tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33280761370698553882024-02-22T09:20:32.228-07:00On Crooked KneesDaily readings for living in our crazy world!Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.comBlogger717125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-38207371571595693442011-03-29T09:20:00.000-06:002011-03-29T09:20:56.945-06:00It's Time to Say GoodbyeNothing is new under the sun and so to say that life is full of twists and turns is simply to repeat what anyone who is living knows already. When I first started writing my meditations on certain verses back in January of 2008 the turn of my life at the time prompted me. The following three years provided the appropriate twists and turns dealing out copious fodder for meditations. It remains fascinating, after all these years, to see how pertinent, how fresh, how spot on, are the lives of the Old Testament, the ministry of Jesus and the epistles to the turbulence of life today.<br />
<br />
But just as life events prompted my writing I find that life events are prompting me to stop posting anymore writings. It has been a tremendous experience and I am grateful to all who took the time to read my musings - some of you even commenting on them! So, it is with a great deal of sadness and yet peace that I sign off from writing anymore On Crooked Knees.<br />
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Thank you again. My life has grown and changed for the experience. As you continue with your journey I hope that you will make new discoveries in how God intersects with your life. He is not absent in his silence. May we all live in the fullness of the knowledge that we are created in His image.<br />
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Blessings,<br />
ValerieValerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-87417319013394909502011-03-21T11:45:00.000-06:002011-03-21T11:45:12.258-06:00On VacationHi! I'm leaving town on Tuesday and will be gone for the week to celebrate my daughter's 21st birthday! What fun! Look for new writings next Monday!<br />
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Blessings!<br />
ValerieValerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-38882505805642855482011-03-18T00:00:00.001-06:002011-03-18T00:00:03.160-06:00It's Time to Jump<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://servekrishna.net/images/static/kurma/calves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="http://servekrishna.net/images/static/kurma/calves.jpg" width="168" /></a></div><em>But for you that honor my name, victory will shine</em><br />
<em>like the sun with healing in its rays, and you will jump</em><br />
<em>around like calves at play.</em><br />
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Malachi 4:2<br />
<br />
On any given day there are times when I don’t feel very playful. My spirit is depleted and even a sun shinning day doesn’t dispel the grayness. And as far as feeling victorious, well, some days I’d feel more comfortable walking around with a capital “L” on my forehead.<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">At these moments I become desperate for relief.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>God expects a lot when He demands honor in the middle of adversity. However, I do find hope in the word but. God promises that He will deal with the arrogant and evildoers, but my true pleasure will come when I give Him the glory.<br />
<br />
During desperate times victory will come in due time. The sun will shine again and leaping with joy I’ll finally walk out of the darkness into the sun’s warmth. So today I stand in His presence. Calf jumping will come later and no doubt when I least expect it.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, help me to live each day in a way that honors You.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>I trust that when it is time for jumping</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>my spirit will be ready.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-85716899768989463212011-03-17T00:00:00.001-06:002011-03-17T00:00:01.917-06:00Doing Church<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nationalcenter.org/uploaded_images/Warrenton-Baptist-Church-1-%5BCredit---Peyton-Knight%5D-728499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="http://www.nationalcenter.org/uploaded_images/Warrenton-Baptist-Church-1-%5BCredit---Peyton-Knight%5D-728499.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><em>But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.</em><br />
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Matthew 9:17b<br />
<br />
In ten weeks I have worshipped at eight churches. There’s a lot of talk about “doing church” differently but so far I haven’t seen any significant change. Flashing images have replaced crosses, drums pound in lieu of organs vibrating, shirt tails instead of suits are the norm but the structure has essentially stayed the same. This truth I learned, on a recent Sunday, as I sat after singing a few songs, and listened to an hour sermon.<br />
<br />
When the Jordan waters dripped from Jesus a genuine change happened. The traditionalists became aware of an uncomfortable sensation - change. Rituals and structure began to crumble under the words, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life.” They flailed about as their religious “plates” shifted, unceremoniously dumping them into the unfamiliar. Jesus brought a new paradigm, a different way to “do church” in the world. Very little of his ministry happened in the synagogue. Most of it was spent on dusty roads, amongst pressing crowds, crowded dining tables, rolling hills.<br />
<br />
If I want Jesus’ new wine paradigm to influence my world I guess that I need to chuck "the way it used to be" wineskins and start making new ones. As uncomfortable as it may become, I’m going to move beyond the way “church” used to be, because the world isn’t the way it used to be.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, you transcend time, cultures and centuries.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Help us to be paradigm shifters, showing You to the world in a new way.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-76306921029614083542011-03-16T00:00:00.001-06:002011-03-16T00:00:03.432-06:00SeasonsHere is a portion from the<u> </u><em><strong>Inward Journey</strong></em> by Gene Edwards.<br />
