Bucks Rule

The door bell's ring surprised me. I don't get many drop-ins, but my garage door's up position indicated my presence. One of my neighbors suggested I have a flag I fly, much like the Queen who notes her "in residence" status by unfurling the banner.
The neighbor who stood in my door was new to me. He simply said, "I took a picture of four bucks standing in your yard....would you like me to email it to you?
You KNOW how big a fan I am of the overgrown rabbits who rule my home, don't you? "Sure, I would LOVE to have it."
So, here are three of the four....I cropped the original to give you a closer view of these maurauding masculine menaces. Sorry, if I am a bit testy, but they have managed to eat over $3000 of flora.

What is the spiritual principle? Where do I see God in this picture and in this situation? After all, that is the purpose of this blog ---- to chronicle God sightings and my puny understandings of His activity.

The easy one is recognition that they are His creatures. They deserve respect because they are a product of His creative Hand. Okay, I will go with that one.

Harder is His sovereignty who allows these beautiful, but scavenging men to eat up everything I have planted. A good friend has told me to ask "what is bringing honor to God in your struggles," not "why am I going through this?" So, I will acknowledge God knows best----God is teaching me----I am a slow learner-----and my plans are not always His plans. And thankfully, my thoughts are not His thoughts.

On Tuesday I am teaching a Bible Study on reconciliation. Do you think this is an object lesson?

Of course, it should be flattering to have men gather at the bottom of my stairs.....

Rare Blessing

"Jill, I brought my camera and could I please have a picture with you?" Even though she was tired from travel, and weary after a long day, she graciously agreed.

This meant the world to me! Jill Briscoe is one of my heroes. Here she was at the CASA Leadership Conference ---- and there I was on the front row with notepaper in hand and a happy heart.
I actually met her for the first time in 1971. She and her husband were speaking in Kentucky. During the intervening years, my Dad and my brother have served with her on Christianity Today's board. Even though my contact has been marginal, her impact on me has been great.

Friends of mine seek autographs of sports legends, movie stars, and well-known politicians. I am thrilled to have a remembrance of a woman whose life reflects joyful discipline. As I said after the meeting, "She's who I want to be when I grow up."
Admiration doesn't slide into adoration ---- that place is held only for the God Jill loves so deeply. She reminds me what a loving heart looks like when it has flesh on. She makes me want to know God....a pretty good goal.

Preach The Word

The Billy Graham Center Museum stands at the back of the Wheaton College campus, nestled up to the train track. An earlier visit in the mid-90s convinced me a return would be worthwhile. So, I left early for my dinner with friends and made a stop.

The Museum was essentially empty except for the warm, welcoming hostess. She graciously told me of the special exhibits and eagerly answered my questions.

The room that drew me back is the rotunda with giant, elegantly embroidered banners hanging ceiling to floor. On each one is a statement of faith from men (and a woman) upon whose lives our traditions are built. I stood quietly before each one thinking about their lives, their words, and their legacy. How thankful I am for their commitment to the Lord Jesus.

The majority of the Museum is dedicated to the history of the evangelical movement in America and the work of Billy Graham. It is impossible to move through without stopping for quiet moments of reflection.

By faith ---- by faith----by faith. This was a living Hebrews "Hall of Faith" experience.

At the end, a stone wall stood in a darkened space. Upon it are carved the powerful words of John 3:16. I paused to consider the words and the magnificent presentation. God became flesh and dwelt among us.....Jesus died, was buried, and rose again to provide a way of reconciliation with God the Father for us.

The trip to dinner at the lovely home of Harold and Jeanette was peaceful and pondering.

What a blessing to honor Billy Graham, but much more bring glory to God the Father.

Table for 3

Nothing spectacular about this building, and especially not about this picture. But, then again, the memories it evokes are indescribable.

In 1994 I moved to Des Moines, Iowa, from Dallas, Texas, leaving my family and friends as I "ran away from home" to take a corporate promotion.,

By early 1995, my sister and Mom decided to fly to Kansas City, rent a car, count cows from KC to DSM, and visit me.

One of our great adventures was traveling to the Amana Colonies in Eastern Iowa. What fun we had that day! The three of us laughed, ate, shopped, laughed some more, and then headed back to the Hotel Fort Des Moines.

As I traveled from Des Moines to Chicago on my recent trip, I journeyed the 15 miles off the highway to once again enter the world of the Amanas. No, it isn't one large refrigerator manufacturing plant --- it is the center of an early pioneer settlement which still exists as a peek into early midwest history. It was a community of towns known as the Amana Colonies. They worked, lived, ate communally. They had eating houses located in each of the 7 little towns. Each one was a one day horse buggy ride from the other.

