Author Pam Frame

Pam Frame

Pam Frame's "Wending Our Way" Devotions

Enjoy these selections from the last 90 days of Pam's "Wending Our Way" devotions. The devotions are listed in descending order by date with the most recent devotion at the top. Click here if you would like to read the Walter Mouse devotions.

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Wending Our Way...

Thorns' Blessing

June 05, 2026

2 Corinthians 12:7 ...there was given me a thorn in my flesh....
This past week I was deadheading daffodils and doing a bit of trimming and tidying up in our community courtyard. At one point, I picked up what I thought was a short tree branch, only to discover that it was a dead branch from a very well-protected rose bush. The thorns had to be at least 1/2" long and were straight and strong, even though the branch was dead. The thorns were like spikes. I got an extremely painful stab from it. The site stayed very sore for about a week. It was awful!
As far as I can tell, as I reflected on my episode with the thorn, thorns in the Bible served three purposes: 1. One kept Paul from becoming conceited. (2 Cor. 12:7). 2.Thorns accompanied our salvation. (Mk. 15:17). 3. Thorns can help us feel and express compassion for others because, as we reflect on our own pain, we can begin to feel pity and concern for others in similar distress. (Col. 3:13).
Whenever thorns impale us, let us use them as our ancestors did, to become more aware of the burdens others are carrying and to offer care and compassion when we can.
Wending Our Way...

Power Source

June 4, 2026

Revelation 1:6 ...to [God] be glory and power forever and ever! Amen.
This morning I went to use my Kindle and discovered a really low battery. (I hadn't used it in a while.) The screen directed me to, "Connect to a power source and charge your Kindle until this screen disappears." Oh--that's simple enough.
The only snag was that I had to dig up three different power cords before I found one that fit my Kindle. Why couldn't power cords just be a standard size??!!
All this, naturally, reminde me of Our Jesus--because He's the only Power Source we'll ever need. And we don't have to hunt around for Him, experiment to see if He fits, or plug Him in. He's all the Power we'll ever need to keep on keeping on.
Wending Our Way...

Hang On!

June 3, 2026

Hebrews 12:1 ...let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
One day last week Larry and I were running errands. Our first stop was at his doctor's office, where he had to drop off some paperwork. I waited in the car because it was such a nice day. I had planned to read but got distracted by bird activity around a nearby retention pond. As I watched, a redwing blackbird flew in and landed on one of the many reeds growing beside the pond. The reed, of course, swayed madly, but the bird hung on until the motion stopped.
Sometimes this happens in life, too. We can find ourselves clinging to something that feels out of control, but for one reason or another we can't get away.
When this happens, I find it helpful to hang onto God's Promise that all things work for good for those that love the LORD (Romans 8:28). This scripture always provides me with a bit of peace and reassurance during unsteady times, and it helps inspire me to persevere as I run the race the Good LORD has set before me.
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

June 2, 2026

Jeremiah 6:16 ...ask where the good way is and walk in it....
You can't get where you're going if you use another person's map.
Wending Our Way...

No Candy

June 1, 2026

1 Corinthians 12:11 ...when I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, and I responded like a child.
I recently watched as a young mom and toddler stepped up to the deli in a local grocery store. Mom, exhausted and in a rush, was trying to buy lunchmeat and get home to feed her little one. He, hungry and over-stimulated by the lights, noise, and colorful stuff in the store, asked for a lollipop. Naturally, mom said "no" because they were headed home for lunch and he could have a lollipop after he'd eaten.
That's when the whining started, then the foot-stomping and the tears and then finally a full-fledged temper tantrum. I felt so sorry for the exhausted mom and for the little one who was simply too young to have the vocabulary or experience to express and process his feelings.
As I drove home, it occurred to me that the same thing can happen in our adult lives as we try to adjust to challenging or frustrating situations that crop up. Sometimes we, or others, simply haven't acquired the necessary words or experience to enable us to express our feelings, explore options and move through difficult situations. Empathic Listening often helps if we're trying to accompany someone through a frustrating event. (Google "Empathic Listening." It's a valuable tool.)Sometimes we don't need to convince others that we're right and they're wrong. Sometimes others just need to feel heard and helping them find the words to describe and explore their frustrating circumstances helps them to move forward more easily.
Wending Our Way...

Delete. Move To Trash

May 29, 2026

Psalms 116:15 ...Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
A short time ago, due to her death, I had to remove a woman's name and contact information from my cell phone address book. To do that, I had to hit "Delete" and then "Move to Trash."
This reminded me of Satan's ploys. He connects to us only so he can ultimately delete us, move us to his nearby trash heap and then head out to entice others into his evil clutches.
Jesus never removes anyone from His Heavenly Address Book and He never moves anyone to a trash heap, either. Here on earth or amongst the heavenlies, our death is precious because it brings us close to Him and to the Home we'll enjoy forever.
Wending Our Way...