<br />
I have observed through the years that most Christians have little understanding of the word 'season'. Our Lord is a seasonal God; He comes, He departs. his faithfulness never changes, but His seasons do! There are seasons when the tree is green, there are seasons when it is dry, and seasons when, for the life of us, the thing looks dead. Now, does this mean you are serving some capricious God who comes and goes by whim? Or, could it be, that it is only through 'seasons' that true growth may come?<br />
<br />
Paul said, 'Does not nature teach us?' Fruit from a tree comes to us as a result of three or four seasons. The Christian and the Lord's body both need rain and sunshine, cold and hot, wind and doldrums.Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-367961269410402162011-03-15T00:00:00.001-06:002011-03-15T00:00:01.483-06:00But. . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.afrayedknot.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/forgive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" q6="true" src="http://www.afrayedknot.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/forgive.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><em>...as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.</em><br />
<br />
<br />
Colossians 3:13b<br />
<br />
My husband recently had the temerity to tell me that I find it difficult to forgive. Well, I can tell you, I’ll never forgive him for that bit of marital honesty! But, I guess I am a “little” like Paul that I can’t seem to do what I want to do and instead do the very thing that I try to avoid – hold accounts of hurts and wrongs. With every fiber of my being I want to be able to forgive without the bind of strings. I want to be like Jesus.<br />
<br />
Even at His death Jesus forgave, <em>Father, forgive them</em> (Luke 23:34). It translates that if I am a Jesus follower, forgiveness is an absolute. Jesus didn’t hold accounts of the repeated hurts, rejections, betrayals that were hurdled at him. Even knowing their true characters he kept Judas on as a disciple, never wavered with Peter, and showed compassion for the uppity desires of James and John. Forgiveness was just a part of Jesus’ DNA.<br />
<br />
Here’s the rub, if Jesus forgave so freely, why do I find forgiveness so difficult? My slow dawning awakens me to the reality that I don’t want to take ownership of my actions, choices, and responses that need forgiveness. My emotional DNA is lacking and this inward look isn’t pretty. Forgiving a person who has caused me so much hurt is to admit, in the eyes of Jesus, that the difference between us is empty space. To forgive is to accept my need for forgiveness.<br />
This is why my husband may be right, as much as I cringe to admit it. But. . .in my defense, I am getting closer to understanding that when I forgive, I accept the abundant forgiveness that Jesus gives me.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, thank you for instinctively forgiving me.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>I need a forgiving "second" nature. I’ve been hurt</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>but help me to be like You, not holding on but forgiving</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>in the same way I have been forgiven.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-88194767109161698032011-03-14T00:00:00.001-06:002011-03-14T00:00:07.894-06:00Are My Prayers Heard?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.watton.org/clipart/prayer/prayer114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" q6="true" src="http://www.watton.org/clipart/prayer/prayer114.jpg" width="149" /></a></div><em>Caleb said to her, "What do you want?"</em><br />
<em>She said to him, "Give me a blessing.</em><br />
<em>Since you have set me in the land</em><br />
<em>of the Negev, give me also springs of water.</em><br />
<em>And Caleb gave her the upper springs and the lower springs.</em><br />
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Judges 1:13b - 15<br />
<br />
For years I’ve wrestled with the purpose of prayer. Truthfully asking, “does God hear my prayers” or would the same thing happen if I hadn’t prayed at all. Reflecting back on a couple of my “pray without ceasing” themes I have to say, they were not and have not been answered. Many would tell me, “well that is God’s answer!” Personally, I’m not satisfied with that response for the reason that I was praying how Jesus taught me to pray.<br />
<br />
For some this may be very unsettling and for that I apologize. My faith is one of constant wrestling and struggle. And, it seems that the older I get the more complex it becomes. It’s for this reason that Achsah’s prayer to Caleb is so intriguing.<br />
<br />
Not satisfied with her wedding gift of miles of dry, worthless desert Achsah high tails it to her father. "Give me a blessing–I can’t live in the desert without water." It’s a prayer, a cry, a pleading from a daughter to her father. She isn’t asking for anything more than she needs but only for what will give her the ability to live. Caleb responds with abundant alacrity giving Achsah the upper AND lower springs.<br />
<br />
