God Sent the Angel Gabriel

By Angela Posey-Arnold

“In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her…….” (Luke 1:26-28 NIV)

      I watched Mary carefully before appearing. What a lovely young girl going about her daily task, dreaming of her upcoming marriage to Joseph. As my surrounding light began to illuminate the room Mary stopped short of her chore. My angelic brilliance of light swiftly filled the room. Before her I stood a being so astonishing she fell to her knees in awe and bewilderment. I knew my presence and message would be difficult for Mary to absorb. Quietly adorned in this robe of red and gold, all six of my pearly white wings covered the corners of the room. She gazed into my eyes for a brief moment I hoped she would capture the love and protection I brought as an angel of God. My glimpse upon her was a loving embrace. Fully aware I appeared as one who had been in the presence of God Himself, I Gabriel, luminous and radiant with intense greatness and power spoke in a voice calming and assuring. “…Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” (Luke 1:28 NIV)

      On hearing the voice of an angel Mary stared into the light, high and lifted up above and around me she gazed at the cherubim guarding the light. At first a reverent fear seemed to grip her. I, Gabriel, sensed her fear and saw her trembling so I spoke softly. Adjusting the tenor and timbre of my vociferous angelic voice, Mary’s face softened and the trembling ceased, love calmed her. I felt love radiating from me to Mary as I continued to explain my presence with her.

      “……Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of his father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; His kingdom will never end.” (Luke 1:30-33 NIV)

      Attempting to understand the words and process in her heart and mind Mary appeared confused as if a million questions entered her mind. For what seemed like minutes, sensitive she looked around the room absorbing all she could. In full comprehension the Words came from God to her through this awesome message, all doubt faded from her brow. I could see she didn’t quite understand how this could be. She glanced charily at the brilliance of the light and the magnificence of the loving being as I stood before her. She bowed her head and spoke for the first time in my presence.  Tender in speech she asked me, “How will this be…. since I am a virgin?” (Luke 1:34 NIV)

      Positioning my wings I moved closer to Mary gentle with my words I explained how God’s plan would be accomplished through her. My eyes now tender and adoring, my form gracefully stirring almost musically I responded. “…The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1 35-37 NIV)

      This seemed to solve the question in Mary’s heart. The presence of love became more intense in the room. The light brighter, more brilliant, the atmosphere filled the room with a calm stillness and serenity. Inexplicable realization of The Messiah’s birth suddenly became the most real occurrence of anything Mary or I had ever experienced.

      The guardian cherubim of the light swirled ever so swift as the light and I set into upward motion. Mary’s immediate response, without hesitation or question, satisfied me as the mission was complete.  I smiled upon her, imparting to her the security and protection of God. Chosen and favored by God Almighty to be the mother of the Messiah she exclaimed, “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38 NIV)

      Swift and fleeting I left her and returned to the heavenlies. I visited often in the next few days although not visible to Mary. I think she felt my presence. For many days she pondered the experience and every word God sent me to deliver to her. Mary remembering every facial expression on my face, my eyes, my hands and my movements and most of all my words filled her waking hours. I, Gabriel, in all the glory and light surrounding me brought a message from God to Mary that would save the world! The importance and significance of the message and the mission I came to carry out in perfect illustration by my countenance of protector and guide. Tender yet magnificent, eloquent though mighty, I delivered the message from God, the ‘Message of the Ages’ to Mary, the mother of Jesus, the Savior of all mankind.

       Jesus! The Messiah is coming. Hope for all mankind is to be born. Glory to God in the Highest!!

©2009 Angela Posey-Arnold

As a Christian it is interesting for me to learn the traditions and celebrations of the Jewish people. Discovering what Hannukah is and why Jews celebrate this occasion has been an interesting batch of research. Maybe it interest you as well. The Messianic Jews have all the fun!! They celebrate Jewish and Christian Holy Days. Watching them dance is proof enough of their incredible joy–and mine.

Happy Hannukah

FEAST OF DEDICATION (“CHANUKAH”)

Date in Hebrew calendar:  25th of Kislev to 2nd of Tevet (November–December ).

Scriptural references: Daniel 8:22-25, 11:20-45; John 10:22-42.

“Chanukah” (the word means “dedication” in Hebrew) is a celebration of God’s faithfulness and deliverance.  The events it celebrates took place during the inter-testamental period, in approximately 165 B.C.  

Over 150 years earlier, Alexander the Great had conquered the entire ancient world of the Eastern Mediterranean.  Upon his early death, four of his generals divided up his empire.  The area of Judea eventually came under the control of Antiochus IV “Epiphanes.”

Antiochus tried to force the Jews to accept Greek culture, even defiling their temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar and erecting a statue of Zeus in the Holy of Holies! This was the first “Abomination of desolation” and was prophesied by Daniel (11:31-32).

Finally, the Jews revolted.  Although greatly outnumbered and overpowered, they fought a courageous guerrilla war and drove out the Greeks in 165 B.C., re-entering the city and the temple.

There was only enough of the special oil burned in the temple menorah to last one day, and it would take 8 days to make more.  They lit the menorah anyway, and the oil miraculously burned for 8 days while more was being prepared.  

Thus began the Feast of Dedication to celebrate this miracle, their great deliverance from oppressors and the dedication of the newly cleansed temple.

