It’s the Eyes!

When I was less than a year old, my biological brother was born. We were adopted—by different sets of parents. He was raised by a family about 20 miles from where I grew up, but it wasn't until I did some research after our first child was born that I even learned I had a brother. Much to my surprise, there was another human being with the same set of parents as me, a concept totally foreign to me having been raised in an adopted family.

Tom and I met each other face-to-face about 8 years ago for the first time. We met yesterday for the second time when I traveled to Tampa to be with him for his wife's memorial service—she passed away on December 21^st.

Although there are some similarities between us, it's the eyes that gives us away. When I look into his eyes, it's like I'm looking into the mirror. We both are prematurely gray, we both have the same shaped legs and our toes look the same. We both have short necks and fair skin. But it's the eyes that takes away any doubt to anyone who sees us together … we're definitely siblings.

Amy Grant sang a song back in the 80's called "My Father's Eyes". Looking at the eyes is like looking into the heart – there's a depth in the eyes that goes past the natural color, shape, clarity, etc. When someone looks into my eyes, I want them to see "My Father's Eyes", looking into His heart as it is being formed in me.

What or who do people see when they look into your eyes? While it blesses me to know there's another set of eyes out there that look like mine, I pray that more than anything people see "My Father's Eyes" when they look at me—His heart emanating from the innermost part of my being.

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© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

How Concerned Is God About My Happiness?

As I talk with people day after day, it's so obvious everyone is dealing with something. And, in their dealing with whatever challenge they face, everyone responds differently. Standing for a marriage, a healing, salvation of loved ones—all of these take a lot of determination and strength. A combination of faith and obedience is necessary in order to handle what we feel with our emotions and what we see with our eyes. It's so easy to get caught up in "feelings"; they ultimately turn the focus on US rather than on God and what His purpose is for us in the call to stand in faith on His promises to us.

There comes a time when we finally have to give it all over to God and just focus on pursuing our relationship with Christ, raising our children, making a home for them, etc. This, unfortunately, is an important part of any stand: letting go and letting God do the work that it's so obvious we cannot do on our own. We can't change the hearts of our husbands, we can't change the progression of disease, or the eternal destiny of a loved one ... only God can. But, we CAN change our own hearts as we learn to conform to the will of God.

There is a statement, however, that I've heard so many Christians use—something that is simply not true. Our unhappiness leads us to somehow believe that God wants us to be happy. We map out our own futures based on our belief that God doesn't expect us to live in unhappy circumstances. This often leads us to do and say things that ultimately focus on US rather than on the reality of our Christlikeness.

God never, never, never in His Word made any effort to make His people "happy". Our happiness is never guaranteed and it's certainly not a promise of God we can stand on as we set the course of our lives.

On the contrary, "happiness" is a state of mind that comes from contentment. And contentment is what God wants for us—not in our circumstances, but in Him and His ability to provide for us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). God is the only One who can truly satisfy. He is the only One who can give us true contentment.

The Apostle Paul learned this through his life—he learned to be content in whatever circumstances of life he found himself in.

Phil 4:11-13
"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

No matter what Paul went through, he found contentment which is really what we're searching for—it's what we call "happiness" or "joy". Paul also made another powerful statement through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit:

James 1:2-8 (KJV)
"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways."

Be careful to read every word of that scripture because it tells us what happens when we fail to find joy (peace and contentment) in our circumstances … we become a double-minded man, wavering, and unable to receive anything from the Lord.

God never guaranteed Adam or Eve happiness. He never guaranteed Abraham happiness. He never guaranteed Moses, or David, or Isaiah, or the prophets, or the apostles that they would live a life of happiness. But He DID promise that He would satisfy their every longing—that He would provide for them what their soul longed for. He promised He would lead them and never forsake them. He promised He would give them joy unspeakable and full of glory—if they would obey His Word. This is not equivalent to the earth's "happiness"; this is an ETERNAL joy that has no bearing on whether or not we get what we want, have what we want, or find what we are so desperately searching for.

1 John 1:1-4 (KJV)
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full."

What makes our joy full? Fellowship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ, the Word of Life—the Life manifested and bearing witness in us through the eternal life which has been given to us as children of the Most High God.

Joy, happiness, and contentment are guaranteed us in Christ, not that we attain positions or possessions, but that we find peace in Christ Jesus who gave His all that we might find satisfaction in Him to the point that nothing else in life matters—not marital bliss, not pain-free life, not even the salvation of a loved one. And, when we come to that point, we can let go of all that matters and let God do as He wills because we have already found what we seek after – true joy and contentment.

If we can't find that place in God, our lives will continue to be miserable and wretched as we continue to seek after that which was never promised to us. Don't set your goal in natural happiness or in satisfaction from things on this earth. We are eternal creatures, living but a short span of time on this earth in order that our eternal joy may be full. It's a small price to pay, even if we life to be 100 – it's nothing compared to eternity.

So, let go of the idea that God wants you happy. God wants you established in His kingdom, fulfilling His purposes in you and through you. This is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

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© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

“…and Ransom Captive Israel”

My heart is deeply touched this morning with these words. As I get ready for our Christmas service this morning at church, the words to an age-old Christmas carol wrap their arms around my heart and squeeze until there impression is forever left behind:

O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan's tyranny
From depths of Hell Thy people save
And give them victory o'er the grave
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Day-Spring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night
And death's dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Key of David, come,
And open wide our heavenly home;
Make safe the way that leads on high,
And close the path to misery.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, O come, Thou Lord of might,
Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai's height,
In ancient times did'st give the Law,
In cloud, and majesty and awe.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

My prayer forever shall be, "and ransom captive Israel". Will you join me today in praying for the peace of Jerusalem?

Lord, lead captive Israel to her Deliverer. The price has already been paid. Lead her forth from the Egypt of blindness and unbelief. Open her eyes and reveal to her the Key of David. Make her safe on the way that leads to our Emmanuel. Draw captive Israel from the depths of hell and give them victory o'er the grave through their Redeemer Deliverer … Emmanuel—Yeshua, the Christ! In Jesus' name, amen!

_________________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

You Don’t Have To Be Sightless To Be Blind

A blind man stumbled along a busy city sidewalk using his cane to guide him. Moving through the crowds, he mumbled words only those close to him could hear: "I see! I see!"

A handicapped woman was late for work; she, too, stumbled along the busy city sidewalks. Worried she may lose her job, she tried to hurry past the blind man until she heard his words: "I see! I see!"

Curiosity demanded she stop. "Sir, obviously you can't see. What do you mean 'I see'…I'm not sure I understand."

The blind man eagerly responded. "You don't have to be sightless to be blind. I am blind, but I see more than most. Oh yes, I see!"

Suddenly unaware of the time, the woman began to inquire of the blind man. The more he spoke, the more aware she became of her own blindness—it became more real than her own frail body. Right there on the busy street the blind man prayed with her. When she opened her eyes, she began to see like never before.

Remembering the hour, she hugged the blind man and left. With a new spring in her halted steps, she echoed his words: "I see! I see!" All the way down the sidewalk she was so amazed at the sight she had—her sin was gone, she was free from guilt and shame. She had been blind though she had sight. Now she had sight with renewed strength, and she could see.

The handicapped woman arrived at work, late as usual. But the change in her was obvious; her employer inquired of her. "Are you feeling better today?"

With a smile and a tear in her eye, the woman spoke, "I am lame, but now my strength is renewed. I have been blind but now I see…I see!"

How is your sight today?

Lord, open my eyes that I may see my need for a closer walk with Jesus Christ, the One who renews my strength and makes my blind eyes see…draw me ever closer, Lord, Thee. Amen.

"At that very time Jesus cured many who had diseases,
sicknesses and evil spirits,
and gave sight to many who were blind."
(Luke 7:21 NIV)

_________________
© Jan Ross 2007
All Rights Reserved

It’s Snowing!

He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. (Psalm 147.16 NIV)

Having grown up in the northern US, I am accustomed to snow and not just a little bit. My memory takes me back to the times I walked to school with snow up to my hips. I fondly reminisce about drifts of snow as high as the roof of our house, climbing a ladder and sledding down far into the back yard.

Then there were the days Dad tied the toboggan on top of the car and took us to the ravine not far away where the slopes were long and exciting for all snow-lovers. I really think he was as much a kid as we were—maybe even more so!

This morning, I woke up earlier than usual. We were experiencing a winter storm with a mixture of rain, snow, sleet, and ice. As the wintry mix pounded against the window by my bed, I was reminded once again of the magnificence of our God and His incomparable artistry.

I had to get up…something new, something fresh, something marvelously unique was happening outside. I couldn't sleep knowing that millions and millions of unique snowflakes were being fitly joined together to form a blanket of pure white, hiding the mud and slush beneath. Imagine for just a moment, looking down from heaven on the earth once laced with grime and filth now covered with a pristine blanket of purity. What a picture! What an inspiration!

