| Dear Holy Friends, Today we say goodbye to 2008. For some that is a good thing, for others it may not be. Funny how the joy and magic of Christmas comes to a grinding halt for some people when it bumps head first into New Year's. Tonight as the new year begins maybe we can all think on the new year that begins each time we celebrate His birth. In His Grip, Chandra Gift of Love. When the clock strikes twelve and the new year does start will we remember Jesus and His place in our heart? Will Christmas live on the whole year through or when we put decorations away will we hide it too? The rush,hustle, and frenzied shopping is done feasts eaten, presents opened soon the holidays are gone. But in the aftermath a star still shines above reminding us of the Holy night the precious gift of Love. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/31/08~ |
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
The heart That Ponders #30 . . .gift of love . . .12/31/08
Monday, December 29, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #29 . . . Shadow of the Cross . . . 12/29/08
| Dear Holy Friends, There is a photo my pastor uses each year during advent. It is of a solitary manger with a golden light shining on the hay. And the light casts a shadow of a cross over the manger. It is a poignant reminder that Christmas and Easter come together. We cannot have one without the other. In His Grip, Chandra The Shadow of The Cross The infant in the manger tiny and brand new, How is it possible He could save me and you? No crowns and royal clothing for this King of kings, rags and a smelly barnyard for the Lord of everything. Lying in the golden hay innocence of a baby boy, heavenly royalty wrapped in newborn joy. God, in the babe in the hay let the miracle not be lost, look closely in this Holy light see the shadow of the cross ~Chandra Lynn Smith~ |
Sunday, December 28, 2008
The heart That Ponders #28 . . .Born . . .12/28/08
| Dear Holy Friends, I sit here watching the weather fronts change. Mild air is coming in for today, a brief respite from the cold. But tomorrow the cold will be back. Watching the clouds makes me wonder what it would have been like to see 'angels and a multitude of the heavenly hosts' and hearing them sing. Wow. I hope we don't lose the wonder of Christmas too fast for it lead directly to the Glory of the cross. In His Grip, Chandra Born One night in a barn lonely manger, star bright baby's birth, mother's heart true worship, holy night. Scent of hay, night air animals eating, cows mooing, stable sounds, no one there in the noise, baby cooing. Heaven opened, angels came royalty in a bed of hay wise men visit, gifts they brang salvation came to earth that day Father's love in a baby boy creator living among His own manger in the shadow of a cross born our sin to atone. ~Chandra Lynn Smith~ |
The heart That Ponders #27 . . .I wonder . . .12/28/08
| Dear Holy Friends, The Christmas Tree sparkles in my Living Room. This morning I sat for a while and enjoyed the only light in the house coming from the tree and the nativity on the mantel. Then I opened my Bible and read the last two chapters of Revelation. Since 1991 I have read my Bible entirely in one year. Today I get to mark another year in the back of my Bible! The radio played a beautiful mixture of worship and Christmas music. Everything about the morning has pointed to my Jesus. And, I don't want to let Christmas go. So, I allowed my mind to wonder a bit this morning. In His Grip, Chandra I Wonder Fresh hay has a fragrant smell but manure can overpower. I wonder what was in the air at Jesus' birthing hour? Animals give off body heat but they also snort and groan. I wonder if it was warm and quiet as birth pains made Mary moan? Childbirth is a miracle but it brings blood and pain. I wonder how Mary found comfort as birth caused her body to strain? Christmas is a wonder Love came down to earth. But may I never take lightly the humility of my Savior's birth. |
Friday, December 26, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #26 . . . Paradox . . . 12/26/08
| Dear Holy Friends, I decided to finish out the month with more of this series. Then we go back to the regular Just For Today series. last night we all watched The Nativity Story. It proved to be a delightful way to end a great Christmas Day. Then of course the guys had to do a 'guy movie' and watched Gladiator . . . eww. I went to bed and read! Anyway, the movie made me think about Joseph some more. Today's poem is one of my older ones, but I think it is worth a redo! In His Grip, Chandra Paradox
I hold a paradox a bundle of joy Could prophecies come true in this tiny little boy? Why am I the father of the heavenly child? Can't think clearly thoughts run wild. He is so helpless going to look up to me? I am a poor carpenter hardly fit for royalty. I look at this baby feel fear and humility. It's a mighty task I face Father, help me please. As I pray to you, my God I hold my son, Your Son. My baby, my child, my Savior, God may Your will be done.