There are vestiges of the smaller ones, but the largest one thrives by welcoming tourists.

The eating house serves delectable food which way more than satisfied my driving hungries. As I slowly savored each bite, I thought about the time with Mary Helen and Mom.

I ambled down the thoroughfare walking in and out of small stores, appreciating the workmanship of potters, painters, and weavers. I made my way to the Bakery. Suddenly, the picture of Mom, Mary Helen and me popped into my wandering mind.

I pictured us sitting at that same little table 14 years ago, munching on German pastries, and thoroughly thankful for each other.

Memory is quite remarkable, isn't it? The strangest, smallest things trigger extravagant, elegant remembrances.

Mom is in heaven, Mary Helen is completing her dream house in Plano, Texas, and I am on the road with the Cruiser ----- there's still much for which to be thankful.

Memories

For five winters, room 1103 of the Hotel Fort Des Moines was my home.
As a child I LOVED the story of Eloise at the Plaza. I dreamed of living a glamorous life in the heart of the city and ordering room service.
Many years later, a modified version of my dream came true. I lived in a downtown hotel, not in New York, but in Des Moines, and I never once ordered room service.
Some of our life's chapters have an indescribable cache.....Des Moines is that for me. Who could imagine spending 5 winters (that is how I count my time in Iowa) as a resident of this old hotel in the heart of the midwest?
As I drove by the hotel on my cruise through DSM the other day, I just had to park and capture a long ago moment. Sometime I will share the luscious stories of hotel living, including the short time Tiny Tim and I both occupied the hotel, or knowing "Gopher" from the loveboat stayed in my room while he was running for Congress from Iowa, or sitting in a chair during an Iowa caucus and seeing national candidates huddled in conference surrounded by network news people........fun stuff.
Too often our memories pain us. Too often we look back and suffer. I certainly have my share of those experiences, but the Hotel Fort Des Moines always makes me smile. It was a grand gift from God and one I will always treasure.

It's the Horch family!

My Mom and I lived in the same town off and on for many years. Yet, each time she saw me, her face lit up like it was the first time in ages.
On Monday, September 14th, my road trip schedule was the drive from Des Moines to Chicago.
Jeff, Anne, and Jack's schedule put them at the Des Moines airport on the way to Nashville.
A wonderfully happy crossing of the paths!
So, of course, I made my way out Fleur Drive to the airport and waited to see this happy threesome.
Honestly, I knew how Mom felt! There they were - within 10 feet of me---and my heart was happy.
A quick visit allowed me to hold my newest grandson, hug my big kids, and get back on the road.
Scripture tells us God sings over us. Isn't that an amazing thought? We are told His banner over us is love. How marvelous.
Knowing how much I love my children and my grandchildren gives me just the slightest hint of the Father's love for me.
The Westminster Confession says "the chief end of man( and woman) is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever." I am glad He enjoys us, as well.

Julia and Sarah

"Guess what we are having for dinner? Julia's Boeuf Bourguignon!" I barely stepped into Sarah's beautiful house when we exploded with excitement.

"And, I have invited two friends --- one is a chef."

The drive from Liberty to Des Moines was joyful as I drank in the lush greens, yellows, and blues of the Iowa landscape. The rolling hills made my heart happy.

I laughed out loud as I passed a farmhouse with a long line of air-drying clothes. Where is Norman Rockwell when you really need his paint brush?

"You are kidding ---- a Julia dinner? I can't think of anything better."

We enjoyed great food, funny story after funny story, and then retired to the "music room" for singing, playing, and listening. Great joy!

Sarah turned a Beaverdale bungalow into a welcoming, colorful, textureful (not sure that is a word) center for entertaining. The constant flow of neighbors and friends fills her house with blessing.

The fact it took Sarah all day long to prepare Julia's delight was no deterrent. Even as we oohed, ahhed, and "YUM!"ed, Sarah talked of the next thing and how much easier it would be. That is a true lover of hospitality.

Her spectacular bathroom is a huge surprise as you climb the narrow steps to the second floor. Much fun! The Diet Coke is hers --- a fitting accessory.

Time with Sarah --- and her time with Julia----made the overnight in Des Moines deliciously delightful,.

Where Did The Choir Go?

Childhood habits don't easily die.... like going to church on vacation. As a member of Fort Thomas Baptist Church, one of our traveling duties was to faithfully worship with the community of faith. In order to encourage us, our Sunday School superintendent expected bulletins from far-flung Baptist churches marking the dates of attendance corresponding to our absences from the home church.

Even before eating my "hot breakfast" at the Fairfield Inn in Liberty, MO, I scanned the yellow pages.

