the damp salty dew is slowing cascading down his cheek. His eyes squint to see ahead on the citrine horizon as his toes move between the gritty sand in his brown leather sandals while shaking off the dust that has accumulated on his hands. Moistening his cracked lips and tasting the salt, it reminds him that so far his journey has been bitter-sweet.
Growing up as a young boy in Ur, (future generations will know it as Iraq), he was popular among his friends. His good-nature and friendliness made him a great team mate along with his brother Nahor and Haran in the local children’s games amongst the members of his village. His witty humor yet sharp intelligence made others respect and follow his decisions. As he grew older into a young man, he couldn’t understand the worship of the solid wooden gods that were celebrated in his family home. His father spent many hours instructing him in the customs and rituals of his countrymen. But somehow the worship left him shallow and he felt there was something more than just obedient worship to an immovable god.


In stories handed down for many generations , he was told as a young boy by his father, Terah, that he was descended from Noah - the skilled ship builder, who saved his ancestors in the Great Flood. Many hours he pondered what exactly it meant to know god. What did it mean to participate in worship if there was no difference in the way he felt after the ritual chanting and offerings that were never removed by the god but taken away by another?


One day praying out loud to the open sky, he knew that something existed somewhere that was bigger than him. Someone who would create something as beautiful as the magenta and violet poppies and other wild flowers scattered in the fields near his boyhood home existed somewhere. He could see that each child in his tribe was unique with his own features, traits and personality whom had to be designed by someone more complex than anyone he knew. Even the Great Flood had to be sent by someone bigger then the wood sculptures resting on the well-worn shrine. On that day as the blue sky with its various pearl and gray clouds glide above him, he hears a voice that anchors and speaks to the very center of his heart.


Falling to his knees in reference to the Voice, God began to speak to him. “Abram. I have known you from your beginning. I am the Beginning and the very Last. I created you and everything around you. I’m calling you to follow me. You will go to a new place that is unknown to you. I will show this new place to you. It is a place of foreigners in an unusual culture, peculiar customs and who speak a different language. I will tell you when you have reached the new land I am calling you too. I will bless you and your family for generations to come. I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you. Your children and descendents will be as numerous as the stars in the crystal skies of the heavens above you at night. All the people of the earth will be blessed through you.”


Just as soon as God finished speaking, the Holy Presence in His magnificence departed but he no longer felt alone. He asked Sarai who was his wife to go with him to this new place. He also took Lot, his ambitious nephew and son to his brother, Nahor along with him as well with Lot’s family, servants, and animals for the unexpected journey to a strange new world.


. . . that had been some time ago. God had spoken again and told him to move on . . . it was not the place to rest and settle yet. As the caravan started to regain its pace again, he could hear the familiar sounds of the metal pans, and clay pots, beating against each other in the rhythmic pattern of the camel’s dance of his hooded feet. Coins carefully hidden in a lamb-skinned sack below the woven multi-shaded saddle cloth kept counter time to the music of the journeyman.


They have finally arrived at a natural spring in the center of a desert oasis that will renew and rejuvenate the weary travelers and their livestock. The date and palm trees provide shade to keep them cool as they rest from the harsh realities of the unforgiving sun.


They have reached a place known as Shechem by the local nomadic residents. It is named after the son of Manesseh and it the future it will be the first capital in the Kingdom of Israel. But for now, it is an oasis providing a much needed place of rest and to allow Abram to seek again the will of his God.


Looking around the pastures before him, he gathers stones which are still in their natural state not yet manipulated by other hard rock or casting utensils. He stacks each chosen stone one on top of the other. He finds left over branches that have dried in the sun, and found kindling to start the fire that will send an aroma of incense to his Creator. He has set around the altar the sweet and precious spices he has brought from his homeland. The spices are created from the stacte from gum of the balsam tree, onycha from the sea shells along the shores of the Persian Gulf, galbanum from wild amber star shaped thistle flowers growing in the fields, and frankincense.


As the aroma ascends into the heavens as it purified within the fire, Abram again humbly kneels and bows in reference in an act of worship. He cries out in earnest and honesty for God to speak to him and give him guidance. He embraces God with his whole life. God in grace hears this foreigner calling out to Him. God answers.


“Abrahm I have called you by name. I have called you to a new country . . . to a new way of living. I will bless you, your children, and your descendents for generations to come. I am with you. I will not leave you. But this is not the place where you are to settle now.”


God graciously renews his covenant in a promise that He is providing the land and he will bless Abram’s family for future generations to come. He believes in great faith that God is true and will provide. He knows that his beautiful Sarai has not been able to have children for many years now, yet he doesn’t question the promise that has been given to him by Yahweh.
This altar and prayer will be offered again. The answer will remain the same. A few years pass in the land of Canaan. There is no food. The rains have not come. The seeds do not produce. The flowers do not bloom. Famine is throughout the land. God speaks again and tells him to enter the land of Egypt. Abram embraces God with his whole life. He obeys and remains faithful to the God he loves and is serving.