Yeshua went to Jerusalem for the Feast of Dedication, and while in the temple area He proclaimed His divinity-”I and the Father are one” (John 10:30).

Today Chanukah is celebrated with a 9-branched candelabra.  Eight of them recall the eight days the oil miraculously burned, while the 9th is the “Servant” candle used to light the others.  Each evening during the eight day feast, more of the eight candles are lit-one the first night, two the second, etc. until all eight, plus the servant, are brightly burning in the homes of all Jews on the last night.  It is also called the “Festival of Lights,” and is often accompanied by the exchange of gifts.

Chanukah celebrates one of many deliverances of the Jewish people from those who would try, again and again, to destroy God’s Covenant people.  In recent history we have two horrible examples of this-the pogroms in Russia, and the Holocaust.  Yet the Lord’s people are alive today, and back in their own Land against unbelievable odds.  

But the enemy has not given up, and he is trying and will try to destroy them again.  Pray for God to deliver His people again, and to breathe His Spirit into their revived bodies (Ezekiel 37:14), fully restoring them to Himself.

Thanks to google, email and research–I am really glad I learned–I am glad I wanted to learn.

God Bless You this Holy Day season and all year!!!

Once Upon A Christmas
By Angela Posey-Arnold
“What are you getting for Christmas this year, Jimmy? I think I’m getting a record player. I picked one out at Elmore’s.” Bonnie said to her friend and classmate at lunch.
Jimmy swallowed the last bite of apple, “A record player? That will be neat. I’m hoping to get the .22 Winchester I asked for. I need it for hunting. I think I will get it”.
“I can’t wait for the class Christmas party tomorrow. The best thing is being out of Haleyville Junior High School for the Christmas Holidays. Mother made some cookies for our eighth grade party. Oh, by the way, we want you to go with us to town this afternoon. And stay with us for the Tree Decorating Downtown tonight. Can you go if my Mom picks you up?” Jimmy asked.
“Sure, I’ll go. I know my parents will let me. I have some packages to wrap but it can wait. What time is she coming to get me?” Bonnie asked.
“About 3:30. She wants us to go shopping for something with her. Then we’ll go help decorate the tree and wait for the lights to be turned on. I always love that part.” Jimmy laughed.
“I’ll be ready at three o’clock”. Bonnie said hurrying back to class chattering with the other girls.
Jimmy’s Mother, Mrs. Godsey, watched the children in her first grade class walking home. As she tidied her small cold classrom the thought of the children haunted her. “If they get a coat for Christmas it will be a miracle, I know they won’t have toys like the other children.Just look at them. Poor farmer’s children with tattered clothes. The harvest was poor because of the drought. They will be going home to empty cupboards and no Christmas presents. I heard Jimmy say he wanted a rifle but I can’t do it. I cannot buy that rifle knowing these children will have nothing, by no fault of their own.It is just the circumstances of being the sons and daughters of farmer in this small rural community.I am thankful for this old school, there is no way they would get an education without it here so close.” She thought as she closed the classroom door for the last time in 1947. “Lord, please help them.”
She heard loud and clear the still small voice. “You help them. You have the money and it would be a good lesson for Jimmy and Bonnie.”
“Oh Lord, forgive me. I should have thought of it. I will, I just have to figure out a way to do it without them knowing. Farmers are very particular about not taking charity and making it on their own. I do not want them to know I did it. I’ll think of something. Help me Lord, Your Will be done.”
“Jimmy, are you in your room? Get your coat it is going to be a cold night for decorating the tree downtown. And Jimmy, wear your old shoes.” Mrs. Godsey called to Jimmy.
“My old shoes? Why Momma? I don’t want to wear my old shoes. Everyone will be in town. You want me to look like a tramp? I don’t know why you bought these new shoes if you won’t let me wear them.” Jimmy complained.
“Just do it, son. And call Bonnie and make sure she is not wearing dress up clothes. Tell her to wear her dungarees.”
“Okay. I don’t get it. But, okay. Bonnie will think I have lost my marbles but okay. Mothers!” Jimmy picked up the telephone to call Bonnie. He had to wait while Mrs. Hyatt and Mrs. Murphy complained about their bunions for five long minutes on the party line. “Could yall talk about this later? It is 3:00, the Christmas Tree Decorating starts at 5:30 and I need to call Bonnie Self.”
“Talk to you later, Myrtle. Soak your feet in Epsom salt” Mrs. Hyatt said as she finally hung up the phone so Jimmy could make the call. He told Bonnie what his Mother said and she agreed to wear her old pants and shoes. “I don’t understand your Mother sometimes, Jimmy” Bonnie giggled.
“Me either, but let’s just do it. Maybe she is going to take us to the movie later. See you in a few minutes. Bye.”
Bonnie was ready and waiting when the Godsey’s drove up to get her. She ran to the car. It had started to snow and with every flake the excitement of the season increased. Downtown Haleyville was all a buzz with late shoppers. The stores were decorated with nativity scenes and carols played from the stores.
“Okay, children. We are going to go to Elmore’s and Haye’s Hardware. Here is some money. Jimmy you pick out three toys for boys. Bonnie you pick out three things you think a girl would like. I have some shopping to do. Charge it at Haye’s and I will meet you at the Drug Store for hot chocolate at 5:00. We will have just enough time for a sandwich and some hot chocolate before they light the tree.”
“Mother, who are we buying these for?” Jimmy asked.
“Some kids in my class. Now hurry along.”
“This is so much fun. I love buying gifts. I found some very pretty things for girls. What did you find, Jimmy? Bonnie said as she carefully removed the gifts from the bag to show Jimmy.
“Wow, I got some good stuff. Trains, balls and even a toy tractor with moving parts. Whoever these kids are they are going to love this. Here comes Mother. Let’s order so we are not late.” Jimmy ordered sandwiches and hot chocolate and the three of them warmed by the wood stove in the Drug Store.
The streets of town lined with people waiting for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. The snow picked up pace enough to raise the spirits of hope so prevalent in the Christmas season. The Baptist Pastor stood and read the Christmas story from the book of Luke. “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. (Luke 2:1-14 KJV)
After a prayer of thanksgiving to God for sending Jesus, the Saviour of the world, the chubby mayor with pomp and circumstance that only a politician can muster, lit the tree. The lights, white, red, blue, green, shined so brightly and the Star on the top of the tree warmed the hearts of all. The lights were bright and so beautiful; Jimmy looked over and smiled at Bonnie.
“Are you crying? What in the world are you crying about, girl? It is a happy occasion.” Jimmy said as he shook his head, whispering under his breath, ‘girls’!”
“I am crying because I am happy.” Bonnie said wiping her tears and laughing.
“That is so weird. Let’s go find Mother. I am freezing.” Jimmy said as he made his way through the crowd who had started singing, ‘Joy to The World’.