That’s really all I want, is to be able to have what I need to live in the desert. I cling to the generosity of Caleb as a symbol of God’s potential generosity. Perhaps I don’t possess the boldness of Achsah but I am beyond expecting that life in the desert will end. Over and over I read this conversation between a daughter and her father and hope that my prayers could be heard in the same way.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Father, I am your child!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Hear my cry!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>I am not asking for the desert to be removed</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Hear my voice!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Bless me with your living waters.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-20877654890845215532011-03-11T00:00:00.000-07:002011-03-10T19:41:11.114-07:00Thomas Merton on ForgivenessIf the unity of Christians in One Body makes the Church a sign of God in the world, and if men tend unfortunately to conflict and division by reason of their weakness, selfishness and sin, then the will to reconciliation and pardon is necessary if the Church is to make God visible in the world. Nor can this pardon, this communion in forgiveness, remain interior and invisible. It must be clearly manifest. So the mystery of the Church demands that Christians love one another in a visible and concrete way...Christ will not be visible to the world in His Church except in proportion as Christians seek peace and unity with one another and with all men. But since conflict is inevitable, unity cannot be maintained except in great difficulty, with constantly renewed sacrifice, with lucid honety, openness, humility, the readiness to ask forgiveness and to forgive.<br />
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Thomas Merton, <em>Seasons of Celebration</em>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-24348333599758135772011-03-10T00:00:00.001-07:002011-03-10T00:00:11.513-07:00Supersize Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.redpubmagazine.com/view_pic.php?id=1032" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" q6="true" src="http://www.redpubmagazine.com/view_pic.php?id=1032" width="142" /></a></div><em>The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!"</em><br />
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Luke 17:5<br />
<br />
When I watched the documentary “Supersize Me” I was repulsed. Our culture thrives on bigger is better, even if it’s hamburgers! From houses to toilet paper "mega" is the operative word. Consequently, seeing the minuscule becomes a challenge when surrounded by the gargantuan. And yet, I’m surrounded by tiny bits that become "mega" important–a molecule of water for a start.<br />
<br />
The disciples figured that bigger was better. In the days and weeks of following Jesus they had clued in on the fact that their "new life" was going to require something more. Jesus tells them that "temptations to sin are sure to come" and they beg–<em>Increase our faith</em>–bigger is better!<br />
<br />
Faith doesn’t have to be big to be worthwhile. In the process of following Jesus, faith changes size. My faith didn’t start off the size of a California redwood. It began minuscule but was no less effective. Nurtured through prayer, Bible study, silence and Christian community faith grows. Difficulties, disappointments, discouragements water the seedling. Nevertheless there are times when I am certain that my faith isn’t big enough to get me through.<br />
<br />
Bigger isn’t better. Flooding is a result of too much rain, causing destruction. The flip side is that a steady fall of raindrops can fill a reservoir, providing for the future. I pray that my reservoir of faith will be steadily filled, replenishing my seed during seasons of plenty and drought.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, You said that faith the size of a mustard seed</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>is where I can begin. Help me care for my faith seed</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>as consistently as I care for all the other things</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>that are important to me.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-73989546439611386422011-03-09T00:00:00.002-07:002011-03-09T00:00:04.865-07:00Break the Bank<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://topsgiftideas.com/images/PileOfPresents200_245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" q6="true" src="http://topsgiftideas.com/images/PileOfPresents200_245.jpg" /></a></div><em>...as he was reclining at table </em><em>a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, </em><em>very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head.</em><br />
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Mark 14:3b<br />
<br />
My husband and I celebrated twenty-five years of marriage by living on opposite coasts. It wasn’t by choice! And a year later, when twenty-six rolled around, Bill moved to my coast. Arriving at the restaurant the hostess walked us to an empty table, “Oh no, this isn’t your table,” she said, “your table is over there.” And “there” was a table, set for two, colorfully stacked with twenty-six gifts hand picked by my husband as he drove across the country to join me. I was blown away!<br />
<br />
The Bethany woman who anoints Jesus blew the roof off with her gift! Whether the ointment was specifically purchased or was in her closet her gift probably stressed her bank account. She believed that Jesus deserved the very best, even if the cost was future stability.<br />
<br />
I have a fairly lengthy list of what I consider "valuable." They don’t all possess a monetary value but it’s certain that losing or giving them away would be painful. I like my things!<br />
<br />
Jesus didn’t ask for her gift. It is given unexpectedly, willingly and generously. Her generosity convicts me and I ask, “How generous am I in showing my love for Jesus?”<br />
<br />
From jobs, to homes, to stuff, to children, to spouses, to retirement accounts--whatever it may be that I hold valuable, am I willing to pour it generously over the head of Jesus?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, I love you with all my heart, soul and mind.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>And while I want to give generously to You, I struggle.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Help me to remember the woman from Bethany</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>each time my fingers tighten around all that I consider valuable.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen. </em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-65857859806397353822011-03-08T00:00:00.003-07:002011-03-08T08:03:11.454-07:00No Second Guessing<em>Whether you turn to the right or to the left,</em><br />