As the caravan moves from one place to another, Abram clearly visualizes the devastation that is throughout the foreign land. Crossing along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, the dry spell has taken its toll. Sheep, camels, goats, and other creatures of the field are weak and burdened from the lack of sustenance. As the motley crew enters into Egypt, Abram cautiously glances back at his beautiful wife Sarai riding comfortably on her favorite camel. She gently smiles back at him in her familiar gaze as her bright eyes twinkle in the recognition of being loved and cherished. She turns her head to the side to admire the warm glow of the sky. His heart races for a moment as he automatically responds with a well grooved smile of pleasure that has been stirred by many years of happiness together.


However, today he feels an aching pain in his heart. His forehead is knotted in concerned. They are entering a new unknown place of treaties, violence, and fear. He is not prepared for the future that lay before him. He is a foreigner in a strange land. However, he knows that God is greater than his circumstances and that by grace and mercy God will protect and provide for his loved ones.


Sarai is uncommonly beautiful. Her skin is clear and fair. Her cheeks are like the dust of a light pink rose that have been gently kissed by the sun. As a youth many men had wanted her, but she had chosen to fall in love with him. People had often commented on the depth and glow of her deep rich eyes that seem to penetrate to the heart of anyone who had looked at her. To Abram, she was a gift from God that he had not earned but cherished throughout his life.


Out of sheer fear for his life Abram pleadingly asks Sarai, “Claim me as your brother not as your husband as I have been for many years. My life depends on this lie. They will kill me to have you. Tell them you are my sister.” Deeply loving Abram, she agrees. He is her faithful companion and soul mate.


The foreign caravan enters into the market place of the Egyptian city. Noise and laughter is everywhere. Bidders call out in loud obnoxious voices in competition for attention. Children chasing each other and weaving through the crowds push the annoying robes of strangers to the side. Animals neighing in response to the cries of each other create chaos and echo along the stone brick streets. Items for sale dangle in the sun from the edges of multi-colored tents and posts. The smell fruits, flowers, fish and meat permeate the air in a mixed blend aggravating the senses. Everyone has gathered to trade and purchase commodities that seem to be in abundance in this alien country brought up from the rivers of the Nile and Euprahates.


The sons of the royal family mingle among the commoners. It is their privilege and duty to know what the sons and daughters of Osiris and Isis are doing. The young Prince notices the exotic convoy with the elegantly veiled woman walking along the side of her devoted camel. He nudges his lazy brother curiously searching for something new to entertain his bored interest. His brother quickly agrees this mysterious woman is one of great extraordinary beauty. Both are so awestruck and enthralled with her, they feel it is necessary to let their oldest brother who is now the Pharaoh aware of her presence in the city. The brothers know that he collects beautiful women and that the Pharaoh will want to add her to his harem. Soldiers with arrow stone headed spears approach Abram and he without allowing Sarai to speak, he apologetically explains that he is just a brother. The stoic and obedient soldiers take Sarai into their custody and bring her to the Pharaoh.


The Pharaoh is captivated and mesmerized by the loveliness of Sarai. She is graceful, striking, and charming. She is swiftly taken into the household of Pharaoh and joins the other women living in the harem. The exhilarated Pharaoh immensely rewards Abram for the gift and alliance of his “sister”. He is given several servants, herds of sheep for sacrifices and cloth, goats for meat, milk and cheese, camels for trade, and oxen to manage the fields. But in spite of Abram’s doubt and lack of ability to tell the truth, God had other plans. God is bigger than Abram’s circumstances. He is bigger than Abram’s ability to save him or Sarai.


God intercedes in his ever efficient grace. He intervenes in the midst of Abram’s loss and fear. Without God’s intervention, Abram will lose the love and joy of his life. Abram has embraced God with his whole life. God answers.


A violent illness is sent on the entire royal household of the Pharaoh. In spite of the naivety and ignorance of the Pharaoh, his household is being punished for trying to interfere with God’s plan. At a moment of divine intuition and spiritual understanding, the Pharaoh realizes that he has been manipulated and tricked into believing Sarai is a sibling of Abram.
Abram is summoned to the golden engraved throne of the Pharaoh. Pearl stately columns with ornately decorated crimson and azure crowns outline the ivory and gray marbled steps below his dusty tanned sandaled feet. Vibrant depictions of the Egyptian gods designed to intimidate and terrorize in their painted gaze as he moves along the corridor.
Approaching the throne, The Pharaoh threatens shrieks, “What have you done to me? My entire family is ill and near death. Why did you not tell me that Sarai was your sister? Your God has punished me. Take her. Get out of here!”


Abraham is equipped and given more than what he arrived with in his caravan. Sarai is with him and there is peace again. Abram embraces God with his whole life. God intercedes on his behalf. Abram has nothing to do with this abundant outcome. It is an act of grace by God.
A few years later this same experience will happen a second time with Abimelech, the King of Gerar. God warns King Abimelech in a dream that Sarah is married and not a sister has he has been told. Again Abraham is rewarded and sent on his way with Sarah and all of his belongings. Abraham is acutely aware that God is faithful. He is consistent. God keeps his promises. Again it is not something Abraham was able to resolve out of his own abilities, but God acts out of grace a new reality.


