Words on a Page

My husband and I went to dinner at our favorite restaurant a few days ago. After a busy and somewhat stressful week, we needed down time. As we entered the parking lot, my husband pointed out an unusual sight. There was a woman sitting in the middle of the parking lot. It was obvious that she was homeless. It was equally obvious that some type of mental illness was involved. We parked and exited our vehicle. It was one of those times that we contemplated whether to try and help her or keep our distance and remain safe. What if she had a weapon? What if she became hostile or even violent? What if? The Lord relieved us of duty. Two women from a neighboring business began to approach the woman asking, “Ma’am, is there something we can do to help?” The women began to scream so the ladies stepped away. We made the decision to call 911. The woman needed professional help. When the 911 operator answered, the situation escalated. The woman began taking her clothes off. In the middle of the par...

Today’s reality is that no one is listening to anyone who thinks differently than themselves. I can’t say it any better than the quotes below: “Before you argue with someone, ask yourself, is that person even mentally mature enough to grasp the concept of a different perspective. Because if not, there's absolutely no point. Not every argument is worth your energy. Sometimes, no matter how clearly you express yourself, the other person isn’t listening to understand—they’re listening to react. They’re stuck in their own perspective, unwilling to consider another viewpoint, and engaging with them only drains you. There’s a difference between a healthy discussion and a pointless debate. A conversation with someone who is open-minded, who values growth and understanding, can be enlightening—even if you don’t agree. But trying to reason with someone who refuses to see beyond their own beliefs? That’s like talking to a wall. No matter how much logic or truth you present, they will twist, ...

I typically run behind times when it comes to watching television. Truthfully, today’s TV series are too much for me. Between the language, the violence, and the subject matter, I’m a PG kind of girl. Which is funny since I’m a true crime junkie. I recently started the TV series, “Scandal.” I’m hooked. I’m also depressed realizing that the show most likely depicts some true life scenarios. After all, politics isn’t a kind profession. It’s getting more unkind every day. I am not sure I will be able to finish the series Scandal since real life political scandals are already wearing me out. You know what bothers me the most? We have created a world in which bullying, crimes by our elected officials, sexual improprieties, and selfishness are among the tools in a successful political toolbox. We must be so proud of ourselves for bringing Christian values back to America. We have certainly made America gruesome again. To my kids and grandkids I say, “This is not the Jesus way.”

Are you tired? I find myself exhausted from the constant chaos in our nation. I’m told this chaos is necessary and will produce fantastic results. I sure hope so. It’s not just political chaos. The chaos stemming from differing personalities refusing to be kind and work together is equally exhausting. I’m told the hatefulness is necessary in order for the “good guys” to win. I sure hope so Then you have financial chaos. Again, I’m told it’s necessary and will result in fantastic improvements. I sure hope so. I see relationships deteriorating due to the divisive chaos. When did we decide that everyone must choose sides and argue with the people we love? I’m told things will calm down once all these fantastic changes take hold. I sure hope so. Most of all, I hope my hope isn’t futile.

Don’t worry. I’m not going to get all spiritual or political. I simply want to share two stories with you. The first happened when I was just a kid. I typically stayed 1-2 weeks with my grandparents each summer. It gave me time to be with “that side of the family.” They lived in a very conservative state - although I didn’t know what that meant then. I just knew I loved my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins from “that side of the family.” We weren’t allowed to watch the Carol Burnett Show or Sesame Street when I visited. Apparently, since both shows “allowed” Black people to interact with White people, they were forbidden. In fact, “that side of the family” was very vocal that we couldn’t watch Carol Burnett because she allowed Black people to dance with White people. My aunt, specifically, used a derogatory term when referring to Black people. I came home one summer and asked my parents what the word meant because it wasn’t spoken in our house. I was told it was a hateful word a...

I think some of us are confused. I’d like to share two verses before I start my blog: 1) “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, TO HIM IT IS SIN.” James 4:17 (KJV) <emphasis mine> 2) “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (KJV) Most of you are wondering why I am quoting the King James Version of the bible since I typically use a newer version. Well, I am reaching out to the conservative and fundamentalist Christians. You see, in their minds, the King James Version is the “right” bible. It’s the only version they carry. It’s the only version their preachers preach from. It’s the only version that makes them righteous. I am focusing on this group because they continue to stir the pot in my city. They’ve doubled down. They want to make sure we all realize they are right. Unfortunately, they, like me, attacked a specific people group. I’m wondering how it makes them feel to be singled out. The difference is I’m not naming names or...

As a Christian, what is my business on earth? Now keep in mind that I am going to celebrate my 67th birthday in May. Therefore, my answer today will not be the same as it was 30 years ago. Doesn’t mean I’ve lost my zeal. Simply means I’ve matured and reprioritized. As Christians, what is our business and what can we let go of on earth? I think the bible is clear. Our business is being about the business of our Lord Jesus Christ. We aren’t His Holy Spirit. Contrary to popular belief, we are not in the conviction and condemnation business. Those tasks were not assigned to us. The Bible does say we should be ready, in season and out of season (timing is everything), to correct, rebuke, and encourage. It adds the stipulations of applying GREAT patience and CAREFUL instruction. My fear is we are so busy being the morality police that we’ve overlooked our key calling - to introduce everyone to Jesus. Jesus who loves them. Jesus who saves them when they call out to Him. Jesus who provides the...