Psalm 51:7 comes to mind as I look out the window several hours later as snow is still blowing: "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow."

What could be whiter than the fresh-fallen snow? The answer should be enough to jump start your day: The only thing whiter than fresh-fallen snow is a heart that is cleansed by the precious blood of the Lamb of God.

Have you been washed whiter than snow? If not, let's pray:

Prayer: Father, I confess that I need a Savior—my heart stands in need of cleansing so I, too, can be pure and white—whiter than the fresh driven snow. In Jesus' name, amen.

Country Cousins

The words "Over the River and Through the Woods" have special meaning to me. Our grandparents had all passed on, but we had something better--cousins who lived in the country. Allow me the privilege of reminiscing just a bit....

It was like clockwork. You could count on it year after year. Early, before the sun rose, we would get up and sneak into the living room. The streetlight reflected off the white snow creating a mysterious spotlight on the tree and all that lay beneath.

Dad always heard the scampering of our feet and got out of bed to get his movie camera ready. He soon appeared with the light-bar and camera to capture us peeking at the names on all the packages under the tree. Of course, there were no sneaky pictures back then. We became good actors under Dad's direction.

As soon as he flipped the switch on the wall, the tree lit up and the Christmas train began its journey around and around and around the tree. Each year Dad added one or two more cars to the Christmas train. He loved his trains. Any other time, the basement was filled with trains and landscape scenery, and the sound of cars chugging around the tracks.

The handmade stockings were hung on the fireplace, where the embers from the fire the night before were still smoldering. A quick poke and a smattering of fresh kindling, and the fire was blazing once again.

The glass of milk and small plate of homemade cookies left for Santa were mysteriously empty, an obvious sign he'd been at our house. Dad once again turned on the light-bar and aimed the camera at the hallway. Mom emerged--the light of his life until the day he died.

Aunt Lu always spent the night on Christmas Eve. She didn't have a family of her own and was very involved in ours. She babysat us while Mom and Dad visited with friends and neighbors on Christmas Eve, their own adult tradition. Presents for her were included under the tree.

Mom was quite the decorator. Her tree was always done exquisitely with blue and green lights, blue and green glass balls, and silver tinsel. The star on top stood out in contrast; it was only by Dad's insistence she even allowed it. In later years, she called it the "sputnik" because it reminded her of a satellite. I'll never forget the scowl on her face every year he stood on a chair to put it on top of the tree. I look back and realize he probably loved watching Mom's scowl more than he loved the ornament. He was a tease--always!

Mom brought out some hot chocolate and kuchen for us to nibble on while we opened presents. We were giddy with delight and couldn't wait to see who would be first. We took turns--it was Mom's way of keeping order in her family. One gift at a time was opened, while all looked on with excitement under the hot floodlights.

Before long, all the fancy wrapping was gone and toys were stowed away under the tree. It was time to get ready for Church. Adorned with our Christmas outfits, we walked into the Church and took our usual seat in the third row on the right side of the sanctuary. Although the sanctuary was cold, Mom always made us take off our coats so everyone could see our new outfits.

Immediately after the service, we went back home. The tree looked different in full daylight. Now that the excitement was over, the magic of beautifully-wrapped gifts was gone. Dad turned on the train again as it began its eternal journey around the tree; he sat down with a cup of coffee to admire his new cars. Mom and Aunt Lu were busy in the kitchen making a snack before we left for Uncle Ray's.

The trunk of the car was already packed with ice skates, scarves, gloves, hats, leggings, and boots. Dad tied the toboggan atop the car. A quick bite to eat and we were on our way--over the river and through the woods to Uncle Ray's country home.

The trip usually took about two hours--probably the longest journey we knew as children, not because of the distance, but the anticipation of what lay ahead caused us to count the minutes until we turned down the familiar dirt road.

I couldn't wait to see Fred, my favorite cousin. His older brother, Larry, was okay, but he wasn't too interested in us until we got out on the ice. Boys from a neighboring farm joined us on the ice for a wild and frenzied time of hockey. Larry loved ice hockey, and although we only played once or twice a year, he considered us ample opponents since he could hit the puck right past us every time. Arlene was my shining star. She skated like a ballerina, so light on her feet; she was so beautiful.

Fred and I usually left the game--the older boys were too aggressive for us. We loved the barn and we'd climb in the hay, swing from a rope tied to the rafters, tumble a few times, and run through the snow back to the house. Back and forth, running and throwing snowballs, and working up an appetite for Christmas dinner.

Eventually, Uncle Ray stepped out the back door and rang the big cast iron dinner bell. Its bellow could be heard all around.

Everyone came running, tracking snow and ice into the basement door. We all brought our frozen gloves upstairs and laid them on the open oven door to dry while we ate. We didn't want to have to wait any longer than necessary to return to the winter wonderland of snow, hills, ice, and fun.

When everyone was finally seated at the huge, crowded dining room table, Uncle Ray stood to ask the blessing.

"Lord, we thank thee for this food, for family and friends, for memories of Christmas past and for the joy of fellowship today. We give thee thanks for thy Son, Jesus Christ, whose birth we celebrate together as family. For thy bountiful blessings, we give thee thanks. Amen."

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© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved
Featured in FaithWriters Magazine in December 2007

Are You Ready for Christmas?

The streets are busy, the malls are full, and everyone's making plans. The most common question you hear this season is: "So, are you ready for Christmas?" How do we respond? Are we truly ready for Christmas?

Dictionary.com (Unabridged) defines Christmas as "the annual festival of the Christian church commemorating the birth of Jesus: celebrated on December 25."

The American Heritage Dictionary defines Christmas as "A Christian feast commemorating the birth of Jesus; December 25, the day on which this feast is celebrated."

The Kernerman English Multilingual Dictionary (Beta Version) defines Christmas as "a Christian feast commemorating the birth of Jesus; a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Christ."

American Heritage New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition defines Christmas as "a festival commemorating the birth of Jesus, traditionally celebrated on December 25 by most Western Christian churches. Although dating to probably as early as a.d. 200, the feast of Christmas did not become widespread until the Middle Ages."

The simple question, "Are you ready for Christmas" is an open door to share the good news of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. It may not be "politically correct" but it certainly is spiritually pertinent—not to some, not only to Christians, but to all mankind.

How ready are we to celebrate the birth of Jesus? How would Jesus have us celebrate His birth?

We all know the commercialism of Christmas has gotten way out of hand. People nearly bankrupt themselves each year in order to provide gifts and host parties and such during the Christmas season. But is that what Jesus really wants? It seems to me when we celebrate someone's birthday, we should be designing the celebration to please the One whose birthday we celebrate. What would be the best gift we could possibly give Him?

There's a song I remember from my childhood that seems to answer this question in a simple way:

What Can I Give Him?
By Christina Rossetti

What can I give Him,
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd,
I would bring a lamb.
If I were a wise man,
I would do my part,
But, what can I give Him?
Give Him my Heart.

The essence of the simple song captures the heart of Christ, not only at Christmas but throughout the year. If we are to celebrate His birth, His life, His death, and His resurrection, let's give Him what He wants most – the hearts of all mankind.

So, next time someone asks you, "Are you ready for Christmas?" go ahead and share with them that you have already given Him the gift He longs for most. Then, use the opportunity to share the true meaning of Christmas and the one gift that represents the spirit of Christmas—a surrendered heart.

God bless you this Christmas. May your celebration be one that reflects the gift that is most pleasing to the One whose birth we celebrate!

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© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Blessed…Simply Blessed!

When our children were little, life was hectic (to say the least). For those who don't know the details, after nearly five years of being childless, we were miraculously (proven and verifiably—undeniably miraculously) blessed with Andrew. Then, along came Dana about 18 months later. Then, Debbie showed up 12 months later. With three little ones under three, we felt a strong leading of the Lord to open our home and adopt older "special needs" kids. Barbara and Martha came to live with us when Debbie was about 9 months old; about a year and a half later, Glen became our sixth child. With busy toddlers and older children needing special care and attention, our days were non-stop for many years. Then, Martha went off to attend Christ For the Nations in Dallas, Barbara married Freddie, and Glen found Hope (we always knew there was hope for Glen J). When Glen and Hope married, Andrew graduated high school, then Dana, then Debbie. Soon we were having grandbabies—not just a few, but lots of them! At present count, there are thirteen with another due in May. Yep, we're blessed … simply blessed!

This past weekend we were in Kentucky for our family Christmas. Glen and Hope opened up their home to the whole crew. With five kids of their own, it seemed more logical for us to go there than for everyone to travel up north to the frozen tundra where our house isn't geared for babies and there aren't ample toys to keep thirteen kids occupied while adults visit!

