Grace Notes

2011--The Year of Big Changes!

2011-11-20T14:12:00.000-05:00

GraceNotes-column
Well! It's been almost a full year since I last posted . So sorry about that. Last year about this time I was diagnosed with a serious illness that required major surgery in December 2010. I spent the better part of the year recuperating. Now I'm back and I have exciting news!
My book, "Precious Lord, Take My Hand: Poems of Encouragement" is available through Amazon.com in BOTH paperback AND Kindle versions! The paperback version is $11.95 plus shipping and tax.
The Kindle version is $3.99!
For iPhone, iPod Touch and PC customers Amazon.com offers a Free Kindle Reading App., too. That makes TWO great bargains for those who still need to do some Christmas shopping.
I'm also plotting and planning some other fun events to celebrate so stay tuned for more details in the coming days. God Bless and Have a great Thanksgiving y'all!

Lighten Your Load

2011-01-25T16:44:00.000-05:00

Grace Notes-column

I haven’t been able to post anything in what seems like forever because of health reasons. But today is the day I start again. Today I’m writing about baggage, emotional and physical. As I was working on the scene cards for my fantasy novel, I realized the first part of the book is about two brothers who have become estranged due to a misunderstanding. This is a theme I am intimately acquainted with. In my life, I have had falling outs with friends and family due to misunderstandings. I’ve seen how that misunderstanding festers, and boils, doing uncountable damage to everyone and everything around the individual. Unless the Holy Spirit draws the poison out of the soul through trials, and tests the individual’s soul shuts down, and shuts everyone else out.

I’ve been struggling to write this story because I’ve been resisting the Holy Spirit’s leading to let go of my own emotional baggage. The baggage I’ve carried for so long it feels like a comfortable warm blanket. Baggage like lost friendships, loved ones who have died, and the spiritual and physical changes I’ve gone through recently.

Until recently I thought I could stuff all the pain of that baggage away and deal with it another day. But, I wasn’t being fair with God or anybody else, including myself. The only way to let go of emotional and physical baggage is to let go, stop resisting the need to grieve for those losses. So, I’ve given myself permission to cry, to reminisce, to FEEL the pain. And you know what? It hurts, but I feel lighter, happier than I have in a long time.

Another Update on My Recovery...

2011-01-07T17:50:00.000-05:00

Grace Notes-column
Hey all! I'm still recuperating from a sudden illness that resulted in surgery on December 13, 2010. It may take another week or two before I can post anything. I'm sorry about the delay but rest assured I have lots of great things in store for my faithful blog readers. God Bless and Have a Happy New Year!

A Belated Update...

2010-12-10T18:34:00.000-05:00

Grace Notes-column
Hi Everyone! Sorry I haven't posted anything in the last few weeks...due to health reasons God has apparently decided I need an unexpected break from studies and posting. I will be offline until the last week of December 2010. I pray and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Pets on Moving: Sweet Pea's Perspective, Part Three

2010-11-19T16:14:00.000-05:00

Grace Notes-column

Good Things to Come!

As I write this column it’s been six weeks since the day our lives changed forever! Mom is sitting on our front porch alternately crocheting a blanket and doing homework for tonight’s class. Earlier in the morning Mom made Winter Vegetable Beef Soup and a fresh loaf of Rye bread. After she cleaned up the dishes and sorted the laundry, we came out to the porch. I took a turn enjoying the sunshine and warm temperatures by scratching my back on the porch rug and chasing imaginary bugs across the floor. Mom has jazz playing on the stereo now, and the scent of dry leaves, neighborhood cats (GRR!), a stray dog or two filters through the cracks of the door. The sound of birds chirping and squirrels chattering as they rounded up a few remaining nuts for winter sent me to the window. I looked longingly outside, and then back at Mom. I made a quick decision. I jumped to the floor, ran and jumped on Mom’s lap where I promptly settled down for a (very brief) nap. Mom smiled, scratched my ears and then jumped up to get the phone. Life here in the new place is good. We move at a relaxing, slower pace. God was right. As scary, chaotic and stressful as our lives were at the old place His decision to move us to a new home was the right plan for us. I can’t wait for more good things to come!

Pets on Moving, Sweet Pea's Perspective, Part Two

2010-11-10T20:17:00.001-05:00

Grace Notes-column

The Day Our Lives Changed Forever!

Hello again! Mom is taking another break this week so I’m back to share the second part of my story.

As I was saying last week, it took quite a long while for me to open up to Mom. Every time the two-legs who had abused me showed up to harass us, Mom made sure to protect me so I knew I could trust her. But because of the trauma I had endured in my past the sudden changes in my present sent me scurrying to the closet for cover.

Does Fear or Faith Rule your Heart?

The night before moving day, God visited me again. He asked me this question “Does fear rule your heart or faith?” Neither Mom nor I could sleep that night because we were both restless. Trusting God to provide another home meant taking risks, and embracing change as a friend rather than viewing it as an enemy. Mom had more faith than me, after breakfast was over, the rest of the packing done and we had our daily devotions from God’s Word, Mom prayed, “Okay Papa God, I’ve done everything I can now send us the help we need to move.”

At 10:30 a.m. people started showing up. Every time Mom would get tired she asked God to send more arms and fresh strength. He did but I hid. When Mom and Heather packed, when the people showed up to carry the boxes and furniture out to the trucks, cars, and vans; I hid until Mom came to find me after the last boxes and heavy furniture were loaded on the truck at 7 p.m. She tried coaxing me out of the closet but I was frozen stiff with fear so she picked me up, put me into my carrier and whisked me away to a new home. By 9:15 p.m. we were tucked into our bed at our new home. As scary as the move was I can honestly say that Mom’s faith helped me to overcome my fears. I’m 9 years old and I’ve lived in one place for my whole life but I’m discovering there is more in this world I want to see!

Oops! Gotta go! Mom’s stirring from her nap! Next Week…more Good Things to come!

Pets on Moving: Sweet Pea's Perspective, Part One

2010-11-03T18:16:00.002-04:00

Grace Notes--column
Hello! My name is Sweet Pea. Mom is taking a break this week so I graciously decided to fill in for her. OOPS! Just as long as Mom doesn't catch me typing on her keyboard. Be right back!
Okay, Mom is napping soundly so I'm good to go. Where was I? Oh, yes. I am a nine year old female brown and gray tiger cat. I've never lived anywhere else but our old place so this move to a new place really upset me, at first.
My History
Nine years ago, Mom rescued me from an abusive home. At first, all I wanted to do was hide under the bed, eat, and sleep. Mom was very patient though, and after a while I opened up and began to play and talk to her about my troubles. She listened and stroked my back. I know she loves me very much.
Shortly after I moved in with Mom, God and I had a talk. He comes to visit quite often and on this particular visit God appointed me to be Mom's guardian angel. Mom is a writer and sometimes she forgets to feed me or herself so God asked me to remind her to eat, sleep and relax. I am very good at my job.

Before The Move
In the months before we moved I knew Mom was stressed. She didn't want to play or talk to me very much. There was constant noise from the two-legs upstairs and Mom kept the blinds closed so I couldn't look out and the two-legs couldn't look in. Heather, a two-leg who helps Mom with errands, housework and other stuff, opened the door one day to find boxes had magically appeared. From then on, the Box Fairies made sure we never ran out of boxes to pack our things in. Periodically, the property manager would come over and talk roughly to Mom. She would cry afterward. I didn't like him much because he smelled of sweat and alcohol most of the time.
On the night before the move, God came to visit again. He knew we both needed reassurance. He told me the next few days would pass in a blur, I may be scared by all the activity just like Mom but I didn't need to be afraid. God said this move was something He had wanted for us for a long time. He also said life would be better for us once we settled into our new place. I believed Him.
OOPS! Mom's awake! I have to go but next week...The Day Our Lives Changed Forever! {:O)

Clearing Away the Clutter

2010-10-25T18:48:00.000-04:00

Grace Notes-column
How many of us go through life carrying habits, attitudes, and memories, like baggage? 'Clutter' comes in many forms. Past wrongs, and misdeeds we'd like to make amends for. Or, the 'clutter' of old papers, trash and junk mail. If we were to think abut it, the changes that come abruptly into our lives through death, divorce, circumstances, environment or other causes could also be considered 'clutter'.
All concept of waiting has been virtually eliminated from society's culture. We live in an instant, 'I want it now' mindset where everything at every turn must be accomplished immediately. From fast food restaurants to drive-thru grocery stores 'clutter' fills our lives.
As part of the creative process, a writer or an artist will methodically clear a space, wash dishes or remove obstacles from his/her way in preparation for beginning a project.
That is the same way we tend to treat God. We believe if we clean up our lives first we can then approach Him as an equal, not as someone who needs a Savior to clean him/her of sin.
To rid ourselves of all the 'clutter' in our lives we must first recognize there is nothing we can do on our own merits to accomplish this. It can only happen when we accept the 'hand up' offered by God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Through Christ's death, burial and resurrection we have access to God "by grace [we] have been saved through faith; and that not of [our] selves, it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, NASB)
Clearing the 'clutter' this way, is an act not only of faith but of surrender as well. When we surrender our lives (dirty, unkempt, marginally clean or spotlessly perceived), to Christ He will work (moment by moment, hour by hour or day by day) to teach us how to live better.
Just as an artist or writer works in conjunction with an editor or an agent to polish and refine their skills, so Jesus will cleanse, polish and refine us. One mess at a time. This transformation isn't instant or immediate but a life-long sifting process to eliminate the baggage of old habits, problems and/or negative influences that hinder our growth to full maturity.
The most important thing God wants us to remember as we persevere through life: Hope is always available if we look up and reach out to take hold of it.

