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...

Who??!!

September 16, 2025

Galatians 5:22 ...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
The other day we got a phone call. The phone screen said "John Samuels." We don't know a John Samuels, so we didn't answer it. Soon, the message began: "Hi Folks. This is Jean Samuels....We DO know her. She's a widow we met a short time ago. She had a question for Larry. (Her phone is still listed in her husband's name.)
This reminded me of Satan, who also "calls" using other names. Jean was simply using the other name on what used to be a joint account. There's no deception there. But Satan calls under false names in order to deceive us into responding. His messages might come through with names like Fun, Excitement, Power, Fame, Acquisition....We have to be careful who (or what) we answer to.
God doesn't try to deceive us when He calls. His contacts always originate from love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. It's always safe to answer His calls!
Wending Our Way...

Reminders

September 15, 2025

Psalms 77:11 ...I will remember the deeds of the LORD....
I have quite a few things around the house that remind me of pleasant episodes in my life. There's a small glass bowl--a treasure from a Lancaster jaunt with a friend. And an old cloth napkin--a reminder of summer visits to the shore with my sister. There's a wind-up mantle clock from my dad--a reminder of his care and provision through the years. And there's our grandfather's clock. It's been in Larry's family for years. It's a reminder of Larry's faithful presence and support in my life.
All these objects serve as visual reminders of something that happened or is happening in my life. Here are a few others: a Cross (Acts 2:23...nailing him to a cross....); a Dove (Mk. 1:10...the Spirit descending on him like a dove....); Scars (Jn. 20:25...the nail marks in his hands....); Communion (Mt. 26:26...take and eat; this is my body....).
Reminders of What Happened become Treasures in this life and beyond.
Wending Our Way...

Gladiolus And Life

September 12, 2025

Song of Solomon 2:12 ...Flowers appear on the earth....
We had the most beautiful glads this summer. They were pink and white with lovely frilly edges. Numerous flowers bloom vertically along their slender stems. Each flower lasts for only a day, then the one closest to the stem fades away and others along the stem open up in succession. At some point, all the flowers on an individual stem fade away and that stem stops blooming for the season. Each flower is short-lived, but glads bring enormous beauty to their little corner of the world while they're blooming.
Our lives are like gladiolus flowers. Our lives, too, bloom and fade, one day at a time. We, like the glads, are called to bloom fully, one day at a time; then at the end of each day, we're to enjoy a period of rest as we await the arrival of the new day.
Most of us have very long stems (number of earthly days), so we have lots of blooming to do until our final blossom fades. Just think of all the joy, love, hope and companionship you can spread each day as your beauty and grace brighten our weary world!
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

September 11, 2025

2 Samuel 22:35 ...He trains my hands for battle....
Don't be too hard on yourself when you're weary from the fight. All you've gone through may simply be part of your training for where you are now or where the future will take you.
Wending Our Way...

In Between

September 10, 2025

Genesis 1:1 ...In the beginning....
Some days I feel like I'm running in circles or spinning my wheels. So many things to do, so little time to accomplish stuff, so many interruptions...plus, I have a lot less energy these days. Sometimes I feel like I can never get ahead. It's frustrating!
Then I get to thinking about how God moves. It seems to me that He's always moving TOWARD something. He doesn't run in circles or spin His wheels. He's always moving forward-- patiently moving toward something (even if we can't see that "something").
If you're interested in reflecting on this concept, I invite you to use two of my favorite passages from the Bible. 1. "In the beginning...." From Gen. 1:1, these are the first words in the Bible. They're the Starting Gate, so to speak. Everything moves forward from here. 2. "Amen." From Rev. 22:21b, these are the last words in the Bible. Sandwiched in between "In the beginning" and "Amen," we have inspiring accounts of God's movements since the beginning of time. All His movements strive to bring Eternal Peace and Love to mankind. I can't wait to see how things all work out!
Wending Our Way...

Much Betters

September 9, 2025

Psalms 84:10 ...Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere.
My sister creates the neatest typos! She recently texted that a friend had asked for a ride to work--at 6 AM. What a horrible hour! But then the friend texted back that another friend had loaned her a car for the day, so my sister was off the hook. My sister's text to me read: "This is much betters for me." Hee hee!!
"Much betters for me." That reminds me of heaven and salvation and eternal life--as opposed to imprisonment, hell and eternal damnation. That whole salvation thing---that's "much betters," too--for all of us.
Wending Our Way...

Pink Gracelets

September 8, 2025

Colossians 3:16 ...sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.
Pink is my favorite color. Once in a while I use it to go on a Gratitude Walk. I simply look for pink things on my daily journey. So far, for today, I've seen lovely gladiolus flowers, the sunrise, our dining room table arrangement, a cheery placemat, flamingo pictures on the computer, a neighbor's spiffy new sandals, my favorite summer robe, cheery summer tops I see so frequently, my wine box, a favorite lightweight jacket, my new towels, my current nail polish, numerous door decorations, and my latest book's colorful cover.
When I go on a Pink Walk, I like to reflect on the object I'm seeing and then thank God for its presence in my life. It's an easy way to generate gratitude and I'm sure it pleases God to know that I've noticed the Gracelets He's left beside my path.
Wending Our Way...