But this Nana is sitting here today simply full – full of wonderment of God's ability to multiply blessings! I can't express to you what it's like to hold the evidence of the love and covenant commitment my husband and I have shared for nearly 36 years, all wrapped up in little warm, cuddly bundles of love called grandchildren. Although the oldest is getting ready to graduate from high school, they're still our bundles of love, from the oldest to the youngest.

I look back at my own childhood. I was adopted and, for me, it was hard to understand the deep meaning of family. I had a great family, but there was no real "connection". I didn't look like anybody, aunts and uncles couldn't look into my eyes and see the image of their own children. There was no resemblance to anyone else. Suddenly, when my own children began to have babies, I saw their Papa's ears, their Nana's eyes, their mama's hair, their daddy's toes. There was a connection! It was a revelation that just blew me away!

But, then I noticed something else. Our adopted children's children bear the resemblance of their own parents and, undoubtedly, they have their natural grandparent's ears and eyes and hair and toes. But I see something else … I see in them some of what we imparted to their parents as they were being raised in our home. I see a love for God, a gentle and kind spirit, a need to give of themselves for others. I see in our adopted kids' children their Papa's gentle ways, their Nana's ability to love, as well as their own mommy and daddy's physical features. How remarkable is this! And, it reminds me of our own "adopted" Father, who took us—children of the father of this world—and made us His and raised us as His own. I'm reminded that we bear the resemblance of our Heavenly Father—not physically, but inside, in our hearts, our motives, our personalities, and our spirits. Yes! The resemblance is there!

I'm overwhelmed this morning with pure amazement of how the Lord can take two young people like Ron and I were all those years ago and build in us and through us such a marvelous family—not a perfect family, but a family nonetheless.

Lord, I am blessed … simply blessed! Thank You from the bottom of my heart for such a wonderful time of reunion with our children and grandchildren. I miss them all so much, but I know we're here for a reason and I've found contentment here because of You. But, Lord, this morning I ask You to bless my children—bless them with Your abundance, with Your presence, and with Your love. Watch over our grandchildren. Instill in them a heart to serve You all the days of their lives. Establish Your Kingdom in them as You increase Your Kingdom through them, from the youngest to the oldest. Lord, bless Glen and Hope, Dale and Martha, Freddie and Barbara, Andrew, Dana, and Debbie and Tim. Watch over and guard the hearts of Jacob, McKenzie, Logan, Lyndsey, Hayden, Daniel, Lydia, Joshua, Abraham, Brandon, Dylan, Levi, and Macailyn. Keep them ONLY unto Yourself. Into Your most capable hands we commit our huge and still growing family, that You might be glorified and Your Kingdom increased. Use each one, Lord, to spread the Good News that Jesus Christ is Lord of all. Yes, Lord, Ron and I are blessed … simply blessed in all You have done to make us into a family. We may be a bit disjointed at times, we may suffer from the distance between us, but we are family and recognize the awesome privilege and honor to be part of Your plan and purpose in this generation. Amen and Amen!

__________________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Bless It Forward

I read a letter from a friend this morning and that contained a statement that jumped out at me. "Never keep something that God has intended for you to give away."

Woah! It hit me like a ton of bricks! Yes! It makes sense in light of the fact that everything we have in life is borrowed or on loan from God. Our ownership, regardless of how many legal papers we have proving ownership, is only temporary; ultimately all that we have belongs to the Lord.

Ps 24:1 bears this out: "The earth is the LORD's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein." If the Lord entrusts something to us, we must be careful to do with it as He leads—if it is to give away, give it away!

I've come to believe one of the problems with the Body of Christ is that we're not listening closely enough to God for instruction. We assume everything He gives us is to benefit us personally when, in fact, most of that which He gives us is intended to be given away.

I'm reminded of a movie I saw once—I think it was called "Pay It Forward". Well, I believe the same principle exists in the Kingdom of God except it would be called "Bless It Forward". Rather than giving to someone because they have given to you … give to someone BEFORE they give to you out of sheer obedience to God.

Bless others BEFORE you've been blessed. Take what you have: talent, energy, encouraging words, material wealth, abilities, etc., and begin to give it away. Why? Simply because God already owns these things in us. Remember? "The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein." (Psalm 24:1) Everything we are, He has given to us – not to keep or to squander on ourselves. Not to fill our heart with pride or self-satisfaction because of our achievements. Not to make us feel like we have achieved some status level in the Kingdom of God. But, simply because God gave these things to us intending for us to give them away.

Don't wait for others to pour into your lap the abundant blessings of this Christmas season. Take the initiative to give—not just a little, not just a token, but ALL that God has given to you because chances are that God never intended you to keep what you have … He intended to use you as a single link in a chain that continues blessing His people again and again and again.

Got talent? Give it away!

Got gifts? Give them away?

Got abilities? Give them away?

Got money? Give it away?

Been blessed with nice things that bless you? Bless someone else with them. The blessing you will derive will far surpass the blessing of keeping those 'nice things'.

"…The Lord Jesus himself said: `It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (Acts 20:35 NIV)

Bless It Forward. Not only this Christmas season, but all year long!

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© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

It’s Snowing!

This morning I woke up early … before the sun even thought about rising, an unusual occurrence for me! I came out to sit in the recliner and realized the ground was indeed white. It snowed over night and is still flurrying even as I write this morning.

As I look out at the snow and feel the reminiscent chills shiver through my body, my memory takes me on a flight in times past when my Dad took us sledding. We had so much fun! I remember the year he bought our toboggan – it was large enough for 6 adults or about 10 kids. When we took it to the hills, people gathered around—everyone wanted a ride. And what a ride it gave! Slick as a whistle, sliding down the hillside farther and faster than any sled. It's length spanned the little creek at the bottom of the hill and gave us a ride that seemed to take us into the next county! What a delight!

Of course, there were the times we drove to Uncle Ray's house, smack-dab in the middle of the snow belt in Geauga County. I couldn't wait to see my cousins…Fred was my favorite. His older brother, Larry, was okay but he wasn't too interested in us until we all got out on the ice. Uncle Ray had two—not just one, but TWO ponds on his property back behind the big red barn. Boys from neighboring farms would join us on the ice for a wild and frenzied time of hockey. Larry loved ice hockey and although we only played a few times each year, he considered us ample opponents since he could hit the puck right past us every time.

Fred and I usually left the game—the older boys were too aggressive for us. We would go treasure hunting in the barn, normally ending up in the loft where there was a rope tied to the rafters. We'd swing on the rope and tumble into the hay loosely bailed below. Such a treat! J

I can remember running back and forth from the house to the barn, making snow angels, snow forts, having snowball fights. We even made an igloo one year large enough to stand in.

Oh, and who could forget the sound of the dinner bell! Aunt Ruth would send Uncle Ray outside to ring the bell … something hot and delicious was always waiting for us. We'd all come running, shed our boots and gloves and scarves and hats hoping they'd dry off while we were eating. Sometimes we took our gloves upstairs and put them on the open oven door after Auth Ruth took her goodies out.

Such memories come with the first real snows of winter! What an amazing delight it is to know God's artistry in this visible earth was made not only for His delight, but to bless us as well.

Thank You, Lord, for the beauty of this earth. I can't wait to see the beauty of Your eternal throne—my eternal home! What a sight it must be! You're incredible, Lord … who can compare to You?

___________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Christmas is Coming and I’m Pooped Already!

Well, I suppose the title is a little out of character for me, but facts are facts. On December 4 I am already tired. The house isn't completely decorated yet, there are still gifts to purchase for grandchildren, the cooking and the baking and all the womanly responsibilities that go with the season … I run out of breath just thinking about it all!

We have our family Christmas this next weekend and I can't begin to count how much is left to do to prepare for it. With 13 (going on 14) grandchildren waiting to see what goodies Nana and Papa are bringing, we can't let them down. Our adult children haven't been together for an entire year … do you know what it means to this Mama to have all her youngin's under the same roof again? My heart is about to burst!

But, why do we put ourselves through this year after year after year? Every year it seems like the season comes faster and every year it seems harder and harder to go through the process of tree, decorations, wreaths, candles, nativities, and lights. Why? What's the purpose of it all anyway? If it's so hard, why do we bother?

Thanks! I'm glad you asked, partly because I need the reminder—we all do! The reason why has more to do with 'The Reason Who' than anything.

Jesus: The Reason Who

As I was reading in Isaiah 7 last night and saw the promise of Immanuel who would bring true deliverance to God's people, I got my reality check … the one I needed—the one I need every Christmas season. The trees, boxes of decorations, lights, candles, and wreaths, although somewhat symbolic, stand in the shadow of the True Light, the Messiah, the King, born of a virgin—the seed of woman (Huh? Only men have seed!)—such a miracle birth of unprecedented enormity. A birth that continues to impact this world thousands of years later. Surely, Jesus is "The Reason Who".

