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...

Together/Dog Stories #5

April 25, 2025

Mark 10:9 ...what God has joined together, let man not separate.
We see more dog-walkers now that it's warmer. I've seen several Yorkies, a Shih Tzu, two Golden Retrievers, a Boxer and numerous mixed breeds. All were happily motoring along, processing life with their beloved owners.
"Processing Life." Isn't that what we're all doing--processing life as we journey along with our earthly and divine companions?
Together--with God and with people (and with our furry and feathered friends) -- we discover guidance, love and support as our lives touch each other's along the roads to heaven.
Wending Our Way...

With-ing/Dog Stories #4

April 24, 2025

Proverbs 3:3 ...Let love and faithfulness never leave you....
I met a Golden Retriever recently. She was visiting someone in our community. Numerous folks walked past her and her family as they headed to lunch or to other activities; but the dog paid no attention to all the extra people going by. She sat glued to an elderly woman's side, projecting devotion and love. She didn't offer any advice or help or transportation or money. She didn't bustle around tidying up or fussing over non-essentials. She simply offered her presence and her love.
We can do the same: the Ministry of With-ing."
May love and faithfulness surround all that you do!
Wending Our Way...

Love-Bundle/Dog Stories #3

April 23, 2025

1 Peter 1:22 ...love one another deeply....
Larry and I went for a walk one warm day in March. As we passed one porch, a Boxer popped into view, put both paws on the porch railing and started wagging madly as we approached her house. Soon the owner came out and assured us that the dog was friendly, so we stopped over for a visit (and a dog-fix for me). The dog's whole body wagged; she pawed at us inviting us to get closer, and all but smiled as she attempted to give us kisses. Such love in a furry container!!
We Christians are called to be like that Boxer: We're supposed to go out into the world with whatever our giftings are and share His Love in ways that come naturally to us. We're all Love-Bundles for God.
Wending Our Way...

Nala Love/Dog Stories #2

April 22, 2025

Ecclesiastes 3:7 ...a time to be silent....
I met the neatest dog recently--in a gift shop. I think her name was Nala. She was a Black Lab/Airedale mix, totally black except for two russet spots where her eyebrows would be. She loved people (who she greeted enthusiastically when they entered the shop) and positively adored her owner (who she maintained almost-constant eye contact with).
At one point, her master struck up a conversation with me while Nala stood nearby, eyes darting back and forth as she focused on whoever was speaking. I soon became aware of her "eyebrows," which twitched up and down or sideways (individually or together) as she followed the conversation. She never said a word, but she totally communicated love and acceptance, even though I wasn't talking to her. All this made me realize how much can be said without uttering a single word. Facial expressions can convey warmth and support, even as no words are shared. Small nods or other gentle head movements share love and concern without cluttering up the airways with verbiage.
Two Take-Homes here: Watch your dogs' faces as you communicate with them or as you converse with others. It's fascinating to see how they "follow" the conversation. And--try using your own facial features to convey unspoken support and encouragement to others. It's amazing how much care and concern can be shared without having to worry about saying the right thing.
Wending Our Way...

Where To Return/Dog Stories # 1

April 21, 2025

1 Samuel 7:3 ...If you are returning to the LORD with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of foreign gods.
I recently spoke with a woman who lost her dog, Pepper, for a short time. Her heater broke, and while the service people were coming in, Pepper was going out. She didn't realize that Pepper was gone until the service workers left and she couldn't find her dog. Finally, she heard a noise by the front door, and when she checked, there was Pepper, waiting to come in. She was so relieved! "Thankfully, he knew where to return," she said with a big smile.
"Where to return." That's a biggie. Sometimes our lives or emotions get out of kilter , and as we respond more and more to the earthly "gods" of Busyness, Accomplishment and Service, we drift away from Jesus or from prayers or devotions or Bible study. This slipping away can be subtle, so that we're hardly aware that it's happening. God understands, but longs for our continued connection as we pursue our earthly pathways.
Like Pepper, we know where to return. God's Heart and Home are always open, and He's delighted to welcome us in.
Wending Our Way...

Easter Haiku

April 20, 2025

John 20:18 ... (Mary Magdalene speaks) ..."I have seen the Lord!"
Fragrant Morning Son~
Who purchased my Forever~
Glory be to God!!
Wending Our Way...

Haiku ... The Cross... Before, During And After

April 19, 2025

John 19:18 ...Here they crucified him....
Symbol of Hatred~
Symbol of Eternal Love~
Victory in hand!!
Wending Our Way...

Long Walk

April 18, 2025

Romans 6:23 ...the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Several years ago, my sister, Cec, was laid up with a severe strained back muscle. A friend of hers drove thirteen miles one way to bring Cec a bottle of BioFreeze. Cec thanked her friend profusely, and the friend replied, "The long walk is part of the gift."
Hmmmmm. That reminds me of Someone Else who took a Long Walk or two on our behalf. Our Jesus left heaven to come to us here on earth. Then He took a Long Walk down the Via Dolorosa--to purchase our Forever.
The Long Walk is part of the Gift.
Wending Our Way...