Water Of Life

September 05, 2025

John 4:14 ... [Jesus speaking] Whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst.
I bought an echeveria back in July. That's a succulent with thick, rubbery "leaves" (more like pads, really). I only have to water it twice a month in spring and summer, and once a month in fall and winter.
These plants rot easily with over-watering, but they can also dry out too much with under-watering. I read about a neat way to tell if the plant needs water. Simply gently pinch one of the pads with the pads of your thumb and finger. If they feel thick and sturdy (almost like rubber), they're fine. If the pads look or feel shriveled, the plant needs water.
We're like my echeveria. We, too, shrivel without appropriate "watering." The Water of Life sustains us as we face life's challenges and wend our way along.
Wending Our Way...

Pink Glads

September 4, 2025

Song of Solomon 2:12 ...Flowers appear on the earth....
Some kind soul planted the most glorious gladiolus by our cottage. They're pink and white with ruffly edges. Just gorgeous! I brought a few inside after a heavy rain knocked the plants over. The vibrant flowers certainly brightened up one little corner of our kitchen!
You know, that's not a bad purpose in life: to brighten up corners along the way. I can't change most peoples' difficulties, but I can often brighten up their little corner of the world. Even something as simple as a smile goes a long way.
Wending Our Way...

Bunny-Duck

September 3, 2025

Ruth 4:1 ...Come over here, my friend, and sit down. (Boaz speaking to Ruth)
This has been a fun summer animal-wise. We've been watching baby rabbits and ducklings a lot. One day, five young ducks were pecking in the grass near a brown lump with a longish neck. I figured the lump was a duckling resting in the grass, but when it moved, it hopped! It was a baby rabbit and what I thought was a duck's neck were the rabbit's ears. I just had to stick around long enough to find out about it.
It works the same with people. When I meet someone new, I need to stick around long enough to actually get to know them. Brief contact doesn't build connection. Frequent, sustained interactions build strong relationships.
Wending Our Way...

No Fishing!

September 2, 2025

John 21:13 ...I'm going out to fish.
I heard a news report recently. Residents of a certain area were cautioned against fishing in a nearby lake because a local business had accidentally dumped PCBs into the water and contaminated it.
That reminds me of Satan, because all his fishing holes are contaminated--intentionally. This is why God warns us about where we go fishing. If we're toying with temptation, it's likely that we're fishing in dangerous waters. God doesn't warn us to spoil our fun. He warns us to keep us safe.
Wending Our Way...

Time!!

September 1, 2025

Hebrews 13:5 ...God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."
At the chiropractor's last week, I was reading a murder mystery while a heating pad did its thing. A timer ticked away quietly beside me as it measured out ten minutes. When it dinged, my heat-treatment session was over.
Of course, this reminded me of Jesus, because that's the exact opposite of what He does. He never shuts down or shuts off. He never gives up or gives out. He never quits. He never wanders off. No matter what, He's always there. He never leaves us.
Wending Our Way...

Come To The Table

August 29, 2025

Luke 22:14 ...When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table.
The word 'table' has an interesting heritage. The original Latin meant 'board' or 'plank', because food was served on individual boards or planks. Somewhere along the way, someone decided to put legs on the planks...and 'table' appeared.
Someone a short time ago mentioned to me that humans are the only creatures who eat from a table. And Jesus is the only One Who invites all mankind to join Him at His Table.
The nifty thing about eating at a table is that it offers food, but it also offers fellowship, community and connection. Whenever I come to the table (for a meal or for Communion), I like to think of Jesus and His Infinite Love and Eternal Welcome for everyone.
Wending Our Way...

12 Jesuses Watching

August 28, 2025

Job 10:14 ...If I sinned, you would be watching me and would not let my offense go unpunished.
I read a novel back in the spring. One character was an elementary age schoolboy who was Protestant but wound up at a Catholic boarding school. At some point, he'd been shown one room in the church that really creeped him out because there were twelve Jesuses watching him all the time. (These may have been crucifixes, rosaries, statues, stained glass windows, bulletins....)
Unfortunately, the little guy didn't resonate with Jesus "watching" to guard and protect. He associated "watching" with keeping track of offenses and subsequent blame and punishment.
Jesus certainly does watch over us always, but that's because He loves us and wants to provide for us--not because He's keeping track of our failures and mistakes. Hallelujah!
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

August 27, 2025

Joshua 2:10 ...the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea....
Don't try to go THROUGH the Red Sea until you get TO the Red Sea.
Wending Our Way...

Herpetologist

August 26, 2025

Ephesians 2:10 ...created in Christ Jesus to do good works....
Herpetologist. How's that for a big word?? It means someone who studies reptiles. It took me a while to learn to spell 'herpetologist.' It has lots of letters in specific spots---plus it's LONG!
Wending our way through life is kind of like learning to spell 'herpetologist.' There's lots of stuff to keep track of and it takes a while to get it going right.
Just as I took my time learning to spell 'herpetologist,' God gives us the time we need to work out our earthly journeys. We were indeed created in Jesus Christ to do good works, and God will see to it that we succeed in that. And, amazingly, we'll still make it into heaven, even if we spell a few things wrong along the way!
Wending Our Way...

Water Heater Drainage

August 25, 2025

Luke 11:22 ...but when someone stronger attacks and overpowers them....
Back in June, our water heater died. It was ten years old, and I guess the bottom rusted out because it started leaking. We got it replaced quickly, thankfully.
Before the guys could haul the old water heater away, they had to unplug it, disconnect a few pipes, turn off the taps and drain the tank. It all took time--longer than I'd expected.
What took longest was draining the tank, but it gave me an idea for a devotion! Just as a hot water heater sometimes needs draining, our emotions sometimes need it, too. Negative emotions with no outlet have a way of overpowering relationships with God, self and others. Draining emotions as needed (when they start to leak out) helps reduce their destructive energy and influence.
Wending Our Way...