"Second Baptist Church?" The breakfast room attendant smiled and grimaced simultaneously. "That one is kinda for old people. My church is just wonderful and you would love it. It is Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Just follow the road in front and you will get there. The pastor is really cool. He never wears a tie."

What in that sentence should have left me running for Second Baptist? Not sure, but I made my way to her church's enormous campus, visible for miles.

I chose the 11:00 service ----- old time thinking. Why hadn't I shifted my paradigm knowing my own church in Dallas moved the old people to the early slot (older people don't sleep as late) and saved the prime times for drums and clapping.

I opened the handout. It couldn't be a bulletin for nothing mentioned the morning service except the little box reading: Saturday - Band-led; Sunday 9:15 - Choir and orchestra-led:11:00 Guitar-driven; cutting edge.

Notice anything? The first two are "led." The one I chose is "driven."

I actually enjoyed sharing time with this arm of the Body of Christ

One great advantage: I prayed for my family out loud and no one heard ---- they just saw me fervently engaged in praise.:)

Oh, yes, in my Bible is the date stamp in case someone questions my whereabouts while out and about.

Angels on the Route

Remember Baxter Springs two years ago? My friend, Linda, has a house smack dab on Route 66. My 2009 Fall Ramble wove its way through that familiar and friendly territory. It was fun to catch up with her and her animal menagerie (cats now number 7).

This time something is new ---- and old! Sue Gast, Sue Ramage, and Kathie Larson bought a 19th century building and completely redid it to house their restaurant: Angels on the Route. If you just happen to wander through someday ---- STOP! And stop hungry. They advertise their specialties as coffee, soups, sandwiches, candy, and frozen custard.

Not being a coffee connoisseur, I skipped that one, going straight to the soup (potato chowder) and sandwich (reuben on marbled rye). Thankfully, I didn't leave without the frozen custard...just heavenly.

These newcomers to Route 66 have made their mark.

I longed for a Corvette, but just being in this town, and enjoying the afternoon conversation break before heading on to Liberty, MO, was delightful.

Life's sweet surprises are so tasty. If you don't get in a hurry on the way from A to B, some wonderful experiences await. The Cruiser and I know "no hurry" is the best way for us.

And, a rousing few verses of "Oh, What a Beautiful Morning!" sung loudly as we traveled through Oklahoma weren't bad, either. The Cruiser is most patient and seems to actually enjoy my screeching.

Road Trip? YAY!

"I am leaving at 6:00AM on September 12th." Of course, that meant sleep would evade me on the 11th. Isn't that always the way?
My goal- Liberty, MO......
My fun stop- Baxter Springs, KS

Read about that next.....just know the Cruiser and I are rolling and happy together.

And Let There Be Trees

Who could tell this house started as a slab just a few months ago? And now there are trees, shrubs, and miscellaneous plantings. When Mary Helen gets her hands in the dirt, there will be color galore.

In about three weeks, she and Smith will pack up their temporary residence and settle into the new house. Step by step this process has taught us all what building a dream entails.

Years ago my across the street neighbors planted a stick in their front yard. While we were busy with life, that tree grew and grew into something magnificent. Mary Helen's trees will bring shade, softness, and texture to their front yard.....and they will grow and grow.

We are to be like trees ----planted by streams of water. Not a bad assignment!

Secret Place

"Come see the secret place ---- it's my clubhouse!" Bree Anna excitedly welcomed her friends to the house, rushing them under the stairs and into her private world.

As I walked by, I could see rays of light from three flashlights peeking out of the darkened sanctuary. She decorated it with her drawings and furnished it with two large lounging pillows ---- a perfect hideaway from big brother.

All my life I wanted a secret room. Undoubtedly, I am way too big for Bree Anna's place under the stairway. But, I still dream of turning a bookcase and discovering a tucked away room known only to me.

For a year or so this one will intrigue her as she creates a world of her own, but soon she will outgrow the space and have to duck to enter. Yet, for right now --- it is a magical place where little girls can giggle, tell scary stories, and pretend to be all by themselves in the house.

Last week the verses about "you are my hiding place" came to mind as I thought about some difficult situations. He shelters us, protects us, wraps His arms around us much like Bree Anna's little room does for her. She feels safe in there; I feel safe in Jesus.

I love her happiness as she explores the possibilities of her room. Next time I am sure we will eliminate even more of the clutter to enlarge her domain. After all, this is no longer a storage closet--- it is the private world of Bree Anna Richardson. And how thankful I am for her and her room.

As she grows up, I want her to know she will always have a special place in the arms of Jesus. He will always be her hiding place.