~Chandra Lynn Smith~ |
Thursday, December 25, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #25 . . . fingers and toes . . . 12/25/08
| Dear Holy Friends. Merry Christmas to all of you! Thank you for the journey this advent. I wonder how many times Mary and Joseph moved the covers away and marveled at those tiny little hands and feet . . . the hands and feet of God.Whoa. In His Grip, Chandra Fingers and Toes Ten fingers, ten toes, dark hair, crinkled nose, tiny feet, soft skin, dark eyes, little chin, sleeping peacefully, crying loud, beautiful baby, parents are proud. Baby's breathing, pounding heart, perfect child, joy starts, baby noises, bright eyes, tiny movements, contented sighs, sleep interrupted, time compressed, life enriched, family blessed. Every parent feels this way, long ago, still today, one Holy night in a manger stall, God came to earth in a baby small, I bet Mary kissed His nose and counted fingers and tiny toes.
~Chandra Lynn Smith ~ |
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
The heart That Ponders #24 . . . tiny baby . . .12/24/08
| Dear Holy Friends, There's something about this night. I can't quite explain it, but it's there. The air is more clean, the sound more sharp, and the silence more precious. We sing the song Silent Night and it causes me to pause. I guess for some the night still is silent. Silent in the soul, I mean. Christmas without Christ is hollow and silent. But for Mary and Joseph and some shepherds in a field, that night was anything but silent. It is my prayer that our Savior comes into our hearts this night with love and peace and angels singing. I hope he removes the silence from our souls. In His Grip, Chandra Tiny Baby poor family little town tiny baby no one around no fanfare only peace God on earth condemnation cease why this way King comes around God of creation love came down Prince of peace for all of us ours is to believe accept and trust ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/21/08~ |
The heart That Ponders #23 . . .Joseph's Moment . . .12/23/08
| Dear Holy Friends, I took a few moments to pause and think of Joseph's night. How weary he must have been from the journey, caring for Mary, and then delivering the baby. And, he really had no down time. For then he had two depending upon him. Knowing men, the need to provide probably weighted heavily upon his shoulders and a stable was not his idea of the best provisions. I wonder what he thought as he tried to rest and keep a watching eye on Mary and Jesus the first hours after delivery. In His Grip, Chandra Joseph's Moment "Mary, here's the baby," he said then placed Jesus in her arms and kissed her head . . . He stared at the infant ruddy from birth could this be God come down to earth? He cleaned up and covered his bride from weariness and worry he wanted to hide. The moment of birth his heart swelled with love this babe was his son sent from above. Yet, as he looked at them he marveled at creation Joseph knew his adopted son brought his Daddy's salvation. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/21/08~ |
Monday, December 22, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #22 . . . Mary's Moment . . . 12/22/08
| Dear Holy Friends, Sometimes in the miracle and the magical of Christmas I fear we lose the reality of it. Mary and Joseph had never been together. She was a virgin. And she was in a stable forced to trust this man who was her husband, but did not know her, to deliver her baby. No room for modesty, but I bet there was some anyway. In His Grip, Chandra Mary's Moment The pains come breathing is tough Joseph is here is that enough? He's never seen me in this way embarrassing don't know what to say. There in his eyes I see strength and fear, how can we do this? Wish Mama was here. The pain increases the baby comes now Joseph will deliver him does he know how? Father, help me deliver Your Son I'll trust you again to see Your plan is done. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/21/08~ |
The Heart That Ponders #21 . . . No Room . . . 12/22/08
| Dear Holy Friends, When they came into town, did they register first? Was she already in labor? Did they know there was no room before they registered or after? So many pieces to the story we don't know for sure. But many we do. Sometimes I think about the innkeeper. He had no room. At least he offered them the stable, which according to what we have learned was probably more like a cave than a barn. In His Grip, Chandra No Room There they stood tired, alone road weary faces far from home her face twisted when each pain came saying there was no room felt pretty lame but it was the truth my inn was full yet somehow I knew I faced a miracle as they turned to go she fell into his embrace the babe was coming I saw in her face my wife touched my robe and I nodded my head and offered them shelter in the stable instead now I stand outside staring at the star my life forever changed by the couple from afar Something in the air a tangible presence I find myself wondering what kind of miracle God sent. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/21/08~ |
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The Heart That Ponder #20 . . . Road Trip . . . 12/21/08
| Dear Holy Friends, Have you ever thought about the journey they made? Riding on a donkey in the last days of pregnancy is hard for me to comprehend. Traveling with a new husband whom you have trusted your life and has trusted your most unbelievable story is hard to imagine. Going to a strange city, pilgrims among many, and not sure what awaits because of a mean and wicked ruler, named Herod is hard to fathom. But, this cold, sleety Sunday morning I can take a few minutes to ponder the road trip they took.