<em>Your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying,</em><br />
<em>“This is the way; walk in it.”</em><br />
<br />
Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)<br />
<br />
Every morning I am offered a choice to hear or be deaf. Some days I am more eager than others. There are days, as much as I eagerly listen, I hear only silence. But even the silence is God’s voice. When I am open to His voice, hearing His words, living His silence, I have a greater possibility of becoming His hands, feet and mouth to the world.<br />
<br />
I’ve been thinking about how we actually hear God’s voice and in hearing, do we really trust His voice to guide us in our conversations. I am haunted by second guessing my responses, reliving my conversations and kicking myself for “why didn’t I say. . .?” Even more guilt inducing is wondering whether I have been a good “witness” for Jesus Christ.<br />
<br />
In my work I am daily confronted with individuals who have little or no religious background. They need to know their Creator. But worrying about saying the “right words” could very well stop me from saying anything at all! I want to put aside “right words” and accept His words. He knows what needs to be said and what should be left unspoken. With this confidence I step boldly into the unknown and be Christ to the people He brings. If afterwards I experience self-doubt as to how well I did, I have to trust that the words spoken and the “truths” covered were what God wanted.<br />
<br />
Thank God that He is able to take my verbal bumblings and shape them into<em> This is the way; walk in it</em>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus! Help me to hear Your voice!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-27983897442713704112011-03-07T00:00:00.001-07:002011-03-07T00:00:07.301-07:00A Holy Climb<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t92.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/rockclimbing-271x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="http://t92.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/rockclimbing-271x300.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><em>Moses said to the people, "Do not fear,</em><br />
<em>for God has come to test you, </em><em>that the fear of him may be before you, that you may not sin.</em><br />
<br />
Exodus 20:20<br />
<br />
My husband, a rock climber, says that when rock climbing it is important to keep an element of fear in your back pocket. It’s fear that keeps you from doing crazy moves. It’s fear that helps keep you focused on the rock. It’s fear that actually keeps you moving forward.<br />
<br />
Too often my life has been paralyzed by fear, preventing me from moving out and living God’s life. In the past I have figured that if I kept things in control and obeyed the teachings of Jesus my life would be smooth. I have found just the opposite. More times than I can count my route up the rock has lacked proper hand holds and my feet haven’t found traction. But, instead of using Fear to my advantage I uncontrollably shake.<br />
<br />
A decision to live fearing God gives me the courage, in the midst of the worst, to grab His hand and begin the climb again. Accepting that there will be challenges on this holy climb, I claim a healthy fear of God to help me choose the best route up. It’s this fear that helps me know the joy and sorrow of this adventure and that nothing can prevent me from reaching the summit of God’s plan.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Father God, help me.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>You go before me.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>I don’t want to make this climb without Your presence.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen. </em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-55491448688651599902011-03-03T00:00:00.001-07:002011-03-03T00:00:02.733-07:00Eating with Misfits<em>...'the next time you put on a dinner, don’t just invite your friends and family and rich neighbors,</em><br />
<em>the kind of people who will return the favor.</em><br />
<em>Invite some people who never get invited out, the misfits</em><br />
<em>from the wrong side of the tracks. You’ll be–and experience–a blessing.</em><br />
<br />
Luke 14:12-13 (The Message)<br />
<br />
It is a luxury to be able to choose "safe", like-minded friends. My social bubble popped while living in a small, eccentric to the max, alternative life-style town for ten years. Hardly anyone "looked" like me! Arriving in town I began to cast about for friends who "fit" me. I found myself empty handed. Then I began to open myself to the town’s supposed "misfits.” Soon my friends became individuals that definitely would not have crossed my path if we had been living in a more populated area. My life, however, was richer, deeper for their "misfit" involvement.<br />
<br />
Jesus didn’t seek out "safe" people. He intentionally hung out with the "misfits.” His disciples often tried to blow a protective religious bubble around him - he burst it every time. Jesus wanted to talk, eat, and socialize with the people who didn’t "fit." What difference would he have made if he had stuck with people who thought like him?<br />
<br />
For every time you invite a "safe" friend to dinner think about the "misfit", the individual who doesn’t "fit" that could be invited as well. You’ll be–and experience–a blessing.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, I want to live like You lived, outside the bubble.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Help me to stop looking at who "fits" with me,</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>looking instead for unexpected friends.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-88662940873344929222011-03-02T00:00:00.005-07:002011-03-02T00:00:14.642-07:00Without a GPS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pstutorialsblog.com/gpsgazette/MagellancrossoverGPS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" l6="true" src="http://pstutorialsblog.com/gpsgazette/MagellancrossoverGPS.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><em>And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden...</em><br />