When my focus is turned once again to Him, when the songs of the ancients reel through my heart point to the magnificent glory of such an advent, I am assured that there is indeed good reason for my labors of love.

Yesterday as I was decorating our tree, I found myself singing (I always do that when I'm alone—no one else would want to hear it!). Sometimes songs just bubble up out of nowhere and I'm not even aware of what I'm singing until I stop to listen. Yesterday's song eludes me right now, but I can already feel a new song today—I don't even know all the words, but the words that speak to me are the words I remember. I just take some liberties and make up the rest of the words to reflect the praise in my heart. And, really, there's so much to praise God for! Jesus! He's the Answer! He's the Reason! He's Everything! He fills in the blanks when the praise is directed toward Him.

Jesus: He brings sanity in my insane world. Jesus: He makes my songs complete. Jesus: He gives me the strength to press on during these weeks of Christmas activities with family and church and friends and loved ones. Jesus: His Presence energizes me and makes everything all right!

Today and tomorrow as I prepare for our weekend with the family, I'll continue to reflect on the Deliverer who touched this earth with His holy Presence as a babe born to a virgin girl who gave her permission to God to use her as He saw fit … "Be it unto me according to Your will." I can't imagine the sacrifice she made to simply be obedient to Yahweh. Her time of preparation for the birth of the Son of God demanded things of her we'll never understand. Yet, she did it—with contentment in her heart knowing that the Babe she was carrying was indeed the Deliverer the prophets had spoken of hundreds of years before.

Enjoy your Christmas preparations this year. Enjoy your family and your friends and the times of fellowship together. But never … NEVER forget Jesus: The Reason Who! You may be like me and feel like your energies are already expended before the season really begins. But focusing on remembering not only "why" but "WHO" gets me through and it will you, too!

Have a blessed Christmas season. May all your toil be a labor of love because of Jesus: The Reason Who!

__________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

 

I Can’t Believe It!

Startling News: It's nearly 6:30 am and I'm awake! Well, that's not the news that startles me today. What startles me is that it's December 1 already and the year is nearly gone. But with the old year nearly gone it means there's a new year dawning just over the horizon—a new year filled with new opportunities to serve the Lord.

There isn't a lot of time this morning to write … I teach today in Columbus. But I just wanted to share another "I Can't Believe It!" with you … it has to do with the Annapolis Summit and the way so many are led to believe that partitioning Israel is a good idea. While it may seem good in man's eyes, it is in direct violation to the covenant God made thousands of years ago with Abraham—a covenant that has never been broken by Him, and is still in effect through Abraham's descendants through his child of promise, Isaac.

I've watched the news, read reports, listened to historians talk on the issue. There are so many differing opinions, even among the church. But why? Why does the church not take God's Word for what it says? Why can't the church stand in support of God's covenant. Israel was never replaced by the church … scripture bears it out that the church was "grafted in". God's heart is still moved with great love and compassion toward Israel as He looks forward to the day of complete restoration, when she acknowledges Yeshua as her Messiah.

Many argue that the Palestinians are the ones being displaced. They argue on behalf of Palestinian Christians who are victims of Israel—unbelieving Israel—asking where is the justice? My only answer to that is God's justice is beyond our comprehension. We cannot apply man's reasoning to God's reasoning; we cannot apply our criteria for justice to God's ways. God's ways are indeed higher than man's; man's reasoning is but foolishness to God.

But I have a question. Where are those who are appointed and anointed to preach the truth? Why are they not teaching the Palestinian Christians the truth? This may seem like a strange observation, but here's what I see. In talking to my friends in India who were born Hindu and raised in the Hindu way, when they become Christians and begin to study the Word, they understand covenant and they understand God's promise to Israel. They don't have a problem with God's heart toward Israel. When I talk with my friends in Kenya who are born and raised without religion or with a form of a mixture of culture and religion, when they become true believers and begin to study the Word, they have no trouble accepting the fact that God has made promises to Israel and He will keep His promises to them.  No questions! 

So, why is it when Palestinians become Christians, they aren't taught the Word the same way?  Why do they still see themselves as the victims?  We're all victims—not of political pressures or economic pressures or cultural pressures, we're all victims of being born with a sin nature, with flesh that would rather rebel against God than conform to His Word.  To not teach the Palestinian Christians the truth of God's Word concerning Israel, or to allow them to maintain their jealousy over land that was undoubtedly given to Israel by God Himself, is wrong—wrong on the part of those teaching and preaching the Word to the Palestinian converts.  Just as Gentiles have to reckon with the fact that Israel is God's chosen people and we're "grafted in" through the shed blood of Jesus, the Palestinian Christians need to reckon with the fact that God has a plan for them, but it's God's plan they need to conform to.  To pitch fit after fit about land that the Scripture proves has belonged to Israel as a result of God's covenant with Abraham through Isaac is to rebel against the very Truth they claim to believe as born-again Christians.

Where are the preachers? Where are the shepherds? Where are those who are bold enough to proclaim truth? If Palestinian Christians were taught the truth, they wouldn't feel like victims any more than you or I feel like victims of the enemy. It would be understood that we all have battles to face in this life—some because of our natural heritage, some because of the decisions we make in life, and some simply because we proclaim the name of Jesus the Messiah. But we ALL have battles!

Paul teaches us that it is a privilege to suffer for the cause of Christ. This is what needs to be preached throughout the earth, including the Palestinian Christians. "To live is Christ, to die is gain" is the motto of the persecuted Church.

It saddens me that the Palestinian Church is persecuted—I pray for them, and I pray that God will send laborers to them who will dare to preach the truth to them. But the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ is persecuted in many nations … we should be praying for all our brothers and sisters in the faith, that God would strengthen them and give them the courage to stand in the face of persecution for their faith.

These are just my thoughts this morning. But, I really wonder if the whole issue couldn't be more simply viewed as more a problem with the Shepherds and Teachers/Preachers who are not preaching/teaching the truth to the Palestinian Church than it is with the people themselves, although they generally act out what they are taught. 

There needs to be a revival of Truth in the ministerial gifting of pastor, teacher, evangelist, prophet, and apostle.  Too much truth is being conceded in order to please the people.  The message of the Gospel isn't an easy message.  But the Palestinians are no more victims than you and I are because we're all subject to the temptations of this sinful flesh.  God teaches us to be TRANSFORMED by the RENEWING OF THE MIND so that God's will can be seen.  That even means the Palestinian Christians who still feel the land belongs to them. It's deception clear and clear.

Let's pray that God will reveal the truth, but more than that, let's pray that Israel's eyes will be opened to the truth, that the Palestinian Church will open their eyes to the truth, and that the Prince of Peace will soon be acknowledged as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem … Sha'alu Shalom Yerushalayim!

Black Friday

The term perplexes me and I'm not at all sure I'm comfortable even forming the words in my mouth.

In today's culture, black represents death or the absence of light. Black is associated with darkness, evil, hiddenness, and the anti-norm. Why would one choose to give thanks on Thursday and at midnight be filled with excitement about "Black Friday"?

Perhaps, however, there is a correlation as it traditionally marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. Think about it for a moment…spending money we don't have, purchasing gifts no one really needs, storefronts decorated with holiday scenes absent of the true meaning of Christmas, people shoving and grabbing and pushing ahead of others, unparalleled displays of selfishness and self-exaltation as shoppers flaunt their ability to buy the best gifts or be first in line for the best bargains. Yep…there is a correlation as the behavior of so many reflects anything less than the Light of the World whose birthday they claim to celebrate.

I've argued with myself even—I could sent out an email to the mailing list and offer special purchase prices for products that haven't sold that would increase the ministry's revenue this month. I could make an appeal on behalf of the "Christmas Spirit" asking friends and partners to help us provide for the mission outreaches in India, Kenya, and Uganda. But to do so would make my heart no different than the hearts of the money-hungry store owners manipulating the public into shopping at their store, maxing out their credit cards to fill their bank accounts. I won't do it although I admit a battle within even as I type this.

When I consider the millions of dollars being passed between customer and cashier today, I'm grieved. Can you imagine what even one percent of today's revenues would mean to a country like India or Uganda or Kenya? Can you even fathom what even a few hundred dollars would mean to the lepers who live on a pension equivalent to $1.50 a month? Can you imagine what a small investment would mean to pastors who give up their entire lives to minister the gospel to people in remote villages in India where Hinduism and superstition have blinded the eyes of so many? What about those in the regions in Kenya or Uganda where children sleep in piles of rubbish, abandoned to the streets to a life of drugs and prostitution? What about the widows whose husbands have died of AIDS who themselves have been infected—is there no relief for them? Can people actually spend all their money to buy toys that will be broken in a few days or clothes nobody really wants or technology that will fill the minds of young people with useless knowledge as they're dumbed-down and desensitized to life's real meaning?