In His Grip, Chandra
Road Trip
The journey was long the donkey ride rough as they moved along I'm sure it was tough. She must have felt every bump in the road the baby she carried was a heavy load. I bet Joseph worried if she would make it through and if something went wrong what he would do. When the pains began was there fear and joy confusion when a manger was the birthplace of the Boy? Isn't that God's nature, doing things His own way? As Mary and Joseph traveled their obedient road showed us the way.
~Chandra Lynn Smith ~ |
Saturday, December 20, 2008
The Heart That Ponders # 19 . . .More Questions . . . 12/20/08
| Dear Holy Friends, I do apologize for getting my numbers off a bit this week. My mother had a cataract surgery and repair of a detached retina and macula surgery this week. It kinda got me behind on many things, including Just For Today. I sat here early this morning thinking of Mary and Joseph's journey and my mind filled with many questions. In His Grip, Chandra More Questions Was the family there to see you off did worry line their faces? Did you travel alone or in a group through lonely, dangerous places? How could you bear the bumps and thumps riding on that donkey's back? What did the two of you talk about long hours walking on your trek? When the pains began did you tell Joseph or keep quiet for a while? Did the Spirit offer comfort from your distress as you rode those weary miles? Was your fear of the delivery big but your faith in Yahweh great? When Joseph realized you were in pain did he ask Yahweh to make it wait? Did you ever look to heaven and wonder why God chose the two of you? Was there a moment you wanted to give up life became too big for you? And, in the evenings when you settled to rest and Joseph protected his own, did the two of you find comfort knowing Yahweh would never leave you alone? ~Chandra Lynn Smith. 12/20/08~ |
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #18 . . .Mama Can We Talk? . . .12/19/08
| Dear Holy Friends, How difficult it must have been for Mary and Joseph to leave home when she was so close to having the baby. I wonder if they ever thought of the prophecies about the baby coming from Bethlehem and connected that enough to think she would give birth while they were away from home? I wonder if Mary was able to spend a few minutes alone with her mother before the journey began? IN His Grip, Chandra Mama Can We Talk Mama can we talk Not sure I can do this I'm a little bit frightened Could use a hug and kiss. What if the baby comes while we are away will there be someone to help me on that important day? And how can I travel I am so large with child Joseph got a donkey but the thing looks rather wild. Mama I am afraid I'll not be a good Mom can't figure why God chose me to bear His only Son. Mary You can do this your faith is very strong you know He is with you even when nights are long. I know it will be hard to be away form home but you and Joseph have Yahweh you are never truly alone. Yahweh has a plan far greater than we can see He will care for all of you far better than even me. Go ahead and travel and bring my grandchild home Trust Yahweh to guide you for He is always there His plan is somehow perfect you're in His loving care. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/19/08~ |
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #17 . . . Head Full of Thoughts . . .12/17/08
| Dear Holy friends, Imagine late one night, after the house has gone to bed and Mary is trying to find that one position the baby she carries will allow sleep. She gets a leg cramp, the baby kicks, and she decides sleep is not going to happen. Maybe she rises, or maybe she stays on the bed and tries to sort every thought and feeling into an obedient place of rest. In His Grip, Chandra Head Full Of Thoughts
sleep eluding baby moving leg cramps at night, body bloating emotions floating dreams filled with fright, world changing rearranging not feeling ready at all, packing gear time is near that donkey looks so small, faith wavering home savoring soon is time to go, Lord blessing peace caressing trust more, let worries go.