It's Easy To Lose

May 28, 2026

James 5:11 ...We consider blessed those who have persevered.
I play Mexican Train Dominoes once a week with several other folks. One night, there were only three of us playing. "Mary" had a glorious evening, accumulating only 60 points while "John" and I soon had over 150 points each. We just drew atrocious tiles all night! Finally, "Mary" won by a landslide and "John" and I could hardly count all the dots we'd gotten stuck with.
As we started cleaning up, "John" remarked, " It sure is easy to lose fast!" How true!!
We, as Christians, can "lose fast," too, if we let our focus slide from our Biblical roots and let ourselves get distracted by the world's focus on fame, power, money, lust, judgmentalism, hatred and mistrust. We "win" in the end as we live patiently here on earth, serving God and others, and awaiting God's Eternal Blessings.
Wending Our Way...

I Got In Because...

May 27, 2026

1 Thessalonians 5:11 ...He died for us...so that we may live together with him.
We've been in our cottage for over a year now. Time goes so fast! I was just reflecting on how much I enjoy our new home and remembered that we got into it because someone else (the former resident) died.
Hmmmmm....It works the same way with heaven. I'll get in there, too because Someone Else died--over 2000 years ago.
Hallelujah!
Wending Our Way...

Poem: Trusting God

May 26, 2026

Proverbs 3:5 ...Trust in the LORD with all your heart.
My God has provided, whatever the storm. My journey's secure to the end.
Provision surrounds me no matter the threat. I trust what the Good LORD may send.
Wending Our Way...

And Goodnight!

May 25, 2026

Philippians 4:8 ...Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right.
I recently ran into this scripture in an old devotional book. I guess I was tired when I read it because my brain translated it as," Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable--and goodnight."
I normally don't sleep too well and am often awake thinking of all sorts of useless things. This scripture offers insight into how to channel my rambling nighttime thoughts. If I climb into bed and concentrate on stuff that's true and honorable, I might be able to drift off to sleep more easily.
Good Night!!
Wending Our Way...

Too Expensive

May 22, 2026

Acts 2:23 ...nailing him to the cross.
I recently overheard a young man talking to a friend. The young fellow was trying to figure out what to get his mother for her birthday. "I've thought of flowers," he said, " but they're too expensive and they don't last." How true.
His comment reminded me of Jesus and The Cross. That certainly WAS expensive--to Jesus--but not to us. And... salvation lasts way longer than flowers. It lasts forever!
Wending Our Way...

Satan's Elevator

May 21, 2026

Matthew 4:10 ..."Away from me, Satan!"
We have a fluky elevator here at our retirement community. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. Very frustrating. It only has to serve three floors, but often it just quits. Just now, it'll go to the first and third floors but refuses to stop at the second floor.
Gosh! That reminds me of Satan. Those who hop on his "elevator" soon discover that it doesn't stop at The Pearly Gates. It's set to go to earth (for a time) and eventually lets folks off in Hades.
Satan's elevator bypasses heaven, so steer clear of it!!
Wending Our Way...

Divergent Tracks

May 20, 2026

Jeremiah 29:11 ..."For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you...to give you hope and a future."
I was reading a novel recently. At one point, the main characters set off on a train trip. As their journey unfolded, the track, which was just a single track originally, formed a "v" in front of the train and split off into two different directions in front of the train. Thus, the train could go east or west, but it couldn't continue moving straight ahead. Now the east-bound travelers were permanently separated from any west-bound travelers who might come along.
This track-switching can be unnerving, partly because change is hard and partly because often, we've never been AT wherever the Good Lord's taking us now.
Through it all, it helps to remember that God is FOR us, so whatever track we're on is surrounded by God's Love and Provision and all will be well, now and forever.
Wending Our Way...

Empty!!!

May 19, 2026

Matthew 28:20 ...I will be with you always....
Since we live in a retirement community and eat most of our meals in the cafeteria, we don't keep a very full fridge. Larry uses the bottom shelf for fruit and cottage cheese, and I use the top two shelves for leftovers and breakfast stuff. This morning I took my breakfast things out and was shocked to see that every shelf was then empty! That's because I was cleaning up the last of my leftovers and Larry had just cleaned up the last of his stuff, too.
A totally empty fridge is a surprising...and appalling...sight! It made me think of our Triune God. What if we opened our hearts to begin a prayer and found nothing beyond ourselves--just a silent emptiness. That'd be appalling, too. Thankfully it'll never happen. Hallelujah!!
Wending Our Way...

Gone Forever

May 18, 2026

Matthew 28:19 ...go and make disciples of all the nations....
Back in early spring I read a novel that took place in the American mid-west when the rail system was expanding into that territory. One rancher had three gorgeous daughters but no sons. The man loved his girls dearly but confided to a friend that, "All it takes is a family of girls to wipe out a man's last name forever."
That's kind of a sad situation, but one that will never effect Jesus. Think of all the children He's adopted through the years. His Name will go on forever!
Wending Our Way...

Bell Choir #2

May 15, 2026

Psalms 33:11 ...the plans of the LORD stand firm forever....
As the Bell Choir finished one particular song, the Director smiled a bit sheepishly, picked up the mike and explained that, during the song, she'd had two pages stick together and she couldn't get them apart. She said the choir just kept right on playing until she caught up. (It all sounded fine to me!)
I think the same thing happens to us Christians along the way sometimes. Distractions, procrastination, self-will, strong desires, preoccupation, illness, etc. can get us stuck, too, and can prevent us from moving forward with God.
When this happens to us, God just keeps moving forward with His Plans, patiently waiting for us to catch up. This may take a bit of time, but human glitches never foil God's Plans. So don't worry if you get out of sync at times. God's got it covered.
Wending Our Way...