Gantry Love

April 17, 2025

John 19:17 ...carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the skull.
I'd never heard of the word 'gantry' until the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission decided to eliminate toll booths and use gantries to support cameras which would record license plate numbers. A gantry is an overhead structure that supports cameras or other equipment. When Larry and I arrived at the turnpike recently, a sign near the gantry said, "Keep Moving." So we did. It felt funny, but we have EZ pass, so things worked out ok.
"Keep Moving"--that reminded me of the Via Dolorosa, the processional route Jesus took through the Old City of Jerusalem as the Roman soldiers forced Him on to His crucifixion. "Keep moving! Keep moving!!" I can hear the soldiers jeering as Christ stumbled along to what they thought was His death.
Little did they know that He was moving toward reunion with the Father and Eternal Life for Himself and all who choose to follow Him.
Wending Our Way...

For Anyone To Use

April 16, 2025

Psalms 32:10 ...the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him.
A while ago I read an article in National Geographic. It was about the lifestyle of a primitive tribe somewhere in Africa. One thing that impressed me was their canoe-making. Using primitive tools, teams of men felled trees, cut them up, scraped them out and made canoes. These teams worked together, arduously fashioning a sturdy boat from what used to be a sturdy tree. Whenever they finished a canoe, they dragged it to the lake and left it there on the shore for anyone to use. There were always numerous "free" boats on the shore awaiting use by whoever had a need. What a great idea! (Can you picture something like that working here??!!)
Anyway, the community canoe provision reminds me of Jesus because He did exactly the same thing. He brought His Love to earth and left it here for anyone to use.
Wending Our Way...

Harm-Reduction Supplies

April 15, 2025

Galatians 5:22 ...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
A while ago I read about a mission somewhere that collected "Harm-Reduction Supplies." These were common necessities such as toothpaste, soap, socks, lip balm, tissues, etc. I loved the name "Harm-Reduction Supplies." The folks collecting the items knew that they couldn't prevent all harm from befalling their clients, but they also knew that they could reduce harm's effects on their clients.
So it is in life as well. We can't prevent harm from entering people's lives, but we can offer the fruit of the Spirit as Christian Harm-Reduction interventions as we navigate our earthly paths together.
Wending Our Way...

Always Before Me

April 14, 2025

Acts 2:25 ...I saw the Lord always before me.
Today I got to thinking about the people who have "gone before me"--those who were waiting for me at some future time while I was journeying along. I had a wonderful mentor way back in my first year of teaching. Then I connected with a marvelous friend and neighbor when I moved to Douglassville. A host of teacher friends awaited me when I started teaching in Pottstown. And Larry and others were awaiting my arrival at Cedarville UMC. Each of these folks, and many others, went before me and have accompanied me as I've followed my earthly paths.
And, of course, there's Jesus--Who has gone before me every step of the way and will be with me forever. (Check out Gen, 45:1-28, especially the end of verse 5, for another "went before me" story.)
Wending Our Way...

Palm Sunday Haiku

April 13, 2025

John 12:13 ...They took palm branches and went out to meet him....
Palm branches waving~
Cloaks before Him on the road~
Welcome King of Kings!!
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

April 11, 2025

John 15:12 ...Love each other as I have loved you.
You can't erase someone's bad memories, but you can try to create happier memories with them.
Wending Our Way...

Nomads #2

April 10, 2025

John 24:16 ...Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."
I sometimes wonder why the path to heaven is such a winding, rugged roadway. Why can't we just hop out of bed, climb some golden ladder and wind up at the Pearly Gates? Why are we Nomads-on-Earth for so long?!
One reason may be hidden in another of 'nomad's early meanings: 'to deal out or dispense.' The earth's a pretty big place and God has only our hands and feet, our voices and hearts as His delivery vehicles. We have to keep wandering about and seeking others in order to help Him deal out His Love to His people.
If we immediately climbed some golden ladder, think of all the people who'd be left untouched by His love and provision!!
Wending Our Way...

Nomads #1

April 9, 2025

2 Samuel 7:6 ...I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling.
When Larry and I first got the keys to our cottage (on 12/26/24), we had access to our new digs but no furniture until mid-January. So--we had no food in our house in Birdsboro and no furniture in our cottage. We solved the problem by spending days at the cottage and nights at the house. Thus, we were nomads for over three weeks.
The word 'nomad' has several original usages. One implied someone who wandered about seeking pasture for herds or flocks. This reminds me that our earthly lives are often nomadic as we seek to feed and care for ourselves and others.
Sometimes we remain in a familiar "pasture" for many years and sometimes we're called to move to a different place. Moving on takes a lot of time and effort, but sometimes it's God's way of keeping us on track.
Wending Our Way...

Outdated

April 8, 2025

Psalms 33:4 ...the word of the LORD is right and true....
Today I'm thinking of all the things that have become outdated in my lifetime. There are landlines, rotary phones, floppy discs, flash drives, record players, typewriters, white-out, fountain pens, manual transmissions, drinks in glass bottles....
As time marches on and change creeps in, lots of things get replaced by "better" things. It just amazes me that the Bible has never become outdated. Although new Bible versions abound, God's guidance nestled within the Bible still surrounds the hearts and souls of Christians and steers us heavenward in His Name.
Wending Our Way...

Protection Expired!!