Squirrels--and Satan Lurking

August 22, 2025

Mark 8:33 ...Get behind me, Satan!
I used to watch a neighbor chase squirrels away from his birdfeeders. He'd run toward them, flapping his arms and yelling. He'd throw tennis balls at them and bang on trees with a stick. He didn't want to hurt them. He just wanted them to leave some seed for the birds. But squirrels are crafty. They always kept one jump ahead of him--and they always came back!
This reminds me of Satan. He's always lurking somewhere, too, but his aim is to hurt us and to drive us away from God. We have to keep vigilant. Squirrels--and Satan--are tenacious!!
Wending Our Way...

Fern Pot--and Jesus

August 21, 2025

Psalms 55:22 ...cast your cares on the LORD....
I have an indoor fern that got too big for its pot. The pot was a heavy ceramic one, so the whole thing had gotten too heavy for me to lift comfortably. I transplanted it into a larger plastic pot. I can now easily lift it and carry it to the sink for its weekly watering.
That reminded me of Jesus, because He wants to help us carry stuff, too. He doesn't want us to struggle with heavy burdens. Sharing life's burdens with Jesus doesn't always make them go away, but it certainly makes them easier to carry.
Wending Our Way...

Traumatic Shrapnel

August 20, 2025

Proverbs 16:24 ...Pleasant words are a honeycomb....
I read an interesting description a month or so ago--"traumatic shrapnel." 'Traumatic' refers to anything that deeply wounds us; and 'shrapnel' refers to small particles from an exploding bomb, shell or mine. How about words? They can produce "traumatic shrapnel", too. Years ago, I heard a very insightful comment: "The words you give to me are mine to keep forever." Wow! That's great if the words are a blessing, but what if they're mean or brutal or near-fatal shots? Words have a long shelf-life!
My point is this: If I think my words are going to explode into tiny bits of hurt, I try to file the sharp edges down a bit before I send them on their way. Prayer helps to do this. So does talking to a trusted other person, doing something physical and trying to understand where the other person might be coming from. I want my forever-words to be as kind as possible.
Wending Our Way...

Power Failure

August 19, 2025

Psalms 147:5 ...Great is our Lord and mighty in power....
One day back in June we had four power failures--probably due to high heat and the increased demand for electricity to run air conditioning. PECO not only has to provide electricity constantly; they also have to keep generating it in order to meet demands. That must be a real challenge at times.
This whole episode reminded me of God...because God doesn't have to keep producing energy. He IS a constant energy flow--an inexhaustible source of Presence and Power. We'll never have a power failure with God.
Wending Our Way...

Moth Salvation

August 18, 2025

Jonah 2:9 ...Salvation comes from the LORD....
When I stopped at my bank last week, a young woman was just leaving. She was walking kind of funny and was holding a slim, red object out in front of her. As I neared the bank's door, I could see that the red thing was a plastic fly swatter, and she was walking slowly so as not to dislodge a small white moth that was on the swatter. She got just a few steps beyond the bank's doors when the moth joyfully (I presume) took flight and sailed off across the parking lot.
As we walked back into the bank together, she explained that she just can't kill things. (Me, neither!) Jesus feels the same way. He can't bear to see His people get stomped on, so He carries us to freedom, just as this young woman carried the moth to freedom. Hallelujah!!
Wending Our Way...

Immaculate...or Not??

August 15, 2025

Psalms 51:5 ...Surely I was sinful at birth....
'Immaculate' comes from an Old Latin word (macula), meaning 'spot' or 'stain.' (It also meant a hole in a net.) Anything that's immaculate is thus spotless or perfect. Luke 1:28 implies Mary's perfection and her part in the Immaculate Conception. (The word 'immaculate' isn't in the NIV Bible.)
'Immaculate' got me wondering if 'maculate' is a word. It is!!! It's outdated, but it means 'spotted,' 'impure,' 'blotched,' 'soiled,' 'besmirched,' or 'blemished.' Of course, Mary was none of these and neither was Jesus. But humans are all those things. We get besmirched by life and its many spots, stains and blemishes.
As Christians, we know we won't stay maculate forever. Ps. 51:7..."wash me and I will be whiter than snow," reminds me that we, like Mary and Jesus, will at some point be pure and spotless, guided by Grace into the Heavenly Realms--forever.
Wending Our Way...

Snap! Snarl!! HISS!!!

August 14, 2025

1 Kings 22:34 ...Get me out of the fighting. I've been wounded.
Many years ago, I patted a dog that had always been friendly, but she snapped at me that day. It turned out that she had the start of an ear infection and the owner didn't know it. (The dog got on meds and was fine in a few days.)
Heaven only knows why I was reminded of that incident today, but it's a prefect illustration for today's devotion. In reflecting on that dog's response, I've come to realize that sometimes, when someone snaps at me, they're probably not attacking me personally; they may be reacting to an internal trigger that is hurtful for them but has nothing to do with me.
Sometimes, people's anger may be due to a painful wound I didn't inflict. If I can respond to their pain, instead of defending myself, peace can often be restored more quickly.
Wending Our Way...

Just Hi--Really?!

August 13, 2025

John 15:9 ...Now remain in my love....
I got to thinking that maybe it's hard for some folks to "just say hi" to God, so, here are a few ideas.
1.Whenever you see something waving (flags, banners, trees, people's hands, ornamental grasses), stop and whisper "Hi!" to God. 2. Gaze up at a huge, fluffy white cloud on a sunny day and whisper, "Just Hi!" (I always think maybe Jesus is sitting on the edge of fluffy clouds, just watching over us.) 3. Stand, sit or lie down wherever, and whisper "Just Hi!"...and wave to God. 4.Close your eyes and think, "Hi!"
I've found that "Just Hi" moments are amazingly peaceful for me, and they're probably cherished by God.
Wending Our Way...