I guess when I think about it, today really is a "black" Friday. Not in the sense the media has intended, but as we consider the culture of death that supports such an atrocious, nonsensical splurge of money that could mean the difference between life and death to those who will never know what it's like to open a prettily wrapped present lost in the menagerie of ribbons and sparkles under a brightly-lit tree supposed to represent life that can only be found in Christ.

We won't be going shopping today. It may be "Black Friday" for everyone else, but for us today offers another opportunity to sow into the Kingdom of God in the hopes we can make the difference for at least one person—one forgotten soul wondering if he or she will find enough garbage to exist at least one more day.

____________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Crying Wolf

A shepherd-boy, who watched a flock of sheep near a village, brought out the villagers three or four times by crying, "Wolf! Wolf!" and when his neighbors came to help him, laughed at them for their pains.

The wolf, however, did truly come at last. The shepherd-boy, now really alarmed, shouted in an agony of terror: "Pray, do come and help me; the wolf is killing the sheep" but no one paid any heed to his cries, nor rendered any assistance. The wolf, having no cause of fear, at his leisure destroyed the whole flock.

The moral of the story: There is no believing a liar, even when he speaks the truth.

"May the LORD answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you." (Psalm 20:1 NIV)

Aesop wrote many fables that teach hard lessons. This particular fable has stirred in my heart many times, particularly in today's culture where it is accepted to take the Lord's name in vain. While the Lord promises He will never turn His back on us and He will always heed our call, I often wonder if He doesn't tire of the many times we cry out, "Oh my God!" as an expletive without really meaning to invoke His presence in prayer.

Psalm 124:8 reminds us "Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."

Proverbs 18:10 tells us, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

When we're hurting, we want to know the Lord will hear our cries. When pain overwhelms us and we cry out, "My Lord!" we need to know He's near. When we're too weak to get out of bed, we need to know we can call on the name of the Lord for strength.

Honor the name of the Lord. Call upon Him in your time of trouble. He will answer.

Father, forgive me for the times I've misused Your holy name. Oh Lord, hear my cries and answer when I am in distress. In Jesus' name, amen!

______________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Where’s Your Heart?

"Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honor me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men" (Isaiah 29:13)

As I read this verse this evening, my heart was pierced! Immediately I asked myself, is my relationship with God based on how other's perceive Him or is it based on first-hand knowledge derived from a personal relationship with Him. The very thought that my Lord may look at us and say, "These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me" brings tears to my eyes. Surely His Church is made up of people whose hearts have drawn near to Him and who worship Him in spirit and in truth! Surely this couldn't be speaking about you or me!

No one can bear the responsibility of our relationship with the Lord but us! We cannot depend on our pastor or teacher to spoon-feed us week after week and do nothing of our own initiative during the week to build our relationship with the Lord!

David wrote in Psalm 62:7, "In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God." In other words, he found God to be His everything . . . "God is MY salvation!" "God is MY glory!" "God is the rock of MY strength!" "God is MY refuge!" What he didn't say is, "God is MY PASTOR'S salvation and he will keep me in good standing with God!" Or, he didn't say, "God is MY TEACHER'S glory and if I attend faithfully, my teacher will represent God's glory to me!" Again, he didn't say, "God is MY CHURCH LEADER'S refuge and if I stick close to him, I'll be safe!"

Do you see what happens? We depend on others to be our link to God! God says, "These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me." All too often we find ourselves following man rather than following God . . . "their hearts are far from me."

Don't allow anyone to be your link to God for you! If you do, you'll be sorely disappointed! Man will fail you every time! I guarantee you know people who have been hurt in church and vowed never to return. Why is that? Because they depended on man, they put man on a pedestal; their hearts were far from God!

Beware of cultivating a second-hand relationship with God! Beware of depending on someone else's relationship with God as your security in Him! Release pastors and church leaders from the burden of responsibility for your relationship with God! Know God intimately through a personal relationship with Him. Be like David and say, "God is MY salvation, MY glory, the rock of MY strength, and MY refuge!" God will never fail you, He'll never fall, and He'll never again look at you and say, "their hearts are far from me."

Father, I never thought it might apply to me, but I can see where I have shifted the weight of responsibility of my relationship with You onto others from time to time. I have been dependent on others to be my link to You and in truth, there are times my heart has been far from You! Father, forgive me! Help me, Lord, to draw nigh to You and to release anyone else from the burden of responsibility for my relationship with You. Lord, teach me to be like David and know You as MY salvation, MY glory, the rock of MY strength, and MY refuge! I want to know you so personally that though everyone else may fall, my trust and faith in You will not be shaken! In Jesus' name, by His blood, for His glory, amen and amen!

"He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defense; I shall not be moved." (Psalm 62:6)

__________
© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

The Depository of a Priceless Treasure

There's a scripture in Proverbs that speaks of the heart: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." (Proverbs 4:23) The NIV translation tell us to "Above all else, guard your heart, for out of it are the wellsprings of life." Guarding our hearts is of utmost importance.

The word "diligence" comes from a Hebrew word which relates to guarding a treasure or deposit of wealth, posting someone at the gate or door of a prison to watch or guard carefully. It's easy to understand that the heart is the depository of the most valuable and priceless treasure—it is the wellspring of life! Is it no wonder that what comes out of the mouth originates in the heart (ref. Matthew 12:34).

Our hearts need to be undivided. Psalm 86:11 says, "Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name."

Our hearts need to be pure. Psalm 51:10 says, "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

Our hearts need to be steadfast. Psalm 57:7 says, "My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music."

So, how do we guard our hearts? The Bible gives us some very specific instructions for diligence in keeping or guarding our hearts.

1. Hebrews 10:22 speaks of having our hearts WASHED: "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." The "sprinkling" is a washing by the blood of the Lamb.
   
2. Psalm 119:11 speaks of hiding the WORD in our hearts: "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." We must be diligent to hide God's Word in our heart. This doesn't mean a casual perusing from time to time, it takes a determined effort to study the Word until it becomes part of you, planted in your heart and producing fruit! There is a sign on a local church marquis: "God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts!" The only way spiritual fruit will grow is if the Word is planted, watered, and tended on a regular basis!
   
3. Proverbs 4:7 speaks of WISDOM which is most important: "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." Wisdom is the "gatekeeper" of our heart; with wisdom at the gate, foolishness, sin, and any unclean thing cannot enter in. However, a heart without wisdom will open the door to anything!
   
4. Psalm 27:14 tells us to WAIT: "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD." This word "wait" speaks of twisting together or binding together. As we wait on the Lord, we allow Him to weave things into our lives that will strengthen our hearts.
   
5. Finally, Deuteronomy 6:5 leads us to WORSHIP: "And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might." Worship prepares the heart for God!
   

May we all learn to keep our hearts with diligence, not taking the matters of life lightly but having a heart steadfast and pure before the Lord!

Father, purify my heart, renew a right spirit within me, and teach me to diligently guard my heart as You have shown me in Your Word! Lord, draw me closer, to intimately seek you, and to regard my relationship with You as the weightiest priority of life! Father, draw me to You and I will respond with a heart seeking after You in every aspect of my life! Open my heart to receive from You all that You have purposed for me and to give to You the glory due Your name! In Jesus' name, by His precious blood, amen and amen!

___________
© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

The Miracle: Salvation

Greater than the miracle of creation, greater than the miracle of birth. Such a miracle it is—salvation! And, oh, how my heart yearns to see this miracle take place in hearts everywhere. This yearning is what drives me—it's what catapults me from the natural to the supernatural when my flesh screams "No!" I thirst after it! I hunger for it! I crave it! I long to see souls saved, to see this explosion of transformation take place in the hearts of people, transforming old lives into new.

I am only one ordinary woman who serves one extraordinary, miracle-working God. He who created the universe, who became the incarnate God in flesh through the miracle of Jesus Christ, He is the author of this great miracle of salvation. And, He is the one who can take a yielded heart of an ordinary woman, send her on adventures across the globe, speak through her yielded tongue, and through her bring forth new life—the miracle of Salvation!

What is it that drives us? What is it that causes us to ache to see souls saved? I can only compare it to one thing: it is akin to that innate desire in a woman to bear a child in her womb, giving birth and nurturing her own child. This desire to see the miracle of salvation is a holy desire, one put in the hearts of all who are called by His name. The feelings are so similar—an empty womb crying out to be filled is like a heart crying out to be used by God. Only He can fulfill such a yearning. Only God can bring forth new life.

As women, we were created to be bearers of life. God created Eve as a "womb-man" or a man with a womb. Her ability to give birth is what distinguished her from her male counterpart. God created her to have emotions and sensitivities different from man because she would need them to bring forth life from love.

The question is, are we bringing forth life from our love affairs with Christ? Are we reaching out and sharing this miracle of salvation with others? A love affair with Christ should produce life in us. The more deeply in love with Him we are, the more our spiritual wombs cry out to be filled.