Meeting back at the car the two kids carried the bags of toys. Mrs. Godsey opened the trunk. It was full of food and other items. “Okay kids we need to bag all this up into three different bags. Put a boy’s gift and a girl’s gift in each bag and we will fill the rest of the bag with fruit and food. Let’s get busy it is getting late.” The threesome filled each bag and got into the car.
“Mother, can you explain this to us now?” We thought we were going to go to the movie. I don’t think we are going to the movie Bonnie.” Jimmy stated.
“Kids, I want you to realize how blessed you are. You two along with most of your classmates have so much and some people do not. I am not sure you realize the children who will not get anything for Christmas this year. We are going to make sure that doesn’t happen. We are going to be Santa for them. But, you can’t tell anyone we did this. And we are going to have to be very sneaky about it.”
“Oh this sounds like fun.” Bonnie said
“It will be joy. I want you to see how giving really is more blessed than receiving. We are going to ride out to the Pebble community. Mr. Posey’s store is closed this time of the evening and the school is closed until after the New Year. It will be dark but our eyes will adjust. We will visit three different homes. These are the homes of some of my students. We can’t let them see us or hear us. I am going to drive the car to the end of the road and turn the lights off so they don’t see us. Then each of you will take a bag and very quietly sneak up to the porch and place it in front of the door. Then run! Run behind a tree or in a ditch and hide. I’ll be hiding too.”
“Bonnie, this is gonna be neat. Ain’t it, Bonnie? Bonnie are you crying again? GIRLS! What are you crying about now?”Jimmy asked.
“I just feel so sorry for them. I am so glad we are going to help them. I can’t help but cry. I just didn’t realize there were people right here at home that would not get anything for Christmas.” She replied through tears.
“Bonnie, this is exactly why I wanted you to come along with us. We need your help. And you have such a tender heart I knew you would be the perfect one to help. Jimmy, stop teasing her. This will be a Christmas you will never forget because you gave. You will learn tonight why Jesus said, ‘it is more blessed to give than to receive’. Try not to cry for a while. You need to be watching where you are going. I can’t have you falling and getting hurt.” Mrs. Godsey hugged Bonnie and they gathered the bags.
Jimmy shook his head, “Girls! I feel good about giving too, but I aint gonna cry about it.”
“Oh hush, Jimmy. Let’s get going.” Bonnie skipped off in front of him.
Mrs. Godsey followed along behind the pair of twelve year olds. They walked softly toward the first house. There were no lights on outside and all was dark except one lantern burning in the window. The snow had stopped. Silver gray smoke flowed from the chimney and hovered among the trees like a canopy. A huge Oak tree stood strong and tall in the front yard.
“Okay Bonnie, here’s the plan. Sneak to the porch, put the bag down and high tail it back to this tree. They won’t see us behind it. Go” Jimmy ran and Bonnie followed.
In a flash the two had placed the bags on the porch and ran back behind the Oak. Dogs began to bark, chickens scattered and the lantern began to move. The door opened and a young man in overalls stooped down to inspect the bags closer. From their vantage point behind the Oak tree they could see a small Christmas tree in the light of the fireplace. The man smiled, looked back over his shoulder and said, “Kids, Honey, come here. Looks like Santa has been here.”
Two children ran out on the porch in their pajamas and their mother came from the kitchen wiping her hands on her apron. “What in the world? What is it Jeremiah?” The mother could be heard over the giggling of the children and the hearty laughter of the man.
“It is Christmas. It sure is Christmas.” He looked around the yard and then looked up and smiled.
He picked up the two bags and went back into the house with the children jumping and giggling behind him. The door closed but Bonnie and Jimmy could still hear the joy filled laughter coming from the house as the family discovered the food and toys.
“Come on Bonnie. We need to make a run for it before they come out to see who left it.” Bonnie come.. Bonnie.. Are you crying again? Oh good heavens. Come on….. Come on.” Jimmy took her by the arm and ran back to his Mother.
Breathless they reached the car at the same time. Jumping in, getting a breath and talking at the same time they told Mrs. Godsey every detail of the mission.
“And I looked over and Bonnie was crying, again!” Jimmy explained.
“I was not, be quiet. Where are we going next Mrs. Godsey?”
“Just two more houses much like this one. We will do the same thing.”She cranked the car and proceeded down the dirt road.
The next house had more lights on inside so the two elves were more careful in their approach. This time the only place to hide being a ditch. Again they watched as the family realized someone cared. With priceless looks on their faces they knew God had heard and answered their prayers.
The last house was at the end of a long dark dirt road. Mrs. Godsey said, “We are going to leave four bags here. They need food. Jimmy I have two of your old coats in the trunk and two old pair of your shoes. We are going to leave those too. Each of you will have to carry two bags. I can help if you think it will be too much. The Harrington family lives here. Mr. Harrington was killed in the war. Since then Mrs. Harrington has tried to keep the farm going but they won’t be here next year. They are moving out to Texas to live with her family there. She just cannot work the farm and raise two children alone. They have nothing. Their clothes are ragged and worn. At least this will help them until they get with their family.” She leaned against the car and took Jimmy by the shoulders. Facing him she said.
“Jimmy I need to talk to you son. I have put $22.95 in the bottom of one bag. It is what I had planned to spend on your rifle. I can take it out and buy you the rifle or I can leave it in there. It is up to you.”
“Give us each two bags Mother. We can carry them. Come on Bonnie. Let’s be really quiet this time. Bonnie, don’t tell me. You are crying.” Jimmy said as Bonnie hugged him.
“That is so sweet Jimmy. You are going to give up your Christmas present to…..” Before she could finish Jimmy shoved two bags in her arms and said, “Come on, and stop crying. Girls! I don’t know if it is all girls or just you Bonnie.”
They looked at Mrs. Godsey and she had tears flowing too.
“Oh! Come on. You too Mother?” The two began walking toward the house. Jimmy had to stop and blow his nose.
“Catching cold?” Bonnie laughed.
They placed the bags unnoticed and quickly slipped away.
The eight mile drive back home was quiet for a while. Then Mrs. Godsey began to sing, “Silent Night Holy Night” …. The kids joined in joyously aware they just grew up by a leap.
“Look, it is snowing again. I think Jesus is smiling.” Mrs. Godsey exclaimed.
“I do too Mrs. Godsey, I do too.” Bonnie said softly, her heart full of love, thankful for the blessing.
Jimmy looked out the back car window gazing at the snow, he grinned and thought to himself, ‘I really am not going to miss getting the rifle this year.’ He turned around and said, “This is the best Christmas. It truly is better to give. Bonnie, stop crying, pleaseeeeeee.”
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.(Acts 20:35 KJV)
©2008 Angela Posey-Arnold