Just Hi!

August 12, 2025

Psalms 18:1 ..I love you, O LORD, my strength.
The other day I received an email from a friend. "Just Hi," it began, and then meandered off into a short, newsy sort of message.
"Just Hi" reminded me of Jesus. I bet He loves it when we stop in and just say "Hi." No formal prayers, no requests, no meditation, no heartfelt praise or worshipful silence--just pure companionship and love.
Wending Our Way...

Today Only!!

August 11, 2025

Romans 6:23 ...the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Last week I got a sale notice on my computer. "Today Only!" it read and went on to display the sale items and their prices.
You'll bever see anything like that with Jesus. For one thing, salvation isn't "for sale." You can't buy it or even earn it. And--it's not available "today only." It has been available 24/7 for over two thousand years and will continue to be so for many years to come.
Annnnd---I've never seen or heard of Jesus posting any advertising for salvation. Salvation comes through relationship with Christ--not through answering an ad.
Wending Our Way...

Haiku..... Summer Hallelujah!!

August 8, 2025

Psalms 66:5 ...Come and see what God has done....
The birds are singing~
The rabbit is munching grass~
Beautiful weather!
Wending Our Way...

Drama Club

August 7, 2025

Romans 8:29 ...neither height not depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
I recently talked with a 90+ year-old woman. She said she belonged to a drama club for seniors. They put on short skits for local churches and nursing homes. She said the rehearsals were a riot. People dropped their scripts, forgot where they were supposed to be on-stage, ran off to the bathroom in the middle of things and wound up being unable to hear each other. (Their director just laughs and carries on.) Even so, she said they had a blast and their skits generally turned out just fine.
That sure sounds like a description of my life! Sometimes I lose my words right when I need them most; sometimes I have the right words but at the wrong moment; I'm sure I wind up in places God didn't direct me to; I get pulled away by varied demands of life; and I KNOW I don't hear well anymore.
I suppose God often laughs at my bumbling steps down here, but, like that skit director, He knows things will turn out OK in the end....so I just try to relax and go with the flow!!
Wending Our Way...

Origami Dog

August 6, 2025

Romans 8:28 ...in all things God works for the good of those who love him....
Last week I watched as a woman told a short story while she folded a paper square into a figure. Her story told about a young boy who desperately wanted a dog. As she meandered through the story, she repeatedly folded the paper square--and when her story ended, she'd folded the paper into a sitting dog! It was fascinating!
As I reflected on the Origami dog, I came to realize that it's a great symbol for life: No matter how many folds, creases, crinkles or turns occur in my life, God's using it all for good.
Origami figures don't look like much when they're being folded, but the end result is impressive. I suspect our Christian lives will be the same.
Wending Our Way...

No Warning!

August 05, 2025

Numbers 26:10 ...The earth opened its mouth and swallowed them...and they served as a warning sign.
A few weeks ago, we had a fire drill here at our retirement community. As I was walking down a hallway inside the main building, the obnoxiously loud buzzers went off, nearly deafening even those of us with hearing loss. We had to exit the building quickly, stand a certain distance from the building, then return to the inside once the coast was clear. I know it was a drill, but it felt good to know that there'd be such a warning if anything serious ever happened.
It all reminded me of Satan--because this was so unlike him. He doesn't set up warnings. He happily leaves dangers and temptations lying around and hopes that we'll stumble over them. We have to pay close attention to avoid falling for his ploys.
Wending Our Way...

Baby Rabbit Food

August 4, 2025

Isaiah 44:9,20 ...All who make idols...[feed] on ashes, a deluded heart misleads [them]....
Last evening Larry and I watched as a baby rabbit nibbled at a large violet leaf growing near our porch. All seemed well until I noticed that it was eating a plant that had been sprayed with weed killer. Sheesh!! That couldn't be good for the bunny!!
But don't I do the same thing in life? I eat one chip, knowing that'll lead to another...and another....I read the next exciting chapter in my book--and forget my Bible reading for the day. I listen to a juicy tidbit about So-and-So and miss a chance to offer a quick prayer for her.
The bunny is probably still learning what will safely feed it, unlike me. I know what's "Good to Eat." I just have to stick to a healthy menu.
Wending Our Way...

Recalculating Route

August 1, 2025

Matthew 2:12 ...they retired to their country by another route.
Larry and I were driving somewhere recently. The GPS was plugged in, and our AI Guide was merrily leading us onward. At one point, Larry took a shortcut he knew well--and "AI Alice' quit talking as the GPS screen posted the words: "recalculating route."
Gosh! THAT sounds familiar! How often in life do we have to stop what we're doing, take a deep breath, recalculate our route, and get going again?
Lots of life events challenge us to change course, but keep going. It's comforting to know that even when life throws wrenches into out plans, God has our whole journey mapped out and provided for. We may have to recalculate, but He never does. Our future is secure, even if it looks a bit wobbly to us.
Wending Our Way...

Winebibber

July 31, 2025

Matthew 11:19 ...they said, "He is a glutton and a drunkard."
The word 'bibber' probably came from an Old Latin word simply meaning 'to drink.' In the King James version of the Bible, Jesus is accused of being a winebibber. ("Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber.") This accusation attempted to describe Jesus as a drunkard--one who habitually drank wine to excess.
This brings me to an odd thought: Are all Christians then Jesus-bibbers? Sounds like it!
Wending Our Way...