Colorful Carry-Ons

"Traveling light" doesn't apply to babies! The great array of paraphenlia almost boggles the mind. In our day, we put down the station wagon seats, covered the surface with an air mattress, loaded in the toys, and off we went. Who knew we were forever endangering life and limb?

Today's children travel in great style --- and with much flair.

By the time Anne loaded Jack into his assigned space, the entire vehicle was loaded stem to stern with his equipment....all of which adds color and function.

Each loaded piece returned the log house to its sedate palette. and now nothing but empty floor exists where blankets, play areas, and bumbos once sat. My Mom used to try and keep "our smells" in the house after we left. With three children, I was just happy to get us altogether in once place and moving....no time to appreciate what she meant. NOW I do. I have walked around today hearing Jack's sounds, enjoying the laughter between Jeff and Anne, replaying conversations that challenged my thinking and touched my heart.

The visit is over, but the impact will never end. Hopefully, our lives are all like that. When we leave, there should be a residue of love. Dad used to say certain people left a "benediction in the plaster" as they departed. I know the Horch family from Nashville, TN, did that, and it is an encouragement to me.

Piney Woods Fresh

"Hey, Gram! I just took my bath and look how cute I am.. Mommy thinks I am just the best ever!"

I could not imagine having Jack (and his parents Jeff and Anne) here in the piney woods with me...until last week's announcement of a Texas vacation based at my house. Happy, happy, happy.

There will be more pics of "Just Jack," but this one was just too cute to save.

Come On In

The Jackson, MS Junior League produces a cookbook titled, "Come On In." The southern recipes welcome the reader into the world of gentility and charm.

As Mary Helen stood at her island on my weekly visit, I was struck with the sense of hospitality and warmth the house exudes. There she stood, ready to cook for us all!

I don't know if hospitality is officially one of the New Testament's spiritual gifts, but it is certainly the hallmark of Christian love. I am pretty sure I have never, ever entertained angels, but I can tell you with great certainty I have enjoyed the company of many whose hearts were sold out for Jesus.

Mary Helen can envision where all the Thanksgiving dishes will sit. She can see the family gathered together. She knows the day will soon come when we will noisily greet one another and celebrate the new house.

The day is coming when all believers will gather around a table unrivaled by any on earth. We will "sing and shout the victory." I look forward to that. How about you?

Deerly Beloved

"This package is deer resistant. You will really enjoy the carefree nature of this 'conservation model.'" Thus, I signed on the dotted line, paid many dollars, and entered into the world of wildflower-ness.

Oh, that the story ended there.

If you look closely enough, you will see a lone sprinkler in the center of this picture. For three hours 2x a week, I move sprinklers from place to place, watering these carefree wildflowers.

Then, just as they are getting a hold, the deer send out an email throughout the woods, "Salad bar at 1510 W. Holly Trail!" Deer resistant, are you kidding me? Judging by the response, they have the allure of a five star restaurant. Literally dozens of deer line up morning and night to munch down on my "conservation model."

Holly Lake Ranch protects its wildlife and clearly frowns on any efforts to discourage the deer. But, I feel like my yard is becoming Brenda-resistant to them. THEY ARE IN CHARGE.

If you love Bambi, come visit me. But don't expect any oohs and aahs from me at this point. GIVE ME BACK MY WILDFLOWERS is more my response these days.

Deerly beloved, go chomp somewhere else. I wish you well ---- and I wish you great traveling mercies.

Heading Inside

Time to say goodbye to the outside pics and head inside. But, before we go, I thought I would give you an idea of the side view. When the landscaping arrives, we will see a big difference. Mary Helen and Smith have carefully researched appropriate plantings and have designed a pleasing plan.

These two happy people are standing in the great room with their backs to the kitchen island. It is looking like a soon-to-be-completed edifice. Cabinetry, wallboard, lighting fixtures, and toilets make it feel real. This is not just a project ----- this is a home in the making.

Not believing in Eastern mysticism whatsoever, this pic of them still made me laugh. Do you notice that they are wearing black and white in opposing formation? They are doing the yin-yang of housebuilding for us. Funny thing is, they really do complement each other. In 40 years of marriage, they have grown together, strengthening each other, and learning truly how to love.

Where others flounder when undertaking such a project, they have flourished. It is fun to see a marriage continue because God is the true and firm foundation.

Just The Best

Chairs circled on the back deck speak happiness to me. It is a picture of gathering, laughter, and stories. It reminds me of family and friends.

Today is a special day ---- my sister and my daughter both share this as their birthday. I can tell you when Mary Helen was 19, she didn't think much about giving up her celebration to traipse over to Indianapolis for the birth of grandchild #1 for both the Smith and Horch families.

Now, they love sharing the day together.