Come Walk With Me Through Life's Journey
From the dark recessed corners of my mind
they came, like specters, one memory at a time.
Taunting, tormenting and accusing me
of failures, mistakes I'd made, like chains dragging me down eternally.
Grim reminders of a scarred and battered soul
that longed to be clean and whole.
As I huddled in fright,
suddenly I was bathed in iridescent white light
and a voice called to me,"My Child, come here
there is no need to cower in fear.
When I died on Calvary's tree
it was humanity's face I saw before Me.
I gave My life in sacrifice
so you would have the Gift of Eternal Life!
These specters of your past have no power over you
for My Blood covers you."
When understanding dawned
I knew then that all along
God had been there
and I was safely in His care.
He will walk with me hand in hand
as together we faced life's demands
and I would grow in His Grace
as He stretched my faith.
I lift my voice to sing,
Thank you Jesus, you are Lord of Lords and King of Kings!"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
January 7, 2005

A Way to Appreciate Pastors...

2010-10-20T16:05:00.001-04:00

Grace Notes-column
This week's column is dedicated to all the pastors who are serving Christ faithfully everyday...Thank you!
Below is a link to a wonderful blog by Chuck Swindoll that is written to encourage pastors in their walk with God. I hope y'all enjoy it!

The Pastor's Soul, Role, and Home.: Kingdom Commitment

I'm Grabbing for the Brass Ring!

2010-10-11T17:35:00.001-04:00

Grace Notes-column

"At what point was I willing to surrender my unfulfilled dreams? Was there a certain age, timely circumstance or health concern that would prompt me not to pursue them?" Recently, I wrote on this blog about the possibility I might become homeless if I could not find a new place to live.

The whole process of moving got me to thinking about life and dreams. I realized that as I aged I needed to grab for the brass ring. More than ever, I needed to take risks, to never give up, to sink my teeth into something worthwhile that got my blood pumping, and my heart beating every morning. Life, I discovered, was a learning process, a battleground to be faced and conquered one hope, one dream, and one level at a time. Without the desire to learn, to grow igniting within me I wouldn’t survive and thrive, I would just barely exist.

I also realized that because my home life was reasonably stable over the last 10 years I had unwittingly allowed my Spirit to become complacent. The truth was the Holy Spirit’s power within me had been lulled to sleep.

It took the potential possibility I might be homeless for God to wake my Spirit up. He shook my world and while I don't believe He caused the situation, I do believe that out of it He purposed to "give me a future filled with hope" (Jeremiah 29:11).

How do I know? Well, I'm happy to report that God did provide for me another place to live. It's actually much better than the apartment I lived in for 10 years. With the new home, God has given me a new urgency to fulfill my mission in life—to serve Him with every breath until He calls me home. For me, Jesus is the same today, as He was over 30 years ago when He ransomed my soul. Tomorrow and for the rest of my life I will worship Him and only Him.

Join me and grab for that brass ring!

“Sink or Swim, I’m Diving In!”

2010-10-11T11:09:00.000-04:00

Grace Notes-column

What we bury in the past often rises to the surface in our present depending on the choices we make. These choices offer direction to either aid us in maturing as believers in Christ or destroy us by robbing us of the power to believe God’s promise that He will always be there to give us a future bright with hope (Jeremiah 29:11-13).

So God presents us with this decision: we can’t be beacons of hope if we are too filled with the darkness of our sinful past—the rage, lack of forgiveness, and pain harbored deep within—to stand and be the faith filled people who inspire change in the world around us, if we are afraid to face the fears that haunt us.

The difference between people of courage and people who are heroic is what we choose to do in the midst of our fear.

If we run and hide we are cowards or maybe smarter than people think. If we stand and confront, stand and fight, we are heroes especially if we are fighting for someone else’s life. The question is, “Are we willing to pay the price to save another person's life, even if it means losing everything, possibly your own life?”

Let me rephrase the question. ‘Can you live with yourself and your choices if you do nothing?’

If we lose our life for Christ, we will gain the world, if we choose to keep our life, we will lose our own souls and no one else will witness what we know about Jesus, because they will be too busy scoffing, laughing and condemning us for even trying (Matthew 10:34-42).

Knowing this I choose to dive in, sink or swim, to lose my life for Christ, even though I lose everything. I believe that Hope, which hears the will of God and obeys its commands, is hope that heals a broken spirit and restores a contrite heart.

I choose to fight fear with faith, to believe the best in each other, in God’s Word, but most of all, I will fight with the hope God has imbued me with because I know it will not disappoint.

The Power of a Whisper

2010-09-22T20:08:00.004-04:00

Grace Notes-column
Time changes people, sometimes for the better, sometimes for worse. I have often doubted changes were beneficial while I was experiencing them, but the lessons I have learned along life's journey have shaped the way I view my life today.
This summer I wrote a book about my past and the relationship I had with my Dad. Writing the book helped me remember the times God had always been there for me. The lessons God taught me about trust not only helped me put my relationship with Dad into perspective, they impacted my continuing relationship with God.
One lesson God taught me this summer was that even though I have been a Christian for 30 years, at times I've only mouthed the words, "I trust you, God." I never really understood what it meant to fully rely on Jesus' strength to get me through tough situations.
One of the toughest situations I have ever faced is homelessness. I have Multiple Sclerosis, and I have lived in the same home for 10 years. I have been homeless twice before in my life. The thought of losing my home again absolutely terrifies me. Yet, I can still say I know that God loves me and He will provide for me. My belief is not an act. It is not a gimmick. It is what I know to be true based on the overwhelming evidence of God’s presence throughout the years. Despite all the mounting pressure and stress of the coming days I will continue to trust God for the strength to face whatever comes. I know His Grace will sustain me one moment at a time.
The power of a whisper—God's voice in the darkness and miasma of fear—trumps even the terror and impact of homelessness.

Here's a sample from my forthcoming book, Dance with My Father: A Memoir in Poems.

The Power of a Whisper

Years later as I was grieving Mom and Dad’s loss,

I marveled at the way God had been the boss,

not me

and the lessons I had learned throughout the years had rescued me from the travesty

of believing and thinking otherwise.

Now I see through God’s eyes

where I had been viewing life through a smoke darkened mirror.

Daily through the power of an unspoken whisper God reassures me He is always near,

and He continually exposes the hidden secrets and silent shame

that I use to point blame

at myself

because I had to put my dreams on a shelf.

Through reading The Bible every day

I see the way

God reveals the elephant in the room

so that it will not batter my spirit with portents of doom.

Because the Holy Spirit illuminates my life I could no longer be maimed

or shamed

for all the times

I watched from the sidelines

instead of immersing myself into life unless I gave the Enemy permission to.

I knew

in that moment of crystal clarity that often comes with grief that I could stand,

in God’s strength because His Love would give me the grace to honor His commands,

and face the demons of my past,

free of sin’s unrelenting lash.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
August 25, 2010

Scripture References:
John 3:16-17; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

Health Care Reform: The Future of America's Liberty or Its Destruction?, Part Four

2009-11-12T19:02:00.001-05:00

Grace Notes Monthly-column
Conclusion—Hope has a Name: It is Jesus Christ!

The future of American liberty and civil disobedience depends on the government doing two things: recognizing that they can not achieve anything on their own and admitting that they have wronged God and the American people. These two things will bring this nation closer to the final step which will be submitting to God’s authority.

Humbling ourselves does not mean America as a nation loses the rights and liberties assigned her by God. Rather it means regaining the leadership of Jesus Christ. Instead of a human government leading this nation with all the burdens that entails, the nation as a whole would defer to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. He has proven Himself more than capable of carrying the whole world on His shoulders. Otherwise, why celebrate Easter? Are we, as a nation so prideful that we would allow this great democratic experiment to fail because of a mistaken belief that we can save ourselves from destruction without the guiding hand of God? The president of the United States, members of Congress, and the Supreme Court have tried and have failed to set this country back on course. In fact, they have only made things worse. The alternative then is far more preferable. We, as a nation, must recognize our failure, and swallow our pride, and bow before the Lord God Almighty, and ask His forgiveness. Only by doing this can this great nation of America emerge from the moral and spiritual quagmire that we have fallen into. Hopefully, America will be wiser and more humbled for the learning experience. Otherwise we, as a nation, will go into the darkness of lawlessness and anarchy with a whimper instead of a bang. Which will America’s government choose: salvation or destruction?

Health Care Reform: The Future of America's Liberty or Its Destruction?, Part Three

2009-11-12T19:00:00.002-05:00

Grace Notes Monthly-column
The Fiscal and Spiritual Ramifications for the Future

President Obama, in his many addresses to the American public and other nations has often said we need to stabilize the economic policies of our country by offering security through a partial government take over of the business, financial and automotive sectors. Only in this way can he foresee fixing the problems that previous administrations left behind. The connotations of this are dire. As a nation we were founded on biblical principles so our nation has prospered and developed in a capitalistic arena, though the middle and lower classes have suffered due to unchecked corruption higher up the corporate ladder. The question remains, is it right and honorable to unilaterally decide to implement a socialistic agenda when an elected president determines that a nation can no longer sustain this type of growth because of rampant corruption? The word Socialism in Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary includes the following definition, “a stage in Marxist theory, transitional between capitalism to communism, and distinguished by unequal distribution of goods and pay according to work done” (“Socialism.” Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. 2009).