~Chandra Lynn Smith~ |
The Heart That Ponders #16 . . .Joseph Reflecting . . . 12/17/08
| Dear Holy Friends, When I was young and naive I figured guys really didn't ever sit and ponder or sort through things. Boy was I wrong! Of course they do, it just looks different than girls. Watching my four sons go from boys to men has been a wonderful journey. And, each of the four of them has his own way of reflecting. They draw, write, listen to music, and though similar, each son has his own unique manner. I can't help but think Joseph had to have him moments of reflection also, especially as the day for their journey to begin approached. In His Grip, Chandra Joseph Reflecting I watch her grow and change each day, She gets more lovely if there is a way. This young woman puts me to shame, her faith is great, mine looks lame. How can she be so strong yet mild, a woman outside but inside a child? She carries the Son of God with joy, I know how she will love her little boy. But will she be okay as we travel away? How will I care for her day by day? And if her time comes while we are away Will I find anyone to help on that day? Father, you foretold this would be. But I didn't expect it would happen to me. I watch Mary and worry for her safety, some women die when they have a baby. I know it wouldn't fit your plan for her to die, but I cannot stop worrying, don't know why. What does she feel when the babe moves inside? Will I be a Father in whom he can confide? How will it feel to hold Him to my heart? Will you show me Lord, please give me a start? Am I doing right are You glad You chose me? Help me become who you wish me to be. The sun rises, today our journey begins, I must protect Mary from the harsh sandy winds. I watch her take each challenge with joy in her heart, and I am thankful in this plan I have a part. Then she smiles and says "Joseph the Lord is here." And I am ready to go boldly and without fear. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, rewrittern 12/17/08 |
Monday, December 15, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #15 . . . Curious Honeymoon . . .12/15/08
| Dear Holy friends, Yesterday Pastor Scott preached from Matthew 1:18-25. He did a wonderful job of showing us through the angel's words to Joseph why Jesus came to rescue us from our worst enemy . . . sin. The thing is, as he taught something else struck me. While we do not know when Mary told Joseph about her pregnancy, and we do not know if she was already showing when she did, we can learn something major from the end of Matthew 1. Some time before they left for Bethlehem, Joseph did take her as his wife, they had the wedding feast and she was his wife. And it was then he showed us the meaning of true faith and obedience. In His Grip, Chandra 24When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. Curious Honeymoon After the wedding feast when he took her home what happened the moment the two of them were alone? Did she understand what Joseph was going to say? Did he tell her he trusted her and would always stay? When she looked in his eyes and saw into his heart did she find peace and strength as their new life had its start? No wedding night, no honeymoon as their marriage began newlyweds and strangers this woman and this man. They knew they were chosen to parent God's own Son but how hard that first night not knowing what was to come. Yet, faith brought obedience Joseph remained strong through the months and the journey and nights that were long. May we never lose sight of the things he went through raising the child, his son the One who saved him and us too. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/15/08~ |
Sunday, December 14, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #14 . . .What He Gave Up . . .12/14/08
| Dear Holy Friends, I do so apologize! I sent the same poem two days in a row. In an effort to be efficient and type my poems for the weekend ahead of time, I became less efficient. This is the poem that was meant to go out today. In His Grip, Chandra What He Gave Up For Me He traded a throne for a manger Angel songs for a donkey bray Royal position for poverty Glory for a bed of hay He gave up adoration for submission Worship for a carpenter's life Heaven for a fallen earth Peace for pain and strife. That night in Bethlehem A hay filled manger bed Royalty became one of us Condemnation became salvation instead. ~Chandra Lynn Smith ~ |
The Heart That Ponders #14 . . . remember . . .12/14/08