Unplugged?

July 30, 2025

Isaiah 40:29 ...He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
My sister was here for a visit back in May. At night, she charged her hearing aids, which involved leaving them plugged in overnight. I thought that might damage them, but she said they start discharging as soon as they're unplugged, so it's better to leave them plugged in. Interesting!
Isn't that just like us ? If tight schedules, distractions, fatigue, temptations or interruptions keep us unplugged from Jesus, we'll soon start discharging, too. Staying plugged in to Christ gives us the energy to keep going.
Wending Our Way...

Jacquard...or Printed

July 29, 2025

Exodus 28:4 ...These are the garments [skilled men] are to make: a breastpiece ,an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban and a sash. (These were for Aaron to wear when he served as a priest.)
I was looking over my summer clothing today and noticed that most of my tops have designs printed on them. This means that the outside of the cloth has a vibrant, definite pattern while the inside has a more muted rendition of the pattern.
A few of my tops are jacquard--woven so that the inside and outside of the cloth are identical. Jacquard cloth is much more sturdy than printed cloth. It's more durable and doesn't fade as easily.
All this reminds me of Jesus because He doesn't want to be just printed on our surfaces. He wants to be woven into the very fabric of our lives, into our entire being. That keeps us sturdy and vibrant, too.
Wending Our Way...

New Home/Old Challenges

July 28, 2025

Acts 14:22 ...We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God....
Quite a while ago I watched a video showing a hermit crab searching the ocean floor for a new, bigger shell; when he'd found one, he quickly moved his soft hindquarters into his new home. He had one slightly damaged claw, but that didn't hamper him. He just kept on keeping on with his hermit crab responsibilities.
Once he'd moved, his damaged claw and other difficulties remained. He was living in a different place now, but he'd carried his challenges with him. He still had to find food and a mate, defend himself, get adequate rest, deal with the realities of aging, and manage whatever housekeeping requirements hermit crabs have.
So it is with us humans, too. As we move along in life we sometimes find ourselves faced with new opportunities or responsibilities, but the old challenges cling to us like barnacles. Life won't get easy until we get to heaven.
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

July 25, 2025

Jeremiah 6:16 ...ask where the good way is and walk in it....
Wring all the good you can out of life's troubles!
Wending Our Way...

Open Sesame

July 24, 2025

Revelation 3:20 ...I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in....
I had a fascinating conversation with a woman from our apartments the other day. She'd gone to the Jersey shore for a few days and was looking forward to having her son join her later in the week. Since he lives near here, he stopped at her apartment to pick up something she'd forgotten.
Here's the fascinating part: Her son doesn't have a key to her apartment, so, when she's at the shore, he calls her on her cell in Jersey, she pushes a button on her phone and her apartment door unlocks!!! How cool it that?!
Jesus kind of operates the same way. Heaven's a whole lot farther away than the Jersey shore, and yet, at some point in the past, Jesus "pushed a button" and opened each heart that knows Him and follows His ways. How cool is that??!!
Wending Our Way...

Table Of Grace

July 23, 2025

Ephesians 6:24 ...Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ....
One day recently Larry experienced a mix-up in our cafeteria. He'd ordered a burger and fries but got a hot turkey Reuben instead. He ate it anyway and found out it was really good! I wonder who got his hamburger.
This mix-up reminded me of Communion. Larry could eat a meal that wasn't his, but you can't do that with Communion. Each person has to come to the table himself. You can't take Communion for someone else. Jesus wants each of us to come--personally--to His Table of Grace.
Wending Our Way...

Saved By...

July 22, 2025

Luke 19:9 ...Today salvation has come to this house....
Maybe yesterday's drone story got me thinking about how stuff gets saved. Over the years, I've used tapes, CDs, floppy discs, flash drives, the Cloud, savings accounts, safe deposit boxes, carbon paper, folders, drawers....Things get saved in lots of ways and those ways tend to change over time.
Amazingly, Christ's method of Salvation hasn't changed in over two thousand years. The Cross took care of things back then, it still takes care of things today and it will continue to take care of things in the future. Salvation is unchanging. Hallelujah!
Wending Our Way...

Drone Salvation

July 21, 2025

Psalms 119:81 ...my soul faints with longing for your salvation....
Back in May I heard about an exhausted woman at the shore who got caught in a riptide and was being steadily pulled out to sea. She was too far from land for anyone to offer aid. A quick-thinking observer on the beach, who was flying a drone at the time, sent the drone to the lifeguard chair; had it pick up a life preserver, fly it out to the woman and drop it down to her and then return to land. She was thus able to hold on until rescue crews were able to reach her. What an inspiring event!
Isn't life like this sometimes? We can get caught in the overpowering currents of life and can be dragged farther and farther away from familiar, safe territory. Sometimes we need some astute and caring observer to step in and get us to safety.
In this scenario, the riptide is like life at its worst. I think of Jesus as my Drone, Who appears from above, bringing Grace and Salvation. And I think of the human rescue team as those kind souls who accompany me through life, assuring that I get where I'm supposed to be in my earthly ventures.
Wending Our Way...