In matters of American liberty how can socialistic policies such as the ones the president has recently implemented benefit the people? Our nation can not survive this socialistic shift without descending into anarchy. Countries like China, Germany and Russia collapsed under socialism’s tyranny. In the case of Germany, Hitler’s socialistic madness nearly destroyed the known world of the early Twentieth Century (Adolph Hitler, “Berlin”, 02/1/1933). President Obama is attempting to implement these same policies here in America and yet known world and religious leaders have warned him against doing so (Rick Joyner, “Russia Rebukes America for Turning Marxist,” Morningstar Ministries’ Special Bulletin, 09/09/09, print). The American public, as previously stated, has vocalized its dissent in recently held town halls. A doctor who had held her AMA post for 30 years recently resigned in protest of the government’s take over of health care (Marrecca Fiore, “Doctor Leaves AMA Over Support of Government Health Care Reform.” Fox News.com, 09/09/09, web). Yet, President Obama continues forging ahead, determined to remain in control, despite the fact the nation roils around him in growing fear, confusion and outrage.

When the American people and other nations look forward, many of them will see only darkness instead of light at the end of a tunnel; the economy is sinking, and the banking industry limping. Already there is evidence of this at national and local levels. Unemployment remains in the double digits in many states, with Michigan at 15.2%, the nation’s highest. The national unemployment rate for August 2009 is still at 9.7%, but this does not include the number of laid off workers whose unemployment has already run out (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, web). The long lines at area food pantries are another good indicator of the severe economic situation. In an interview, Pastor Warren Kirkwood, the Director of the Mishawaka Area Churches-M.A.C.-food pantry located at Albright United Methodist Church in Mishawaka, IN expressed this concern. “If we see numbers equaling July and August 2009’s again in September, we know the economy is not getting better as some in Washington, D.C. believe. It is actually steadily declining and has been for a long time.” In July, Pastor Kirkwood reported 440 households and last month the numbers were at 403 households. In reporting their numbers to the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, the M.A.C. food pantry averages 5 people per household which means they had a total of 1,336 people, 74 of whom were 60 or older pass through the pantry in August 2009 (Phone Interview, 9/15/09).

What does this mean? Like a little boy who cried “wolf!” too many times, the people who sit in authority in Washington, D.C. including the President of the United States, have forecasted good news, in spite of the reality that many face. It is as if they have put blinders on to block out the devastating effects of their choices. The moral decay and corruption that resulted in the nation’s current situation will not change course until America returns to its founding principles again.

Health Care Reform: The Future of America's Liberty or Its Destruction?, Part Two

2009-11-12T18:58:00.003-05:00

Grace Notes Monthly-column
President Obama’s Plan for Health Care Reform

President Obama has already failed to comprehend the cost of his most recent programs such as, the “Cash for Clunkers Rebate Program, which was slated to run from July 27, through November 1, 2009 but ran out of money four days after it started, and had to be re-funded with an extra $2 billion” (The (WI) Milwaukee Journal, 7/31, 2009). Then there is the $35.9 billion spent so far to take over failing banks and the $94.5 billion spent to bailout the auto industry since late 2008. One can begin to understand the confusion and concern of the American people, who are wondering where the money for health care reform is going to come from and how future generations will ultimately pay for it.

To be fair, the president has opted several times to go directly to the American people via interviews to explain his reasons for spending so much money. However, his arguments and continued espousing of facts have fallen on deaf ears, only increasing the frustrations of the American public. The spending continues with no apparent end in sight.

In his televised speech on September 16, 2009, President Obama offered these answers to the problematic cost for health care reform.

“[There will be] a provision that requires spending cuts, if the savings we promise do not materialize. [Also] by finding savings (i.e. cutting wasteful spending) within the existing health care system, including Medicare and Medicaid. Insurance companies will be charged a fee for the most expensive policies they provide coverage for. Families and individuals who choose not to have health insurance will be fined up to 8 percent ($3800) a piece. While the public insurance option would be…self-sufficient and rely on the premiums it collects. Tax credits and a hardship waiver are offered for those who cannot afford insurance under this plan. The projected cost for the president’s plan on healthcare reform is $900 billion over the next ten years, with an estimated savings from existing health care system changes at $10 million (Text of President Obama’s Speech before Congress, 9/09/09).

Crunching the numbers, the part President Obama left out, was that this would leave a deficit of $6 billion that will still have to be paid in the future. Our current national debt is more than $11 trillion. These programs will swell the national debt even further. No one is disputing the fact that health care reform is needed or that there is wasteful government spending in current programs like Medicaid and Medicare. President Obama, though, has referred to some critics of his plan as having “dug into ideological camps that offer no hope of compromise” when they have voiced their concerns over the rush to act on health care reform instead of taking some time to get it right. President Obama has also said, perhaps partly right, that some “have used this as an opportunity to score short-term political points” at the expense of “solving a long-term challenge” (Text of President Obama’s Speech, 9/09/09). These same critics have been blasted by the press and some in Congress for daring to question the wisdom of Washington and the Oval Office in standing for the freedoms protected under the laws of this country. Yet, many of the critics and the American public have awakened to the inconsistencies inherent in the president’s reasoning. The critics, for the most part, agree on these key issues—the alarming trend of repeated failure in the proposed programs and the escalating debt future generations will have to pay back. The instant gratification that rules American society sweeps us along in its inexorable tide and compels some to keep questioning President Obama’s plan for health care reform.

As Americans have awakened to the devastating effects of our future national debt, the public, as well as some in Congress, have called for President Obama to slam on the brakes. Morally and spiritually, they are calling for more time, not out of a desire to thwart the president’s plan, but out of a sincere need to reexamine the socialistic impact of President Obama’s track record and what he is proposing for our nation’s health care reform.

Health Care Reform: The Future of America's Liberty or It's Destruction?, Part One

2009-11-12T18:56:00.001-05:00

Grace Notes Monthly- column
Introduction

As far back as our nation’s founding, Americans have prided themselves on speaking their minds when they disagree with someone else. Sometimes, they do this loudly, as in the case of a few town hall meetings held recently to discuss the benefits and the negatives of the president’s plan for health care reform or sometimes they do so quietly, as in the case of parishioners at a local church asking for prayer for a loved one battling cancer who had no health insurance to rely on. When both cases became public knowledge, the participants were ridiculed and belittled for their openness to talk over their concerns. The many freedoms that we currently enjoy are threatened today from those in government who condemn anyone for speaking out against the president’s proposed policy changes. This paper will examine the future of American liberty and civil disobedience, as seen through the potential socialistic implications and impact of the president’s proposed plan for health care reform.

The Historical Precedence for American Liberty and Civil Disobedience

Since the Mayflower Compact was signed in 1620, the foundation of our country has been built on “certain unalienable rights” (America’s Freedom Documents, Thomas Publications, 1989). This nation is endowed and is charged by God to defend the rights and liberties of those who are oppressed by providing sanctuary within the confines of our borders. America has strived to live free from the rule of a sovereign state by honoring the tenets of our forefathers as laid out in the documents known as the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights (America’s Freedom Documents, Thomas Publications, 1989). All of these freedoms are currently under attack from those in government who condemn the American public for speaking out against the president’s proposed plan for health care reform.

The reasoning behind the president’s rhetoric seems sound at first until one focuses on his track record. At which point the corruption of ethics becomes clearly evident. The actions of the president and those in government speak loudly of decay and rot at the core of their morality.

Examples of this decay and the basic freedoms endangered include the cases of Tinker v. Des Moines Indep. Sch. Dist. 393 U.S. 503,506 (1969) and Santa Fe Indep.Sch. Dist. v. Doe 530 U.S. 290,302 (2000) where students have the right to initiate prayer at school events as long as the faculty is not involved, and where a high school senior cannot reference a thank you to God for His help to graduate in her valedictorian speech (The Rutherford Institute, www.opposingviews.com, “Should prayer be allowed in schools?” web).

This same decay and corruption is clearly seen when one looks at some examples of civil disobedience. Civil Disobedience is defined by Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary Online as, “refusal to obey governmental demands or commands especially as a nonviolent and usually collective means of forcing concessions from the government” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary Online, 26 September 2009, web). As in the case of former Justice Roy S. Moore, he was removed from the Alabama Supreme Court following a unanimous decision by his peers on November 13, 2003. This decision came midway through the former Justice Moore’s term. The reason? Justice Moore refused to remove a display of the Ten Commandments from its prominent place on the Alabama state judicial grounds because he believed they were the basis of the judicial laws of this country. It was very wrong he said to, “exclude [an individual] from office based on religious beliefs and [a willingness] to acknowledge God” (Miles O’Brien Interview on CNN, November 13, 2003).

Another example of civil disobedience and attack on American liberties is the case of Joe Wilson, Republican from South Carolina. Wilson has been ridiculed, called racist and worse because he voiced his opinion, albeit inappropriately, of the president’s proposed plan for health care reform. To add insult to injury Wilson, after a vote of 240 to179 in favor, was reprimanded by his peers after his outburst during the president’s speech before the Joint Session of Congress on September 16, 2009. Fellow Republican from California, John Campbell had this to say about the reprimand, “Wilson apologized to the president for the incident…I don’t feel a formal rebuke is necessary” (http://campbell.house.gov, web). At what point does it become too much when an acknowledgement of God, of the moral grounds this nation was founded upon, becomes fodder for rebuke, dismissal and slander? Is it when a person “looks for Truth from facts” instead of the Bible, which our nation was founded upon? (Wang Weiguang, “From a Reform and Opening Up are a Powerful Motive Force for developing Socialism with Chinese Characteristics,” Social Sciences in China, March 2009, Print).

This decay and corruption is also evident when one examines the actions and words of President Obama. An individual does not need to be a genius to discern the half-truths, outright lies, and willingness to avoid directly answering questions of concern posed by interviewers and the general population.