April 7, 2025

Isaiah 12:2 ...God is my salvation....
When we got a new computer a while ago, it came with a trial package from a well-known a virus protector. Since the computer was fully scanned by several other products, I let the trial run out. Now I'm being pestered to sign up (and pay for!) protection I don't need.
I find that alarming menus pop up almost daily. In large red and white colors, the display warns that "Your Protection Has Expired! Action Is Required!!" Then I can click on a "Sign Me Up" button or on an ominous "I'll Risk Having No Protection" button. Sheesh!!
This reminded me of Jesus because He's so not like that. We don't have to pay for our salvation, since He already did that. His Protection never expires. Salvation is forever and it's free! And He doesn't keep hounding us about it.
Wending Our Way...

Haiku...Transitions

April 4, 2025

1 Corinthians 6:19 ......know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.
Transitions take time.
Give yourself room to adjust.
Take care of yourself!
Wending Our Way...

Do Not Litter!

April 3, 2025

Proverbs 16:24 ...Pleasant words are a honeycomb.
Larry and I were driving somewhere this week when we passed a large sign that said, "Please! Do Not Litter!" It's sad that people have to be reminded of that, but I guess they do.
The word 'litter' originally meant 'bed,' and then later denoted a stretcher sort of conveyance, and finally came to mean 'junk that's scattered untidily.' Its modern usage emerged in the 18th century and was derived from the action of scattering straw for bedding.
I think most of us try not to litter physically, but how about verbally? Sometimes I'm not so good at that. Caustic, derogatory, judgmental or just plain mean words in my head or from my mouth can litter the landscape with negative energy and depressing interactions. Pleasant words certainly DO have sweetness!
Wending Our Way...

A Place In Line

April 2, 2025

John 14:2 ...I am going there to prepare a place for you.
Back in November, as Larry and I waited in line to vote, a woman ahead of us saved a spot in line for a family member who arrived late.
That got me thinking: No one can save you a spot in the line of folks on their journey to heaven. We all arrive there at a designated time and with a personal invitation from the Good Lord.
Jesus is the only One Who can save us a place in heaven!
Wending Our Way...

Anger...and

April 1, 2025

James 19:1 ...Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry....
Many years ago (probably back in college) I learned that anger is rarely a pure emotion. It usually masks another emotion-- often fear, sadness or frustration.
The word 'anger', which comes from Old Norse usage, is related to words for 'affliction,' 'distress,' 'grief,' 'strangle' and 'constrict.' No wonder anger can be so intense, frightening and overwhelming.
When I'm confronted by anger (in myself or in others), I try to look for its hidden meaning. Then I can more easily sympathize with the concealed emotion involved and sometimes can keep a volatile situation from escalating.
Wending Our Way...

Flecks Of Crap

March 31, 2025

Psalms 34:14 ...Seek peace and pursue it.
Larry and I were grocery shopping a while ago and wound up at the fresh fish section. As we were looking at salmon, he noticed that one filet had brownish flecks scattered around the pinkish flesh. He didn't buy that one because, as he said, it had "flecks of crap" in it. That gave me a laugh.
It also reminded me of life. Lots of days contain "flecks of crap"--those mostly minor difficulties that crop up on occasion. I can't say that I'm really good at this, but when crap happens, I try to deal with it without getting drawn into the emotional energy that's so often involved. That way, I still have the crap to attend to, but not the angst such stuff usually generates.
Wending Our Way...

Hand-Carried

March 28, 2025

Luke 24:39 ... [Jesus speaking] Look at my hands and my feet....
For some reason today I got to thinking about all the things I carry in my hands. Maybe that's because I carried a lot of things yesterday when I was out running errands and doing housework: keys, receipts, a script from the drugstore, a book I'd taken along just in case, wallet, sunglasses, laundry, a watering can, dishes....
That was all stuff I carried for me. How about stuff I've carried for others? There's a book I took to the neighbor, a script to the drugstore for Larry, a spice bottle of dill I gave to my sister, my phone number I gave to a neighbor, and a glove I returned to a woman who'd dropped it as she walked past me. Where would we be without our hands?
This naturally led me to think about Christ's hands. Throughout His earthly life and on the Cross, His Hands were an important part of His ministry to people. He touched others, held scripture and children, blessed people and meals, cooked fish on the shore, and carried the Cross. Where would we be without His Hands?
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

March 27, 2025

Matthew 10:8 ...Freely you have received, freely give.
Give of yourself and take home treasures.
Wending Our Way...

What's My Purpose #3

March 26, 2025

Luke 6:31 ...Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
When I hear this scripture, the word 'kindness' comes to mind. 'Kindness' is related to 'compassion' and to 'benign thoughts and actions.' Think of where the world would be if everyone practiced kindness. It'd be Heaven on Earth!!
I'm reminded here of the doctors' Hippocratic Oath, which I was always told began with the phrase, "First, do no harm." (I just found out that these words aren't actually in the Oath, but "Do no harm" is implied.)
Spreading kindness and doing no harm is foundational to Christian living and is undoubtedly a strong component of many people's purposes in life. So...as far as possible, be kind!
Wending Our Way...