| Dear Holy Friends, My Christmas tree currently sits in its stand in the very middle of my living room. 'Twould certainly be an interesting conversation piece if I left it there after decorating it! But we did get it in the stand yesterday. It seems to me this year as things are so tight and so many people hurting, we need Christmas in similar ways to the people of Israel years ago. But just as all of the weary travelers following the census orders might have lost the miracle, we can too. We need to remember. In His Grip, Chandra Remember Traffic is horrid, parking lot full and I'm not sure the season is magical. Lines are long and people are mad where's the joy, it's kinda sad. Too much to do and not enough money feel like Winnie looking in the jar for honey. The radio plays music that touches the heart reminds me of a lonely night and a start. A woman on a donkey in the pain of childbirth, a stall, a manger, Savior come to earth. I stop for a moment and think of that night my focus changes, making things all right. The joy of the season is not in shopping and food, but parents and a baby and a manger of wood. ~Chandra Lynn Smith ~ |
Saturday, December 13, 2008
The heart That Ponders #13 . . .Remember . . .12/13/08
| Dear Holy friends, The rest of the family left a little while ago to go sell trees at the Boy Scout Troop Christmas tree sale. They had even donned Santa hats! The thing is, this will be a busy day for them at the tree sale and for most retailers. It makes it easy for people to get grumpy and forget about a manger . . . In His Grip, Chandra Remember Traffic is horrid, parking lot full and I'm not sure the season is magical. Lines are long and people are mad where's the joy, it's kinda sad. Too much to do and not enough money feel like Winnie looking in the jar for honey. The radio plays music that touches the heart reminds me of a lonely night and a start. A woman on a donkey in the pain of childbirth, a stall, a manger, Savior come to earth. I stop for a moment and think of that night my focus changes, making things all right. The joy of the season is not in shopping and food, but parents and a baby and a manger of wood. ~Chandra Lynn Smith ~ |
Friday, December 12, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #12 . . . Leaving The Throne . . .12/12/08
| Dear Holy Friends, Less than two weeks until Christmas. What does that mean to you? Are you way behind on your shopping? Are you way behind on your decorating? Is the Christmas music ready? Did the baby in the manger get lost somewhere along the way? Unfortunately, for many people, He does. In His Grip, Chandra Leaving The Throne How'd you do it, leave your place on high trade heavenly garment for skin knowing you would die and take away my sin? All of the glory of heaven you left behind for a young woman's womb then entered earth and dwelled in a manger room. You came as a child and lived among us purity amongst the sinful souls from a manger to a cross just to make us whole. Giving up your throne and position growing here on earth is at its most amazing as we wait for your birth. May the rush and hustle around me never remove my awe of a manger, My Savior, the perfect Son of God. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/12/08~ |
Thursday, December 11, 2008
The Heart That ponders#11 . . . Long Nights . . .12/11/08
| Dear Holy friends, Do you remember what it is like to move to a strange place? I think of the months as Mary grew and felt the baby move and spent her days and nights with Joseph's family. I wonder how often she saw her own mother and received motherly advice. There really is a lot to ponder about it all. And then I think about the nights, especially the uncomfortable nights as the baby grew and she couldn't even find a comfortable position to sleep. In His Grip, Chandra Long Nights Hard to sleep in this place heard every sound, every trace. The family made her feel at home, each night with her thoughts she slept alone. Was this how it was supposed to be? On sleepless nights God's plan was hard to see.
JJoseph was a good man, at her side with a helping hand. He stood proudly by when people stared, in every way, he showed he cared. And each night, as they went separate ways, he assured her he would be there the next day.
The baby inside her was growing, her robes no longer kept it from showing. What did people think when she walked in town? She wanted to shout it's the Savior when they frowned. Other times she wondered at the babe inside and longed from his violent future to hide.
Joseph looked with wonder when the movements began, how she relied on that strong man. He watched and always protected her with love, No wonder he was chosen to by God above. He would be a good father, as if it was his own. He would stay with her, she would never be alone. But late at night, when noises kept her awake, she couldn't help but think of all that was at stake. Thoughts of raising God's son filled her with fear. Knowing what his life might be filled her with tears. Her mind filled with worry one thought after another always her bedtime prayer, "Lord make me a good mother."