<br />
Isaiah 58:11a, b<br />
<br />
I don’t think that very many people in my community have a GPS. We don’t give directions by streets but by landmarks. If planning a trip out of town we Google or Yahoo the route. And while my father told me I needed to be able to read a map if I was going to learn to drive that “talent” now seems antiquated.<br />
<br />
How I wish I could plug in GPS coordinates while traveling the Jesus road. Even if I could the response would probably be “unknown location.” Nevertheless without any map I walk, not knowing the direction and ending up in places of desolation along with vibrant gardens.<br />
<br />
I know that in some weird way I have been led to now. Glancing back I see that I have somehow passed through scorched places and discover that in my wanderings I am stronger. Looking ahead I don’t see much but I feel stronger, ready for new directions!<br />
<br />
Without GPS or Google maps I am completely out of control. It is unsettling. I like maps, seeing where I am going. But in attempting to control my route and destination I could very well miss hidden surprises, breathtaking views and ultimately lose my way altogether.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, you are the guide through the scorched places!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Thank you for making me strong along the way.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Without any clear directions I am following you.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>AMEN.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-66199061606000411332011-03-01T00:00:00.001-07:002011-03-01T00:00:02.781-07:00Which Door to Choose<em><span style="color: #b45f06;">This morning I want to share a reading from my own readings during my silent time today. I pray it is as encouraging to you, as it was for me.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #b45f06;"></span></em><br />
<br />
Related scriptures--Psalm 139:15-17; Isaiah 66:3-4; Hebrews 11:24-25<br />
<br />
The future is not a foregone conclusion. But when we give God permission to intervene and bring about His will in us still again and again He offers us choices, perhaps between one good and another. This is so that we can create through our choices, enabling Him to bring into being things He had long ago planned for us. He constantly plans for me in love, and in His mercy he never allows me to see the might-have-beens that only He could see.<br />
<br />
<em>Celtic Book of Prayer</em>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-7734166593076709182011-02-28T00:00:00.001-07:002011-02-28T00:00:05.926-07:00Living Noisily<em>I will pray with my spirit,</em><br />
<em>But I will pray with my mind also…</em><br />
<br />
I Corinthians 14:15b<br />
<br />
Jesus did not live quietly. As an adolescent he wasn't intimidated by the religious scholars but was confident in his identity and what he knew. From baptism to a wedding at Cana to feeding thousands Jesus lives his life publicly and noisily. Mark's<br />
gospel repeatedly describes the "crowds" following Jesus. It wasn't a quiet life that Jesus lived.<br />
<br />
In this "politically correct" age I find myself too often living "quietly." To live each day as an opportunity to live noisily for Jesus is a challenge. But what I'm realizing is that while I may not go down the street yelling "Jesus!" I can find a way of speaking Jesus into the life of each person I meet. It becomes a conscious awareness on my part. Each waiter, clerk, doctor, mortgage broker, window washer becomes an opportunity to not live quietly.<br />
<br />
How I live noisily for Jesus will look different with each person I meet. But there is a constant between them all that requires nothing from the other. I can pray. Whether "quietly" or out loud the simplest way to be noisy about Jesus is bringing them to Jesus, in prayer.<br />
<br />
<div align="center"><em>Jesus, I love you.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Help me to see with Your eyes,</em></div><div align="center"><em>hear with your ears</em></div><div align="center"><em>and respond with Your love.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-70486307156008424962011-02-25T00:00:00.002-07:002011-02-25T00:00:04.455-07:00Psalm 73<em>From Psalms/Now</em><br />
<br />
It is generally expected that God will stand by the righteous<br />
and related to those whose deeds and thoughts<br />
are purely altruistic.<br />
<div align="right">I am afraid I just don't belong to that class of people.</div><div align="right">I guess I am just a perpetual backslider.</div><div align="right">Rather than thinking unselfishly,</div><div align="right">I find myself envious and covetous</div><div align="right">about those who have so much more than I.</div><div style="text-align: center;">They never seem to have problems.</div><div style="text-align: center;">They are always so strong and healthy.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I doubt that they know the meaning of conflict.</div><div style="text-align: center;">They are proud, carefree,</div><div style="text-align: center;">devil-may-care, even malicious,</div><div style="text-align: center;">and so disgustingly smug about it all.</div><div style="text-align: left;">They act as if God didn't even exist,</div><div style="text-align: left;">and they are almost blasphemous in their attitudes and actions.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And yet people will honor and applaud them;</div><div style="text-align: center;">they find nothing to censor about them.</div><div style="text-align: center;">What aggravates me is their obvious unconcern</div><div style="text-align: center;">about God or fellowman.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Yet they always appear to be so comfortable and well off.