Bell Choir #1

May 14, 2026

Psalms 108:1 ...I will sing and make music with all my soul.
We recently had a wonderful program here at our retirement community. The Bell Choir from Limerick Chapel came. They were just great!
At one point, the Director mentioned that the younger ringers begin by playing chimes instead of bells and their notes are printed as diamonds rather than ovals on the scoresheets.
What a perfect reminder that we don't all have to look alike in order to play the LORD's Music!
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

May 13, 2026

Acts 8:31 ...The eunuch was reading this passage in scripture....
A Bible that's falling apart is usually owned by a person who isn't.
Wending Our Way...

Field Markings

May 12, 2026

Galatians 5:22 ...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
The other day I was driving through the country when I spotted a good-sized bird resting at the very top of a dead tree. I could tell by its field markings that it was some sort of a small hawk.
Field markings in birds are visual characteristics that can be used to identify the species we're looking at. Beak shape, tail length, body size and color are all examples of field markings.
How about Field Markings for Christians? They're listed in Galatians 5:22.... visual characteristics of the LORD's Chosen.
Wending Our Way...

Can I Open That?

May 11, 2026

Psalms 28:2 ... Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help....
Larry and I now live in a retirement community and eat most of our meals in the cafeteria there. I was recently in line at our check-out counter, waiting my turn while the elderly gentleman ahead of me dealt with his bill. One of his selections was a small bottle of iced tea. The sweet young woman running the register tapped away on the computer for a bit, then smiled at the man and said, "Can I open that for you?" He smiled back, replied "Oh sure! Thanks!" With a quick twist, the lid was free and we all went on our merry ways, all three of us blessed by the exchange.
It reminded me of Someone Else, Who, 2000+ years ago thought about Salvation and Eternity and Heaven Above and asked the same question: "Can I open that for you?"
Then He picked up The Cross and carried us Home.
Wending Our Way...

Butterflies #5...Taste

May 8, 2026

Psalms 34:8 ...Taste and see that the LORD is good.
Butterflies taste with their feet! They sort of stomp on leaves or flowers to taste which plants are suitable for sipping nectar or laying eggs. Flowers must contain nectar that nourishes butterflies themselves, and leaves must be acceptable food for the caterpillars that will hatch from the butterflies' eggs.
Butterflies are constantly "tasting" and "seeing" what is good. We're called to do the same. We can use our senses to discern God's Presence in our daily lives. His Presence surrounds us constantly as we go about our daily rounds. As we "taste Him" with our senses, we become increasingly aware of His Perpetual Nearness and His Boundless Love and Provision.
Wending Our Way...

Butterflies #4...Rest!

May 7, 2026

Psalms 91:9 ...He who dwells in the shadow of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Moths and butterflies look a lot alike, but there are three differences that I know of. Moths tend to be fuzzy whereas butterflies are not. Moths often have feathery feelers, but butterflies have slender, finger-like, jointed antennae. Moths rest with their wings open but butterflies rest with their wings closed.
When they need to, butterflies often rest on the undersides of leaves, they hide in tall grass, or they disappear into cracks in bark or crevasses in rocks. Sometimes they gather together in shrubs or on branches. Butterflies rest when they get tired.
We should do the same. We should seek out rest when we need it, whether we rest alone or with others. It doesn't matter HOW we rest; it matters THAT we rest. Resting allows us to stand back from life's constant demands as we regenerate our energy and our inspiration.
Wending Our Way...

Butterflies #3...Size Doesn't Matter

May 6, 2026

Galatians 6:4 ...Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself without comparing himself to somebody else.
I didn't realize this, but butterflies come in all different sizes. There's a Queen Alexandra's Birdwing--the biggest butterfly--that's nine or ten inches across. Get a ruler out. That's a seriously big butterfly!
The smallest butterfly is the Western Blue Pigmy, which is only about 1/2" across. Two or three could sit on your thumbnail. (They could hold a convention on a quarter!)
Size doesn't matter in the butterfly world. All serve their appointed purposes, whatever size they are. People are the same. Big or small--or somewhere in between--we each have our God-given gifts and graces, and we're called to fulfill God's purposes in our lives without comparing ourselves to others. We're each just the right size for our designated tasks.
Wending Our Way...

Butterflies #2...Nectar

May 05, 2026

Song of Solomon 8:2 ...I would give you spiced wine to drink, the nectar of my pomegranates.
In hunting for interesting butterfly facts, I discovered that butterflies have no mouths. They have a proboscis--a straw-like appendage that curls up under the butterfly's "chin" and allows them to suck up liquids--like water and nectar. After hatching, a butterfly must assemble its proboscis (which comes in two pieces) before it can feed. (A sideline here is that butterflies don't poop because they eat no solid food; and they don't pee because their bodies use up every drop of nutrients they ingest.)
The lesson here for me is that we, too, must drink in our sustenance. John 7:38...reminds us that "...whoever believes in me, streams of living water will flow from within him." This Living Water fills us in and fills us up, enabling us to fly free in service to God and His people.
Wending Our Way...