Be a bearer of life. Be a birthing partner with Christ. Allow Him to use you as He brings forth new life through the miracle of salvation!

____________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Piano Lessons for Life

One Saturday every month I travel about 120 miles to teach piano to three most precious students any piano teacher could possibly want. Not only are the kids great kids, but they're talented. This is an amazing family – it's so obvious that God is the center of their lives.

Today's lessons were a little challenging for one of the students. I noticed he was a little distracted. While trying to teach a new skill, it was necessary to redirect his attention to what we were learning—his eyes were wandering. It could have been that this particular approach to some new music his mom bought was too much of a stretch for him, but more than likely he was thinking about his part in the upcoming production at the local children's theatre—he's an extremely talented young man.

"If you listen carefully to what
he says and do all that I say,
I will be an enemy to your enemies
and will oppose those who oppose you."
(Exodus 23:22 NIV)

We aren't much different than my young student. We are so easily distracted by things that we have assigned a higher priority. To him it was likely his role in an upcoming play. But, what is it to us? When the Lord is speaking or teaching us something—giving us some solid direction to live by—do we find ourselves distracted? Do we hold phone calls, television programming, or even housework as a higher priority than listening "carefully to … all [the Lord] says"?

Look at the promise that's attached to careful attention to the Lord's voice: "I will be an enemy to your enemies and will oppose those who oppose you." What a promise! What a reward for carefully listening to Him! So, why are we so easily distracted?

It's a matter of the heart. Our hearts are divided. We deem insignificant things as more important than the MOST Significant One. We fail to sit still and listen; our minds wander to other things even when the Lord is speaking to our hearts.

"So be careful to do what
the LORD your God has commanded you;
do not turn aside to the right or to the left.
Walk in all the way that
the LORD your God has commanded you,
so that you may live and prosper and
prolong your days in the land
that you will possess."
(Deuteronomy 5:32-33)

Let's be more careful than ever before to do what the Lord has commanded us. Let's not look to the left or the right—let's not daydream or allow our minds to wander when God is teaching us something by example or through His Word. Let's be careful to "walk in all the way tht the Lord your God has commanded [us]." Why? "So that [we] may live and prosper and prolong [our] days…"

It's to our advantage to focus carefully and to heed the Word of the Lord. And, just like my student today, if we would focus on the new things God is teaching us, we will undoubtedly be blessed. Whether you're learning a new technique on the piano or learning a valuable life lesson from the Lord, pay attention. There's something valuable to learn that will bless you and bring glory to our Heavenly Father.

_____________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

First Flakes Flying

This morning as I sat here in my chair doing some praying, reading, and writing, I looked out the window across the corn field blowing in the wind and noticed some white stuff occasionally flitting by. Suddenly, my mind was catapulted to my childhood when I would sit and just watch the snow fall from the heavy clouds, turning Dad's carefully manicured lawn into a white blanket of frozen delight. Such excitement welled up within me. "It's Snowing!"

I have to admit the excitement this morning wasn't quite the same as it was when I was Daddy's little girl. But there's an element of exhilaration in today's first flakes flying. But now it has more to do with the passing of seasons than it does with visions of snowball fights, toboggan rides, and snow angels.

Seasons mean more to me now than they did when I was a child. Not that I didn't love the change of seasons, mind you. But now they have so much more significance than ever before. When I consider seasons now, I consider my age, I think about this season of life, and I think of the season of harvest—not corn, beans or wheat, but harvesting of souls.

Time passes by more quickly each year—no wonder God said, "a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as a day" (2 Peter 3:8)! But with the passing of days and weeks and months and years, of seasons and phases, those who are looking and watching and waiting are overwhelmingly reminded of the season of Christ's soon return. It can't be far off, it just can't!

Considering Israel and her turmoil this morning, I pray, "Lord, bring Peace to Jerusalem" all the while knowing that asking Peace to come is asking the Prince of Peace to return … there is no peace without the Prince of Peace. But it doesn't frighten me to pray that … I long to see Israel restored to her Redeemer, for her eyes to be opened and the Messiah revealed to those who would seek Him. I long to know that every effort of the enemy through peoples and nations to thwart God's purpose in and through Israel is pure vanity. After all, how could anyone hope to manipulate the hand of God, to challenge His covenant, or to think He has simply forgotten the Land of Promise, the People of Covenant, the Apple of His Eye.

While first flakes fly this morning, I pray … "Lord Jesus, come quickly and restore Israel unto Yourself. Take the blinds off her eyes and let her see Your glory manifest through Jesus Christ the Prophesied Messiah, the Redeemer, the Lord of Promise, the Branch of Jesse, the Mighty One of Israel.

Baruch haba b'Shem Adonai … blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord."

_______________
© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Call For True Stories and Testimonies

We are compiling stories to be included in a ministry book entitled “Women of Passions” in which we focus on the three primary passions in our lives—God, family, and ministry. These are the topics we basically teach on in our conferences and seminars. Providing a book with personal testimonies or stories will be an added blessing and ministry outreach tool to women struggling with maintaining proper balance in life or feeling inadequate, something familiar to us all.

We are looking for women’s personal true stories or testimonies using the following topics.

1. Passion for God ~ A woman’s passion for God grows from relationship with Him through worship, through instruction in the Word, through prayer, and through obedience. For instance…
* How has your passion for God grown in these areas?
* Has seeking God first according to Matthew 6:33 changed your life? If so, how?

2. Passion for Family ~ A woman’s passion for her family grows from her relationship with God, learning to walk in her role as wife and mother and/or daughter from sound Biblical instruction. For instance…
* How has keeping family priorities in order impacted your life?
* How have you as a younger woman been mentored or trained by an older woman (Titus 2:4-5), or the other way around—you as an older woman training or mentoring a younger woman?
* How have your proper priorities impacted your family?

3. Passion for Ministry ~ We are all called to a ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18) to passionately share the love of Christ with others so they, too, may be reconciled to God through Jesus Christ. A woman’s passion for ministry exudes from a heart that is in right relationship with God. For instance…
* Share a testimony of the circumstances of your calling to ministry.
* How has God used your life to lead others to Christ?
* How have you learned to balance your life to not allow ministry to consume you?

We believe God takes the ordinary and performs the extraordinary through them. All He requires is a yielded vessel. God has given gifts to us that lie dormant because we become so distracted in our imbalanced lives. The key to unlocking these gifts is pursuing a balanced life with priorities in line. And, in so doing, we will become more effective Christians fulfilling our calling to build and strengthen the Kingdom of God.

Please keep your submission around 1,000 words (more or less—the word limit is not absolutely firm). We are also looking for well-crafted poetry that fits the topics listed above. Be sure your article is proofread and checked for spelling and grammar errors.

Please send your submission(s) to jan@janross.org. The deadline for this project is November 15th.

By submitting your article, you give us the right to publish your article. If your submission is chosen to become part of this publication, you will receive a free copy of the book and the right to purchase a limited number of copies at cost. There will be no other compensation. If you wish, we will be pleased to include a short paragraph with your personal information, other writing credits, education, training, and/or awards in the back.

Please only submit original content. Although we encourage you to submit new work, feel free to use your own previously published content to which you hold the rights with the understanding that you release to us the rights to use your submission even if you have it copyrighted.

We are excited to include you in this project and look forward to reading your submissions. Feel free to submit more than one article. Also, feel free to share this opportunity with other Christian writers.

Ok, So I’m a Slow Learner!

The Israelites were simply slow learners. God miraculously delivered them from Egyptian bondage, He performed awesome signs and wonders to not only convinced Pharaoh to free them but to convince the Israelites themselves that the Lord God Himself was the One calling them out. He led them out of bondage, parted the Red Sea for them to cross safely as He allowed the waters to swallow up their enemies. They looked back and literally saw the waters engulf the armies in hot pursuit. They were on the other side of the water rejoicing for the awesome work of God. Then, within just a very few days they were grumbling and complaining … "Oh that God would have left us in Egypt where we sat by pots of food!" How carnal!

These past few days I feel like an Israelite might have felt … slow to learn even when God shows me His mighty deeds. And, shame on me!

Our internet has been out. I've grumbled and complained. I've been on the phone to technical people and haven't been real nice, spitting and fuming about such poor service and they just don't seem to care that I NEED INTERNET! Then it hit me … OH, THAT GOD WOULD HAVE LEFT US IN EGYPT WHERE WE HAD HIGH-SPEED INTERNET! And, I cringed!

God miraculously delivered us from our own Egypt where we were in bondage to a huge house payment, insurmountable medical bills, high utility costs, high car payments, and a fast-paced city life. Oh, it was nice. We had what we wanted. But we worked hard to keep things close enough to the surface of the water to take a breath now and then!