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And all the while I struggle so desperately with my sin-permeated nature.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I try so hard to please God, yet my days are full of conflict and my heart seethes in unrest.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">I know I speak foolishly and unfairly,</div><div style="text-align: right;">but I get so fed up with it all.</div><div style="text-align: right;">That is, until I begin arguing with God about it.</div><div style="text-align: right;">Then I realize that they are not as well offf as they appear to be.</div><div style="text-align: right;">Their bright bubble will burst one day;</div><div style="text-align: right;">their dream will turn into a nightmare.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It's just that I get so depressed at times,</div><div style="text-align: left;">and I act like a stupid fool.</div><div style="text-align: left;">What is so amazing is that even while engrossed in irrational and unspiritual contemplations</div><div style="text-align: left;">I am never far from You.</div><div style="text-align: left;">You hold me close to Yourself.</div><div style="text-align: left;">You guide me and watch over me.</div><div style="text-align: left;">You assure me that is is all worth it.</div><div style="text-align: left;">And because of this glorious truth</div><div style="text-align: left;">I really have no need for anything else.</div><div style="text-align: right;">The essential desires of my being are met in You.</div><div style="text-align: right;">I shall often be victimized by human failure,</div><div style="text-align: right;">but my great God never ceases to love me and bless me.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">How good it is to know that God is always near!</div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-35801717604662039412011-02-24T00:00:00.003-07:002011-02-24T21:23:46.121-07:00Jesus vs. Wal-Mart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gomonews.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/wal-mart-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" j6="true" src="http://www.gomonews.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/wal-mart-logo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><em>I am with you always. . .</em><br />
<br />
Matthew 28:20<br />
<br />
Wal-Mart isn’t one of my favorites. Nevertheless I found myself one recent day in their storage area, along with a supervisor, rummaging through boxes of discontinued baby cribs. Struggling with one box, my Wal-Mart cohort called out to a co-worker, “hey could you help me with this?” “Off the clock,” was her snap reply and away she walked with her gargantuan soda cup. I overheard me saying to myself, “thanks a lot!”<br />
<br />
Encounters such as this one always get me thinking. And this is what came to me: I am thankful that the Trinity is never “off the clock.” In the movie, <em>Bruce Almighty</em>, Jim Carrey finds out what it means to be always <em>on the clock</em> when he assumes, for a brief time, God’s responsibilities. He can’t even begin to keep up with the prayer requests!<br />
<br />
And so I come to the mountain, along with the disciples, a place of safety and strength, to hear Jesus promise, <em>I am with you always</em>. There is no going “off the clock.” He is always ever present, ready to help me rummage through whatever pile I am struggling with. Now that's service!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, thank you for being with me – always!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-10729030687557830412011-02-23T10:07:00.001-07:002011-02-23T12:19:31.789-07:00Crawling Forward<em><span style="color: #783f04;">I didn't get home from work last night until ten so I thought I would post a piece that I wrote three years ago. You may recognize it but as I reread it I found it very appropriate for my life at present. Amazing how some things just don't change! Blessings!</span></em><br />
<br />
<em>But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed,</em><br />
<em>but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.</em><br />
<br />
Hebrews 10:39<br />
<br />
I watched on TV how the summer heat tried to beat the life out of Gabriela Andersen-Schiess of Switzerland. Having run 26 miles in the 1984 Olympics she collapsed 400 meters short of the finish line. It looked pretty certain that Gabriela’s race was over. But then Gabriela proved to everyone watching, including myself, that she was made of tougher stuff. My body hurt as I watched her crawl, waving away all attempts to help her. And I marveled as Gabriela crossed the finish line. Six runners had completely quit the race long before.<br />
<br />
Jesus was made of tougher stuff. From the beginning, when the Holy Spirit drives him out to the desert, Jesus demonstrates what it means to not shrink back. At every turn the religious "heat" was continually turning up the temperature in its attempts to beat him down. Even falling under the burden of his cross, he continues to the finish.<br />
<br />
In following Jesus, I feel the intensity of religious "heat." Throughout my spiritual race there have been those who have attempted to beat me down with their criticisms, insults and slander. And, I have face planted. But, knowing Jesus and the insults he endured keeps me crawling forward.<br />
<br />
Jesus lived a life that proved finishing is possible. Moving forward, even on my hands and knees, will ultimately give me life. If I shrink back, quitting short of the finish line, I will lose for sure.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, your life proves that hardships are a part of living.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Thank you for never shrinking back from the finish.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Help me, no matter the position,</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>to keep moving forward to life with You.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-62935956892715531122011-02-22T00:00:00.002-07:002011-02-22T00:00:00.764-07:00Waiting for God<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://baseballsnatcher.mlblogs.com/waiting%20in%20line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="105" j6="true" src="http://baseballsnatcher.mlblogs.com/waiting%20in%20line.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><em>But God’s not finished.</em><br />