Butterflies #1...Struggles

May 4, 2026

Colossians 2:1 ...I want you to know how much I am struggling for you...my purpose is that [you] may be united in heart and in love....
I was recently asked to do a devotion about butterflies, so here goes. Did you know that butterflies emerge from their cocoons with shriveled wings? Once free from the cocoon, they must pump fluid into their wings to "inflate" them. Even the struggle to get out of the cocoon strengthens butterfly wings, because it helps press vital fluid into immature structures. Once the wings are pumped up, butterflies must wait for several hours for them to harden. If their wings harden before they're fully filled with fluid, the butterfly will never fly.
The most obvious lesson from all this is that our struggles IN life often strengthen us FOR life. I've often reflected on how my struggles have helped me cope with whatever comes next. Sometimes our struggles give us our wings.
This whole "struggles build strength" has also given me greater ability to accompany others in their struggles, without trying to remove or reduce their challenges. Sometimes people who don't struggle, never learn to fly, either. Sometimes I have to let others gain their own strength in their own way. Rescuing them from their struggles can reduce their capacity for coping with the difficulties they'll ultimately face.
Wending Our Way...

Luv Ya Again!

May 1, 2026

John 15:19 ...Now remain in my love.
Larry and I always say, "Luv ya!" to each other when we're going our separate ways. One day recently, he'd left for breakfast, saying the familiar "Luv ya!" as he departed. In about two seconds, he was back. He'd forgotten his name tag and couldn't get into the main building without it. He retrieved his nametag, waved and called, "Luv ya again!", then departed for the second time.
"Luv ya again!" Hmmm. Reminds me of Jesus. He loved us from heaven before He got to earth, then He appeard on earth saying, "Luv ya again!" (Luke 2:1-7) In case that wasn't enough, He made His Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem in order to proclaim, "Luv ya again!" (Luke 19:28-38). And how about The Cross (Matthew 27:31) which simply shouted, "Luv ya again!"
And for an Earthly Finale, there's the Second Coming (Rev. 11-14) in which Christ returns riding a white horse and followed by the "armies of heaven." Sounds like "Luv ya again"--again!!
Wending Our Way...

Lost Nametag

April 30, 2026

Isaiah 49:15,16 ...I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands....
A few days ago, I spoke with a new resident who'd been here for all of one day and managed to lose her ID tag in the process. The tag shows her name, so we can all get to know her. It also contains some sort of a chip that opens the doors to our main building (where meals are served and social and entertainment activities occur). She can get a new nametag easily enough, but replacing it is one more thing to add to an already overwhelmingly full schedule.
Isn't it great that we don't need nametags to get into heaven? Jesus always recognizes each one of us and He Himself provided the means for us to enter the heavenly gates . Annnd...even if we grow old and senile and forget who we are, Jesus knows all of us by name and will get each one of us Home.
Wending Our Way...

The More You Look...

April 29, 2026

Psalms 25:15 ...My eyes are ever on the LORD....
Our retirement community has a gorgeous quilt display that changes monthly. The quilts have awesome, complicated designs and a glorious array of colors. No two are alike. They're real treasures.
A number of quilts are displayed along a wall near the Bistro and I often see people stopping to gaze appreciatively at the handiwork before them. As one woman said as she stood admiring one particularly intricate quilt, "The more you look at it, the more you see".
Hmmm...that sounds like our daily walk with Jesus. The more we look at Him as the years roll along, the more we'll see of Him. He's a Treasure, too--both here and for all eternity.
Wending Our Way...

Home Free!

April 28, 2026

John 8:36 ...if the Son sets you free, you'll be free indeed.
The other day I passed a display of Home Free snacks. I think these were chips of some sort. I couldn't quite figure out how "home free" and "chips" went together, but that's ok because it gave me this devo.
"Home Free" didn't make me think of chips, but it DID make me think of salvation. Because of The Cross, I know I'm headed Home Free. Wonderful feeling!!
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

April 27, 2026

Jeremiah 8:22 ...Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people?
If you don't heal what hurt you, you'll bleed on people who didn't cut you.
Wending Our Way...

Smashed Nail

April 24, 2026

Exodus 15:26 ...I am the LORD, who heals you.
Several months ago, I smashed a thumbnail pretty badly. It bent and broke down into the nailbed and took several months to grow out. It was kind of interesting to watch its progress. It "healed" slowly but surely, moving invisibly day-by-day toward its restored state.
God heals our emotional wounds the same way. As we cooperate with His Plan for our lives, He works invisibly within us to bring us healing here on earth and, ultimately, He guides us upward into the perfection awaiting us in heaven.
Wending Our Way...

Nosebleed!

April 23, 2026

Revelation 7:14 ...they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
As I was writing today, my nose started to run. Darn allergies!!! But then a large drop fell from my nose onto the tabletop. Oh no! My nose wasn't running; it was bleeding. I grabbed a tissue for my nose and a paper towel to wipe up the drop on the table. Amazingly, my blood removed a bit of stain from the tabletop. Heavens!
This all reminded me of Jesus, Whose Blood removes our sins and makes us white as snow. "White in the blood of the Lamb"...what a perfect way to spend eternity!!
Wending Our Way...

Without A Plan?