For instance, in President Obama’s media blitz of interviews through five major networks on September 20, 2009, he did not directly answer questions posed to him. When pressed to do so, he accused one interviewer of “making up the language” to say what the interviewer wanted (This Week with George Stephanopoulos, 9/20/09). In another incident of similar dismissal, Fox News Channel was again deliberately left out of the loop of interviews that the president gave. Perhaps it is because some of their programming questions the integrity, ethics and agenda of those in government? If that were the case, this would prove to be another clear indication of the corruption and decay at the core of the government’s morality. Why else exclude them unless those in government were trying to hide something from the American public? Maybe the president’s proposed plan for health care reform, as well as other recent policy changes does not stand up to the scrutiny of his critics or the standards laid out by Moses and Jesus Christ, in the Holy Bible (NKJV, Exodus 20.1-17 & Matthew 5.1-Matthew 7:29).

Under careful analysis, the wording in the government’s proposed plan for health care reform reveals the same corruption and decay evident at the center of its authors’ reasoning. For all the rhetoric and the eloquence in public policy and speaking, what the president and Congress hope to offer the American people is nothing more than an imaginative utopian dream that increases the national debt future generations will have to pay back.

The Hope of Christmas

2008-12-16T17:07:00.002-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
This column is going to be short. I pray all of you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I'm going on vacation and will not be posting a new column until January, 2009!

The Miracle of Christmas

Lacy snow flakes drifted silently down,
as the travel-weary couple made their way through the darkened streets of a country town.
The lady, heavy with child, her labor pains upon her, begged for a place to rest.
But no room could be found, still, God knew what was best!
One person, stirred with compassion at the woman’s labor,
offered a hay-filled nearby stable and manger.
Grateful, the husband carried his wife in and settled her down, as the sounds of the animals lowing,
mingled with the wind blowing
through the cracks
at their backs.
While up in Heaven, the angels held their breath,
waiting for what came next.
When the order came from God, they raced to sing, “Hope is here! If you search for it, it can be found,
radiating throughout eternity from Bethlehem town.”
To shepherds tending their flocks in the fields,
angels appeared singing, “Peace, be still.
The Son of God, the Savior is born today.”
Excited but fearful of what they would see, the shepherds left their sheep in the fields and made their way
to the place where the baby Jesus laid.
Once there, they worshipped Him, no longer afraid.
Three wise kings traveled far from the East,
seeking the Holy One sent to break the yoke of the Beast.
They too, gathered to worship the miraculous birth of Hope Divine;
a Gift that was given by God to humanity, for all time.
Today, as we face another Christmas season at war
with forces of darkness in our world, the reminder of that miracle is more important than ever before.
For in the midst of the chaos, confusion and fear
we face, the comfort God’s Hope brings is that God’s Presence will always be near.
And like the shepherds and people of old, we too, if we ask His forgiveness by repenting of our sin
can openly approach to worship Him.
For it is in these magical days of Christmas, amid the ugliness of life, that moments of joy and beauty can be found.
So may our praise of His Glory resound,
“Jesus Christ is Immanuel-God with us, as Lord of lords and King of kings,
now and forever He reigns!!”

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
November 17, 2008

Scripture References:
Matthew 1:1-Matthew 2:23;
Luke 1:26-80; Luke 2:1-39
& John 1:1-5

See you all next year!

A Thankful Spirit

2008-12-16T16:54:00.003-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
Life has gotten harder for everyone in these last few months. Many people are barely surviving just because the price for vital necessities like food, and medicine has increased, while many of the same people have lost jobs and homes.
Because of these tough economic times, I understand why it it would be rough finding something to be thankful for . But that is why I'm writing this column today. Even though, Thanksgiving Day, November 2008 has come and gone, we can still find comfort in the little things.
You might be asking right now, "What little things?"

Thank God for Little Things that Often Come our Way

Thank you God for little things that often come our way.
The little insignificant things, we take for granted every day.
The morning’s glory as we rise
which meets our tired, worn out eyes.
The music of the birds we hear,
as we face ourselves in the mirror.
The soul-cleansing bath we take,
when we get a good old coffee break.
The deafening, relentless roar
in traffic, as our tempers soar!
The maddening dash for cash,
when the trade points flip and crash.
May we never take these opportunities to draw close to you for granted,
nor the many other blessings we’ve been handed.
Help us always remember when life becomes bleak and our finances get low,
how much You love us so!
For we can never underestimate,
nor should we cease to appreciate
that it is through hard and difficult times we often grow,
to love You even more so!

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
July 6, 1991

God Bless You all!

Like A Phoenix, Albright UMC Rises From The Ashes!

2008-10-13T15:06:00.005-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column

I'm happy to report that Albright UMC, my church, has finally begun building a new sanctuary. If you are interested in seeing the construction progress check out the church's website. The address is:

www.gbgm-umc.org/albright-mishawaka/

Here is a poem I wrote for the occasion. I hope it encourages and cheers you very much!

Albright UMC:
Two Years After The Fire

After the storm, came the fire, and life was never again the same.
Two years after the fire, came the flame
burning brighter and higher than before,
igniting within the souls of seasoned prayer vets the commitment to stand in the war
to end all wars. Today, the Light of God’s Son attracts like a moth drawn to flame,
the innocent, hungry and lost to the Power of reconciliation through Jesus’ name.
We see The Word of God satisfy the yearning thirst for more
of the intimate oneness found in a relationship with Jesus Christ, the Lord;
as a new building rises like a phoenix from the ashes of the previous one’s pyre,
we can honestly say, “Thank God for the fire!”
Even as an unstable economy rocks the nation,
it is the faith of those who stand now that will light the way for new and future generations,
providing Hope for the entire human race,
by demonstrating God’s Love, relying on His Strength and living moment by moment in His Grace.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
September 29, 2008

Scripture References:
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12; Isaiah 66:7;
& John 3:16-17

Next month I will share some reasons to be thankful, in honor of Thanksgiving Day!

The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer, Part Two

2008-09-01T11:47:00.010-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
What it Means to Be a Prayer Warrior:

Introduction:
The simplest definition of an intercessor/prayer warrior is someone whom God calls to pray for someone else’s need. When God places the person’s need on a prayer warrior’s heart it can best be described as a heavy weight or a burden pressing into the “hands” (the Spirit and soul) of a prayer warrior, with the person’s name or situation repeatedly called to mind.
As prayer warriors we commit or “stake” ourselves to the person in need, praying for them until the “weight or burden” of their name and/or situation eases from our mind, soul and Spirit. For me, because I am a visually-oriented person, the reassurances that indicate God has heard and taken action on their behalf come through impressions of visual images or words. Sometimes, these impressions are specific in detail (the words “Bitterness and Anger” held between hands inside of a heart, or the picture of a wall being built between a person and other people that reaches up to Heaven). Other times, it can be generalized (a sense of danger while someone is traveling on a journey). For other prayer warriors I've talked with, these impressions are more like a nudge or push, with the person's name or need coming to mind frequently.
As we experience these impressions, prayer warriors meditate (mentally focus) on Scripture passages that come to mind (through memorization techniques) at the urging of The Holy Spirit. This is how we scripturally “carry away” the weakness, weight or burden the person is facing.
This in no way implies prayer warriors are psychic or can be called mediums. We are trained by seasoned prayer veterans in how to minister through intercessory prayer by recognizing and differentiating between Thr Holy Spirit's Voice and one that's not (I will share more on this in next month’s column).

The Calling:
Prayer Warriors know that “God’s work, which He completed on the cross can only be released through the mediation, the going between, the distributing, the enforcing [of] our part” (Dutch Sheets, Intercessory Prayer, 66-70). Prayer warriors, as well as fellow Christians, bear a shared responsibility to further the work of spreading the Gospel to future generations. If one person chooses for whatever reason not to participate, the portion of responsibility they bore shifts to the rest. Now imagine what would happen, if 997 out of 1000 people called to intercessory prayer decided not to participate. The “weight or burden” to the rest would become unbalanced and there would be an increased risk of burnout. This, unfortunately, is what is happening now, “For many are called but few are chosen” (Matthew 19:23-20:16, NKJV).
Fellow prayer warriors, take heart! For every warrior that fights on the battlefield, spiritual or physical, does not do so alone. Christ Himself, fights with us. “When two or three people come together [in agreement] in [Jesus’] name, [He] is there with them” (Matthew 18:19-20, NCV).
Another way of looking at this is the Greek word, “sunantilambanoi . . . It is a compound word made up of three words. Sun means “together with,” anti means “against,” and lambano means” to take hold of.” Putting them together, a very literal meaning of the word would be “take hold of together with against”” (Sheets, Intercessory Prayer, 102).
When a prayer warrior joins in partnership with other prayer warriors and they join together in prayer with Jesus Christ, the authority that flows from God’s throne enables the Holy Spirit to move in a way that creates, and produces change in the lives of people whose name are being lifted up in prayer. The Holy Spirit is the creative force (Will) of God and this cooperative effort between God and prayer warriors allows “the Holy Spirit to hover over people, bringing forth the fruit of what Christ has already done” in their lives (Sheets, Intercessory Prayer, 132).