We also remember Dad on this day, for he stepped from here to hereafter at 9:15AM, August 17, 2007. He finished well ----- he was well done by the time his heart stopped beating.

Each year I begin a birthday for my kids with a happy birthday call. AND I SING! This year, I called Heather and the phone kept breaking up. She emailed to say, "All I could hear was happy.....happy.....happy. I thought you were forgetting the birthday part."

It won't be long until friends or family sit in the chairs, propping their feet up on these wonderful pine benches. It will be a reminder that someday we will be gathered in heaven, telling stories of God's faithfulness, and singing songs of thanksgiving.

It's A House!

From a mere slab to a sheer beauty in 2 1/2 months. What fun it has been to chronicle the gestation of the Sleepy Spring house.

The exterior is now complete and the work has moved to the inside. Friends either tell them, "Now comes the slow part." Or, "It will just fly by now." The good news is ----- one is right!

The addition of the keystones gives it a very finished look. The angles and proportions are exactly to scale and represent the builder's vision perfectly.

Of course, I thought about the spiritual implications. :)

We have a heavenly builder who has laid out the plans for us. He has designed the angles of our experience to meet His expectations and to form us according to His drawings.

Somewhere along we start to look "finished." But, oh, that is when the inside work really begins. He isn't dealing with the outside (and all its obvious failings) as much as the work on the inside. The finish Carpenter begins.

During this process I have often thought of the words of Jesus, "I go to prepare a place for you." How fulfilling it must be for Mike the contractor to know he is preparing a place for Mary Helen and Smith to enjoy. And just think of the enormous joy we will have in the presence of Jesus when we share His house eternally. Cool!

Joy in the Morning

Heather, Bob, Andrew, and Bree Anna bounced out of the van rather sleepily. The early morning trip to the airport interrupted a short night's sleep.

But it was worth it, of course. They were off to California. Bree Anna just bubbled as she talked about the trip and held her doll, Madison, tightly. Andrew tried to play the suave man of the world with many flights under his belt. Heather was in "task mode" and busy making sure all the details were handled. Bob clicked into vacation mode and thoroughly relaxed as they headed out.

It is interesting to think about the different ways we deal with life. When I did life coaching and used Myers-Briggs Temperament Indicator, I enjoyed looking at the variations of personality reactions to stress. A trip to California is a perfect lab setting.

Since arrival I have heard several times and each message gets more and more glowing. Vacation is good ---- we all need a break from the daily grind. But sometimes getting there takes a temporary toll... case in point: Chevy Chase!

What Did You Say?

"Your daughter is going to be a HOSOB --- aren't you proud?" My sweet Southern Mom smiled as my mentor and friend, Layden Stroud, congratulated me on my move to Des Moines, IA. in 1994. "Oh, yes, we have always been proud of Brenda."

Later that evening I ate dinner with Mom and Dad at Prestonwood Country Club. One of my professional friends stopped by the table to say goodbye. Mom smiled broadly and said, "Brenda is going to be a HOSOB!" The stunned look on his face was laughable. He was having a hard time hearing this picture perfect lady make

such a remark. HOSOB stands for Home Office SOB, you see!

Breakfast with Layden last week reminded me of all he has done for me. His patience, his encouragement, his knowledgeable counsel, and his instruction have all built into my life. But, laughing about Mom and her HOSOB daughter is always the best!

Precious Cargo

"I love you, Gram," shouted 11 year old Andrew. "You already told her that," his 8 year old sister Bree Anna pointed out. But you know what ----- there are never enough times to hear that. It won't be long before it is definitely not cool to say that to an "elderly" Gram.

As Heather, Andrew, and Bree Anna drove out the drive, I was so thankful for the precious cargo riding in the convertible.

My Mom used to stand in the driveway waving long after we drove away (I suspect) when we lived in different towns. My runaway summer reminds me of those goodbyes. But, many times we loaded our family into a station wagon and drove thousands of miles from Grandmother and Grandfather. Thankfully, I am just two hours from this branch of the family.

However, I thought about my other precious ones in North Carolina and Tennessee,wishing mightily to see them in the piney woods.

Won't it be fun to see Jesus waiting for us? It will be good to welcome the day with no goodbyes. Until then, we smile, we hug, and look forward to the next time together.

Frogs and snails?

"What are little girls made of? Sugar and spice and everything nice." I have an "everything nice" granddaughter who loves "Frogs and snails and puppy dog tails," as well. Bree Anna spent her lake time scooping up tadpoles and sharing them with my friend Janet's granddaughters. When did little girls stop eeking and start seeking?

The lake didn't disappoint --- they all found ample supplies of creepy crawlies, including a disgusting crawfish her brother wanted to cook and "suck out the brains."