April 22, 2026

Isaiah 5:19 ...let the plan of the Holy One of Israel come....
We recently had a meeting here at our retirement community. During the ensuing sixty minutes, various administrators told us of future plans for upcoming building and renovation, plant management and spring tree removal or trimming. The on-going planning merges physical, financial and manpower resources while considering time constraints and weather conditions. As one fellow said, "We have to avoid working without a plan."
God does the same thing. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, "For I know the plans I have for you.... Plans to prosper you...Plans to give you hope and a future."
Our world looks awfully rocky at times, but through it all, God's Divine Plans are unfolding around us, carrying us, eventually, to the Peace and Beauty of our Heavenly Home.
Wending Our Way...

Staircase To Nowhere

April 21, 2026

Genesis 28:12 ...Jacob...had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.
I was talking recently with a fellow from a different retirement community. He mentioned that his facility had a "Stairway to Nowhere." It's an old stairway tower that was never removed when a nearby campus building underwent major renovations. The stair tower is out in an open field, connected to nothing. It just stands there.
Thankfully, our Christian journey isn't a Stairway to Nowhere. It connects countless people to God's Love and Provision and guides us straight to heaven when our work on earth is done.
Wending Our Way...

Give It All Away?!

April 20, 2026

John 14:2 ...In my Father's house are many rooms.... I am going there to prepare a place for you.
This week I chatted with three women who were in the process of moving. One's moving from a large single home to a two-bedroom apartment. One's moving from a five-room house to a one-bedroom apartment. And the third is moving from a roomy apartment to a two-room "suite" in our Personal Care unit. All are immensely saddened and challenged by the amount of stuff they have to get rid of in order to fit into their new residences. As one of the women said, "Eventually, you have to give it all away."
Of course, this reminded me of Our Jesus because, after all these years, He has never given a single soul away--and He has invited each one of us to live with Him forever in His mansion above. We're His forever! How wonderful is that??!!
Wending Our Way...

Performance!

April 17, 2026

Isaiah 30:15 ...in quietness and trust is your strength....
I once met a darling dog, but one who became a real pain at meals. She'd learned to beg for food and sat beside me one time during an otherwise pleasant luncheon. During the entire meal, she stationed herself beside me and went through her repertoire of FEED ME!" tricks. She did beg, dance, twirl, pray, paw the air, whimper, speak and walk on back feet. It got awfully annoying really fast. She didn't need food and she was certainly well cared for. She simply felt the need to perform.
That little dog reminded me of myself sometimes. I was brought up in a household where Performance and Appearances were prime. I got an "A" in both courses! Naturally, this also made me feel that I had to Perform for God, too. It has taken me many years, but now I realize that God isn't looking for my Best Performance. He's looking for kind-hearted service to others and quiet companionship with me.
Take-Home: There's no need to impress or entertain God. His fondest desire is to dwell in peaceful companionship with each of us. He doesn't need to see yet another Performance.
Wending Our Way...

Sequins Of Grace

April 16, 2026

Zechariah 9:16 ... [God's people] will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown.
I was sitting in church a few weeks ago and slowly became aware of a golden twinkle on the carpet in front of me. No matter how I moved, the ceiling lights above me made that one tiny spot sparkle amid the darkness of the navy carpet. A closer look (after the service) revealed a tiny gold sequin, which probably had dropped off a recent entertainer's festive jacket. The navy carpet reminded me of the dark days, long walks, unstable footing and often veiled eyesight that often accompany us as we plod along on our earthly journeys.
How easily a smile, a kind word, a note, a gentle touch, a moment of simple companionship becomes a "Sequin of Grace"--sent from God, moving through us, and winging off to touch another weary pilgrim who's struggling along life's convoluted pathways.
We can each be a "Sequin of Grace," powered by His Love and spreading His Light. That looks pretty cheery here on earth but just think what it'll look like when we all sparkle together in heaven!
Wending Our Way...

Haiku ... " I Found:"

April 15, 2026

Isaiah 28:12 ...This is the resting place, let the weary rest....
A scrap of silence~
It's soothing my weary soul~
I'll rest here a while.
Wending Our Way...

Picking Up Sunbeams

April 14, 2026

Ephesians 6:24 ...Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ....
We've only been in our cottage for a year, and our carpeting was new when we moved in. That means it's still shedding little mini tufts that look like some larval insect form. The other day I went to pick up yet another of these little sand-colored treasures, but I couldn't seem to get a grip on the darn thing. No matter what I did, it stayed put on the floor.
It finally dawned on me that it wasn't carpet fuzz. It was a mini sunspot, a bit of a sunbeam resting on the living room floor.
Hmmmm...I wonder how many sunspots (or Sonspots) grace my days, but I miss them because I'm not looking for them. I think I'll keep my eyes open for God's inevitable "Sparkles of Grace" that brighten my path. I bet they're all over the place, waiting my discovery!
Wending Our Way...

Let Me In!!

April 13, 2026

John 14:23 ...we will come to him and make our home with him.
Back in early spring our local birds were house hunting. They started by scouting out good nesting sites and then stood guard over "homes" that seemed appealing. Our Triune God does the same thing: He's always searching for living souls who will open their hearts to the Divine Presence. And when they do, He, too stands guard...forever.
Rev. 3:20 reminds us of God's quest: "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."
Keep listening for His Knock...and His Voice! Let Him live within you... both now and throughout Eternity.
Wending Our Way...