Finding a Balance:
It has often been said and assumed by other Christians that “prayer warriors must have great or strong faith to move mountains in Jesus’ name.” While this may be true some of the time, the opposite is true most of the time. As prayer warriors we have been given the gift of Discernment to “see” the consequences of the good and bad choices people make. As a result, we balance on a razor’s edge between Discernment and Judgment. To be honest, often we fight growing cynical over humanity’s capacity to choose what seems easier in order to avoid doing the hard things. So instead of having great faith to believe the best will come of a situation (see Hebrews 11:1; Romans 8:28-39) we prayer warriors end up with faith the size of a mustard seed (Matthew 17:20-21; Luke 17:6, NCV).
That is why if our prayers fail or fall on deaf ears it is not because of a lack of faith on our part or the people we are praying for. It is a result of barricading our hearts to protect against the emotional toll when the people we are praying for have to deal with the consequences for bad choices they have made (1 Corinthians 13:1-13).
In other words, there is no such thing as cold, clinical objectivity in the ministry work of a prayer warrior. The fact is when you pray for someone else’s need, that person becomes an extension of your family by adoption. Their choices, good and bad, will affect your heart. That is why Christians are taught by Jesus to love even their enemies (Matthew 5-7; Philippians 4:8-13). By the very nature of the calling we receive from God (Romans 11:29), to intercede (pray) for another person’s burden is to become emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally attached (invested) in the person’s life.
Today’s society would have you believe this kind of investment can be accomplished without God, the church, or religion. That is impossible because only one individual could carry the burdens of this world’s population and live to tell about it. Christ’s work on Calvary is evidence of that Truth ( Matthew 27:1-28:20; Mark 15:1-16:20; Luke 19:28-48; Luke 22:1-23; Luke 22:39-24:53; John 17:1-21:25). On the surface this may seem a possibility but to get to the core of the need the person you are praying for is facing involves peeling back the layers of denial, anger, bitterness, resentment, and hurt the person is hiding behind.
Veteran prayer warriors will attest to this Truth: we can do nothing in our own strength. The work of this ministry must be done in conjunction with Christ and other believers or our testimonies, our efforts, our success and the work of intercessory prayer will be doomed to failure.

The Cost:
Prayer warriors, at times, face a heavy cost for the task of intercession. This cost comes when a prayer warrior, equipped with the gifts of Discernment and Judgment is called to confront the person they are praying for when the needs they are struggling with causes harm to others. The prayer warrior knows the harm can spread much further, unless it is dealt with.
Still, the art of confronting someone in love is a rather unpleasant part of prayer ministry. The backlash prayer warriors experience can destroy even the most seasoned warrior’s personal life, professional standing and affect the perception of their leadership skills. All because of the fact people don’t like hearing the Truth or being held accountable when they’ve done something to hurt someone else. The demands of such a calling lead some prayer warriors to quit.
Admittedly, this life is not for the faint of heart. Prayer Warriors battle internal pressures to prioritize God first, family second, and ministry third. As well as the politics of leadership and those in oversight authority who grow jealous, envious, and angry over the misperception they do not share the same intimacy with God or enjoy the same gifts we do.
That is why fresh recruits to this ministry are trained by seasoned veterans to employ the use of the full armor of God every day (It is mentioned in Ephesians 6:10-20). Without its protection, prayer warriors, seasoned and fresh, would be cut down from every direction.
It is important to note here that most veteran prayer warriors do not seek or desire leadership roles, but are content to serve in whatever capacity or position God leads them to. Many prayer warriors I know shun the limelight in favor of God receiving the Glory rather than drawing attention to themselves.

The Commitment to Serve:
If you ask us why we are still willing to serve, we will say, “Even though we face tremendous opposition, hardships, and repercussions to answers revealed when the Holy Spirit urges us to speak. We will still stand, without hesitation, on the frontline of the battle between the Enemy and those who are weaker bringing up the rear. For everyone that falls into Darkness is just as important as the many more He raises up to take their place (Luke 15:1-7). Why? Because God loves you so much He sent His Son to die for you. We will do the same for you.

The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer, Part One

2008-08-02T11:14:00.004-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
“Sickness, disease, addiction and sexual immorality can all be healed through prayer, if you only believe in the person of Jesus Christ.” said the evangelist during a revival that was broadcast recently on television.
While I don’t entirely disagree with him, just belief is not always enough to break the stranglehold of sin Satan uses to enslave a person’s life. When it comes to exercising faith by claiming God’s authority to heal sicknesses such as those the evangelist mentioned through prayer, actual physical work is involved.

3 Points of Contact Jesus Uses to Heal Through Prayer:
Matthew 11:28-30

First, the person(s) being prayed for must be compelled to take action. This resolve comes from a point of need the person(s) is experiencing. In verse 28, we read:
“Come to Me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest.” (NCV)

Many of us try to carry not only our own loads in life but those of the ones we love. We think that by doing so, we are helping them. Instead, as Christians we forget our primary mission is to teach people to trust Jesus and follow His example. So when we enable them to dump their troubles on us, rather than face the situation head on and accept the consequences of their action or inaction we give them the excuse to avoid finding answers for what they need.

This is the opposite of what Jesus teaches. As we see in Matthew11:28, “Come to Me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest.” Jesus taught the disciples, to stand on their own without the added benefit of having a fall guy to blame their troubles on. Instead, we are to take our troubles, our complaints to Him. This is the same message He is teaching us today when life doesn’t quite go the way we think it should.

Second, the person(s) being prayed for must be willing to trust Jesus enough to learn and receive from Him all that He is teaching them. In verse 29, we read:
“Accept My teachings and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit, and you will find rest for your lives.” (NCV)
The command in this verse is clear: we must surrender our will to God’s Will. Even if, what He wants us to do runs contrary to what and how we think our lives should go.

It is at this point, placing our trust in Jesus collides with our mistrust of everyone and anything we can’t control in life. Because it requires patience, (something we don’t have an abundant supply of), and a willingness to wait. Come on admit it: none of us likes to wait for anything. We live in a society that wants everything NOW! This very minute! Immediately! However, in order for us to learn instruction we have to be willing to accept instruction.

If we look at the second part of verse 29, we discover the reason Jesus wants us to accept the situations, and circumstances we face in life. The reason is “because I am gentle and humble in spirit.”

When we fight within ourselves for supremacy of our will over God’s Will, a wall of resistance builds up in our spirit and this causes us to harden our hearts against God’s teachings. When that happens we do not reflect the character of Christ, rather we reflect the character of the Evil One. This kind of battle defeats any good that can come from the circumstances we face in life. This kind of battle also destroys the testimony or message God would have us share with other people.

While God will not violate our free will—the choices we make in life to accept or reject His teaching and leadership—He cannot and will not allow us to destroy His name on earth by our active willingness to resist Him. So, God would rather choose another to fulfill the mission or ministry He has called us to do, than allow harm to come to another as a result of any bitterness or anger harbored within our hearts. Jesus is God, the Creator and Maker of all creation kind and God’s Presence and Love shown to others, is of paramount importance to the work He has called us to do.

Thirdly, the person(s) being prayed for must be willing to accept the help God as the Creator of all living things is willing to provide if we are to be at peace with God and everyone around us. The answer Jesus gave in Bible times is still true today. In verses 29 and 30, we read: “. . . because I am gentle and humble in spirit, and you will find rest for your lives. The teaching that I ask you to accept is easy; the load I give you to carry is light.”

To learn the Truth about life and our place in it, we have to be willing to accept whatever comes our way. You have heard me talk about the illness I battle daily, Multiple Sclerosis. It is considered a terminal disease because there is no cure, yet. Over the last twenty years I have had several people pray over me for healing. Yet, I still have MS today. Some people have suggested that my faith is weak. Or, that I have no faith to begin with, because God has not healed me supernaturally of MS. Some others have even suggested that the faith of the one praying for me was weak. None of these people are right. How do I know? Even though God has not chosen to heal me, He has chosen to use my life, and the MS, in the same way, as He did the Apostle Paul’s life and disability, for His Glory.

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, “this thorn in the flesh” Paul lived with his entire life was used by God to bring people to the realization that “God’s thoughts are not [our] thoughts, nor are [our] ways, His ways” (Isaiah 55:6-13, NKJV). When they do, they begin to see the wisdom in the following set of equations:

Action + Need=Trust Trust(Mistrust) + Inaction = Resistance ( Need + Trust(Acceptance)) = God’s Peace

If God desires to give the very best gifts to those who choose Him, why would we not choose to accept them, if it is according to His Will, and His plans for our lives? What is the wisdom in rejecting that?

The Trap of Complacency

2008-07-28T12:42:00.005-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
The billboard read, “Fear vs. Faith: Which will win in the end?” What caught my eye as I rode in the passenger seat of my friend’s car was the picture of a boxing ring with caricatures of a determined Osama bin Laden wearing boxing gloves and a serene looking George W. Bush with a halo over his head and his hands folded in prayer.

While the company paying for this advertisement, in my humble opinion, could have used better judgment and taste for subject matter, their objective was achieved. I started thinking about the sign’s message. I wondered, “How many of us make choices based on which option was safest or secure rather than show a willingness to take a risk?”

In this post-9/11 era, I believe we have as individuals become so afraid to reach beyond self-imposed, and government instituted boundaries that we are in danger of growing apathetic and complacent about life.

Since 9/11, I have watched my neighbors, friends and family develop a tendency to equate safety (peace of mind) with the impermanent objects of place, things and self to the exclusion of other people. Even when it involves placing our trust in God; “faith, the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” takes a back seat because our personal boundaries have become so inflexible we shut everyone else out. Why? Because we are afraid we will be hurt. Someone asked me the following question recently:

“Isn’t Forgiveness the Same as Trust?”
The answer is No. If we are honest with ourselves, sometimes, it is easier to forgive someone than it is to trust them again. When we open ourselves to trusting someone and they wound us deeply, it is more difficult to allow them close enough to rebuild trust again. The same can be true when we open ourselves up to trusting new people that God brings into our lives.