What's My Purpose? #2

March 25, 2025

John 5:35 ...John was a lamp that burned and gave light....
I recently met a woman who was badly injured when she walked into a piece of furniture in the dark. This led me to realize that a lot of people wander around "in the dark" spiritually or emotionally, too. "Light" for them might mean introduction to new resources, information, habits, perspectives, relationships, behaviors, goals, venues, experiences or commitments.
As Christ's followers, part of our purpose is to carry The Light in whatever form it may take. His Light brings hope, love and encouragement to a struggling world, and His Divine Resources light the way to the future.
Christians burn with the Light of the Holy Spirit, and we all have the responsibility to carry that Light to the world's empty places. So... keep carrying The Light.
Wending Our Way...

What's My Purpose? #1

March 24, 2025

John 15:12 ...Love each other as I have loved you.
Have you ever wondered what your purpose in life is? I sure have. Most of us don't wake up to a yard of pink plastic flamingos or flashing neon lights announcing our purpose/s in life. And it doesn't help that God seems to whisper a lot, so it's often hard to hear Him.
The word 'purpose' is closely related to the word 'position,' so when I think of my purpose in life, I tend to think of my position in life as well. (My dad used to say "Your position in life may change but your purpose won't." ) Thus, I figure that wherever I find myself placed, I can begin to fulfill my purpose/s there.
As I think about my purpose in life, I'm reminded of today's scripture. At least part of my purpose (and that of all Christians) is to keep on loving, no matter what befalls me. Jesus did this during His lifetime and again at the Cross. As His followers, we strive to do the same thing here on earth, so...keep on loving, no matter what!
Wending Our Way...

Pinteraq

March 21, 2025

Psalms 27:2 ...when my enemies and my foes attack me....
One day back in early February a flock of starlings descended on our neighbor's bird feeders. It wasn't long before two of the birds got into a fight. I wasn't sure if they were protecting a food source or an upcoming nesting site. Either way, I wondered why they couldn't just get along; but then I got to thinking-- they were just reacting to a perceived threat. They were dealing with something that was attacking them or could attack them in the future. They were protecting themselves from harm.
"Pinteraq" is an Inuit word for "what will attack you." Starlings have to keep a wary eye on things because there's a lot out there that could act against them. So it is with human life as well. "Pinteraq'" is all over the place. Lust, greed, pride ,envy ego, hunger, fear and plenty of other threats to life and limb abound. We, too, must defend ourselves from physical, emotional, spiritual and psychological attacks.
"Peace on Earth" is spotty at best. Our true rest comes in Eternity.
Wending Our Way...

Melting Ice...and Hearts

March 20, 2025

1 Corinthians 16:19 ...Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord....
Today's actually February 10 and as I write, I'm watching ice melting off the trees outside our cottage. An ice storm yesterday covered everything in glittery splendor and today the morning sun is slowly melting the icy coating. It'll take some time, but at some point, the trees will be free of their frozen prisons.
The ice melts from the trees because of the sun's warmth and persistence. Without those qualities, the branches would remain frozen. Jesus works like that, too. His warmth and persistence work to melt our human hearts--which He then draws toward Himself.
The slowness of the melting ice inspires me to be content with slow progress as I cheerfully approach new people. Some of them may have "frozen branches," too and may need my warmth and persistence in order to loosen up and respond freely.
Wending Our Way...

Thirteen Minutes Less

March 19, 2025

James 4:8 ...Come near to God and he will come near to you.
My cell phone provider just notified me that I've used my phone thirteen minutes less than I did last week. My first thought was, "So what?! Who cares?! Why even keep track of such things!" I pay a flat monthly fee for unlimited phone, text and data, so thirteen minutes has no meaning for me.
Jesus certainly doesn't monitor our air time as we talk with Him. He simply cherishes the time we have together and thinks of us fondly as He goes about His daily rounds.
Wending Our Way...

Renting

March 18, 2025

Acts 28:20 ..Paul stayed there in his rented house....
Since we've moved to a retirement community, we're now living in rent rather than owning our own place. We like that! Owning was great during our younger years, but now we're happy to have no outside work and happy to let someone else worry about fixing stuff. And we'll never again have to suffer the upheaval and angst selling a house creates.
All this reminds me that we can rent a lot of things but one thing we can't rent is Jesus. We can't pay Him and then use Him for whatever purpose we have in mind and then return Him. We can't buy Him, either, because He's always entirely free. He doesn't charge a thing, though He paid with His Life in order to capture our hearts and our souls.
Wending Our Way...

Moving On

March 17, 2025

Psalms 55:1 ...Listen to my prayer, O God....
Two of the greatest frustrations Larry and I had with this whole moving thing was trying to change our address and trying to end/set up utility service and billing. So often we'd be forced to deal with internet sites that didn't work, menu selections that didn't address our issue, incompetent people, dropped calls and AI that defaulted in mid-stream. What ever happened to the good old days when you could talk to a knowledgeable person??
This got me thinking about Jesus. With all the technology in the world now, He's one of the few people Who doesn't have a cell phone or an email address, a landline or an answering machine.
Jesus wants all our contacts with Him to be personal--not robotic or programmed. And, He never needs a middleman. All our thoughts and prayers go straight to Him. He unerringly hears our every word.
Wending Our Way...

Closed?