Whoever Shows Up

April 10, 2026

Psalms 81:2 ...play the melodious harp and lyre....
My sister plays a dulcimer and leads a group who plays at local nursing homes and area open houses. One day recently, the group held a practice session, but only a few people attended. "That's OK," my sister said. "We work with whoever shows up."
Jesus says the same thing. He certainly invites many people to be active in His service, but some folks just don't respond to His Call. So, He, too, works with whoever shows up.
Aren't you glad you accepted His Invitation to work for The Kingdom??! Aren't you glad you showed up?!
Wending Our Way...

Chips And Chocolate Cake #2

April 9, 2026

1 Corinthians 13:4 ...Love is patient, love is kind.
Yesterday I mentioned how much I enjoy chips and chocolate cake. They're both wonderful, even though they have different tastes and textures.
Different people have different "tastes" and "textures," too. This might depend on inherited traits, but is also influenced by life events, education, resources, health concerns, etc.
So--every person will inevitably have a slightly different "taste" and "texture" from me--and that's OK. One of the pleasures (and challenges) in life is to work at loving others who are different from me.
Wending Our Way...

Chips And Chocolate Cake #1

April 8, 2026

Romans 5:1 ...we have been justified through faith....
I was munching on chips the other day and got to thinking about chips and chocolate cake--two of my favorite treats. As I happily chomped away, it occurred to me that though I adore both chips and chocolate cake, they each have different tastes and textures. One's salty and crunchy and one's sweet and soft.
This naturally led me to thinking about my faith, which I suspect also has different "tastes" and "textures" as I move through life. I think my faith has changed as I've grown, gradually deepening over time; but it also seems to shift in response to what I'm facing day-to-day.
This isn't a bad thing. I suspect it's a normal human response from a living and active soul traversing the world with Jesus.
Wending Our Way...

The Good Lord Helped Me Out!

April 7, 2026

Deuteronomy 33:26 ... There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides on the heavens to help you. ("Jeshurun" means "The Upright One" and refers to Israel.)
One day back in mid-winter, we had yet another major snowstorm. A combination of snow, wind and sun caused major drifting and lots of dripping and refreezing. Larry went out the next afternoon to clean off the cars, but he came back in fairly quickly, so I figured the cars were too frozen over to work on. But no! He popped into the cottage with the wonderful news that, "The Good Lord helped me out with the wind and the sun!" (The wind had blown the snow off the vehicles, and the sun had melted the ice!)
Here I was picturing the wind and sun as the problem, but Larry found the blessing in them. I wonder how many times in the past I've done that: missing God's goodness amidst life's problems and struggles.
We know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him. (Rom. 8:28) This doesn't mean that all things are good. It means that God weaves His Goodness into everything and hopes that we will spot His Tender Mercies popping up (like crocuses in the snow) all around us, even on the most difficult days.
Wending Our Way...

Footprints In The Snow

April 6, 2026

Psalms 119:133 ...Direct my footsteps according to your word.
One day back in February we had about an inch of light, powdery snow. The stiff wind accompanying it blew the cold, white fluff all over our front porch. At one point, I looked out and saw numerous little bird footprints in the snow--juncos, probably, as they hunted for breakfast--and right beside them were Larry's larger footprints, left behind as he, too, went for breakfast.
As I looked down at the big footprints, and the much more numerous little footprints, I got to wondering how many Little Footprints have walked beside me as I navigate life. These could be literal children, exploring the world for the first time; or struggling or shattered souls, looking for their way in a turbulent world; or people carrying grave fears or uncertainties and just hunting for a bit of reassurance; or those simply weary from life's incessant demands.
Often, just a smile or brief conversation helps shore up a flagging spirit and eases a burden others cannot begin to visualize.
Wending Our Way...

My Heart Is In My Hands #7

April 05, 2026

Psalms 24:10 ...Who is he, this King of Glory? The LORD Almighty--he is the King of Glory.
My Heart is in My Hands today. God's Glory shines above.
I welcome you with open arms~ To God's Eternal Love.
Wending Our Way...

My Heart Is In My Hands #6

April 4, 2026

Isaiah 43:1 ...I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
They sent Me off; they thought I'd gone. They left the world askew.
But I returned to claim My Own~ And I'll come back for you!
Wending Our Way...

My Heart Is In My Hands #5

April 3, 2026

Psalms 25:10 ...All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful....
My Love cannot be trampled on~ Or stabbed or nailed or lost.
It carries on in Silent Trust~ Shouldering all the cost.
Wending Our Way...

My Heart Is In My Hands #4

April 2, 2026

Luke 23:33 ...When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him....
They nailed Me up and walked away. They thought The Light had gone.
But I returned enrobed in Love~ And I will carry on!
Wending Our Way...

My Heart Is In My Hands #3

April 1, 2026

John 16:33 ...I have overcome the world.
But my heart is in My Hands today~ As bravely on I plod.
I carry Peace and Love and Hope~ From Our Triumphant God.
Wending Our Way...

My Heart Is In My Hands #2

March 31, 2026

Luke 23:27 ...A large number of people followed him....
The pain of Sin and Cross I bear. I struggle as I walk.
My earthly burden scars My Soul. The crowds have come to gawk.
Wending Our Way...