Many years have past, and Sarai is gravely disappointed that she has not had a child. Disillusioned, Sarai doubts and begins to believe that perhaps Abram misinterpreted God’s plan. She is skeptically doubtful that God is able to provide her with a child even though a child has been a direct promise in Abram’s oracle.


Hagar has adequately performed as her servant for a few years since they have returned to Canaan from Egypt. Rumor has it that she was one of the daughters of Pharaoh and given as a servant to Sarai during the time she lived in the Harem.
Hagar is young and does not have any other children. Sarai longs to hold a cooing baby in her arms, while gazing eye to eye with him to have his infant hand tightly grasp her own finger in comfort. It is a day she has been longing for many years. But time has slowly stolen moments from her. She feels that the time for having children has past and left her abandoned without a baby to hold.


Sarai is friends with Hagar. She is a good companion and confidant in their years together. Looking at the Egyptian foreigner Hagar, Sarai knows that she is no competition for Abram’s affection. Abram has never been attracted or tempted by the other foreign women during the entire time they lived in Egypt. Although it is common practice among their peers for men to have many wives for alliances, dalliances, whatever – Abram by his own choice has chosen only Sarai to be his sole wife. They have lived many faithful years of love together which has brought much happiness and satisfaction to both of them. However, there is one thing that she knows that Abram has wanted his whole life that she has not been able to give him – a son of his own.


Sarai asks to speak with Hagar alone in her tent. Sarai is a wealthy and powerful woman at this point. Her husband Abram owns lands, herds, produce, servants and there are comfortable well-supplied tents in which for everyone to live. It is an honor and privilege for a servant like Hagar to be asked for a private audience with Sarai.


After speaking with Hagar, Sarai assertively informs Abram that he will be marrying Hagar so that she can give them a child of their own. Hagar quickly becomes pregnant. However, as Hagar's belly grows Sarai’s contempt and disgust for her increases as well. She is bitter that Abram’s God has not allowed her to have a child of her own. Instead a twit and menial slave-girl is given the task to carry her child.


God did not answer her prayer when she wanted him too. Because of this lack of faith in God’s timing, chaos has erupted in her own household. Her anxiety and ambition has caused more anguish and torment for her. Sarai can’t stand the sight of Hagar. Hagar is an unwanted emblem of her doubt and mistrust.
There is nothing but contempt between Sarai and Hagar. Sarai treats the pregnant Hagar harshly and without sympathy. It has not been Abram’s choice to take her as a wife and does not interfere. Abram has embraced God with his whole life and still believes that God will give him a son by Sarai. He does not love Hagar. She means nothing to him.


In sheer despondence, Hagar runs away to the desert but an Angel meets her there. He also reminds her of the promise of God to bless the children and descendents of Abram. The Angel also tells her to name the child “Ishmael”.


Hagar willingly returns to the tents of Abram and Sarai. God has led Abram to Eleven different places to settle in eleven years. Ishmael is born when Abram is 86 years old. Ishmael grows up within their household.
When Ishmael is 13, Abram is walking along the well-worn path through his fields. The servants and shepherds wave as he passes by in a friendly and welcomed greeting to their respected owner. Abram thinks to himself, it is God and God only who has blessed me. He has given me this life, this prosperity, this abundance. He knows that it has not been through efforts of his own that this wealth has been available to him. He has embraced God with his whole life. God has given in many gifts out of His grace.
As he reaches the peak of the grassy knoll of rolling hills looking over the illustrious valley in the distance, God speaks. (Genesis 17:1-2) “I am the Strong God. Live entirely before me! Live to the hilt! I’ll make a covenant between us and I’ll give you a huge family.” Overwhelmed Abrams falls flat on his face.


God speaks again, “Your name will no longer be Abram, but Abraham. I’ll make you the Father of many nations. . . And Sari your wife: Don’t call her Sarai any longer; call her Sarah. I’ll bless her --- Yes! I’ll give you a son by her! Oh, how I’ll bless her! Nations will come from her.”


Abraham falls flat on his face again. But his mind wanders and thinks of how ill equipped Sarah and he are to have children at their ages. There is no way this could happen. Smirking and amused thinks to himself, “How can I have a child at 100 and when Sarah is 90?” He says out loud, “Keep Ishmael alive and well before you!” God defiantly responds, “You don’t understand. Sarah will have a son and you will call him Isaac which means laughter. I’ll establish my covenant with him and his descendants, a covenant that lasts forever . . . Sarah will give you a son about his time next year.” Finally after many years of waiting, God fulfills his promise to Abraham.


All of us know how this story ends. Abraham not out of his ability or will has a child that God has promised and given to him by a gift of grace.


Even in his foreign status, God speaks to him. Abraham responds by embracing God with his whole life. God blesses and enriches Abraham’s life in every possible way. By God’s grace, God makes a way for Abraham. Because God wanted to, he makes a life for Abraham. Nothing Abraham does - makes him successful. His success comes from the rich mercy and grace that God provides for him.


In response to God’s love for him, Abraham embraces God with his whole life. Grace is free. Grace is an act of God. It is not something that earned or deserved. God responds. He acts according to His will. By faith, Abraham inherits all the fulfillment of the promises that God plans for him.