~Chandra Lynn Smith~ |
The heart That Ponders #10 . . .Moving day . . .12/11/08
| Dear Holy Friends, There is much we don't know about Mary and Joseph's life after they accepted what was to come. I do so hope to sit and talk with them in eternity sometime. There are things we know about the culture of those days, however. After a couple became betrothed or engaged, they wee considered married. Betrothal was as binding as marriage. And, after betrothal, a woman often moved in with her husband's family to live while he built their future home, which was usually attached on the family home. The wedding celebration took place once the house was prepared and the couple could move in together. The next few poems are written from Mary and Joseph's perspective as if she did move in with his family in the days before the wedding. In His Grip, Chandra Moving Day Moving day, must I go? Want to stay, Mom said no. Baby in me, moving now. I'll be okay, but I wonder how? Saying good-bye to my home. The only one I've ever known. Joseph's family now mine. I pray everything will be fine. So many worries, so many fears. God please help me dry my tears. The world is changing, scaring me. When Joseph looks at me, what does he see? Father, you chose me out of everyone. I need Your help to Mother Your Son. In these hours when I am afraid I bow to Your will, I am your handmaid. ~Chandra Lynn Smith~ |
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #8 . . .12/9/08
| Dear Holy Friends, This morning I was working on my Christmas list . . . no I am not even close to finished shopping. I am, however, almost finished with the homemade gifts! And, I truly love last minute shopping any way. Then, when all the shopping is done, the baking begins. My family even knows when they come home to amazing smells coming from the kitchen it means Mom has all shopping done and gifts either wrapped or hidden! Christmas is my magic time of year. I love it. But I watch other people and sometimes wonder if they have forgotten why we are here. If we forget the reason, we might as well not bother with the season. In His Grip, Chandra Are You Ready are you ready is the shopping done did you by each gift everyone is the tree up decorations hung house adorned Christmas carols sung or maybe you're tired still too much to do you wonder why Christmas came so soon the list is long the days are short your energy level left December first look to Bethlehem a manger in a stall see the miracle of Love in the baby small in the midst of the rush make room in your heart remember His precious birth brought salvation's start. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/9/08~ |
Sunday, December 07, 2008
The heart That Ponders #7 . . .what now? . . .12/7/08
| Dear Holy friends, I sit here at my desk watching a light powdery snow fall. There's maybe an inch on the ground and the snow sparkles like glitter. I flipped through my years of Christmas poems and prayed about whether to write a new one today or use one from before. (I've been mixing the new and the old ones this year.) I looked at the snow and really enjoyed my quiet time. That made me think about how Mary's quiet times changed after the angel visit. And that brought me to this poem I wrote last year from Mary's point of view. In His Grip, Chandra What Now? Sitting here, alone no one but me saw he was here, now he's gone it's just me and my thoughts A few minutes ago my biggest concern was seeing Joseph after my chores now I can't focus my busy brain on knocking on Mama's door. How do I tell her, will she believe what the angel said? Why couldn't he go to my family too and ease the worries in my head? Mom, Dad, Joseph, the town, friends, family, the priests, how can I do what God asked, how will I make them believe? Sitting here, alone wanting to run away, that might be easier than sharing what the angel had to say. Somehow, I have a feeling things only get tougher from here faith is all that's left to me faith, and a lot of fear. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/5/07~ |
Saturday, December 06, 2008
The heart That Ponders#6 . . questions for Mary . . .12/6/08
| Dear Holy Friends, I still wonder how Mary spoke with her parents. I am sure we all can remember having to go to our parents with some sort of news that we knew would upset their world. But nothing in any of our lives compared to what Mary had to say. I cannot imagine she could go off to Elizabeth's without talking with them. I mean, after all, she never would have traveled alone. her father probably organized the traveling party. But still Mary had some big news to tell them. In His Grip, Chandra Questions for Mary what did you tell Mom? what did she say? what did you see in her eyes? how did you end the day? did your parents believe an angel visited only you? could they grasp their daughter would make the prophecies come true? whose idea you go away all those months not at home? how did they convince Joseph you really should go alone? on the journey did you cry wishing it wasn't you? were you scared and worried you wouldn't know what to do? yet you managed to find peace somewhere along the way. Grace that filled your womb must have helped you through each day. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/6/08~ |
The Heart That Ponders#5 . . .Troubling Thoughts . . .12/5/08
| Dear Holy Friends, Several things kept me from sending my poem yesterday. Today, I send two. I often wonder about how our teenaged mother of our Savior handled things. In another generation, she probably would have journaled. And here is a possible entry . . . In His Grip, Chandra Troubling Thoughts A baby? It cannot be. An honor? Why me? Found favor? Impossible dream. Holy Child? God's own Son? Savior? I'm the mom? Joseph?Parents? How to tell? Believe me? Not? Maybe yell? Prophecy come true? I know. Why me? Maybe it's not so. I know it is. God doesn't lie Want to run. Want to cry. Need to rest, lie down. Head spinning, thoughts make me drown. A baby?God's Son inside of me? Okay Father, so it will be.
