Brenda’s Blog – November 21, 2017

“Are you a thermometer or a thermostat?”

I am Gram to nine grandchildren and two great-grands. As I pray for them I ask for protection, God’s saving grace, and peace. And as they get older I pray for them to make wise choices about friends. This is one of the questions they must answer in order to create healthy relationships.

I want them to know if they are a thermostat or a thermometer. What is the difference? A thermometer reflects the temperature in the room; a thermostat sets it. It is the same way in social situations.

Is it weak to be a thermometer? By no means. Think how critically important it is to determine if we have a fever – we need an accurate instrument which gives us a proper reading. Groups are the same way – they need those who feel temperature changes and alert the others. The danger comes when the thermostats are so strong they ignore any negative changes.

Thermostats can heat up or cool down activities. They are the ones who pull others along. They are the lead dogs. Therefore, it is vitally important for them to have a strong moral compass. Their natural strengths can be used for good or ill. Their charisma can move a group positively to achieve great things or their magnetism can lead others down a risky path.
Our society makes value judgments which elevate thermostats. They have a serious responsibility to themselves and others. Change makers carry the weight of leadership. But thermometers must use their discernment to alert without alarming. They are the monitors of social environments.

I know each of my grandchildren has a unique design, given by God to achieve their purpose. My prayer is for those who are thermostats to be shining examples of Godly leadership and those who are thermometers to have strength in reading situations and understanding when the temperature isn’t positive. My admonition to them is always “Be bold and of good courage in whatever God calls you to do.”

Brenda’s Blog – November 7, 2017

“I had to think all the time when I was at work, so now that I am retired I don’t think anymore.”

Stop a minute and chew on that one! Raised in a family which valued thinking as a core value, this man’s statement struck me as not only strange, but almost incomprehensible.

The Bible says: “As a person thinks, so are they.” For you purists, I know the KJV says “a man thinketh,” but I think I have the freedom to expand the text. This presupposes thought, doesn’t it? And it underscores the critical nature of the process.

I once saw a humorous comedy routine describing the differences in men and women. One of the distinctives was the ability of men to absolutely put their brains into neutral gear – and exist happily. When the wife says, “What are you thinking?” he responds, “Nothing” and means it! I subscribe more to the Facebook meme which says “Closing my eyes is the open door to reminding me of all those things I haven’t done all day.” Minds just won’t shut off sometimes.

But that isn’t really productive thinking, is it? What the Bible is talking about pertains to our worldview, our perspective on life, and as A.W. Tozer says “What a man thinks about when he thinks about God is the most important thing about him.” The way we view the nature of God and the nature of man – and the way we participate is important.

Zig Ziglar fondly spoke of “stinkin’ thinkin’.” He knew the way we think impacts the way we live. And he knew the way we think about not only God, but ourselves directs us. Thinking rightly is healthy and wise.

Consequently, taking an “I’m not thinking anymore” position sets a person up for a cruise down the rapids without a good game plan. Let’s think clearly, intentionally, and purposefully to make each day one worthy of remembering in the future (as Zig taught!)

Brenda’s Blog – October 24, 2017

“Christ-Fest: Battle of the Worship Bands”

I turned the corner in the little East Texas town and the sign caught my eye. Then I turned to my grandson Colby and started laughing. “There is just something off-kilter about that, don’t you think?”

Yes, we sing Onward Christian Soldiers and as children we certainly march around singing “We’re in the Lord’s Army.” We put on the spiritual armor and attach posters to the walls of our children’s rooms reminding them that we are part of a much bigger battle between good and evil.

But battling for bragging rights as the victorious worship band? Irony drapes itself all over the idea!

It makes me think of the conflict among those of “The Way” and the way we all too often injure, maim, and disable other believers because they don’t agree on our spiritual practice preferences – or even the way we “do church.” What a shame it is to pit one Christian against another to win what? A trophy of pride. Certainly no trophies of grace are handed out in these intramural contests. We are brothers and sisters in Christ and yet we devour one another way too often.

I know the worship bands will be wailing away praising Jesus and amping up the sound to impress the audience, but is it the right message to send? Will heaven be one eternal, everlasting vying for approval? I think not.

A Catholic bishop spoke recently by invitation on the meaning of the Reformation. He was a gracious (and brave) man to address the topic. He was adept in avoiding theological landmines and instead chose to focus on the importance of unity and the things which bring us together rather than dividing us. A wise man who has probably seen one too many battles in his clerical years.

“They will know you by your love one for another.” Yes, let’s battle and battle strongly with boldness and courage, but let’s make sure our guns are pointed at the true enemy, avoiding friendly fire.

Brenda’s Blog – October 10, 2017

“Your sunroof is for sunny days!”

I love my sunroof – it is my compromise for the convertible-longing which will probably never be satisfied. There is only one negative: it isn’t designed to protect the interior from rain without direction. No, mine isn’t defective – none of them automatically close at the first rain drop… it is a manual operation. And when the driver locks the doors securely, checks into the hotels, and curls up in bed the car is on its own in a rain.