Seeking a sense of comfort or rest from the stress and trauma that we daily experience in life is necessary and vital to our mental health. However, admitting the need for comfort can happen through one of several ways. Fear clouds our judgment, affects our reasons for taking action or not. Either we choose to react negatively, by burrowing in place, hunkering down behind things, shutting tight the door to our heart and by lashing out at everyone until the next wave of hurt, pain and tragedy pass us by. Or, we choose to positively respond by accepting the situations, circumstances and stresses as a challenge.
A Proposal
If instead of succumbing to fear’s paralyzing hold we willingly embrace the experience as a calculated risk employed by God to help us, we could grow and mature as the person He wants us to be. If we view life this way, we are not denying the fears, doubts and uncertainties we struggle with everyday; rather we are using them as energy to propel us forward. As we do, God will break the stranglehold of fear’s complacency and apathy have on us, freeing us to do the work He has called us to do.

I recall a very wise person telling me once, “Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it is the action you take in the midst of it.” Another wise friend added, “Fear in the absence of faith is absolute chaos, while faith exercised in the midst of fear is true safety (peace of mind) because it comes through placing trust in the person of Jesus Christ.”

What is Pastoral Care Ministry?, Part Two

2008-06-01T21:52:00.005-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
A Theological and Practical Approach to Pastoral Care
A Better Understanding of Pastoral Care
Over the course of this class, I have listened, observed, processed and absorbed what I believe God is saying to me concerning the ministry of pastoral care. That is, in order to stand for Him, be His Light and His physical presence I must do so in participation with other believers. Alone, I am weakened, divided within and without, my actions on behalf of Him, become superficial and inefficient. When united, arm-in-arm with other believers near and far, the support structure put in place by God, holds up the weaker members, and equals, then multiplies, the output of all.
If one member resists God’s leading, that person jeopardizes not only themselves but everyone around them, by succumbing to the very darkness they were initially fighting. This domino effect inflicts collateral damage that can make the whole structure weaken.
For example, I counseled a lady named Tara during a time she experienced ill health and depression. Initially, she tried to hide, and then denied what was going on. When confronted through several people (myself included) with the Sovereign reality of God’s love, she acted out and became defensive. Still, people continued to pray and encourage her. There was a point in her struggles with health issues where she landed flat on her back in bed, too sick to move. At that time she repented and God brought back part of her health, for which she praises Him. But she still has doubts, broken trust issues, and some residual resistance to God’s leading, due in part to a perceived delay of God’s promise to restore her health completely. She like all of us, continually battles with the darkness as it seeks to deepen its hold through unhealthy bad habits, or erratic, questioning behavior. The only way victory over the darkness can be achieved is by realizing the most crucial truth—spiritual growth is a lifetime process—it does not happen over night.
The Lifetime Process of Pastoral Care
There are several key ingredients in this process. Trust, vulnerability, and compassion are essential building blocks for the foundation of a pastoral care ministry. The Bible says in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths” (NKJV).
Trusting in God for everything is paramount for a Christian’s walk, as much for the spiritual growth and development of Christ-likeness, as for anything else. Showing vulnerability with each other, ourselves and God is scary and filled with risks. Examples of these risks include the fears of rejection by God and others, facing the unknown without firm ground to stand on or engaging battle with the Enemy while wondering if someone’s covering your back. There is also the experience of enduring ridicule, for standing up for God’s Word against the mainstream of a pervasive and antagonistic society, which is bent on conformity to an individualistic mindset; rather than a radical embracing of group unity through Christ-like characteristics. This same spiritual culture clash frowns upon caring and showing compassion for others more than oneself.
Eugene Peterson in his book, The Contemplative Pastor, states that “Grace is everywhere” (3).
However, people today are confused by the muddled, distorted representation of God’s Grace that they witness revealed through Christians everyday. So many Christians say one thing, but live a lie-based demonstration of faith that it leaves unchurched, and unreached people (and other Christians, too!) uneasy and wary. Sometimes, this misrepresentation gets so bad that they and other people easily become hardened bitter shells, rather than reflect who Christ wants them to be.
That is why I like what Peterson wrote about the lifetime process of pastoral care. He said, “There are long stretches of darkness and invisibility and silence that separate planting and reaping” (Contemplative Pastor, 3). It’s the same for spiritual growth. Often, we believe if we get the intellectual message that a particular lesson takes time to learn, we will have completed the spiritual growth process for that lesson. I could only wish it were that simple! In reality, God applies a real physical experience to entrench the spiritual lesson more firmly in our hearts and soul. It is not until both “head lesson” and “heart application” come together that we truly participate in the spiritual growth process. This spiritual connection will take as much time as God deems necessary, not a moment less or more! I’ve seen this happen and experienced it many times personally. When His Will clashes with our will, and our wants and desires interfere with His plans for us, the spiritual growth process can be delayed and stunted for years.
Conclusion
Going back to Tara, the lady I mentioned earlier. While her physical health has stabilized, she now believes that the physical source has been identified, God will swoop in and rescue her restoring her back to full health. He still could. However, she is unwilling to accept that God may desire to use this physical challenge as a way to teach her to trust and rely on Him for everything she needs, even if He chooses not to heal her. This health issue could be her “thorn in the flesh” like something else was for Paul (2 Corinthians 12:8-10). Regardless of whether or not He does heal her, and chooses to providentially step in or not, we know God keeps His Word. He cannot do otherwise or He would not be God. He is faithful, all-present, all-knowing. He sees what we do not. Surrendering ourselves to His Will and authority means accepting life as He knows we need it. With absolute confidence, we must believe He will continue the process of spiritual growth, until He calls us home to be with Him.

Works Cited
The Bible. New King James Version. Thomas Nelson Publishers. TN: Nashville, 1984.
Cloud, Dr. Henry and Townsend, Dr. John. How People Grow: What the Bible Reveals about Personal Growth. Zondervan. MI: Grand Rapids, 2001.
Peterson, Eugene H. The Contemplative Pastor. Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing. MI: Grand Rapids, 1989.

What Is Ministry?

Ministry isn’t just turning the other cheek
it is speaking up, too
so that those who seek
the Truth, can see Christ reflected through me and you!
Ministry then, is breaking the cycle of abuse
by choosing to act
in order to defuse
the potential of a more violent attack.
By setting a chain of events into motion
the value of life is honored, and fear gives way to peace
freeing the Spirit of less cumbersome emotions
oh, what sweet release!
Hope defers despair,
acknowledges pain
and surrenders the green-eyed monster of self to another’s care.
A taste of humble pie is acquired and this sweetens the refrain.
Ministry is a voice that speaks out
for those who are without a voice
and vanquishes concerns or doubts
this was the wisest course, for there are always consequences for every poor choice.
Peace,
moves in to replace
fear’s stranglehold! Oh, what sweet release!
By not getting what we deserve; this offers praise to God for His Grace!

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
April 23, 2008

Scripture References:
Matthew 25: 31-46; Romans 6:23;
Romans 8:28 & Ephesians 2:8-9

What is Pastoral Care Ministry?, Part One

2008-06-01T21:30:00.003-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
A Theological and Practical Approach to Pastoral Care
Introduction:
A wise pastor recently shared this counsel with me. He said, “If you want to have a pastoral care ministry, get into line at a grocery store, cinema complex or baseball stadium. Watch, see and listen to the people around you; before you know it, God will open doors of communication so that you can walk through them and be in the center of His plan for your life” (Pastor Warren Kirkwood).
As I lived, breathed, and applied the principles the Professor shared these past few weeks, I’ve come to understand that pastoral care and counseling, if it is what God is calling you to do, will become a natural extension of your faithwalk with Him. It doesn’t matter to God if you have a ministry degree or doctorate, whether you are a pastor, shepherd and/or spiritual director with all kinds of accreditation. So long as you love God, and submit your will and life to His leading, He will guide you on the path He has called you to walk. All we have to do is trust Him as the ultimate “Source of everything, be vulnerable and open without duplicity and without brokenness or breach, and be willing to live life [fully] in submission to God” (People Grow, Cloud & Townsend, 29-31).
What Pastoral Care Means to Me
The first images that God brings to mind when I think of how this class has shaped my view of pastoral care is Matthew 25:31-46, and Acts 2:42-47. These Scripture passages sum up what I believe is Jesus’ definition of the ministry of pastoral care. If we are to love people the way God loves and sees them, unconditionally, we must first “love God with all your heart, with all your soul, with your strength, and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27, NKJV). By keeping who we serve in mind at all times, we can (hopefully!) maintain a balance in our lives, ministry and family. Failure to do that will sabotage, and dilute the Holy Spirit’s work within and through us, personally and professionally.
Another image that God brings to mind to shape my view of pastoral care is the people in this class. Over the course of the last seven weeks, we, as a loosely knit team have supported, prayed, encouraged, counseled, and loved each other. Team-wise, we are an extension of Christ’s Love to His body, the church. I saw this time and again, first with Ted, and his situation involving consequences for the poor choices he made before he reconciled with God. To Alicia, and her family with the choices forced upon her by her husband’s increasingly irrational behavior. Then me last week as several friends and classmates witnessed unpredictable behavior by another student who believes I did her wrong. The truth of that mess is better left for God, the police, and campus security to deal with. The point is, though the situations were all different, the gifts God used through each of us ministered God’s grace to the myriad needs expressed.
Prayer Makes All the Difference
The instant I realized the danger of the situation I was in, I immediately went to the bathroom, called my family and friends and asked for prayer. God also brought to mind key people who were fellow students attending class that night that I knew were prayer warriors/intercessors, who I asked to pray for me. At the beginning of class, I made the same unspoken request of my classmates and the Professor, and they too lifted me up in prayer. Though I still continued, physically, to look over my shoulder to make sure no one was approaching me unawares, spiritually, I was confident God was interceding on my behalf. When it came time to go home, I was relieved. I knew or thought at least, I’d be safe in my apartment. However, when I got home I found another message on my voicemail from the person I had dealt with earlier at school. I had a hard time sleeping that night.
The next morning, my sister called to check on me and in the course of the conversation, told me what God had revealed to her the night before, when I asked her to pray. She said, “Immediately after going to prayer God revealed to me I was to pray for your safety. He impressed on me your life was in danger.” She had no idea why God impressed such an urgency on her spirit until I shared with her the details of what had happened at school, and when I returned home the previous night.
Needless to say, I was shook up. Ever since then I’ve been wrestling with the demon of fear, and my physical reaction to such. My mind, heart and soul understand I am held in the palm of God’s hand, and He will protect and shield me. However, calming my body’s instinctive, natural tendency to alternately hide and/or fight has been tough.
The one thing I know that has made all the difference is the reassurance that people are praying for me. This reassurance has given me the courage to speak up about it, first to Loretta, then more recently to the police, and campus security. I’ve found that this courage comes not from the absence of fear, but prayer in the midst of it. Like the Apostle Paul said in Philippians 1:6, “I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the Day of Jesus Christ.”
So, what began as a physical reaction to fear has turned into a spiritual expression of Truth. Chiefly, that God knows “you are all partakers of grace with me” (Phil.1:7-11).
I am not afraid of what will happen to me so long as I know other Christians join in a concert of prayer on my behalf; I will stand by faith in God’s Grace until the day he calls me home to be with Him. I will stand, therefore, girded in the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20), prepared to battle Evil and spiritual darkness, and the rulers of this world, not in my own strength but in Christ Jesus my Lord (Phil. 4:13).