March 14, 2025

Acts 2:25 ... [David speaking] "...I saw the LORD aways before me."
As Larry and I were traveling along route 562 recently, we happened to pass a local produce stand. The sign outside said, "CLOSED. BACK IN SPRING." Another week or so and they'll probably be opening.
Jesus never does that--close, that is. He never shuts down because of seasons, or difficulties or fatigue or illness. He's always with us...now and forever. Hallelujah!!
Wending Our Way...

Foresteria

March 13, 2025

Judges 19:20 ..."You are welcome at my house," the old man said.
I was reading an article in National Geographic recently. It mentioned that some early monasteries were required to maintain a foresteria--a guesthouse. This would accommodate overnight visitors and provided a temporary refuge for travelers.
In reflecting on that, I realized that heaven doesn't have a foresteria--because heaven doesn't have guests. Everyone there is a resident!
Wending Our Way...

Pushed Out?!

March 12, 2025

Psalms 23:6 ...I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Sometimes I feel like I'm getting pushed out of life. (I'm sure this happens to all seniors at some point.) The pens I really like are no longer made. So many products and appliances are made to be replaced, not repaired. I'm forced into on-line transactions rather than the inter-personal ones I've always used. AI apps have taken over the business world. So many things need a pin!! Some days I feel like I don't belong here anymore.
I find a lot of peace in knowing that no matter how old I get, I'll never get pushed out of heaven. What a comforting thought!
Wending Our Way...

Christ's Light

March 11, 2025

John 3:19 ...Light has come into the world....
Our new cottage has the most wonderful morning light. The challenge is that the sunlight streams through the front windows and shines on the dining room table. I've been hanging a lacy crochet shawl over one of the dining room chairs to block out the sun for a few hours. I thought I had the problem solved until I noticed that the sun was shining right through the lacy holes in the shawl and sprinkling dots of light all over the dining room table. Cripes!!
Looking at those sunny sprinkles of light reminded me of Jesus because His Light manages to creep through even the darkest passages. As long as He's invited in, He'll always show up. Nothing in this life can block out His Presence.
Wending Our Way...

Almost Home

March 10, 2025

2 Timothy 4:18 ...The LORD will rescue me...and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom.
As I wandered around our cottage today, I was struck by how long it takes for a new place to feel like home. I love our new digs, but I can't find stuff, my usual pathways don't lead to where I thought I was going and things keep turning up in odd spots. Still, I know this will feel like home, given time.
That's one neat thing about heaven. As soon as we land, it'll feel like Home--forever!
Wending Our Way...

Chocolate Tuna Salad

March 7, 2025

Isaiah 26:4 ...Trust in the LORD forever....
Yesterday I had a huge tuna salad sandwich for lunch. I ate half of it because I also wanted the chocolate cake I'd bought. The cake came in a clear plastic take-out box, so when I finished the cake (I ate all of THAT!). I put the other half of the tuna sandwich in the box and brought it back to the cottage.
When I ate the tuna sandwich the next day, it had a definite chocolate after-taste. It was kind of weird, but it worked out OK.
It all reminded me of life and the really odd people and circumstances that have cropped up in my life on occasion. God doesn't make mistakes, so I trust that the weirdness that surfaces every once in a while must have some form of divine sanction, so I know that my life will eventually work out OK, too.
Wending Our Way...

Faith And Endurance

March 6, 2025

Psalms 17:5 ...My steps have held to your path....
(This poem should read as four lines, but my template only allows for 3 lines.)
Fear nothing on the roads that you travel. Serve God where you find yourself now.
Go forward with faith and endurance. God's Love will keep showing you how.
Wending Our Way...

Remember...

March 05, 2025

Proverbs 77:11 ...I will remember the deeds of the LORD.
People use a lot of things to remind them to do certain things. We often ask others to remind us, we write notes and set timers, we rely on phone calls, texts and emails, or we get Alexa and other AI voices to jog our memories.
Symbols can do the same. Doves remind us of peace. The Cross reminds us of Jesus. Hearts make us think of love. And ashes remind us of Christ's Love for us and the arduous journey He undertook as He fought to redeem men's souls over 2000 years ago.
The ashes are a reminder of our life in Christ and the blessings we share as members of His Divine Family.
Wending Our Way...

Warm Feathers

March 4, 2025

Luke 13:34 ...as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings....
We had such dreadful cold back in January. Now that the temperatures have moderated a bit, I'm remembering what a blessing heated car seats are. (Larry's truck has them but my car doesn't.) They're so cozy and welcoming!
Heated seats remind me of today's scripture. A hen gathers her chicks under her wings partly in order to protect them from weather conditions and predators, but also so that they can keep warm next her natural body heat as her wings block out cold air and winds.
When I find myself warmed by something around me (like socks, sunspots, electric blankets, heavy shawls, down coats, furry friends, crackling fires, indoor heat, heated seats...), I thank God for His provision. Not everyone is surrounded by such creature comforts.
Wending Our Way...

No Light!

March 3, 2025

Revelation 22:16 ..."I, Jesus...am... the bright Morning Star."
I just read a novel about a group of researchers in the Arctic. (Girl in Ice, by Erica Ferencik) They were working when it was dark twenty-four hours a day for four months and the temperatures often dropped to minus sixty degrees. Yikes!! How do you manage to live under such circumstances?! Wouldn't that literally make you crazy?
Can you imagine going for four months without any Light (guidance or love) or Warmth (compassion and love) from God? Some folks manage to do that, but this story reminded me how much I rely on God's Presence in my life and how lost I'd be without it.
Wending Our Way...