Suddenly, my husband came home and announced he is no longer needed at his job and he is done. Simple as that! Done! But God …

The Lord led us out of Egypt through a series of miraculous events, we paid off the high car payment, we were able to work out a deal on our house, we moved to the country about 100 miles away, and we're free from the bondage. The drawback? Expensive satellite internet that provides s-l-o-w service, not much faster than dial-up.

Yes, I'll tell you … I feel like an Israelite. Sitting on the banks of the Red Sea, just having watched my enemy engulfed in the thunderous waters, and already complaining because of what I left behind. As slow as the Israelites were to learn their lessons, much to my dismay, I've been no different.

I need to open my Treasure Book (my Bible) and pull out a beautiful gem called "transformation". But, not until I pass through a layer of "repentance". So, if you'll bear with me …

Father, I repent! I am so sorry for my impatience. I am so incredibly sorry for even thinking about comparing what we 'used to have' to what You have so incredibly miraculously blessed us with now. Father, I fear I have become like an Israelite to You, testing Your patience, and perhaps almost too burdensome to carry. Forgive me, Lord, and cleanse me from my unrighteousness. Create a right spirit within me and renew me by Your forgiveness through the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ. Lord, I am a slow learner sometimes. Help me to speed it up a little bit. I don't want to offend You or take what You've given us for granted. I don't want to act like a spoiled child. Help me to trust You with me 'haves' and 'have nots'. Transform me, Lord, by taking my heart and molding it into Your image, for Your glory, and Your honor. I long to only please You, with high-speed or low-speed internet. In Jesus' precious name, amen and amen.

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© Jan Ross 2007
All Rights Reserved

My Friend

My heart is burdened tonight for a dear friend. She has cancer … again.

Although I haven't known her for more than about six months, she has become so near and dear to me. Our closeness just began near the end of summer with our walks around the reservoir. Neither one of us has the energy or stamina to walk very far, but we sure enjoyed our chats and time of open and honest sharing. That's what friends are for, aren't they?

I took dinner over to her house tonight. Her husband met me at the door…she wasn't up to getting out of bed. She had a chemo treatment on Monday and has been so wiped out since—she's been asleep since Tuesday with very little awake time.

Her husband and I chatted some tonight and she got up for a few minutes. My heart sunk. She looked so worn out and so tired, her face a little flushed, her hair much thinned, and moving in slow motion.

There is good news, however. The chemo seems to be working … PRAISE THE LORD! The doctor examined her before her treatment and was unable to find the most prominent mass. Because of that, he assumes the other areas are also responding to treatment. This is SUCH good news. And, we PRAISE GOD for His healing touch.

If you read this, would you pray for my friend? Pray that God would totally deliver her from the destructive effects of cancer and the chemical treatments needed to treat her. Pray that God would bring her through this with a powerful testimony, giving glory to God for total healing. Pray that she know God's presence is near and His strength is made perfect in her tremendous weakness.

Thanks for praying. I just love my friend so much ….

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© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Pillar of Fire

"Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people." (Exodus 13:22 NIV)

The fall of the year is my favorite season, by far. I love the cooler temperatures and the smell of fall. To me, there is nothing quite like it. It's no wonder last night was so incredible.

Gracie, my 13-month old cockapoo, had to go outside. It had been a dreary cloud-covered day with leaves blowing in the wind. The cornfield across the road is ready for harvest, the beans in the field behind us have been picked and winter wheat sown. The beauty of this season absolutely astounds me.

I grabbed Gracie's leash and we stepped out onto the front porch. She began to walk into the yard as I looked up. I literally gasped! I mean, I audibly gasped. The beauty of what I beheld with my own eyes was indescribable.

The sun was low in the western sky and brilliantly peering through small breaks in the cloud cover. The rays lit the top of the trees bordering the family property like they were on fire—oranges and yellows and reds vibrantly aglow against the darkness of approaching nightfall.

Gracie finished her business and I went back inside and grabbed my camera. My camera couldn't even hope to capture such an extraordinary scene. But my heart did as I thought about it throughout the evening.

Darkness was dispelled by the brilliance of the sun's rays reflecting on the treetops. Just like God does in our lives—He uses the backdrop of darkness to expose the light of His presence.

When our world is darkened by pain and suffering, God never fails to shine His light and reveal His presence. We simply have to look for it. His presence never left its place in front of the children of Israel as He led them through the wilderness. In like manner, His presence will never leave its place in front of us as he leads us through the dark and oppressing days of illness.

Father, help me to see Your light shining in my darkness when I am overcome with pain. Let me see the light of Your presence. Amen.

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© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Eternal Glory

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." (2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV)

What? "Light and momentary troubles?" The Apostle Paul couldn't have known what it is to live with chronic pain. He couldn't have known what it is to live in today's world. After all, if he really understood he wouldn't have used those words. If it were me, I might have written, "For our unrelenting and debilitating troubles…"

But, let's not focus on those words. Look at the whole verse … these "light and momentary troubles are achieve for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." The fact is that whether our troubles are "light and momentary" or "unrelenting and debilitating", they are fulfilling a purpose in our lives—achieving for us an eternal glory.

The Apostle Paul goes on to say, "So we fix our eyes on not what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (v. 18)

That's the key for us on the good days and on the bad, during the "light and momentary troubles" and the "unrelenting and debilitating" troubles. Our eyes MUST be fixed not on what is seen but what is unseen—not on our troubles but on the "eternal glory" that awaits us.

Admittedly this isn't always easy to do. But let's remember that "what is seen is temporary" and "what is unseen is eternal." Our pains and disabilities are temporary relative to eternity. Eternity—no beginning and no end. This life is but a fleeting moment compared to eternity. The "unseen" that awaits us will be worth all the "light and momentary" and "unrelenting and debilitating" troubles we have experienced as well as those yet to come.

Let's fix our eyes, not on our troubles but on the cross of Jesus and His power to redeem us from this life. He purchased our salvation so we could one day the "unseen" will be our reward.

Father, there are days my troubles seem more than I can bear. Give me the courage to go on with my eyes fixed not on "what is seen, but on what is unseen". In Jesus' name, amen.

 

Well-Watered Gardens

"The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." (Isaiah 58:11)

"You will be like a well-watered garden…" This phrase caught my attention since I just put away my canning and freezing equipment for the season. What are the signs of a well-watered garden? What are its benefits? How does this relate to us?

This year our garden was "well-watered" and it produced amazingly! Although our garden is small compared to many in the farming community in which we live, it produced an abundance tomatoes and beans and corn and peppers. In fact, we finally pulled up pepper plants because they were still blooming—still producing! This is the sign of a well-watered garden.

Our pantry is filled with canned vegetables—tomatoes and beans and sauces and such. Our freezer is packed with freshly frozen vegetables for our family, friends, and guests—anyone who eats from our table to enjoy throughout the cold winter months. The benefits of a well-watered garden will continue to bless us for a long time to come—at least until next years' crop is ready for harvest.

But let's think beyond the obvious … a well-watered life will produce fruit. Not just some fruit, but abundant fruit—fruit that will be a blessing not only to the individual but to those whose live he touches.

The Bible tells us that the Church is made clean by the "washing with water by the Word" (see Ephesians 6:26). The Word is the water that cleanses—the Living Word, Jesus Christ, is the "water" that enables us to bear fruit. We have the ability to bear abundant fruit as our hearts are transformed by the power of the Living Word.

Be that "well-watered" garden, not only today but every day. Start your day with the Word…with Jesus Christ, the Living Word. Meet with Him and learn from Him in greater measure each new day. You, too, will become a well-watered garden that produces abundant fruit to the glory of God.

Father, I long to be like that well-watered garden, producing fruit fit for my King. Cleanse me, wash me, purge me, and water me through Your Word. Remind me each morning to meet with the Living Word and learn from Him so that my life will produce abundant fruit that You might be glorified. In Jesus' name, amen.

"This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." (John 15:8)

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© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

Harvest Time

Harvest time is here again
I love this time of year
Farmers gath'ring ripened fields
As hunters track the deer

Pumpkins, gourds, and shocks of corn
With hardy mums appear
Making fall a special time
As winter's cold draws near

Leaves of gold, of red and brown
God's artistry displayed
Glist'ning in the morning dew
Such beauty He has made

Raking leaves on windy days
The fall chill in the air
Apple cider, pumpkin pie
There's always some to share

Thankful people gather round
And bow their heads in prayer
"Lord we thank Thee, for our bread,
To Thee, none can compare"

God has blessed us with His love
Each heart He will pursue
Harvest time reminds us that
With death comes life brand new

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©2006 Jan Ross

A Generous Man

The harvest is ripe and the crops are in,
Winter wheat is sown in the field.
The distant fall sun offers little warmth
Though it glistens in morning frost.

The fall of the year is a time to reap
What was sown in the fertile ground.
The wisest of men will be doubly blessed,
Not failing to reap souls of men.