The Full Armor of God:
Weapons of War to Defend God’s Light

Resistance to God’s Will rather than surrendering our own
builds a wall between us rather than a bridge to our Celestial home.
If we are to fight the Darkness with the power of God’s might
we must turn instead to the weapons of the Light.
Do not be afraid to speak the Truth
in love, even when it hurts; this strengthens the weak and bolsters the youth.
The choices we make in life count for something
if we honor Christ, otherwise they cause us and those we love, harm for nothing.
If we walk the pathway of life led by God
we will spread the Good News of His Peace all across this sod.
With the shield of faith held aloft to blunt the insidious arrows of the Evil One
we will conquer the Enemy’s mental tape recorder of our faults one by one.
Each time we go to battle stations
we proclaim victory through God’s Salvation
by using God’s Word
as the Spirit’s Sword.
When we combine these weapons of Light with prayer
We behold a vision of God’s Power that is beyond compare!
For if we remain united in Christ, we will stand, but if we become divided we fall
victim to the very Darkness we are called to fight. But, most of all
we must never give up or stop believing that Christ has got our six
we must just keep trusting in Him no matter what else comes next.
These weapons of war
have prepared countless generations who have come before
we ever entered the fray,
so if we want others to follow our example we must not be afraid to lead the way.
So get out there and put on the full armor of God
And show the Enemy just what we are made of!

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
May 28, 2008

Scripture Reference:
Ephesians 6:10-20

God's Promise for His People Today, Part Three

2008-04-04T21:16:00.004-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
Restoration: God’s Promise for His People Today
Accountability is a key ingredient when it comes to the difference between regret and true repentance. Without Holy Spirit-empowered people who are available and ready to obey God, hope for restoration is extinguished. These Holy Spirit-empowered people, like the prophets of old, must be willing to confront those who veer off the track He has set before them, no matter what it costs personally or professionally. As we’ve seen, sin narrows the vision of God’s plan for redemption, but God’s Grace expands its scope internationally to include redemption for everyone. Walter Kaiser, in his book Toward an Old Testament Theology, had this to say on God’s promise for everyone:

Israel’s sonship expressed a familial relationship: a people who made up the family of God. Israel was not a family in an adopted sense or mere ethnic, political or social unity. Rather, it was a family formed, saved and guarded by God the “Father” of this family (Kaiser, Theology, 102).

We see clearly as we move through the theology of the Bible, that God’s promise plan was not only to address sin and its consequences even to the exile of the nation of Israel. Rather, it was to provide hope for Israel’s restoration and the eventual restoration of the human race through the repentance of sin. That redemption can only be provided by Jesus Christ, to all who believe. “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God” (John 1:12-13, NASB). God and Satan’s battle will not be fully resolved until Christ comes back (Revelation 20: 7-10). Then the promised hope for eventual restoration of Israel and humanity will be complete (Revelation 21: 1-22: 21).
Conclusion
When the deceptively false sense of security Satan pushes, drives them to the comfort of the familiar through the illusion of the past, Israel and humanity need to know that God is ever faithful, and willing to answer the heart cry of His people, even in exile. Hope exists. Because God’s Grace flowed through Christ’s blood at Calvary, Israel and humanity today are reminded that God has provided a way for restoration (Matthew 27: 33-54; Mark 15:22-39; Luke 23:33-46; John 19: 17-30). The Prophet Joel’s prophecy as to the coming Day of the Lord is a promise to those still lost in sin (Joel 2:28-32). People can, individually and nationally, receive restoration if they repent (1 John 1:9). The temporal consequences may still have to be paid, but the eternal consequences may be absolved through forgiveness.
However, it is important, we, as the people of God, realize the seriousness of sin and its consequences. Living in these turbulent times, any action taken without doing so is an invitation to disaster.
It is the choices people make, for good or ill, whether or not to trust God, that determines the direction their life will take. On the one hand, will we, individually and nationally, choose to follow God’s leading? On the other hand, if we determine to do things ourselves, we may instead, give lip service only to what God wants.

Works Cited
The Holy Bible: New Century Version. Dallas: Word, 1993.
The Holy Bible: New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1984.
The Holy Bible: New American Standard Version. The Lockman Foundation. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995.
Hawkins, Dr. Ralph K. “The Historical Books: Sin and Exile.” Biblical Theology 2008. Bethel College, Mishawaka. 14 February 2008.
Kaiser, Jr. Walter C. Studies in Old Testament Biblical Theology: The Messiah in the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995.
---. Toward an Old Testament Theology. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1991.
Mc Arthur, John. The Mc Arthur Bible Commentary. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2005. 299-386.
---. “First and Second Samuel: Qualifications for a King and the Establishment of David’s Line.” The Mc Arthur Bible Handbook. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2003. 85-98.
---. “Esther: A Queen Who Served God.” The Mc Arthur Bible Handbook. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2003. 137-42.