Imagine my surprise when I unlocked my door and noticed soggy books and papers on the passenger side. Then surveying the interior further, I discovered wet seats, console, and dashboard. Thankfully, it wasn’t a gully-washer, but certainly enough to get my attention.

Strangely the day before I visited the Ark Encounter, bought an umbrella, and casually laid it across the space between the front and back seats. Even though it wasn’t open, it’s broad, deep folds gathered water. Noah was saved by a gigantic boat; my interior was protected by a rainbow-hued bumbershoot.

After a good mopping up (and laying my Bible out to dry) I went on toward Tennessee. I thought about how safe I thought I was because I covered all the luggage with either a blanket or the built in shade. I locked the doors activating the alarm. I was a good steward! But I left the sun roof open.

Then it hit me. Haven’t there been times when I thought I had the bases covered but in haste forgot a critical element? Haven’t there been times when pride got in the way?

It makes me think about the soft spots in my character. Where am I vulnerable to ethical downpours? Where have I left openings for spiritual rain? Taking time to check my attitude, my heart, my motivations, and my desires can protect me from drizzly failures. When I let my guard down, I risk making mistakes which will require remediation.

Brenda’s Blog – September 26, 2017

“Ring the bell and something happens”

The line at the post office grew, as did the frustration. “Where is the postal clerk?” “Is anybody working today?” Our small rural facility doesn’t hold a very long line, but this agitated group made much noise.

Finally, someone saw a small hand-lettered sign on the crowded counter: “Ring the bell for service.” Quickly the first person walked up, dinged the bell (several times), and sure enough – a friendly postal worker arrived from the backroom. Each person was served efficiently. The man behind me smiled and said, “Ring the bell and something happens.”

I looked at him, smiled, and said “That’ll preach.” As a lay preacher, he thoughtfully said, “I think I will have to figure out how to use that.” I knew immediately – it was a blog post.

I also thought of the times in my life when I either figuratively or literally sat behind a parked car, fussing and fuming. So many times when I am stuck or at least at a standstill it isn’t because the system is broken, but because I am not in sync. The postal workers didn’t hide in the back wanting to frustrate us. No, they did their sorting work knowing that when they were needed in the front someone would ring the bell.

What bells need ringing in our lives? Are there relationships that seem to be at a dead end, but really just need the ring of a bell to enliven it? What are the assumptions we make at work that create long lines? Is there a solution waiting if we would only read the fine print on the signs? Where are the obvious log jams which only require an objective evaluation and appropriate action? Where are you standing in a line complaining when just a simple action would result in something happening?

Brenda’s Blog – September 12, 2017

“This is not just a bar – it’s an adventure.”

Driving through farmland of Illinois, I entered Minden (population 250). I pulled up to the stop sign in mid-town and looked around. The words on the building made me smile. What a positive outlook.

Wouldn’t it be fun to fill in the blanks for our own journeys? I am not just a ________; I am a ________. This pushes us to move beyond the boundaries of what we do to the consideration of who we are. The art of being is often put on the back burner as we focus diligently on the science of doing.

Hurricane Irma is bearing down on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The Governor Rick Scott has given regular updates. Each time he uses the language: “I am a father and a grandfather. I love my family. I want them to be safe and I want every single Floridian safe, as well.” These heartfelt words express more than his function as executive officer of the state. He is talking in “Am” language.

Who else did this? Our Almighty God when He conversed with Moses. “I AM that I AM.” He was the creator of the Universe, savior of the Hebrew nation, and sovereign God – He had much to put on His business card. But He chose to identify Himself in being words.

Following Him is not just a religion – it is a relationship. The adventure of faith is worth the dedication of our lives. He is not just a force, or a spooky Grandfather – He is our ALL in ALL. He is the ultimate definition of true life. HE IS AN ADVENTURE.

Brenda’s Blog – August 29, 2017

“That’s why we sing”

The bluegrass gospel group The Purple Hulls performed at the Big Sandy Music Hall in Texas last night. These twin sisters play multiple instruments, compose, and sing. Their professionalism is enhanced by their personable, authentic delivery. Fingers flew as they switched from banjo to guitar to mandolin and back again – over and over for two hours.

Their final number included the line “That’s why we sing.” Driving home I considered these words and started musing about my “why I sing.” Isn’t this a beautiful way to begin developing a purpose statement? Rather than impersonally listing strengths and weaknesses, wouldn’t it be fun to simply say “Why do I sing?”

Years ago I heard someone say, “Don’t die with your music in you.” As a Christian I don’t believe God takes me out until He has accomplished His purposes and finished His work. But I do know I have choices about the way I spend my time, use my gifts, and invest my money. I would like to leave shooting for a high C. As an alto moving toward tenor, this would indeed be a stretch!

The old gospel hymn says “I sing because I’m happy; I sing because I’m free. His eye is on the sparrow and I know He cares for me.” That is a good reason to sing.