I thought about that great Psalm 139 that reminds us we are "fearfully and wonderfully made." He gave us imagination, curiosity, and love for the fish swimming in Holly Lake. Go for it, Bree Anna ---- there will be plenty of time for all that sugar and spice!

My tall green friends

"Good morning, trees!" "Thank you, God, for this house." That is my daily meditation. When I sit down at the computer, this is the view from the window.

What friends they are to me, but I also know they are to be held loosely in my hands. Pine trees in shallow sandy soil have a maximum lifespan of 50 years. I want them to be here as long as I am, but that won't happen. The trees will die, cost me much money to cut down, and then the landscape will change.

But, right now they are mine to enjoy.

If I were to wake up every morning and bemoan the fact they will die at some time, I would become neurotic.

But aren't some people like that? They look for all the bad while ignoring the tall green friends the Lord has given them right now. They walk around expecting their trees to die, and miss out on the joy of the moment.

My Dad instilled the value of gratitude and the importance of holding any possessions lightly...a good combination.

Thank you, Lord, for my tall, skinny friends. Let me see them as a gift from you for today. Let them point me to you and engender great praise and worship as I consider their beauty.

Thank you, Lord, for your kind provisions, and your magnificent protection.

Flashes of Light

"This little light of mine ---- I'm gonna let it shine...." I sang that as a young girl, holding up one finger to represent my light.

Last night, the thunder and mad streaks of light flashed around my house. The power went off, and it was dark, dark, dark.

I stumbled into the kitchen to rescue the flashlight. Lo, and behold! The batteries were out. The lights came back on momentarily and I furiously went from room to room seeking out the many flashlights I had stashed for just this occasion. Alas and alack ----- nothing worked.

I assembled a lovely assortment of tea candles and curled up on the couch, waiting for the television to return.

Today I headed for Wal-Mart and gathered an assortment of "lighting instruments." They are all freshly batteried and well within hand.

The rain has begun again, but no thunderstorms ---- those are predicted for 3AM ---- oh, joy!

What did I learn? The best looking flashlight in the world is worthless if the batteries are dead. Even the most accessible flashlight is useless without power.

Ah, ha! God is the power, isn't He? I can wave my little finger, singing loudly about "Won't let Satan blow it out - no!" But, ultimately, He is the source of my strength. He is my Light and my salvation.

And, He is an ever present help in trouble. I was out of EverReady batteries, but never out of ever present holy help. YAY, GOD! Shine, Jesus, shine.

Octogenarian Love

Each Wednesday morning, I play for a Bible study, held at CC Young Retirement Center where "the spirit is ageless," according to the campus bus.

Driving 100 miles is an investment in my mental and spiritual well-being. Without fail, I walk into the room, and am warmly greeted by Delores Fenn ---- "Hello, lovie!" Her husband, Bob, teaches the class and truly builds the love of Jesus into the 15-20 women who gather faithfully.

Last week, I teasingly said, "I want a picture of you two ---- sit close." Like two teenagers, they cuddled, laughed, and even kissed. Sorry, my photo finger isn't quick enough for the liplock, but you can see the sparkle in their eyes.

They teach me about sharing life together. They make me feel welcome and needed. They show me how Jesus loves men and women in "the fourth quarter."

We have a 99 year old, several in their mid-nineties, and a bunch of kiddos in their 80s. They know what it means to finish well ---- and finish strong. They know life's purpose didn't end when they lost their mobility.

"Give me men to match my mountains," the poet said. I think the Lord is giving mountains to match these CC Youngers.....they are going for it full blast.

Bricklayer, Bricklayer, Lay me a Wall

"The bottom brick looks lighter than the top." Mary Helen's fears were allayed by her wise husband's response, "the bottom is dry and the top isn't."

THERE ---- just like that. Peace reigned.

Remember in the 70s we had that wonderful Christianese slang, PBPWMGIFY....Please be patient with me, God isn't finished yet. We all thought we were so cool! Between that and the total confidence maranatha was our secret decoder ring word, we were rocking.

But, you know something? He really isn't finished yet. There are parts of us that show much more promise than others. There are soft softs and weaknesses that seem to jump out.

That is when we need wise heads to remind us "He who began a good work will FINISH it."

Brick masons don't get paychecks and reputations by leaving the job half done. We have a fulltime God who is in the business of bricking our temples --- and with the very best.

Mary Helen's house will be finished by October. The brick will match; the concerns will be forgotten; and the celebration will begin.

We have a celebration day waiting for us, as well. Come quickly, Lord Jesus! (Maranatha, for you old Jesus people!)