The word must go out into all the earth
For the time of reaping is near,
Inviting the hungry, oppressed, and poor,
To a banquet fit for a king.

The table is set for all who would come
From the east, and west, north and south.
The harvest is ready—the fields are ripe,
The winnowing hook's now in hand.

May all who have eyes see God's glorious plan;
May all who have ears hear His Word:
"A generous man will himself be blessed,
For he shares his food with the poor"*

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* Proverbs 22:9 (NIV)
© 2007 Jan Ross

Radically Obedient

Here is a phrase that's challenged me. Not just words, but a calling. Not just for me, but for any who call themselves Christian.

What is radical obedience? Let me see if I can put it into words. To me, radical obedience is obeying God when it doesn't make sense. Radical obedience is doing God's will when our own agenda makes more sense. Radical obedience is not only asking "What Would Jesus Do" but DOING what Jesus did. Radical obedience is denying my flesh while fulfilling God's purpose for me. Radical obedience is heeding the call of God when, by all appearances, it's out of the question. Radical obedience is not compromising even if it means losing friends. Radical obedience is venturing outside my comfort zone no matter how uncomfortable or unreasonable it feels.

Radical obedience demands I do whatever I do so that Christ might be glorified, so that He is the focus of my life, so people see Him and not me. Radical obedience demands I disregard those things which seem to be important to me so that Christ becomes of paramount importance to me.

I have thought I was living a radically obedient life. But each day I learn there are more areas that absolutely MUST be submitted to radical obedience.

Here's the deal … "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11 NIV)

Jesus is the greatest example of radical obedience. It's time for Christians to understand what it means to be called a Christian – being LIKE Christ. We cannot be a Christian unless we pursue Christ-likeness. Unless we're willing to be radically obedient like Christ was radically obedient, then we have no right to bear the name Christian.

Oh, I have so far to go! But it is my desire to pursue radical obedience … not when it's convenient, but when it is most inconvenient.

What about you?

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© 2007 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

 

A Mother’s Prayer

As I lay in bed this morning, my heart poured out to the Lord on behalf of my children. Oh, how I long to see them living in victory, fulfilled as servants of God, every longing in their hearts satisfied, and dwelling in peace that comes only from intimate relationship with Christ.

We were with some of the family yesterday and enjoyed the grandchildren so very much. We celebrated a birthday (a week late, but he didn't care), and watched them all run and play and have a ball. Such a blessing it is to see these little extensions of our own love so full of life! To me, it is still almost foreign. Being adopted, I never grew up with the feeling of "extension". Rather, our family was pieced together, albeit by God's purposeful design. But there were no "strings attached" … I didn't have my mother's smile or my father's eyes. I was an entity of myself in a family who called me their own. But now, with our own family, I can look down through two more generations that have been formed as a result of our relationship and see children who have their mother's smile, their daddy's eyes, their papa's mouth, and their nana's hair. You couldn't possibly know what that feels like—how I revel in just watching these little beings who are totally connected to me through their DNA. I stand in awe!

But that's what makes the heart of this mother and grandmother so burdened to pray. These peoples who are extensions from me are incredibly special to me. I feel their hurt and pain. I see their discontent and needs. And my heart breaks … I wanted more for my children and grandchildren. I want them to know peace that surpasses all understanding. I want them to know God so deeply that He becomes their shield, protecting them from the elements of this world—rejection, pain, and suffering. I want to see them rise above the "norm" and be a peculiar people called according to God's divine and sovereign purpose to serve Him with their whole and undivided hearts.

Perhaps this is every mother's prayer. But this mother is still learning—to me it is unchartered territory to love so deeply and to feel so connected since I had no example of that in my own childhood. I make mistakes and seem to not understand how to communicate my love to them adequately. But let this be forever recorded publically … I couldn't possibly love my children and grandchildren more! With all their problems and challenges in life, the love seems to grow deeper and the longing of my heart becomes more profound.

Lord, touch each of their lives: Glen & Hope, Martha & Dale, Barbara & Freddie, Andrew, Dana, Debbie & Tim. Lord, keep our grandchildren safe and secure in the palm of your most capable hands: Daniel, Lydia, Joshua, Levi, Jacob, Macailyn, Brandon, McKenzie, Abraham, Dylan, Logan, and Lindsey … and our unborn grandchild. Lord, hold them all tight to your breast and don't allow them to stray too far until You gently pull them back to You. Reveal Your love and Your total ability to satisfy their every longing. Wrap Your arms around them, each and every one, and reveal Yourself to them in a powerful and personal way. We cling to Your promises – we brought them up to know You, in the way they should go … when they're old they WILL NOT depart from Your ways. We also cling to the teaching of Hebrews 11 … all these people held onto Your promise even though they didn't see the manifestation in their lifetime—their faith never wavered. Father, may our faith on behalf of our children and grandchildren—extensions of our love never waver. May they ALL know You, serve You, and live their lives for You. Be glorified through our family, Lord. Once again we give them to You that Your will be fulfilled in them and through them. In Jesus' precious name this prayer is sealed by His shed blood which we plead over each of our children and grandchildren. Amen and Amen!

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© Jan Ross 2007
All Rights Reserved

Quilting Patches of Life

It has been such an honor to work with Lori Wagner as a contributing author in her newest book, Quilting Patches of Life. Lori has blessed me in so many ways through her encouragement and her editing skills, but most of all her friendship. She never fails to put a smile on my face – the love of God is deeply ingrained in every note she's ever written to me. Thanks, Lori!

If you click on the picture, it will take you to a page where you can order your own copy of Quilting Patches of Life. I've seen the Table of Contents and know of the quality of several of the contributing authors. This book is destined to minister to you, encourage you, make you laugh, cry, smile, and nod your head. You can't help but be blessed!

God speaks to each of us so many ways. In my particular story, God spoke to me through my Mother-in-Law's quilts. I remember one day after we moved into her house, laundering some of her old hand-made quilts and hanging them on the clothesline out back. I stood on the back porch and looked out and there it was—a flower garden quilt blowing in the wind with Grandma's house in the background. I had to know more! I won't spoil the story for you, but just want you to know that this one quilt holds quite a history…a beautiful story of love and restoration.

My Mother-in-Law hand quilted too many quilts to count. Since we moved into her house, we are blessed to have several of them here. I love to display them, to listen to people's comments on them. But in the back of my mind I think, if they only knew the story behind 'that' one!

Order your copy today. It would make a wonderful gift this Christmas to your family and friends. You won't be disappointed!

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© Jan Ross 2007
All Rights Reserved

A Mother’s Heart

Hearts come in different sizes, varying degrees of tenderness, some cold and some warm, and some as big as big can get. But a mother's heart can be so misunderstood by the children she loves so much. In attempts to protect and nurture while teaching the hard lessons, her heart becomes so vulnerable and often bears unfathomable pain for only doing what a mother's heart knows to do.

Tonight, this mother's heart is broken. The circumstances aren't necessary. The only thing that needs to be said is that somehow God will bring healing—I have to trust He will. Perhaps part of my problem is that I look at things through the Word, trying to find God's voice in life's circumstances by learning how He responded under similar conditions.

God created mankind for His glory because He delights in us.  "Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made" (Isaiah 43:7)  That hit me so hard!  He delights in us even though we break His heart continually!  The Bible teaches us that we delight in that which we hold closest to us.  "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." ~ (Matthew 6:21)  God's love toward us proves that He treasures us. 

The thing is that He created us KNOWING we would break His heart through sin.  He made provision for our sin long before we created the world and everything in it.  Revelation 13:8 tells us that the Lamb was slain before the foundation of the world – God made the sacrifice to cover our sin and make a way for us even before He made us … He knew we would sin, He knew we would break His heart, but He created mankind anyway.  In so doing, however, He made Himself vulnerable to a broken heart—not just once or twice or even a few times, but over and over and over and over again.  The perfect Father knows what a broken heart feels like and yet He still loves—He still cherishes and treasures us, He still remains faithful to His covenant promises to always be our God, He still forgives.

God treasures us because He delights in us, He made us—we are an expression of His love.  And, He's vulnerable to the pain and disappointment we cause Him because of our continual sin.

As a mother, as a Christian mother, I have an obligation before God to emulate Him as our Father, to never waver in response toward our children who are an expression of the love shared by my husband and me just like mankind is an expression of God's love.  No matter what our children have done, we may be disappointed, hurt or heart-broken, but we never stop loving them—not any of them.

But, I'm human and subject to human frailties. I make mistakes. I internalize things that should just roll off my back. But this one thing I know. My heart will mend, all the difficult circumstances will work out, and we will go on.

But today my heart needs mending—the balm of healing applied as I seek refuge in God my Savior. In Him and Him alone will I find my help.

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© Jan Ross 2007
All Rights Reserved