Do Not Duplicate

February 28, 2025

1 Chronicles 9:26,27 ...the four principal gatekeepers...would spend the night stationed around the house of God...and they had charge of the key for opening it each morning.
I always like to check the contents of my safe deposit box in late January or early February. That helps me get rid of unnecessary stuff and helps me remember (more or less!) what's in there.
When I checked things out this week, I noticed that my key said "Do Not Duplicate." That sounds like a wise notification. That short message reminded me of snowflakes and fingerprints, which aren't duplicated, either.
And how about people? There will never be a duplicate of you--or me--or anyone else in all the world. Each one of us is a love-enshrouded, one-of-a-kind expression of God's creativity and provision.
Wending Our Way...

Fellow Pilgrims

February 27, 2025

Isaiah 58:11 ...The LORD will guide you always....
I read a book over the winter in which a young couple were parted soon after marrying. The young man went away to war and never came home. So sad!
Somewhere along the way, another character in the book mentioned that some people appear in our lives to move us forward--and then they disappear. Their job isn't to accompany us for life. Their job is to escort us to the next phase of our life. Hmmmm! Interesting thought.
I think back on all the people who have graced my path. Some were splendid companions, some less so. I can see how each has indeed nudged (or shoved!) me forward on life's meandering pathway. Each has provided a touch of God's Guidance on my journey to Heaven.
Wending Our Way...

One Penny

February 26, 2025

1 Timothy 2:2 ...that we may live peaceful and quiet lives....
A few days ago, Larry put a load of laundry in the dryer and the darn thing really made a racket. Neither one of us could imagine what was clanking around in there. We eventually discovered that it was a lone penny that had gotten loose. How amazing that such a small thing could make so much noise!
I've known some people like that. Their voices are always louder and their needs more important than those of others. They're always center-stage and more visible than those around them.
That noisy penny reminded me how much I value quiet moments and peaceful people. The older I get, the less appeal I find in noise, commotion and drama. I prefer to soak up serenity.
Wending Our Way...

Come And Get It!

February 25, 2025

Philippians 3:20 ...our citizenship is in heaven.
We eat most of our meals at the cafeteria now. The other day I ordered a grilled chicken breast sandwich, so the chef gave me one of those electronic guest check coasters. When it started its blink and buzz routine, I knew my lunch was ready.
Once I'd picked up my sandwich and had gotten seated, the coaster's blinking and buzzing reminded me of the Pearly Gates and my upcoming invitation to Eternal Rest. One day My Jesus will blink and buzz for me, signaling that it's time for me to begin my journey to my Heavenly Home. Some days I can hardly wait to get there!!
Wending Our Way...

Moving In

February 24, 2025

Hebrews 11:1 ...Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Now that we've actually moved in, unpacking has been comical at times. I open a box and I have no idea what I'm going to find. One day it was socks! Oh joy!! The temperature was hovering around 6 degrees that day, so socks were welcome. Sometimes boxes offered up more mundane stuff, like toothpaste or bowl scrapers. Whatever things eventually showed up, I couldn't even begin to guess what I'd find hidden inside the various cartons.
Life works like that, too. God delivers "boxes" to us. We call them "days." We don't discover what's inside until we "open" them...that is engage with the contents. Moving forward day by day requires a bit of curiosity--and willingness to tolerate a little uncertainty as we involve ourselves in the Good Lord's plans.
Wending Our Way...

Blinded

February 21, 2025

Mark 6:31 ...Come with me by yourselves and get some rest.
One morning recently I was getting dressed when I accidentally got a bit of hairspray in my one eye. Until I got it washed away, my vision was kind of blurry. It turned out OK, but I was kind of blinded for a moment.
The same thing happens in life. Some damnable thing gets in our "eyes" and we can be blinded temporarily (or permanently). How about jealousy, fatigue, pain, illness, worry, depression...?
When our vision blurs because of external influences, we can take a moment to blink a bit and concentrate on Jesus and His Provision in our lives. A quiet moment sometimes eases blurriness and its often-depressing connections.
Wending Our Way...

We Three Kings...sorta!

February 20, 2025

Revelation 5:8 ...the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders...were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.
In our chapel service on January 5, we sang "We Three Kings," in honor of Epiphany. We sang all five verses. (I think there were five.) Anyway, along about verse four some people got confused so part of the congregation was merrily singing verse four and the rest were happily perking along on verse five. It sounded like pure noise for a moment until everyone got straightened out and concluded with verse five.
I wonder if that's what prayer sounds like to God. With so many praying at once, how does He keep it all straight?? He must have one heck of a filtration system up there! (Does He have audio-techs to help straighten things out?)
Not to worry! Somehow all our prayers get to the Throne of Grace OK. They even wind up in golden bowls and send their beautiful fragrance throughout heaven!!
Wending Our Way...

Free!