Painting The World

July 18, 2025

Psalms 19:1 ...the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
The word 'paint' has an interesting past. Its base is Indo-European and it originally meant 'to cut.' At some point, its meaning changed to "decorating with cut marks' (as you would with damp clay). Next, it meant 'to decorate,' and finally it came to mean'to decorate with color.'
I got to thinking about all the painters in the world. Some of us do it with words. I have a friend who does it with magnificent watercolor paintings. Several women here produce lovely garments by knitting or crocheting or embroidering. Some folks here make artificial arrangements; some work with beads; and some do quilting. And how about smiles, which bring a beauty all their own. There are lots of ways to decorate the world.
And think of God, who paints the skies at dawn and dusk, who colors the fields and flowers and trees, the snowy landscapes and sunny days and moonlit nights. And especially think of His Provision--which paints our world with His Love and Grace.
Wending Our Way...

Singing Washer

July 17, 2025

Zephaniah 3:17 ...God is with you...he will rejoice over you with singing.
Our washer plays a cute little ditty when it finishes up. It's an electronic Deedle-Dee, Deedle-Dee, Deet-Dah-Deet!!" sort of tune. It's kind of cheery, actually.
It only does this when it has finished its designated job. I wonder: Does all of heaven sing when we've finished our designated jobs down here and wind up at the Pearly Gates? I wonder what tune they'll play when I arrive.
Wending Our Way...

Generations

July 16, 2025

Genesis 48:4 ...I will make you a community of peoples....
We have quite a few high school seniors working in our senior living community. I'm most connected to those bright young folks who serve in our cafeteria, since Larry and I seem to eat a lot! Quite a few of them have graduated now and are off on the next segments of their journeys.
Many of my experiences in life will be outdated as far as connecting points in their lives, but what doesn't become outdated is feelings. Although our experiences may vary vastly, our feelings don't. All the feelings they've had (regardless of the situations that created them) are the same feelings I've had somewhere along the line; and it's the same feelings felt by generations before us. Even the folks we read about in the Bible had the same feelings we do.
If I'm trying to connect with someone else, especially with someone whose experiences are quite different from mine, I find that if I look at the feelings others are expressing, I can often build connections (and community) more easily. That's because one of the strongest bonds we have with others is our feelings.
Wending Our Way...

Check The Verbs

July 15, 2025

Genesis 1:1 ...In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Have you ever paid specific attention to the verbs in scriptures? Doing so can bring new insights. I came up with five ways verbs function in scripture.
1. Verbs can describe a past event. (See today's scripture.) 2. Verbs can encourage an on-going activity. (2 Chr. 20:17...Take up your positions, stand firm and see the deliverance God will give you.) 3. Verbs can remind us of a promise. (Mt. 28:20...And surely I am with you always....). 4. Verbs can give us direction or instruction. (Mt. 19:19...love your neighbor as yourself....). 5. Verbs can remind us of God's love, power, grace and provision. (1 Cor. 15:2...By this gospel you are saved.)
Check out the verbs in scripture and you might discover fresh blessings in His word!
Wending Our Way...

Esculent Christ

July 14, 2025

Matthew 26:26,28 ..."Take and eat; this is my body....Drink. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins."
I'm reading The House of the Seven Gables. It's positively ancient and uses many obscure words and extremely long sentences. It's mostly interesting but difficult to read.
I learned a new word along the way: esculent. I'd bever heard of it before. A young woman in the book spoke of esculent vegetables that were growing in an untended garden. 'Esculent' simply means 'edible,' so...red ripe tomatoes are esculent but hard green ones aren't.
Naturally, this reminded me of Jesus, because He's edible, too. Vegetables don't ask to be eaten, but Jesus does. Just as food and drink feed and nourish us, feeding on Jesus does the same. That's kind of exciting!
Wending Our Way...

Anger # 4...Grief

July 11, 2025

Job 7:17 ...My eyes have grown dim with grief....
'Anger' indicates a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure or hostility. Interestingly enough, it descends, in part, from an Old Norse word meaning 'grief,' from German and Dutch words meaning 'constriction' or 'narrowing', and from a Greek word meaning 'strangle.'
I can see how anger feels constricting and strangling, but I never associated grief with anger. It makes sense, though, because grief indicates deep sorrow and some of the underlying feelings behind anger could cause us grief. Actually, I can see how a touch of anger could lead us through a shortened version of the kind of grief caused by the death of a loved one. (My devotion of 6/20/25 covers grief's hallmarks.)
Next time anger hits, try exploring how the grief stages might apply to your situation. If your anger is based on something you view as a loss, this might be helpful.
Wending Our Way...

Anger #3...Anger As A Cover

July 10, 2025

Isaiah 48:6 ...From now on I will tell you of new things, of hidden things unknown to you.
One interesting thing about anger is that it often covers over another emotion. Anger may be the most visible emotion to others and the most readily discernable emotion we feel, but there's often another emotion hiding beneath it.
We might be angry that another driver cut us off abruptly, but beneath the anger is genuine fear for our safety. We might be angry at the mess the kids made, but our hidden emotion is frustration at their carelessness. We might be angry that a friend forgot our lunch plans, but the underlying emotion might be the anguish of being discarded or not cared about.
Sometimes it helps to explore what other feelings are driving anger. This can help us spot what our triggers are and can help us vent our deeper feelings while we find new ways to cope.
Wending Our Way...

Anger #2... Function

July 9, 2025

Matthew 21:12 ...Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there.
Anger has a number of functions in our lives. 1. It can help us detect threats. 2. It can provide motivation and energy. (Jesus' anger at the "den of robbers" gave Him the energy to address the situation.) 3. Anger can help us get our needs met. 4. Anger can help resolve conflict when both parties address anger effectively. 5. Anger can help move us into spiritual and emotional growth via insight into our own and others' needs, motivations and faults. 6. Anger can increase cooperation if people work together to generate compromises.
As we reflect on our own anger episodes, it's often helpful to consider the function anger is serving in our lives. This can help create greater self-knowledge and can foster the resolution of relational issues.
Wending Our Way...

