Hope Harbor

You too be patient; strengthen your hearts … James 5:8 Webster’s dictionary defines patient as: “Enduring trying circumstances with even temper… Enduring without protest or complaint.” Circumstances in my life recently have granted to me opportunities to exercise patience. When I was in the local hospital emergency room because of my fractures, the quality of care was good but I did a lot of waiting. I waited for x-rays, for a diagnosis, for pain medicine, for a cast to be put on and then for discharge instructions. I think it is an interesting irony that the noun “patient” means a person in need of medical care. Those who desire to live a life that is pleasing to God, are instructed to be patient. Patience is a precious attribute. It is a component of the fruit of the Spirit. It often grows in a climate of trial and difficulty. Romans 5:3-4 (Amplified Bible) states: Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowi...

The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms…” Deuteronomy 33:27 I continue to think about how important it is to trust and to feel safe. Due to the discomfort from the fractures and the need to keep my leg elevated, I am spending a considerable amount of time in bed these days. Bridget my cat seems to be quite happy about that. She curls up next to me and purrs. It is as though she feels safe and comfortable. Such contentment is heartwarming. As I reflect on how I was actually safe and in good hands, in spite of my momentary doubt, when the young men rescued me after my fall, I am reminded of how important it is to put my ultimate confidence in my Savior. I can be secure in Him. There is an old hymn Safe in the Arms of Jesus . What a lovely precious reality. Below is a link if you’d like to listen to the music and lyrics: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3646248017965248513&ei=KHbqStzyOZzcqgLJkZyiDg&q=safe+in+the+arms+of+jesus# **My apologies ...

“… Now I will arise," says the LORD; "I will set him in the safety for which he longs." Psalm 12:5 (NASB) When you trust someone you feel safe. I certainly have wonderful and trustworthy friends. The injuries I sustained in my accident yesterday necessitated that I have help to get up from the floor. Thankfully there are those I can call upon in times of need. Among my rescuers were two young men who have compassionate hearts as well as strong muscles. They came with not only the brawn to hoist me out of my predicament but also the kindness to lift me with gentleness. I wish I could report that in the midst of the challenge I was a stellar example of courage and cheerfulness. I wasn’t. As the youthful assistants got ready to get me to a more comfortable position, I surveyed the obstacles in the situation. The fractures were quite painful and I started to focus on the risk that movement might hurt me further. I voiced my distress. In order to reassure me, one of the guys ...

It’s amazing how things can change in an instant. Today in a quick moment I fell out of my wheelchair and I broke my leg. The injury will alter my activity level for awhile and slow me down. When I thought about how fast things happened today I was reminded of a few things. The verse that tells us about the speed at which Jesus will return and transfer us into His presence came to mind. 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (New American Standard Bible) 51Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, 52in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. When the trumpet blasts, in a moment, the time it takes to blink, we will be changed. That is a promise of instant transformation. We tend to like instant things. Microwaves are necessary appliances in most households. Internet services are constantly being upgraded so connection speed will increase. Waiting is n...

It requires diligence to maintain things properly. I was reminded of this recently when I saw my friend applying a fresh coat of paint to a frequently used railing. Time and handling had worn away the color covering the metal. If this project had been neglected, the appearance would have become untidy. In addition to unsightliness, as paint peeled away, if the problem was ignored, rust might form and pose a potential hazard. Thankfully, my friend did not neglect this task. She diligently and skillfully applied the needed paint, giving the railing a fresh look and ensuring it was safe to use. As, I admired the improvement, I commented that I hoped her work would not be quickly damaged by weather or human carelessness. My friend replied good naturedly that she won’t mind touching it up again as needed because it’s just necessary to keep up on things. Life does require that we’re not negligent. We must put forth effort to pursue what is valuable. God gives grace for our relationship with ...

“…The Lord delights in kind words …” Proverbs 15:26 The Living Bible Don’t you find it pleasant when you hear kind words spoken about someone you love? Last night on the way home from a meeting at church, there were three people in the car so Tanner shared the back seat with one of my friends. As we travelled we enjoyed nice conversation. From time to time I overheard my friend speaking sweetly to my beloved dog. It was heartwarming to listen to my friend telling Tanner: “You’re such a good boy.” “You are the best puppy.” And more. As I reflected on how it was such a delight to hear the kind words for Tanner, I thought perhaps that God takes pleasure in hearing words of encouragement about those whom He loves. Proper words are a treasure. They are sweet and can bring healing. (Proverbs 16:24) God is honored when we care about others and we endeavor to speak uplifting words. What we say matters. The tongue is very powerful. May we bring joy to the heart of God as he listens to our kind ...

Have you ever wanted to spare someone you love from pain and suffering? I had that experience yesterday. Tanner, my loveable Labrador, has an ear infection. The veterinarian prescribed treatment and performed a procedure that Tanner definitely did not like. My typically amiable and happy dog protested miserably as the staff at the animal hospital wrestled him to cleanse his ear and insert the medicine. They had taken Tanner to an adjacent room to administer the antibiotic. While we were separated, I could hear the struggle behind the closed door. My heart ached as I heard Tanner whimper and even yelp, resisting the efforts of the caregivers. I was sad to hear his distress as he was hurting. I wished I could rescue him from the agony and make him understand that this was for his good and that he will feel better. As I reflect on my emotions about Tanner’s difficult unpleasant experience, I am reminded of a sweet lovely encounter between my brother and his daughter. When my niece was a l...