February 19, 2025

John 8:36 ...if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
Larry and I have been attending chapel services at our retirement community. A few weeks ago, we sang a hymn that was newish to me. It was called "God of the Ages." I knew the tune but the words were unfamiliar. One line really spoke to me. It said that in Christ we are "free from sin's alloy."
Hmmm! I'm not exactly sure what "alloy" means in this hymn - but I know it as a mixture of metals, put together to increase the strength of the finished product or to make the finished product resist corrosion. The word 'alloy' comes from an Old French word meaning 'to combine.'
"Sin's alloy" suggests to me that Satan intentionally mixes tantalizing pleasures with dangerous outcomes in order to strengthen sin's appeal. We need to be aware of the treacherous mixtures Satan throws at us so that we're less likely to fall for his schemes.
Wending Our Way...

Don't Add To The Load

February 18, 2025

Ecclesiastes 3:8 ...a time to love....
The other day at dinner I pulled a Lipton teabag from its distinctive yellow paper envelope, plopped the teabag in my mug and stuck a single unused butter pat in the teabag wrapper so I could take it back to the cottage easily. Once there, I stuck it in the fridge and forgot about it.
Next morning at breakfast I looked in the fridge and wondered what in the world a teabag was doing in THERE!! (I soon figured THAT out!) Anyway, it served as a good reminder that things aren't always what they seem. (The lady who seemed kind of cold to me last night was in a lot of pain from a recently-injured knee. The fellow who rudely rushed past me was on his way to the ER to meet his wife, who had just fallen. The young woman who seemed so self-absorbed was trying to adjust to a life-threatening medical diagnosis she'd just received.)
I don't always know what loads others are carrying. Let me not add to their burden because I'm blind to their difficulties.
Wending Our Way...

Ovey! Ovey!

February 17, 2025

John 10:14 ...I know my sheep and my sheep know me.
A while ago I read a cozy mystery that took place in England. As the investigation got rolling, the lead detective stopped at a sprawling old farmhouse to ask the resident couple (who were sheep farmers) a few questions. As the interview got under way, the wife mentioned that she and her husband still used sheepdogs and still called their flock by shouting "Ovey! Ovey!" (The word comes from the Latin word for 'sheep.')
I can imagine Jesus doing just that. I can picture Him standing alone in the wind and the rain, surrounded by cold and darkness, amid hurricane gales and shifting sands. I can hear Him calling to anxious hearts and weary souls: "Ovey! Ovey! Come to Me and find rest. Come to me."
Wending Our Way...

God Has A Plan

February 14, 2025

Isaiah 29:11 ...For I know the plans I have for you....
Yesterday I saw a young father strolling around while carrying an infant. Dad wore a tan sweatshirt with the words "God Has a Plan" in big black letters on the back. That really spoke to me because I've been so hassled by this whole move (and all the details we've had to address in order to make it happen) that I sort of began to wonder what God was up to in my life.
That young father's shirt reminded me that God has a plan, even when I can't see it. He's decided on certain outcomes and is steadily arranging life events so that His goals are ultimately fulfilled. He creates actions and occurrences that keep His Plan moving forward even amid the chaos of our current situation.
I've found that I don't always have to understand what's going on. I just have to keep moving ahead in love and trust and let God manage the universe.
Wending Our Way...

Trapped!

February 13, 2025

Psalms 31:4 ...Free me from the trap that is set for me.
I was at the Cancer Center a short time ago (routine visit). As I took the elevator up to the second floor, I noticed a sign that said, "Should entrapment occur, call 610-326...." Ye gods! What a scary thought!!
"Should entrapment occur." Hmmm! We earthlings are often entrapped by worries, concerns, pressures, illnesses, addictions, accidents and set-backs. When that happens, we can call on Our Jesus to guide, provide for and protect us. There's a comforting thought!
Wending Our Way...

Accompanied By...

February 12, 2025

Matthew 28:20 ...I am with you always....
We have meals now at the cafeteria in our retirement community. A computerized screen displays the lunch and dinner menus. For lunch one day a "hamburger accompanied by French fries and carrots" was offered.
"Accompanied by" stuck with me as we launched into our meal. In life, we're blessed to be accompanied by Our Jesus. He's with us even beyond lunch and dinner and has a great deal more power and devotion than French fries and carrots!
Wending Our Way...

You're Getting There!

February 11, 2025

Matthew 16:19 ...I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.
When we were about two weeks away from actually moving, a kindly neighbor asked how we were coming along. When I filled her in, she smiled and said, "You're getting there!"
"Yes!" I thought, but then it occurred to me that "You're getting there!" applies to our earthly Christian walk as well. Every step we take on earth brings us closer to heaven's gates. Whatever your trials, you're getting there, so carry on, beloved. Carry on.
Wending Our Way...

Search And Rescue

February 10, 2025

Matthew 18:14 ...your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.
I recently finished a book in which Search and Rescue dogs were brought in to search an area after a huge sinkhole swallowed the back end of a restaurant. The dogs successfully found several live but injured people and, sadly, found a number of deceased people as well.
This reminded me of Jesus because He's a Search and Rescue God. He, too, hunts diligently, seeking out those who have gone astray and then escorting them back to safety.
Search and Rescue dogs are selfless creatures who take great pleasure in rescuing the lost and injured folks they search for. Jesus feels the same about His earthly and heavenly followers.
Wending Our Way...