Twas the Night Before Christmas
A Spoof
By Angela Posey-Arnold
Twas the night before Christmas and all thru the house,
Something was stirring and it wasn’t a mouse.
The stockings were hung too close to the fire
A spark hit the felt, stinky smoke filled the air.

The kids were sleeping, or so they appeared
With one eye open, for gifts they were hoping.
Well Momma smelled it first and rose in a fit
Daddy jumped up, stumped his toe, “What’d I hit?”

Smoke filled the room at the bottom of the stairs
What was left of the stockings smoldered and smeared.
Away to the window Dad flew like a flash
Raised the shade and opened it fast.

The smelly smoke billowed out thru the window
Damage was done to the stockings where they hung.
Already been filled to the brim and bow
Melted candy, poached fruit, like a rotten egg stunk!

“What will we do when the children awake
And find their stockings in such a state?
The stores are all closed what will we do?
They will be disappointed, sad and blue.

“I’ll fix it” said Daddy and off he flew
Out the door, to his store, tripping over a canoe.
The kids heard the door and smelled the stink
Peaked down the stairs thru the
Smoke hues of pink.

More rapid than an eagle, his Ford truck flew
Over to his store, still limping in his shoe.
He gathered more candy and toys too
Locked back the door- home in minutes two.

He drove up the drive,
could not believe his eyes
On the roof in the smoke was a sleigh, he sighed.
A fat man in red, “Who is that, Fred?”

Dad walked in the house rubbing his head
Ma was asleep snoring in bed.
The stockings back hung and filled
“Who did this? I really thought Fred was dead.”

The children still watching from the top of the steps
Had seen the one out of the chimney leapt
“He was dressed all in camo, a hunter we think
He came down the chimney and boy did he stink.”

“He looked more like Santa than he did Fred,
You are right Daddy, Fred is dead.”
He ate the cookies and took the milk
And left like he came, up the chimney, like silk.”

The long winter’s nap was restful and nice
Dad woke up, “I think this is twice.”
All in the house stirred and woke
Around the corner their heads did poke.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care
But what is that smell in the air?
“I really thought this was a dream
Was it? Or not. I think I will scream.”