My Heart Is In My Hands #1

March 30, 2026

Mark 15:20b ...Then they led him out to crucify him.
My path is rough, the pleasures few~ I stumble as I roam.
My Heart is in My Hands today. I'll bring My people Home.
Wending Our Way...

Haiku....Goodbye

March 27, 2026

Psalms 89:48 ...What man can live and not see death....
Life's ever-changing.
Everyone leaves at some point.
Treasure your people.
Wending Our Way...

Neuropathy Of The Soul

March 26, 2026

Ephesians 4:22 ...be kind and compassionate to one another.
I've had a Band-Aid on my right thumb all winter, it seems. I have one of those painful, annoying splits that just won't heal. The worst of it is that the Band-Aid keeps me from feeling things I touch or pick up. It's like having neuropathy in my thumb.
This brought me to the realization that some people seem to have trouble feeling things--particularly things like compassion, affection and caring. It's like their feelings are all wrapped up in some protective defenses that prevent others' plight from touching them. It's like they have Neuropathy of the Soul.
When I run into people who seem to have Neuropathy of the Soul, I try to reduce my time with them (lest they wear me out), and then I move on toward companionship with kinder souls. That's much more uplifting!
Wending Our Way...

Earthquake!

March 25, 2026

1 Kings 19:11 ...after the wind there was an earthquake....
Back in February of 2003 a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit the area of Antioch, India, destroying almost 80% of its buildings. Inspectors found that the destruction was so great partly because many of the buildings were constructed with faulty plans and low-quality materials.
Doesn't that sound like out Christian walk sometimes? If we don't plan for enough prayer time, solitude, relaxation, Bible reading, and personal contact with trusted others, our foundations aren't solid when trouble hits. If we rely solely on words from actors, sports figures, politicos, sales people, influencers and advertisements, our foundations will be shaky at best. When disaster strikes, our foundations may crumble from the impact, just as India's buildings did.
Isaiah 33:6 reminds us that ..."the LORD will be the sure foundation for [our] times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge." Who needs anything more?
Wending Our Way...

Enjoy!!

March 24, 2026

Psalms 37:3 ...dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Frankie Fingerpaint, the farm's black and white pinto pony, was quietly munching on new grass in the fragrant meadow, when he stopped for a brief chat with Old Groundhog, who was out searching for breakfast. "Gosh!" grumbled Groundhog. "My burrow is so cold in the morning, this food's tasteless, and there's nothing to do once I'm up." Frankie agreed that must make for unpleasant days for Groundhog; then he wandered off to snooze in the sun.
The spot he chose for a nap was beside the old stone wall which ran along one side of the farm field and was always warmed by the morning sun. As he approached the wall, he saw Queenie Buttertoes, the farm's gray and yellow barn cat, draped over the warming stones. "Boy!" purred Queenie, twitching her whiskers gently. "Isn't this the life? A sunny spot, a peaceful nap, beautiful weather and a good friend. How delightful!!" Frankie agreed wholeheartedly and the two soon drifted off into restful silence.
Take-Home: Enjoy where you are while you get where you're going.
Wending Our Way...

Only The Good Parts?

March 23, 2026

Romans 8:39 ...[nothing] will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
I remember shopping for fresh produce with my first husband's mother. She had an unerring ability to select the most perfect fruit and vegetables. Anything less was simply rejected as not good enough.
That memory made me think of love and people and Jesus. When it comes to humans, be they parents, spouses, siblings, co-workers, friends or neighbors, we don't get to select only the good parts of those we love. We get to love others in spite of their faults and failures.
It works the same way with Jesus. He doesn't reject us earthlings because we're less than perfect. He loves the mixture of saint and sinner that makes us human. We're safe in His Arms here below and will remain so-- forever-- once we get to heaven.
Wending Our Way...

I'm Glad He Died!

March 20, 2026

John 14:21 ...He who loves me will be loved by the Father, and I, too, will love him and show myself to him.
I spoke with an elderly woman a while ago. I'll call her Charlotte. In years past, she had a dear aunt who she positively adored and visited frequently. Unfortunately, Dear Aunt was married to an absolute bastard of a man who abused her unmercifully, stole her money and then blamed her for their subsequent meager existence. When Absolute Bastard died, Charlotte went to identify the body, partly because Dear Aunt was too frail to go herself and partly because none of his kids could stand him and refused to handle that aspect of his death. (None of his kids showed up for his funeral, either.) As Charlotte said to me so recently, "I only went to be sure he was dead. I hated him! He was so cruel to my aunt. I'm glad he died!!"
This situation reminded me of another death 2000+ years ago. Surrounded by adversaries, but also by devoted followers, Jesus died and rose again, which provided eternal salvation for all believers down through the ages, and enabled countless numbers of faithful followers to love Him here on earth and look forward to being with Him in heaven.
How wonderful that Jesus left this earthly life but left all His Wonderful Love swirling around us as onward we go. I'm glad He died, because His Death bought my Forever-Home.
Wending Our Way...

Housebound!

March 19, 2026

Luke 16:9 ...you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.
We've had such a hard winter! We've gotten got housebound several times until we could get dug out after heavy snowstorms.
Being stuck in one place for several days made me think of Eternity. In a way, we're all going to be "housebound" for Eternity, but where will that be: in heaven or in hell?
Those who make the wrong choice will have no one to "dig them out" and they'll be stuck in their over-heated eternal dwellings forever.
Wending Our Way...