Our song should express who we believe we are designed to be by God. Our song should resonate with praise for our Maker. The more we sing, the more convinced we should be about the fit. “This is my story, this is my song” wrote Fanny Crosby. Owning our song strengthens us.

Let’s sing our songs with fervor. Let’s eagerly vocalize our purpose.

Brenda’s Blog – August 15, 2017

“Superheroes have bumps…”

With a smile and great hope my son Jeff asked his five year old daughter, “Do I look like a super hero?” All Dads are bigger than life in the eyes of their little girls, so he expected a “Yes, Daddy!”

Instead, she just looked at him with an expression of surprise, “Oh, Daddy – you don’t look like a superhero – they have bumps on their arms and you don’t!” You could hear the wind rush out of the paternal balloon.

It made me think… how do I identify the super heroes? Do I look for the bumps on their arms? Do I look at the costumes they wear or the powers they seem to possess? Do I spend time looking at the external?

Scripture tells us we look on the outside, but God looks on the heart. How do we judge others? How much time do we spend examining someone’s heart? The world puts emphasis on “stuff,” but that isn’t a fail-safe measure. Dad used to tell people when they casually asked “how much is he worth?” they were actually asking about accumulation, not value. Our worth is established by our heavenly Father, not our stock broker. Bigger bumps don’t mean greater character.

My granddaughter has a genuine super hero for a Dad. He is a man of integrity, strength, faith, and love. His bumps will be seen through his legacy as a husband, father, and pastor. Let’s strive for bumps that are eternal.

Brenda’s Blog – August 1, 2017

“Come before winter” – Apostle Paul

Rick Southerland, BWF’s media director, emailed me: “The August 1st blog post will be your 100th – make it something good.” No pressure, right? So, I thought about nifty spins on 100 – without success. Then I did what I tell others to do – write about what God is teaching you.

For months I planned (and re-planned) a trip to West Virginia to see a dying friend. Details kept changing and I kept working for the ideal schedule. I wrote her saying I wanted to be there with her. I kept hearing Paul’s words from prison to Timothy repeating, “Make every effort to come before winter.” Paul knew if Timothy and Mark didn’t arrive in the next few months he would not see them on this earth. He certainly didn’t doubt the eternal reunion, but he longed for their physical presence.

My friend died a few days ago. She was surrounded by her family and many friends who loved her. She was not sitting in a cold dungeon, aching for the comfort of friends. But I didn’t get there before her winter. Yes, I will see her again in heaven – but I missed the opportunity to hug her, tell her I loved her, and thank her for all her life meant to me.

Why do I choose this for such a milestone? Simply because it points out the fragility of life and the moments which pass quickly. Life gallops these days – no slow sauntering along. We are caught up in the rush of daily-ness. Perhaps it is good to stop regularly, catching up with those we love and taking a reading on the status of our relationships.

Appreciation doesn’t have to be formal. A casual visit, a short card, a quick phone call – all give us an opportunity to be grateful. Notice the commonality in that list? They are all old school forms of communication. At some deeper level, our social media culture doesn’t satisfy the longing Paul expressed for human interaction.

Winters don’t have to be death. They can be emotional losses, physical struggles, business setbacks, or spiritual crises. Our friends send out “come before winter” signals. It is our joy and privilege to respond with the love of Jesus.

What is God teaching you right now? What is He writing on your heart? Who needs to hear it? And blessings on you as you answer the “come before winter” calls in your life.

Brenda’s Blog – July 18, 2017

“Workout complete – great job!”

The bicycle in my community exercise room knows motivation techniques well. After 30 minutes of demanding rotations, it beeps then digitally scrolls these “atta-girl” words. Funny, but they keep me going when I get midway and begin rationalizing a shorter ride. My affirmation requirement is low, isn’t it? But it works.

The Apostle Paul talked of his desire to run the race well, receiving the victor’s crown. That reward is the “well done” commendation by our God. Certainly that is a worthy goal. The earthly workout is complete and there is a “great job” waiting.
Zig Ziglar used to say daily food and daily motivation are both necessary for successful living. We must fuel our bodies and spirits. The fumes of empty tanks, both physical and psychological, make poor substitutes. Just as cars out of gas cough and sputter, so do we when we run low on authentic motivation.

I have several friends who define their lives as “overwhelmed.” They feel the pressures of relationship tensions, financial shortfalls, life changes, and loneliness. It becomes difficult to operate smoothly… life sputters. During these periods, encouragement and inspiration provide impetus to get going.

My Dad’s wisdom influenced men and women for decades. His words spoken to others often helped me. But there were others directed to me which became engraved on my skull, ever ready for application. “Brenda, just start!” During a particularly difficult time he quietly listened to my moaning and responded with those words. Years later that motivation still works. Taking the first step or accomplishing the first task, (much like putting my feet on the pedals and rotating), kick start activity.

Consider carefully: What starts your engine? What keeps you moving? What motivation spurs you to activity? Be grateful for these prompts and techniques which enable us to live productively.