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.
©2009 Angela Posey-Arnold

Christians Aren’t Perfect, Yet

By Angela Posey-Arnold

“Love……. is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered……” (I Corinthians 13:5 NIV)

“I am not answering that phone again! I’ve got too much to do to talk to her for the third time today.” I snapped looking at the caller ID. I stood right there and let it ring feeling more irritated with each call.

Every day for months the seventy year old fellow church member calls me. She really doesn’t have anything new to say, just chit chat and I am busy! Each time I allow the phone to ring without answering I felt a twinge of guilt in my heart which I promptly ignored. I talk to her at least once a day and I really thought it should be enough. I am not much of a phone talker anyway.

Offering to take her to the doctor turned out to be an everyday affair. We went to two doctors’ appointments and in two days we would be travelling thirty miles to the hospital for her pre-admission testing for eye surgery. In my busyness I never thought about how she must be feeling about the upcoming surgery. I didn’t mind taking her but I did not want to talk about it several times a day. So, I just didn’t.

For the two years I have known Mary she suffered panic attacks and would miss church. Her husband would tell me all she wanted to do was to sleep all day. In the last year since I offered my friendship to her she has not missed church and has not had a panic attack. All she needed was a friend. I enjoy being her friend, just not on the phone every day.

Arriving to the hospital for the pre-admission screening the nurse asked questions as she completed the history and physical. Mid way into the assessment she asked, “Do you have regular sleep patterns?” A silence filled the room slowly Mary answered, “Well, if it weren’t for her, (pointing to me), I would sleep all day.”

I think God jerked me up, put me over His knee and gave me the spat I needed. I felt as if I were about two feet tall and shrinking fast. I asked Him right there for forgiveness, so ashamed of myself. I cannot believe I could be so selfish and uncaring. I learned a valuable lesson; we never know what our friendship may mean to someone else.

Now, when she calls, I pick up on the first ring. It feels much better to be a friend like Jesus wants me to be. Lesson learned, journey on, I pray I never make the same mistake again.

Christians are not perfect, but like me we are learning as we go. Sometimes it hits us like a brick in the head. This is the process of sanctification. I think I just leveled up.

Dear Heavenly Father, You always have time for me. Help me to be mindful of the needs of others, putting You first and others second, myself last. It feels much better that way. In Jesus Holy Precious Name, Amen

©2009 Angela Posey-Arnold

Healing does not always mean total health. Sometimes for many people it means one day at a time. Dealing with chronic illness and pain is not for sissys. After years of waking up and going to bed in pain day in and day out the person does one of two things. They give in to the pain and give up. Or they get tough. Getting tough is the hard part but it can be done. Pain can be controlled with medications, exercises, therapy, but mostly dealing with it requires faith and hope.

In 2001 my life went from full speed 60 hour work weeks of Directing Nursing Care of 103 elderly or otherwise disabled patients to being disabled myself. A screeching halt to a busy full life is definetly a culture shock. I left one world and entered another. No longer was I in the race of working to heal and help others now  I had to learn to help myself. In doing so over the last almost 9 years I have learned better ways to care for those in chronic pain. Not because I learned it in a text book or in clinicals but because I lived it. I know what it feels like.

As an RN the hardest thing for me is to know that no one, no surgery, no medication, nothing can change my condition. It is progressive and by all medical and scientific purposes it will get worse. But, I know a Savior that helps me everday. Emotionally and Spiritually I am whole, I am healed. This temporary body my soul is in is just that, temporary. While I am in it I know my limitations and my life is peaceful and slow. I like that. I don’t mind being at home everyday, I know when I need to rest and when I can do a little more. That in itself is a gift. God has given me exactly the things I need to continue to have a full happy joyful life even in the midst of the pain.

So many people do not understand because for one thing I don’t really look sick. My problems are not visible. I tried for a while to make people understand but I am finished with that. It doesn’t matter whether they understand or not. I know I am not the only one who feels this way or who deals with these issues. Because of Lisa Copen and her ministry at Rest Ministries and Hope Keepers I know I am not alone. I also know there are many who suffer alone and need a touch from you, a prayer, a note of encouragment. Many do not know how to help those with chronic pain and illness the following article written by Lisa is informative and so helpful.

She has given Hope Keepers members the right to share this article on our blog.

Ministering to the Chronically Ill: 20 Ways That Take 20 Minutes
by Lisa Copen

Rest Ministries, the largest Christian organization that specifically serves the chronically ill, recently did a survey and asked people to “List some of the programs or resources a church could offer to make it more inviting comfortable” They have provided a sampling of some of the 800+ responses, all of which could be done in 20 minutes or less.

1. Encouragement emails.

2. Make sure the handicapped stalls in the restroom are functioning and clean.

3. Padded chairs or cushions, room for wheelchairs, and plenty of room for my family to sit with me.

4. Be open-minded about a support group for the chronically ill like HopeKeepers. It would make me feel very special, knowing that there is an understanding of people’s needs that are not always visible.

5. Add more disabled parking, even if they are temporary spots.

6. Educate the ushers that people arriving late may have difficulty walking or getting out of cars and will need some assistance.