My Larry...Your Larry

March 18, 2026

Ephesians 6:24 ...Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ.
We live in a cottage right next door to a woman and her husband, who is also Larry. When we chat, I sometimes have to ask her if she's referring to "her Larry" or "my Larry." It's kind of comical.
After a recent conversation with her, it occurred to me that we don't have to worry about "your Jesus" and "my Jesus"--because he's Our Jesus--forever!
Wending Our Way...

Welcome!

March 17, 2026

Job 31:32b ...my door is always open to the traveler.
I read an inspiring story during the days before Christmas. Three sisters were running a charming, quaint, old Bed and Breakfast in one of the northern states and always put candles in the windows of their inn during the holiday season. (Christmas Recollections at Grace Chapel Inn, Guideposts, 2020.) As one sister pointed out to arriving guests, the candles are an old-fashioned notice that "travelers are welcome here." Can you imagine a traveler's relief when gazing at such a sight on a cold, wintry night?
Here's another welcoming sight: John 3:19..."Light has come into the world ." Jesus came into the world to bring salvation, of course, but also to invite weary travelers into His Heart and into His Eternal Home. What a relief to know that we're welcome here for now and in the heavenlies forever!
Wending Our Way...

Haiku Winter In Pennsylvania

March 16, 2026

Psalms 104:12 ...The birds of the air nest by the waters....
Little frozen nest~
Waiting in my dogwood tree.
Piled high with snow.
Wending Our Way...

Back Exercises #3

March 13, 2026

2 Corinthians 6:16 ...we are the temple of the living God.
Sometimes I go mindlessly about my exercises, going through the motions but not paying much attention to how my body is reacting. I can think of at least two occasions when I paid no attention to a mild muscle tingle as I was exercising, moved the wrong way and wound up with a full-scale pulled muscle. So, here's another rule: LISTEN TO YOUR BODY.
Here are a few questions I try to ask as I go about exercising: Am I in balance? Am I tired and in need of a break? Am I able to move freely, and if not, what's holding me back? Do I need extra support (like a pillow)? Do I need someone else to help (like a therapist or doctor)?
I've found that asking these questions helps me in my Christian walk, too. Exploring the answers as I go along increases my effectiveness and efficiency when I'm exercising. I also find that answering these questions often guides and strengthens my service to God and His people.
Wending Our Way...

Back Exercises #2

March 12, 2026

Psalms 17:2 ...may your eyes see what is right.
Here's another cornerstone of effective exercising: WATCH YOUR FORM. If I do my exercises in a sloppy manner, I might unintentionally pull a muscle or could reduce or negate the positive effects I'm trying to achieve.
If I lose my spiritual form (Think of Galatians 5:22...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control.), I stand in danger of losing my Fruit of the Spirit which happily burbles along with me every day. Without the form of these nine characteristics, my service can be hollow and ineffective.
In order for my efforts to be effective when exercising and in Christian life, I need to watch my form.
Wending Our Way...

Back Exercises #1

March 11, 2026

Genesis 33:14 ...I move along slowly at the pace of the droves....
I have on-going back issues stemming from a car accident back in the eighties. I do exercises every day. Some are for stretching and range of motion and some are for strengthening supportive muscles. This morning, I realized that three cornerstones of exercise also apply to Christian life.
First of all: GO SLOWLY. I can't race through my exercises lest I hurt myself or have my efforts count for movement but not exercise. Likewise, racing through life can lead to injury, missed opportunities, exhaustion and activity that might look impressive but is actually useless to God's Kingdom.
Exercising and serving God work best when done at a moderate pace.
Wending Our Way...

Rent This Sign!

March 10, 2026

Matthew 21:41 ...he will rent the vineyard to other tenants....
A short time ago, I drove past two billboards. One advertised a local roofing company and the other was blank--with big lettering: "Rent This Sign!" 'Rent' usually means that we pay to use something for a specified period of time, then return it to its owner.
Of course, we can rent vineyards and power equipment and cars, but we can't rent Jesus. He's not for hire and He's already paid for our salvation. All we can do is accept Him and enjoy His Presence. I kind of suspect that some people sort of do "rent" Jesus. They bring Him out when they hit hard times or need something desperately, but then they put Him back on a shelf or in a drawer so He's handy the next time a crisis hits.
People who "rent" Jesus this way certainly receive His help at times, but they also miss out on His assurance, companionship, guidance, love and strength on a daily basis. I'm hugely blessed to have Jesus in my heart full-time!
Wending Our Way...

Sold Out!

March 9, 2026

1 Corinthians 6:20 ...you were bought at a price....
A while ago Larry and I drove past a 65+ community. A big sign out front declared that "Our Community is Currently Sold Out." I'm sure that's great for the financial security of the place, but what about anyone who wants to get in? It doesn't sound too hopeful.
That's a sign that won't appear for a long time yet (I presume) here on earth. Jesus is always looking for lost souls and lives to invite them to His Celestial Home.
But at some point, "Our Community is Sold out" will hang outside the Pearly Gates. At Christ's Second Coming, non-believers will face a long, lonely, tormented Future as they're closed out of Eternity and welcomed into Hell. Those who don't "sign up" with Jesus "sell out" for Satan...forever.

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