Handwriting on the Wall

King Nebuchenezzar was an evil old man, and an evil old man was he! During a particularly sordid evening, a mysterious hand appeared on the wall, writing four words: Mene, mene, tekel, uparsin. That is literally where the expression, "the handwriting on the wall" gets its origin.

I don't know about mene and parsin ("u" apparently means "and"), but tekel means "You have been weighed in the balance, and found wanting."

That is a sobering thought, isn't it? We all know what it means to fail....not measuring up is a painful experience from the first time we stood in the gym class line.....and stood....and stood while everyone else was picked to the times when someone else got the promotion, credit, date......you fill in the blank.

This one is particularly shattering because it speaks to an entire civilization.

Today as I read Psalm 23 to Jack Kinder in the NET Bible, the words "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing...." really struck me.

I think I am measured and found wanting ---- wanting things, wanting relationships, wanting holiness without paying a price, wanting lifestyle, wanting, wanting, wanting. There is such a small step from wanting to wanton.

When the Lord writes on my wall, I want "good and faithful servant," NOT "found wanting." I want my heart to lack nothing because I have everything needed.....everything He provides.

I've Got Your Number

"I've got an address!" Sleepy Spring is rather a misnomer. The activity on the house is occurring at break neck speed. But I guess nobody wants to live on Break Neck Drive, do they? Dwarfed by the grand structure, Mary Helen daily checks the progress and daily pronounces it"good."

We each have names, too, and our days are numbered. I guess that gives us an address for our earthly existence. The verses in Isaiah reminding the people, "You are called by My name" always encourage me. Mary Helen and Smith can drive down the street and know that 6525 Sleepy Spring is theirs ---- it is called by their name. I like that my heavenly father knows my name, knows where I live, and cares even more about the life I am building than my sister and brother in law care about this magnificent new home of theirs (although that is hard to believe).

They don't have to drive aimlessly, looking for their house ---- they know exactly where it is. I don't have to live aimlessly, wondering about my purpose or my place.....I am His and He is mine.

Three Richardsons

Mom was in Dallas enjoying her girls' weekend, but here are three of the four.

Teachable moments

Bob read to Bree Anna. She instructed her stuffed dog, "Cowboy."

In building the patio, my goal was to provide a place for s'mores, and "things of the Spirit." Roasted marshmallows on Friday night, and watching Bob read to Bree Anna on Saturday made it a happy place.

My friend, Johanna, has her prayer corner where she goes to meet with God each morning. It is sacred ground. The two of them talk together and she leaves with new-found peace.

That is exactly what I want for the firepit patio.....a place of peace and time with God.

"And He walks with me and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own."

Man Stink

"Man stink, man stink!" cried Andrew as he ran into the house. His sister, Bree Anna, failed to see the great value he and their Dad placed on this. It was 100 degrees outside and they were helping me finish a backyard project. "Heat stroke, heat stroke!" should have been the cry.

My paternal grandmother constantly reminded us we should never "grow weary in well-doing." But, Andrew and Bob certainly did grow sweaty in their good works.

Bonnie Blesses the Baldwin

One of my favorite corners in the house is dedicated to my piano. Today, Bonnie Robinson visited with her daughter, Vicki Hitzges. I wouldn't let her go back to Dallas until she sat down and played. Psalm 33: 3 says, "Play skillfully with a shout of joy." That is Bonnie! Her hands, her heart, and her head all meld together in worshipful praise. As she played, I thought of my friend Vicki and how she loves to hear her Mom play, but doesn't get the opportunity with the thousands of miles between their homes.

It was one of those sacred moments you just enjoy.

Bonnie's husband, Haddon Robinson, is one of the finest speakers in the English-speaking world, according to many. Years ago in a sermon, he discussed the "quiet and gentle spirit." "If you could have one picture of this, it would be my wife, Bonnie." High praise, and well-deserved. She was an example to many of us who were relative newly-weds and not so "quiet and gentle."

"Lord, make this home a sanctuary. Fill it with your people, your love, and your music."

Of S'mores and Skype

"That was the best s'more I've had in years!" So said my brother-in-law.

We didn't try out the firepit, but s'mores were the order of the day anyway! Mary Helen, her husband Smith, and I had a good ole time roasting marshmallows and smooshing them on to chocolate layered graham crackers. I honestly don't remember the last time I did this. NEXT TIME IN THE FIREPIT is our war cry.

On Saturday morning, Mary Helen and Smith gathered around their laptop (in my now wireless environment!!!!) to visit for an hour with their son, daughter-in-law, and two grandkids in Kenya. What is this world coming to?