7. Ask volunteers to call people with chronic illness just to check on them when they don’t make it to services.

8. When suppers are given, recognize that I may need help getting my meal–or at least understand that I won’t be able to wait in a long line.

9. Be gentle when giving people big hugs. It can topple over or hurt a person.

10. Have a video tape of the service, not just a live web cast. Not all our computers work that well.

11. Make sure that the church doors aren’t too difficult to open or at least have mechanical assistance if they’re unusually heavy.

12. Stop telling me that if I really believed and had faith I would be healed by now. Please don’t insist how good I look, because I know for a fact that I look terrible and miserable that day.

13. Offer me ways to serve within the church that can be performed regularly, but not on a set schedule. I still want to contribute, but I need some flexibility so that I can do a job when I feel well enough to do so.

14. Have sermon notes available so I can listen later or even just review what I didn’t catch the first time.

15. Acknowledge National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week. Rest Ministries has a nice book list of top 100 Christian books for the chronically ill. It would make a nice display in your bookstore that week.

16. Just mention chronic illness occasionally! Don’t forget to talk about it in sermons as one of the challenges many people face just like unemployment or divorce.

17. Have Christian volunteers from church that will clean house for small fee. Some have offered to clean my house, but I cannot accept charity yet, but neither can I afford to pay a regular house cleaning service.

18. Help with some of the small costs of providing encouraging books and resources for the church library the chronically ill can check out.

19. Remember how many caregivers are in the church, not just caregiving for their parents, but also for their spouses or ill children.

20. Have copies of sermons for free on CD or computer.

Find over 500 ways to encourage a chronically ill friend in the book “Beyond Casseroles: 505 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend” at www.beyondcasseroles.com

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I know that some days can seem like more than you can handle. Remember that the Lord promises to never leave you or forsake you. Cling to that. Even when you don’t feel his presence He is still there. I tell my 6-year-old son that God is working “under cover.” I know I am each day, especially righr now!

Blessings,

Lisa Copen, Rest Ministries Founder
Rest Ministries Chronic Illness Pain Support

Hardship that Hangs On

Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
— 2 Corinthians 12:8-9
I can identify with this verse. In the early years of my paralysis when I was squirming to get back on my feet, I looked at my wheelchair and “pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.” To make a long story short, I got the same response as the apostle Paul. Like his, my condition remained chronic.

Why chronic? Why do some hardships never go away? The hurting and hammering process I spoke about yesterday won’t end until we become completely holy (and there’s no chance of that happening this side of eternity). This is why I can more easily accept my paralysis as a chronic condition. When I broke my neck, it wasn’t a jig-saw puzzle I had to solve fast, nor was it a quick jolt to get me back on track. My diving accident was the beginning of a long, arduous process of becoming like Christ. Sure, there are times I wish it were easier, but I realize I’m far from perfect. I have a long way to go to be made like Christ, polished and complete in his image.

The grace of God mentioned in our verse today is enough to sustain us through hardships that hang around. God’s grace – the desire and the power to do his will – is sufficient. “Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but healed” (Hebrews 12:12). Health and wholeness, maturity and completeness will be mine one day. The hammer and chisel will be laid down, once and for all!

James 1:2-4 is our advice for the day: “When all kinds of trials crowd into your lives, my brothers, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance. But let the process go on until that endurance is fully developed” (Phillips).

* * * * *

Lord Jesus, help me to accept those conditions in my life which are chronic, whether in my marriage, family or health. Give me grace for the long haul, knowing the ending will be happy beyond my wildest dreams.

Blessings,
Joni and Friends

Halloween–Halos and Wings?

 By Angela Posey-Arnold

 Halloween, 1966, I was an angel and it rained. Now, I seriously ask, how can an angel spread her wings and fly wearing a rain coat? She can’t so the 6 year old angel improvises in a, southern belle in training, sort of way. She gracefully picks up her long gossamer gown and runs to each door, even with corrective shoes on her feet. Getting back into the car I begged my Momma, “Please don’t make me wear a raincoat, pleaseeeeeeeeee. It will mess up my wings”.

 “Well, we can’t have that. I will pull the car up close and yall run to the door. We will have to cut trick or treating short, but go ahead, spread your wings and fly.”Momma said mumbling under her breathe, “I sure hope she doesn’t catch the flu.”

 I didn’t catch the flu in 1966. Getting wet is not how people catch the flu anyway. So in 2009 let those little angels fly, even in the rain. They won’t melt. Take your children to the hay rides, marshmallow roast or trunk or treat. It is exciting to see all the things Christian families get to do this time of year through their church homes. As parents the things you allow your children to participate in will make a huge impact on their future and yours.

 It is amazing how much October 31st has changed over the last forty years. Or possibly I changed. Possibly I learned how the world was. I grew up in a small town in rural North Alabama, I thank God for growing up in a small southern town with Christian American values.

 The festive nature of October 31st was different in Haleyville than in the rest of the world. I have many fond memories of Halloween and none of them involve anything evil or sinister. Halloween was fun. It was all about costumes, candy, pumpkins, family and friends. There were spook houses, apple bobbing, pie throwing, festivals and parties all in fun. We did not have to be afraid, it never crossed our minds. Our parents did not have to be afraid to allow us to be free and have fun in our town.