<em>He’s waiting around to be gracious to you.</em><br />
<em>He’s gathering strength to show mercy to you.</em><br />
<em>God takes the time to do everything right.</em><br />
<br />
Isaiah 30:18 (The Message)<br />
<br />
When I first went away to college I thought it was pretty cool to grab a group of friends and head down to the dining commons. Scrambling through the food line I could grab whatever I wanted to eat, even if it didn’t fit into the pyramid food grouping. But eventually it was the waiting in line for every single meal every day that prompted this vow when I was a junior, “I will never wait in line for food again!”<br />
<br />
Since that vow I can’t think of a day where I am not forced to wait or wait by default. I now wait for traffic lights. I wait for phone calls, doctor appointments and e-mails to be returned. I wait for repair technicians and online orders. I wait. . .Waiting has become an integral part of my life although I still refuse to eat in cafeterias and I don’t care for potlucks – it reminds me too much of my college days!<br />
<br />
Honestly, I don’t find Isaiah’s definition of waiting comforting, in fact, it promises an unknown length of time - more waiting! It’s true, I believe that God does want to lavish me with His graciousness, but His demand for perfection just produces more waiting on my part! So, added to my list of daily waiting is waiting for God.<br />
<br />
But I long to experience the gracious, merciful rightness of my Father, who hopefully isn’t finished with me, and so I wait. In my waiting I remember all that has been right from my past and I am refreshed knowing that the God of my past is also the God of my future.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, thank you for loving me enough</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>to wait until everything is right.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Help me to wait for all that is gracious, merciful and right.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>AMEN.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-60933281573852220652011-02-21T00:00:00.001-07:002011-02-21T00:00:12.158-07:00Zumba Lessons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk/resources/products/image1/013650/salsa-dancing-delilah-smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" j6="true" src="http://www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk/resources/products/image1/013650/salsa-dancing-delilah-smith.jpg" width="195" /></a></div><em>. . .and he said to him, “Follow me.”</em><br />
<br />
Mark 2:14c<br />
<br />
In my humble opinion there isn’t anything that will make you feel more like a klutz than joining a Zumba class! With every new pattern the instructor calls out, “follow me” but my feet find it difficult to mirror the beautiful, rhythmic movements. It’s loads of fun in a two left feet sort of way. My instructor keeps reminding me that “it’s hard in the beginning but it gets better” and she’s right. After repeated sequences my feet find their place more easily; in the mirror I can see that I am following my teacher’s steps more smoothly.<br />
<br />
With fumbling feet I follow Jesus. He called me years ago and sometimes the following is easier than others. Everyday is a Zumba class with me attempting to mirror the steps He has laid out for me. I know in my heart how I want to walk and live but my desire and my actions aren’t always in sync. But with each repeated lesson and duplicated hardship, I am finding that my steps are becoming more solid, less awkward.<br />
<br />
Jesus reminds me, daily, that following him is hard, but it gets better. His steps are not impossible. And, when I finally get the sequence, no matter how complicated, life resembles a cha cha step!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, You call out the steps.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Help me to learn how to follow.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-25084919897500694022011-02-18T08:03:00.000-07:002011-02-18T08:03:18.268-07:00From Catherine de Hueck Doherty<em>If we trust somebody we are truly opening the way to love, hope and faith. For God loves a cheerful giver, and there is no limit to the blessing God can give us. He will always make sure that we have what we need for ourselves. That is to say, that when we give cheerfully, joyfully, of ourselves, of our faith, of our love, then indeed we become truly alive. We become so full that we are like a granary. Others can come and take the grain away.</em><br />
<br />
<em>But the word "trust is an immense word. For if men begin to trust one another, then they will stop killing one another with mental cruelty and every kind of inhumanity. . .Whenever you give it away, God replenishes it anew. Like love, trust can only be kept by being given away.</em><br />
<br />
<em>So let us all go into the depth of ourselves and find out if we trust one another, and if not, why not. Let us talk about, shall we? For charity begins at home you know, and the almsgiving of trust starts with us.</em>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-9760982932680734552011-02-17T00:00:00.002-07:002011-02-17T00:00:08.883-07:00He Knows Best<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://neatnik2009.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/trinity-symbol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" j6="true" src="http://neatnik2009.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/trinity-symbol.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><em>For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.</em><br />
<br />
I Corinthians 2:10b<br />
<br />