They watched the grandkids tumble on the couch, eat, laugh, and play. Then Mary Helen told them stories and they sat rivoted as she regaled them half a world away. It didn't matter she had Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego all in the lion's den ---- she was telling the story with great drama and love.

Why do we think the God of the Universe can't see us, hear us, and be ever present with us when we casually sit down to share life with Kenya from the piney woods of East Texas? Surely, He is way more powerful than some highly-creative development team that figured out Skype. We often have such small minds. It takes human invention to remind us of the giant intellect of our God and Father.

Good weekend! Go have a s'more ---- it is good for you soul!

Sign of the Times

Selah is a Hebrew musical term meaning pause or interlude between verses. The house in the Piney Woods is just that for me. This isn't an end to "life as it was," for life is ever unfolding and rhythmically modulating from one verse to another. But there are those moments of rest and transition that set the stage. In today's praise music environment, the Selah is the place where the worship leader talks and the musicians vamp behind him (or her). He encourages, he lifts, he even beseeches (though I don't think the younger ones know that word).
My house is named Selah. I am here to hear ---- to listen to the Worship Leader between verses and get my bearings as I continue playing my soul's music.
I made the sign last year one weekend --- and was most proud of myself. But it never had legs. When Rickiey delivered the benches I mentioned it to him. I was thinking of something ordinary --- he wasn't. Again, I am glad I trusted him. It is a perfect fit for the house.
As I drive in and out, it will be an unspoken message to me. "Pause, Brenda, listen to the music and pay attention to the heavenly Minstrel as He soothes your soul."

You've Come A Long Way, Baby!

Do you remember the lonely pipe sticking out of the newly-laid foundation? Just weeks ago, Mary Helen stood there, expectantly waiting for something to happen.
Now look! You can see the pipe, Mary Helen ---- and lots of house! The sheer volume of the interior dwarfs my sister.
I have never built a house, nor followed one so closely. What fun this is. When the walls are finished, and the infrastructure is covered up, I will still remember what it looked like as it turned from a pile of sticks into a house of dreams.
"Strengthening the core" is a current craze for those who exercise. No, I am not one of them! What happens on the outside to us directly correlates to what happens on the inside - within our musculature.
Mary Helen and Smith's house is just the same. Any shortcuts, or flaws will be covered, but the impact will be felt in years to come. They can see the strength of their house and know it is being done correctly.
"Whatsoever a man thinketh in his heart, so is he" was a foundational verse for the Smith family (along with "wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise....) The core and the core values are important. We might look good on the outside, but ultimately we will display how we are constructed.
Often we hear people speak of older houses with "good bones." I want my life to be that way. I am aging (sometimes too quickly); I am sagging, assuredly. But I want God's "good bones" to be seen and felt through me. The work He began in me will undoubtedly be completed, just like their new house. I am grateful.

Out ' N About in East Texas

Two great messages on the Highway 14 from Hawkins to Tyler.....

The cadillac sat on its patch of unmown grass letting the passersby know that it "runs super, but has no brakes." The picture doesn't show that the grass all around the car has been cut, leaving the prized auto perched on a green throne.

Haven't you felt that way before? As long as I don't have to stop, I am running super. I am in the fast lane, with the "pedal to the metal." Only problem is: stopping usually entails hitting a wall or another vehicle. Brakes are essential to cars and lifestyles.

My friend, Becky, wrote today and said she didn't get the license number on the truck, but she obviously got hit by one. She was running great, but temporarily ran out of brakes in her go for broke life.

A friend gifted me with a candle holder saying, "Be still and know I am God." When we are running super, we find it hard to be still, don't we? "Don't let the sun go down on your idleness" had to be one of my Mom's biblical paraphrases. She was not crazy about laziness. For sure, Jesus wasn't going to return and find her on the couch.

"No Brakes...." If we don't apply them regularly, we find ourselves out of control. I would love to see who buys that car.....someone who likes to drag his foot on the pavement, I suppose.

The bumper sticker isn't too clear, but it reads, "Tree hugging dirt worshipper." It was firmly attached to a "Nature's Child Landscaping Service" vehicle. Just in case you didn't know, East Texas loves its pine trees as good as anybody in the world. But, we aren't in the practice of hugging too many of them ----- and definitely not worshipping dirt. You may find a few saying prayers beside their oil wells, but soil isn't the stuff of idols.

Later that afternoon, I read to my friend Patti in Mother Francis hospital. We read Isaiah 45. Verse after verse after verse clearly articulated the thought, "I am the Lord. I am God alone. Give up your idols." So, I am most thankful for the trees,, the dirt, and even the crazy deer who eat my plants. But when it comes to worship, I have to lay all the false idols down and recognize that there is only one who deserves, demands, and delights in worship.