 I think I have lived long enough now to remember my own generation’s “good old days”. It is a blessing to see young Christian families raising children in 2009, creating their own generation’s “good old days.” I see the love of Jesus overshadowing the evil of the world and it is a joy.

 Back in 1966 my brother did have to come back into the spook house to get me out one time though. The ‘ghost’ made me put my hand in a bowl of ‘eyeballs’. I just stood there, frozen, crying for my brother, refusing to move. Everyone knew me, even the ghost. The workers in the spook house tried to comfort me but I wanted my brother and I wanted him right now! Someone went out to get him, he was standing outside waiting on me. He walked in, took me by the hand and together we got out of there. He said, “What’s wrong, Angela?” “That ‘ghost’ made me put my hand in somebody’s ‘eye-balls’”. I said, wiping my hands and eyes. “That was Randy Johnson and those were meat balls.” He stated assuring me as always.

“Oh. Okay let’s go bob for apples.” I said as we skipped off to the next booth. No lingering emotional trauma. Nobody threatened to sue. It wasn’t that I was so afraid, I just didn’t think it was appropriate for an angel to touch other people’s eyeballs. 

 My older brother and I got to pick our favorite character to dress up like. The picking out and preparing of our outfits was fun too. Usually my Grandmother, whom we called ‘Sweetthing’, sewed and made our costumes. They were always the best ones in Haleyville, to us anyway. Sometimes we got to buy the ones in the box. Either way it was too much fun!

 We went trick or treating two times every year. On October the 30th the youth gathered at the First United Methodist Church in costume. I wish I could find a picture of us standing in line waiting to get our little orange box shaped like a church building. The boxes were used to collect money. Our teachers helped us rehearse, “Trick or Treat for UNICEF”. I can still hear the tune of it in my head. It was a practice run for the next night when we knew we would be getting candy.

 Trick or Treating for UNICEF was important to teach us to give to others first. Masked children scattered around town going door to door collecting money for UNICEF, children learning a valuable lesson. Christian American children happy to be providing for children who would not be getting any candy. The giving made me feel so good. It still does.

I am so thankful I learned early in my life that giving to others is a blessing for us. God tells us to give, not because He needs it. He tells us to give because we need it. We need to give to others. It feels good. Then receiving is much more blessed and easier to accept.

 I didn’t know why we were more blessed than other children in other countries but I knew it was important to help them. Gathering back at the church and counting the money we collected to send to UNICEF was joyful and exciting. Seeing pictures of the children overseas who would be getting the money made us so happy. It is more blessed to give than to receive and Halloween taught us that.

 It didn’t matter if we wanted to dress up like a ghost or like an angel; it was just all in fun and learning. The innocence of childhood and the love of a church bringing honor to the Lord had nothing to do with evil. No one thought it was bad to dress up like a ghoul on Halloween; it was all innocent fun, nothing sinister about it. It was all about love.

Things have changed but the love is still winning.

By Halloween night in 1966 we were ready to receive. We got all kinds of candy. Mother would drive us around to different houses to ‘Trick or Treat’. I never was much of a tricker. I was more the treating kind. I remember the anticipation of going up to the door, little plastic pumpkin in hand saying, “Trick or Treat”. Our pumpkins would fill up very fast. We didn’t have to worry that someone would harm us. There was no fear. We went door to door as Mother drove along in the car. We started at the end of one street and went all the way down that street and back up the other side, knocking on every door. Kids were everywhere. At every door we got a warm welcome and hugs. Grandparents took pictures and everybody gave us candy or some great homemade goody.

My brother would still have Halloween candy at Christmas. I ate all of mine and his too if I could find where he hid it. Halloween in our hometown was not about evil or anything like it. It was about costumes and candy—pure, simple and innocent. Childhood innocence fades with time but it is great while it last.

 When I read the Bible’s description of Heaven, I feel the same feelings as when I was a child trick or treating. Pure and simple innocent love, unconditional happiness and joy. Peace. It reminds me of the hymn writer who penned the words, “How beautiful Heaven must be, the home of the happy and free, fair haven of rest for the weary, how beautiful Heaven must be”. There will be no need for rain in Heaven, so no raincoats. Angels spreading their wings to fly, while the redeemed sing a song of our own. The home of the happy and free. I am so glad there is a place there for me.

 My name is in the book. Is yours? If not, it can be.

 From childhood Halloweens to songs we learned in Sunday school everyone has a choice to love Jesus or to reject His love. Remember the song, “Jesus loves me this I know?” Well, there is a new and updated version for times like these in 2009. “Jesus knows me, this I love.”

This is how much God loved the world: He gave His Son, His one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in Him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending His Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in Him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust Him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him. (John 3:16-18 The Message—emphasis added by author)

 Whosoever believes in Jesus won’t perish but they will have everlasting life, peace, hope, unconditional love, praise, rejoicing, and pure simple, innocent love. Nothing evil or sinister about it.

Be a Whosoever. Happy Halloween. Kiss and hug an angel or a little ghost this year and tell them how much Jesus loves them. When they are 49, they will remember.

 ©2009 Angela Posey-Arnold

 www.angelaposeyarnold.com

The Joy We Share

By Angela Posey-Arnold

“Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced His perfect love.” (1 John 4:18 NLT)

“……and He walks with me and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own.” How I love the great old hymn, “In the Garden”. Hymns bring me closer to Him. (Maybe this is why the songs are called Hymns.) Grand old hymns of the church stand the test of time teaching Biblical truths we hear with our ears and feel in our hearts.