Anger #1...It's OK

July 8, 2025

Psalms 4:4 ...In your anger, do not sin....
Growing up, I was always taught never show anger. It was considered unchristian, poor form, something to be squashed immediately in favor of "nice" behavior. (I got an A in the course, as did many women my age.)
Actually, nowhere in the Bible does it say that anger should be squashed. God gave us feelings for a reason, and He wants us to notice our feelings, name them and express them in healthy ways.
I've finally learned to express anger (well, sometimes anyway!) to "safe people". Safe People are those who can hear my thoughts and feelings without criticizing, manipulating, interrupting, negating, attacking, downplaying my feelings, trying to fix things, threatening or gossiping. Safe People can help me vent without worrying about consequences.
Wending Our Way...

Stuck Yarn

July 7, 2025

Job 18:10 ...A trap lies in his path.
I was knitting today and my yarn got stuck. No matter what I did, it wouldn't pull out of the skein. It was kind of irritating. I thought maybe it had gotten a knot in it, but I soon discovered that I was in my favorite rocking chair and the yarn had gotten caught under the rocker. I moved it and things straightened out fast!
As I continued knitting, it occurred to me that with the yarn under my rocker, I was sort of getting in my own way. Then I started thinking about other behaviors that could indict that I'm getting in my own way. How about faulty thinking, impatience, judgmentalism and an overly busy schedule?
It often helps, I've found, when I'm feeling irritated, to explore my own input into the situation. Sometimes a change in my own thoughts or actions eases life's difficulties.
Wending Our Way...

4th Of July

July 4, 2025

Psalms 18:2 ...the LORD is my light and my salvation....
I heard a comment years ago. I never forgot it:
There are only two people who have ever offered to die for you: the American GI and Jesus Christ.
Wending Our Way...

God Is Light

July 3, 2025

Isaiah 2:5 ...Come, O house of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the LORD.
Our retirement community is very well-lit at night. Anyone walking between the main building and their residence can see clearly to find their way home. This reminds me of my Christian journey--because it doesn't seem to be very well lit! I can see dimly at best and must go forward in faith much of the time.
This is God's way it seems--to guide me with gentle nudges, quiet inspirations and lingering interests or desires.
When it comes to finding my way, I've come to realize that God often wants me to stick around wherever I happen to be, to observe the local people and interact with them, and to respond to the needs I can fulfill. God'll use me, wherever I'm at!
Wending Our Way...

Galilee

July 2, 2025

Matthew 26:32 ...I will go ahead of you into Galilee.
In the Bible, Galilee refers to the northern area of ancient Palestine. The name meant 'circle' because Palestine encircles the Sea of Galilee. Jesus' ministries began there, and He performed many miracles there. Because it had a reasonably large fresh-water lake, it provided for a flourishing fishing industry, and abundant streams flowing into the area created fertile land for supporting dense populations.
In today's scripture, Jesus is telling His disciples that they would be scattered after His arrest and crucifixion, but that He would return and go ahead of them into Galilee. (See also Mt. 28:7...where the angel at the tomb tells the women, "He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee.')
Beloved, everything this side of heaven is your Galilee. Christ is ALWAYS before you, no matter where you go. He reminds you of this in Jn. 14:2..."I am going there to prepare a place for you." Christ has prepared our final resting place and is preparing each of us, now, to deal with all that comes our way as we journey heavenward. Thanks be to God!
Wending Our Way...

Floriferous

July 1, 2025

Song of Solomon 2:12 ...Flowers appear on the earth.
I learned a new word today: floriferous. It means "many flowers" or "blooming freely." I'd read about it in an article about geraniums. It said you should pinch off dead flowers to keep the plant floriferous.
That made me think of our Christian journey. We're supposed to be floriferous, too. 'Flower,' the seed-bearing part of a plant, comes from an Old English word meaning 'to swell'--as a bud swells with nutrients and becomes a flower. 'Bloom' means 'to come into flower.' If we contain seeds, we'll be working at planting God's Love and Presence in the world. If we're blooming, we're bringing Grace and Beauty into the world.
As Followers of Christ, Floriferous is second nature to us.
Wending Our Way...

Reduced Speed Ahead

June 30, 2025

Mark 6:31 ...Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.
I was driving somewhere recently and came upon a sign saying, "Reduced Speed Ahead." I think it was as we exited the PA turnpike at Quakertown. It was a welcome notice after rolling along at 70 miles per hour for a while.
I think there's a "Reduced Speed Ahead" sign at the Pearly Gates, too. I sure hope so. I'm tired of the rat race down here!!
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

June 27, 2025

Zechariah 6:2 ...The first chariot had red horses....
You can't ride in all directions at once.
Wending Our Way...

Chiriatric Care

June 26, 2025

1 Corinthians 3:16 ...you yourselves are God's temple....
I think I just made up a new word: chiriatric. I was telling Larry about a book I was reading and said that one woman in the story was under "chiriatric care." (She was actually under chiropractic and psychiatric care.) Chiriatric does kind of sound like it could be a medical specialty though!
As I was reflecting on the word, it occurred to me that it suggests that we should take care of ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally, even as we ride herd on all our pressing responsibilities.
I was always taught to take care of everyone but myself. Self-care was considered bold (God forbid!), selfish (YE GODS!!!), and rude (Oh my!!!). Now I know that if I don't take care of myself, I won't be able to take are of anyone else for long.
Wending Our Way...