Nibbles

February 7, 2025

James 4:7 ...Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
You can't toss the devil out with one hand and invite him in with the other.
Wending Our Way...

Sold!

February 6, 2025

Ephesians 4:27 ...do not give the devil a foothold....
I'm writing this devotion on Dec. 21 and the realtor just put the "Sold" sign on our "For Sale" sign. Things are moving right along!
Each one of us wears a "Sold" sign, too. We're sold to Jesus or to Satan. Things move right along no matter which one we follow, but the end results are different!
Wending Our Way...

Lost Key

February 05, 2025

Luke 19:10 ...For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.
I lost a key a while back. My purse, open at the time, fell upside down in a dark spot. I didn't realize that the key had fallen out until several days later, but I haven't been able to find it where I thought I had lost it.
This reminded me of Jesus because no one is ever lost with Him unless they choose to be. His Heart and Hands are always open to those who call His Name. He always finds us, even in life's darkest spots.
Wending Our Way...

Compound Interest

February 4, 2025

Romans 2:7 ...To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life.
Compound interest is interest earned on both the principle amount and whatever interest has previously accrued in an account. It maximizes growth by building on whatever's already there.
Christian life works like that, too. Whatever we learn along the way builds on what's already within us. As long as we keep growing in knowledge of and relationship with ourselves, God and others, we keep gaining ground.
Persistence in Christian living builds substantial results over time.
Wending Our Way...

Keep Your Tools Sharp

February 3, 2025

Galatians 5:22 ...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Not too long ago I heard a bit of an interview on KYW News Radio. A sports announcer was chatting with a football player after a losing game. In commenting on his team's efforts, the player said, "You've got to keep all your tools sharp."
'Tool' comes from an Old English word meaning 'to prepare.' I remember from elementary school that a tool "helps you do work." So - football players have to prepare well in order to do good work on the field.
How about us Christians? We need to keep our tools sharp, too, so that we can do good work in the fields. To me that means that we must keep our tools ready for use at all times. I see our tools as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These "tools" help us get the Lord's work done.
Wending Our Way...

Take Care Of You

January 31, 2025

Proverbs 3:8 ... [wisdom] will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.
Larry and I try to eat right and we work at keeping active. Neither of us is on many meds and we like to think it's at least partly because we take care of ourselves.
Years ago I heard some sage put it all in perspective. She said, "If you don't take care of your body, where are you going to live?" What a great thought!
Wisdom tells us how to take care of our bodies, but we have to act on that information in order to maintain our health so that we can continue to serve our Good Lord.
Wending Our Way...

Winging It!

January 30, 2025

Psalms 18:6 ...I cried to my God for help....
Many years ago I had a calendar of amusing bird pictures with a light-hearted caption under each photo. My favorite was a seagull facing the camera with his left wing and leg fully extended off to the side. (I guess it was stretching.) The caption said, "Wing It!" It always gave me a laugh.
'Wing it' means to act without much preparation, to improvise as you go along. Some days I feel like I'm winging it a lot. Some ventures (like moving or dealing with medical issues) have so many unknowns that it's impossible to prepare fully.I HAVE to wing it.
I know I often "cry to the LORD for help," especially when I'm winging it. Sometimes I think everyone's winging it, but some folks just hide it better than others.
Wending Our Way...

Comforting Thought

January 29, 2025

John 10:14 ...I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep....
Larry and I met my sister for lunch recently. Her son had set up her phone to open with face-recognition and since we're twins, we wondered if the phone would open after viewing MY face. I held her phone up to my face...and it opened right away! We both got a laugh out of that.
The whole thing reminded me of Jesus because He would never look at you and confuse you with someone else. Down through the ages, there's ever been and always will be only one YOU and He recognizes you instantly. What a comforting thought!
Wending Our Way...

Provision?

January 28, 2025

Jonah 1:17 ...but the LORD provided a great fish to swallow Jonah....
Take a minute to read Jonah if you're not familiar with his story. It's only three chapters long! Basically, God directs Jonah to go to Nineveh and "preach against it" because of the great wickedness of the people there. But Jonah, completely uninterested in the Ninevite's plight, hops a ship to Tarshish. A violent storm arises, the sailors figure out that Jonah's presence has caused it, and they throw him into the sea. And...a "great fish" swims up and has lunch and Jonah has free housing for three days.
I love verse 1:17: "But the LORD provided...." Jonah was headed off in the wrong direction, as were the Ninevite's, so God provided. The fish wasn't a punishment. It was a provision. It provided a pathway to safety for Jonah and the Ninevites.
So it is in life sometimes. What doesn't look like provision at the time may turn out to be provision-ing.
Wending Our Way...

Welcome!!!

January 27, 2025

Judges 19:20 ..."You are welcome at my house," the old man said.
I stopped in at Kohl's a few weeks ago. As I approached the door, a woman scooted in front of me, opened the door, went in, slammed the door in my face and raced off on whatever her undertaking was. I don't think she was being mean. I think she was on a mission and was oblivious to what or who was around her.
Anyway, her action was very unwelcoming but it did remind me of Jesus because He would never slam the door in anyone's face. He holds the door open for everyone (even those who don't know Him yet) as He welcomes all who choose to walk with Him. All are welcome at His House.

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