|
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
The Heart That Ponders #3 . . .God Interruptions . . . 12/3/08
| Dear Holy Friends, The book of Luke is the only one where we find even the smallest bit about Gabriel's visit to Mary. For us it is important to know it happened. For her, well, it changed the course of her life and all of history forever. How I would love to know more about that fateful day and how that teenager handled it. In His Grip, Chandra God Interruptions Was she doing chores the routine of the day maybe walking to market then stopped on the way? Did she drop to the ground in reverence and fear did she look around her to see if help was near? When the angel spoke words to change her life how long before joy replaced fear and strife? With faith and acceptance maturity beyond her years she rejoiced in the news finding hope from her fears. We could be like Mary when God takes life another way accepting His perfect will when He interrupts our day. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/3/08~ |
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
The heart That Ponders #2 . . .12/2/08
|
But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19 When I was a child I marveled at the newborn baby lying in the manger and the wonder of what God did. As a teenager, I became filled with awe at the fact that Mary was my age when she birthed my Savior. Marriage brought new meaning to the responsibilities Joseph and Mary struggled with daily. But, motherhood taught me the true meaning of treasuring things and pondering them in my heart. The scope and breadth of Jesus' birth and life becomes more powerful when examined through the eyes and heart of a mother. This month's poems will be a sample of my Christmas Poetry series, A Heart That Ponders. Advent is the season of waiting. As we wait a mere few weeks for our Savior's birth we can learn from the hearts of those who experienced it first hand and their ancestors who waited years for their Savior. May the miracle of Jesus' birth bring new grace into each of your lives. Thanks for inviting me into your season.
In His Grip, Chandra
A Heart That Ponders
There are words and phrases within my mind my heart holds things deep. I take memories, problems, and consider them often I lose sleep. My head is full of questions and ideas many thoughts to ponder. I read Mary also pondered things that fills me with wonder. I think of people we read about in the life of our Lord. I wish to chat with each of them and write down every word. So, as we start this season of love and prepare for the Savior's birth, I think I will ponder the meaning of His birth how in me God sees such worth.
~Chandra Lynn Smith, 12/2/08~
|
Monday, December 01, 2008
The Heart That POnders #1 . . . One Special Night . . . 12/1/08
| Dear Holy Friends, December 1. Yes, it's already here. Every year about this time I hear the same argument/discussion. It starts with 'I don't celebrate Christmas on any particular day, because I celebrate Christmas all year long." My response is usually "Hmm." I probably shouldn't tell you what I am thinking! Then the next line I hear is "Besides, we don't really know if He was born on December 25 anyway, that's just some random day picked to counter a pagan holiday." I get a little more creative with my response to that one. I say "So?" Friends, without Christmas, there's no manger, no Jesus, no miracles, no crucifixion, no resurrection, no salvation. Without Christmas, we are still lost. I don't care if you don't celebrate the materialism of Christmas, but Jesus was born and He did it Just for me, for you, He does deserve that we honor His day of birth, whatever day our faith has assigned to be it. In His Grip, Chandra One Special Night Was December twenty-fifth the real day He was born? Was it a cold, windy night then a chilly winter morn? Does it make a difference which day we celebrate? Or is the miracle bigger than a calendar date? In the middle of shopping as you hustle around Don't let commercialism ruin the holy sounds. Of angel choirs singing joy a star filling the sky Animals in a manger a newborn baby's cry. God came to earth as a babe strange way to save mankind Salvation born one special night Grace in a baby small. ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 11/30/08~ |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