Family legend has it that my mother once told my then boyfriend that she <em>knew me better than I knew myself.</em> He and I were engaged at the time and she wasn’t exactly keen on the idea. While I bristled at her knowingness the truth is that she had a better idea, than me, of what I would need in a marriage. My boyfriend became my husband and when I became a mother I finally had to admit that as my mother had “known” me I “knew” my daughter! At this point in my life I find it comforting that my mother knew me so well.<br />
<br />
How the Father, Son and Holy Spirit exists as One is a theological mystery. But how they relate to each other is always consistent. Their intertwining, where one leaves off the other begins, brings comfort. With no beginning or end, I am safe within the center.<br />
<br />
With these infinite abilities, why is knowing the depths of God important? <em>Accountability and relationship.</em> Living accountably, and in relationship with trustful friends, gives my life clarity, wholeness and vision. God being in relationship with the Holy Spirit, who searches everything, even God himself, means I know a God that can be trusted.<br />
<br />
God sets the example of willingness to be “known.” It’s the kind of life he wants with me—a willing acknowledgment that nothing can be hidden because He <em>knows me better than I know myself.</em><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, You know me!.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Nothing is hidden.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>I will become all You want me to be.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>AMEN.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-6879620860905541762011-02-16T00:00:00.004-07:002011-02-16T07:53:56.883-07:00A Walk in Hell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ivarfjeld.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/hell_070706_ms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="150" src="http://ivarfjeld.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/hell_070706_ms.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><em>Be strong and courageous and do it.</em><br />
<em>Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed.</em><br />
<em>. . .He will not leave you. . .until all the</em><br />
<em>work for the service of the house of the Lord is finished.</em><br />
<br />
I Chronicles 28:20<br />
<br />
<em>If you’re going through hell, keep going</em>. A friend told me that Winston Churchill said it. Google says the same, but I sure wish she had passed this along to me several months ago! It would have made the perfect hole in which to dump the mess I was experiencing. I was going through hell – for months - and I certainly didn’t know how to keep going.<br />
<br />
But unbeknownst to me apparently I kept moving. I have proof – I’m still alive! When the heat was on and flaming tongues were doing their best to destroy, I didn’t want to go on. Evil smothered me. Fear paralyzed me. Discouragement neutralized me. Fatigue defeated me. How could I go on when I was standing still?<br />
<br />
<em>Though I walk through the valley of death</em> never meant much until I went through hell. I feared the evil that surrounded me and I almost became an ash heap, but I stand today as a witness – God walked through hell with me. And, all I can say is that I was convinced that my work for the Lord was finished – but today is a new day and I awake to the realization that all is not lost or destroyed and His plans for me are still intake!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>God! Thank you!</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3328076137069855388.post-90146132328468281782011-02-15T00:00:00.001-07:002011-02-15T00:00:03.593-07:00Reacting to Action<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thesituationist.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/thing-called-love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="199" src="http://thesituationist.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/thing-called-love.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><em>We love because he first loved us.</em><br />
<br />
I John 4:19<br />
<br />
Leafing through the fourteen page questionnaire I was required to submit, I blasted a groan. <em>How many clients have you shared the Gospel with? How many clients accepted Jesus Christ?</em> Come on! Was our effectiveness as a ministry really going to be determined by the number of clients that got “saved”? It was a painful reminder of a recent phone conversation with a community agency where I had assured them that while we were definitely a faith based organization we weren’t into “whopping people with our Bibles.” “That’s your reputation,” was her reply.<br />
<br />
Recalling the first word in our non-profit’s mission statement I was tempted to cross out <em>shared the Gospel</em> and replace it with <em>loved</em> – <em>How many clients have you loved</em>? Loving others, out of the vastness of love that has been given, seems like a very effective way to measure success! Any other measure becomes a statistic, a glorious, dust collecting trophy.<br />
<br />
Loving everyone who walks through the door takes energy requiring a certain quantity of guts. It requires listening to painful stories, putting up with disgusting smells, bending to inconveniences, closing the gap of opposites with compassion, stepping outside my world and into the world of another.<br />
<br />
Dropping my eyes again to the dreaded question I stopped my noisemaking. The “higher ups” weren’t going to get a real picture of what my staff and I did every day with that question because as un-measurable as it may be, loving is incredibly more demanding, far more long term, completely unconditional and sometimes very rewarding. Loving is my reaction to His action – because he first loved us.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Jesus, help me to love as You love.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Amen.</em></div>Valerie Jordan Mangrumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05700461819033999343noreply@blogger.com1