Steering

June 25, 2025

James 3:4 ...ships...are steered by a very small rudder....
For some reason I got to thinking about steering today. 'Steer' comes from an Old English word and means 'to control direction.' I think of things like steering wheels, rudders, joysticks, reins, oars, train tracks, dams, wires, the GI tract, sidewalks, traffic signs and lights, pipelines....These things, and many others, control the movement of other things.
How about words? Words can steer our thoughts, behavior, self-esteem, motivations, reflections, health decisions...and our faith.
God often steers our faith with words--words from the Bible or words from others. I suspect that His steering can be gentler as we draw closer to Him and find ourselves responding to quieter touches of His Love.
Wending Our Way...

Beauty And Possibility

June 24, 2025

1 Peter 3:4 ...the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit....
I was speaking with an elderly woman recently. Beset by all the limitless difficulties of senior living and the odious constraints that brings, the woman never-the-less maintained a cheerful and loving outlook.
As I got to know her a bit, I felt comfortable asking her how she managed to stay so up-beat all the time. "Oh," she replied with a gentle smile, "I keep looking for the beauty and possibility still left in my world."
What a wonderful outlook!! I think I'll try it.
Wending Our Way...

A Bug's Understanding

June 23, 2025

Isaiah 55:8 ...my thoughts are not your thoughts....
Larry and I were going somewhere yesterday. He was driving and I was riding shotgun. At one point, I noticed a small bug was perched on the inside of the windshield, right in front of me. It just sat there for a while and then started motoring around kind of aimlessly. (Do bugs do "aimless"?) I wondered whether the poor thing was trying to figure out why it couldn't get to the trees because of the solid windshield. With my greater intelligence, I could easily understand what was going on, but the bug had no way to comprehend the situation.
The bug's plight reminded me of my own many questions and struggles. (Why did I get cancer? Why can't people just get along? Why are some people so poor and some so rich?) I, as a human, have no more ability to understand some of my deepest questions than that bug had of deciphering the mysteries of the windshield.
But I suppose that I really don't have to know everything. That's God's job. Mine is to stand strong in all I know of His Love and He will--in His Own Time--take care of everything.
Wending Our Way...

Resilience Fatigue #5

June 20, 2025

Job 17:7 ...My eyes have grown dim with grief....
Here's something to keep in mind. Situations that cause Resilience Fatigue can also initiate a major Grief Journey (or many smaller Grief Journeys). There are often five stages involved in grieving. They don't always go in nice, neat order and can involve many emotions, some quite strong and some much milder. Here's where you might find yourself traveling as you navigate through Resilience Fatigue.
DENIAL: You might find yourself denying the reality of the stressors in your life or you might downplay their impact. ("Dad really doesn't have cancer." "Mary only uses drugs occasionally--and it's not the hard stuff.") ANGER: You might feel anger at another person or at yourself for the way things are going. ("Damn doctors don't know what they're doing!!" "This is all my fault!!") 3. BARGAINING: This stage tends to be filled with "if only" thinking ("If only Dad had gone to the doctor sooner." "If only Mary hadn't gotten mixed up with that bad group of kids.") or with "making deals" with the LORD. ("If Dad recovers, I'll quit smoking." "If Mary gets off the drugs, I'll donate more to the church.") DEPRESSION: This is a time of deep sadness as you begin to realize the reality of the situation. ACCEPTANCE: 'Accept' means to consent to receive something or to tolerate it in your life. It doesn't mean that you want the bad thing or that you like it or that you know what to do with it. It simply means that you agree to live with the situation and to deal with it as best you can--which sometimes means that the struggle doesn't end right away, but you discover more effective ways of coping, or you develop greater tolerance for the difficulties around you.
As you wend your way through Resilience Fatigue, speak kindly to yourself and give yourself a lot of grace. Try to do the same for others. Simple kindness goes a long way when the journey gets tough.
Wending Our Way...

Resilience Fatigue #4

June 19, 2025

Luke 12:42 ...Who then is the faithful and wise manager?
Sometimes we're doing all we can, but external circumstances keep gnawing away at our lives. Here are some suggestions for coping with ongoing Resilience Fatigue. 1. SELF-CARE: Take care of yourself physically, emotionally and spiritually. 2. SET BOUNDARUIES: As much as you can, limit activities and contacts that drain you. Hold onto activities and people that fill you up. 3. SEEK SUPPORT: from those able to provide it. 4. CARVE OUT: quiet time for yourself each day.
5. NOTICE what stresses you and try to make changes where you can. 6. ACCEPT LIMITATIONS: yours and those of other people. 7. FOCUS: on gradual recovery. 8. PRACTICE EMPATHY: for yourself and those around you.
Not all of these suggestions will work all the time, but adding even a few into your life can help ease the burden of an ongoing difficult situation.
Wending Our Way...

Resilience Fatigue #3

June 18, 2025

Job 7:1 ...Does not man have hard service on earth? Are not his days like those of a hired man?
As if all those symptoms of Resilience Fatigue aren't bad enough, it can also cause burn-out as we keep trying to cope. It can cause relationship struggles as others try to cope, and mental and physical health problems as our bodies and minds try to cope. Decreased motivation springs up as we try to keep doing what needs to be done, and reduced engagement with others can occur as we become more inwardly focused.
Unfortunately, the nature of Resilience Fatigue makes a bad situation harder to deal with. So--what do we do about it when it strikes? We'll look at that tomorrow.

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Walter Mouse