Movies, tangible visuals, on the other hand have a profound lasting effect. I will never forget the first time I saw the movie, “The Passion of The Christ”. Experiencing the movie is probably the closest I will ever come to the reality of the crucifixion as far as actually being there is concerned.

I loved the scenes of Jesus smiling and laughing, teaching and loving. As close as Mr. Gibson came to creating a reality, I believe only heaven will allow us to experience the fullness of Him, the joy, the laughter, His smile like nothing else anyone could ever imagine. In heaven Jesus will take the redeemed by the hand and say to our Father, “she is with Me”. He might have to get angels to carry me because I don’t think I will be able to walk or stand.

The terribly graphic scenes of Mel Gibson’s movie cut like a knife in my soul. To see with my eyes what the crucifixion must have been like for Jesus left me numb. I felt the hurt so deeply I could only shut my eyes to escape the horror of it. As He carried the cruel cross on His torn beaten back, I found myself with my feet up in the seat and my hands tight in a fist. Angry at what they were doing to Him, and aware He endured it for me. I wept and shook, closing my eyes and saying out loud, “stop it, stop it”.

My dear friend Valerie sat silently leaning close to me I could feel her trembling. We couldn’t look at each other and barely could we watch the scene unfolding in front of us. We held hands to keep each other in our seats. I remember thinking, “how can I sit here and watch this?”

How could I not watch? Painful and horrid the truth remained, He did it for me. The love of which is beyond comprehension. As much as I love Him, He loves me more. It is hard to understand sometimes, how He being God could possibly love a weak, silly woman like me. But, He does. He loves me because I am a weak silly woman.

Through His love, behind the very same cross, I am so much more. I am what His love says I am. I am redeemed by love Divine.

I don’t remember falling in love with Jesus. For me it hasn’t been a onetime event. Falling in love with Him happens to me over and over and over. I’ve always loved Him because His grace bore me into a family who loved Him. For His grace I am eternally grateful, so thankful for my parents, grandparents and the church who brought me up in the nurture and admonition of Him. The same precious ones who taught me to sing, “Jesus loves me this I know……”

Digging through piles of first grade report cards and old pictures, I found my baby book one day in Momma’s overstuffed closet. I sat down and read the things she wrote about me. Standing out most in my heart and mind are the words, “Angela loves to hear stories about Jesus.” I still do.

My love for Jesus grows stronger and stronger as He walks with me through my journey here on earth, through trials and storms, betrayals, losses and sadness. He is ever there to love me, catch me when I fall and protect me, giving me strength to survive and live for Him. Even in times when I thought I could make it on my own, He never stopped loving me. I have never stopped loving Him.

As He talks with me through my heart, I hear Him. I know His voice. He never says, “Now Angela, you should not feel this way.” He never turns His back on me or makes me feel I am not important to Him. His everlasting loyalty, His ever present help, His love endures forever. I never have to doubt His love or wonder what His motivation is. My Jesus will never betray me or flippantly toss our relationship aside. He always has time for me. And He will never ever leave me alone. Our love is eternal. He tells me I am His own. He is my Shepherd and I am a happy sheep.

“…….and the joy we share as we tarry there, none other, has ever known.”

My relationship with Jesus is ours and ours alone. No one can take it away. Brothers and sisters in Christ know their own joy in their relationship with Him. It is a personal relationship.

Loving Him is the very one and true thing no one can tell me not to take personally. It is personal, very incredibly awesomely personal. I see Him with my heart, feel Him with my soul and love Him beyond measure.
Everyone has a choice to love Him or not. It is a personal choice and a personal relationship. No one will ever love you like Jesus does. The choice is an easy one for me; my prayer is for each one to choose this awesome love, love like no other.

And so, I sing, loving Him and aware of the sacrifice He made for me……. “I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses, and the voice I hear falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses…And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own. And the joy we share as we tarry there, none other, has ever known.

He speaks and the sound of His voice, is so sweet the birds hush their singing, and the melody that He gave to me, with in my heart is singing……………………………………

©Angela Posey-Arnold 2009

To Love Jesus
To love Him is to wake every morning
And welcome the day as a new beginning
It is to trust and believe in miracles
And know your dreams really can come true.

To love Him is to see His power
Through faith eyes
And see angels dancing on the clouds
In the bluest of skies.

To love Him is to be awe-inspired
At the wonder of a star dusted sky
And the majesty of the One Who
Really hung the moon.

To love Him is to embrace the value
Of a nurturing servant heart
The sparkle in a child’s eyes and the wisdom
And beauty of aging hands.

To love Him is to learn to love
The things He loves
Pure, free, grace and mercy
And breathe in His breath of life.

To love Him is to find strength and courage
From His spirit within you
When it is time to pick up the pieces
And begin again.

To Love Him is to surely know you never are alone
Life is a gift to be cherished
Lived to be more like Him
Seeing Him on His Throne

To love Him is to believe that wonderful surprises
Are just around the corner
All your hopes are within reach
If only you love Him.

©Angela Posey-Arnold 2009