God's Promise for His People Today, Part Two

2008-04-04T21:11:00.004-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
Samuel: The Voice of God Calling Sinners to Repentance
Samuel, an answer to prayer (1 Samuel 1:8-20), was born to be a prophet of God. Samuel, like the prophesied Anointed One from his mother Hannah’s prayer (Kaiser, Messiah, 66-72), was destined to be used of God to call sinners to repentance (1 Samuel 2:9-10, 35ff). It cannot have been easier then, any more than it is today to speak the Word of God to unrepentant ears or to people one comes to care about deeply (1 Samuel 3:8-21). The task so designated by God, is to call people to repentance of sin, out of exile, back into a restored relationship with Him. However, Satan, knowing this, hardens peoples’ hearts to the awareness or recognition of sin and its effects (Psalms 95: 7-11; Hebrews 3: 7-11). That is why Israel, over the course of her existence, has fallen so far that being held accountable for her sins seems difficult at best, disastrous at worst. Yet, God is faithful, gracious even when His people are not, either to each other or to Him.
Samuel, like the prophets who came before and after him, is used by God to confront in a spirit of gentleness, Israel and her kings. He is sent to convict them, lovingly, for their flagrant violations of covenant law, just as the prophet Joel does for humanity and its sinful nature today (2:28-32). In 1 Samuel 15: 10-22, we get a sense of the frustration the prophets must have experienced when it seemed as if God’s Word fell on deaf ears. For Samuel, the difficulty lies in Saul’s inability to recognize the seriousness of what he did wrong. Samuel loves and obeys God unquestionably, but from the tone of 1 Samuel 15: 22-23 we can almost hear him reasoning in his mind ‘why does not Saul feel the same way?’
It is only when Saul realizes that he has been caught, in verses 24-25, that he confesses his sin which is “generated more by a concern over consequences (regret) rather than by sorrow over having offended his holy God (repentance)” (McArthur, Commentary, 326). However, we see in verses 26ff, that the consequences for his disobedience must still be answered for. It is clear that God is a loving God, able to pardon and forgive graciously, but it is also evident that sin does cost. It is a cost that must be paid in blood, according to the covenant laws for atonement and repentance (Leviticus 1:3-7; 5:14-6:7; 6:8-13; 7:1-10). By allowing even one Amalekite to live (Agag), Saul’s disobedience marks the gradual decline of Israel’s fall and leads to a blood feud that continues through the Monarchial period and beyond, into exile. The blood of innocents caught in the crossfire of the feud, cried out to God to be heard, for justice to be done, and forgiveness to be sought in the midst of Israel’s consequences for sin, exile.
Esther: Faithfulness and Obedience in the Midst of Exile
Therefore, exile simply stated, is a separation of a person or a nation from total awareness of sin’s impact on life. It can be sin-imposed, a growing estrangement from God and friends developed through an inability to be accountable for the actions done and words said. Alternately, it can be a failure to follow through on commitments demonstrated through “the personal and national effects of sin” (McArthur, Commentary, 301). Lastly, it can also be self-imposed, a period of separation from friends, family, or business associates for the purpose of conducting self-evaluation due to circumstances in life.
In the Book of Esther, we see the impact of all types of exile through the eyes of Mordecai, Haman, Esther and King Xerxes. God providentially intercedes behind the scenes, orchestrating events and people. It is possible to see through the treachery of sin’s effects to the glimpses of God’s grace and the promised hope of Restoration for Israel then and God’s people today.
The “time of Esther arrived 550 years after the death of Agag,” but, despite the “passage of time,” the memory of King Saul’s disobedience to God’s command to kill all the Amalekites “still smoldered in [the souls of the people]” (McArthur, Handbook, 139). The judgment pronounced on Saul and his descendants (1 Samuel 15:17-29) was about to come true. However, unless true repentance was shown, redemption and restoration would not occur. Israel, at this time, was living out the penalty (exile) for sinful acts of disobedience as prophesied by prophets such as Jeremiah, Amos, etc. Quietly orchestrated behind the scenes comes another battle, this one of divine wills clashing, played out through the lens of Esther, Mordecai, Haman and King Xerxes. This confrontation scratched only the surface of the true battle being fought. The two truly main characters in this book are God and Satan. The stakes are high: the total redemption or annihilation of humanity, not just of Israel.
Some evidence of Satan’s attempts to do everything to thwart God’s plan to redeem humanity include “the fall of man (Genesis 3:1-19) and Christ’s line through the tribe of Judah [which] had been murderously reduced to Joash alone. [He was providentially] rescued and preserved (2 Chronicles 22:10-12)” (McArthur, Handbook, 139-140). In contrast, we clearly see evidence of God’s continued faithfulness when we look at the events unfolding in Esther. These circumstances are national in scope, but the battle between God and Satan is not new. However, the promised hope that is offered is. It is being played out on a personal, individual level through the choices Esther, Mordecai, and King Xerxes make.
Esther chooses to obey Mordecai, her uncle, and not tell anyone who she is or who her people are (Esther 2:10). Mordecai lets go of the still smoldering anger over the choice his ancestor, King Saul, made, rather than let it cloud the future of his people (Esther 4:1). What about King Xerxes? While he did not surrender his pride completely, he did eventually choose to right a terrible wrong about to be committed to people under his authority as a sovereign ruler (Esther 3:1-15; 7:1-8:14).
While all of this is speculation up to a point it does present a valid argument. It has been argued by Bethel College professor, Dr. Ralph Hawkins, that “the book of Esther does not belong in the canon of the Bible because God’s name is not mentioned, and there is no evidence that it reflects anything theological other than the nationalism of Israel” (Hawkins, Class Lecture, 2/14/08). However, it is a proven fact that God’s wisdom is not limited or confined to one type of literature. Each book of the Biblical canon gives a glimpse into the many facets of God’s character. Thus, the diversity of the Bible (including Esther, Ruth, etc) reflects the diversity God craves for Christians today, as part of Israel’s extended family by adoption. So the morality play enacted through Esther, Haman, Mordecai, and King Xerxes mirrors the spiritual battle that exists at humanity’s core.
By the time this story plays out, Israel has been in exile at least 100 years (since Jerusalem fell in 586 B.C.) though the specific length may be uncertain. As a nation in exile, the Jewish people are subject to the laws and protocol of the host nation. As such, it is possible many male Jewish traditions, i.e. the Feasts of Unleavened Bread, Firstfruits, and Tabernacles could not be practiced nor could the people gather together in large numbers, as that would attract undue attention to them (McArthur, Handbook, 142). The Empire of Persia was so great, its reach so far, and diverse that anyone working near or within the palace would not wish to draw attention to themselves or their ethnic group for fear of swift reprisal. For a Jewish woman within the palace court, the penalty for drawing attention to one’s self could incur a swift death for the woman’s family. Because Daniel and his friends did not face the same familial consequences for their actions they showed no fear of death or concern for themselves in their desire to honor God. So it is understandable, that Mordecai would caution Esther not to say or do anything to reveal herself, given the brooding threat of Haman and his kindred and other unknown enemies (Esther 2:10-11).
The tug of wills between God and Satan increased in danger, starting in Esther 2: 19ff, for by this time Esther had become Queen and Mordecai assumed a prominent place in the environs of the king’s gate. While there, Mordecai overhears a plot against King Xerxes, and alerts Esther. She in turn alerts the king, and the assassination plot is thwarted. Satan throws an obstacle in God’s way when he uses Haman to instigate a confrontation between Mordecai and Haman (Esther 3:1-15). However, God was not fooled: “As expected God’s prophecy to extinguish the Amalekites (Exodus 17:14; Deuteronomy 25:17-19) and God’s promise to save the Jews (Genesis 17:1-8) prevailed” (McArthur, Handbook, 139). This leads to the most famous portion of Scripture found in this book:

Then Mordecai sent back word to Esther: “Just because you live in the king’s palace, don’t think that out of all the Jewish people you alone will escape. If you keep quiet at this time, someone else will help and save the Jewish people, but you and your father’s family will all die. And who knows, you may have been chosen queen for such a time as this.” Then Esther sent this answer to Mordecai: “Go and get all the Jewish people in Susa together. For my sake, give up eating; do not eat or drink for three days, night and day. I and my servant girls will also give up eating. Then I will go to the king, even though it is against the law, and if I die, I die.” So Mordecai went away and did everything Esther had told him to do. (Esther 4: 13-17, NCV)

What the story then comes down to is freedom of choice. We can, like Esther, Mordecai, and Abraham choose the right path, the one that is straight and narrow and difficult to climb but leads to life. Alternately, we can choose like King Saul and Haman, the way that is broad, smooth and seemingly easy to ascend but whose end is death. Chapters 5 and following of Esther demonstrate the power of God to work providentially behind the scenes. They also illustrate how a Gentile king, Xerxes—who was not the first person to do so—chose to honor God by redressing a wrong committed in his name against the people of God.

God's Promise for His People Today, Part One

2008-03-04T22:20:00.004-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column

Sin+ Exile+ Repentance = Restoration

Introduction
The Bible, like life is made up of many themes. Interwoven throughout is the theme of Grace. We, the elect of God, catch glimpses of Him working behind the scenes, battling Satan to bring humanity to its point of greatest need, the repentance of sin, both national and individual. Moreover, we will see how a return to God’s Grace from exile imposed by sin can happen through a restored relationship with God as a result of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. We will look at Israel’s history of disobedience through the lens of King Saul’s life, Esther’s life in the midst of exile, and Samuel’s life, calling sinners to repentance. Then we will look at God’s promise of restoration to His people today. All Scripture, except where noted differently, is taken from the New King James Version of the Bible.
Saul: Israel’s Disobedience reflects Humanity’s Disobedience
Since the beginning of humanity’s history God’s plan has included a relationship with His creation. In the judgment pronounced on the serpent (Genesis 3:14ff) two things happen, the climatic battle between Satan and God has its beginnings, and God reveals His plan to one day redeem humanity from its fallen sin condition. So when God spoke to Abraham, the “seed” promised earlier in the Garden of Eden is reaffirmed through Abraham’s line. “[Israel was to be] mediators of God’s Grace to all the nations of the earth even as in Abraham ‘all the nations were to be blessed’ (Genesis 12:3),’” (Kaiser, Theology, 109). When the Mosaic Law is given to this growing people, the nation of Israel, we begin to see the cost for sin’s redemption must be met with innocent blood. Through the sacrificial system God instigated at Sinai, we also begin to see that the high standard for holiness required to approach God is too high for humanity to meet or live by. That is where Grace comes in; God knew that alone, humanity could not live up to this standard, so through the tapestry of history, God decided to meet the standard Himself.
By the time Saul arrived on the scene, Satan had exacerbated humanity’s sins to the point of outright disobedience to God’s Covenant Laws. Consequently, Saul’s reign, which reflected Israel’s own character, “was at a low point spiritually” as we see in 1 Samuel 9:5ff, when Saul sought answers through divination, i.e. a seer, to his dilemma about the location of his father’s donkeys (McArthur, Handbook, 90). However, God used this weakness to provide direction for Saul (and Israel) behind the scenes. So after receiving instructions from Samuel concerning what he was to do, Saul went on his way. However, as John McArthur stated in his book, The McArthur Bible Commentary, “he did not tell his uncle the information Samuel gave Saul about becoming king (1 Samuel 10:14-16),” (McArthur, 319). This secretiveness could “reflect Saul’s humility” or it could reflect his fear of it actually coming true (McArthur, Commentary, 319). It could also be an early indication that, though God was honoring the people’s choice for a king, His choice was entirely different (1 Samuel 8:10-19; 1 Samuel 13:14; 1 Samuel 16:13).
Accordingly, it is evident that Saul’s life mirrored that of Israel and her downward spiral into apostasy. This was reflected both nationally and individually through Saul, in spite of his initial attempts to honor God’s laws, and bring deliverance to Israel from her enemies. As we come to see, this is also a key pattern for humanity’s own sinful nature that is reflected in a “me first, God last” view in today’s society.
Samuel’s address to the nation and to Saul about their clear rejection of God as King over Israel, and his warnings as to the consequences for disobeying the covenantal laws proved telling (1 Samuel 12:1ff). In 1 Samuel 13:8-15, we see further evidence that Saul’s weak character, i.e. Israel’s weak character, again took center stage. Saul grew impatient waiting for Samuel to arrive; his impatience led to the sin of unlawfully sacrificing burnt offerings to God. Through this one act of defiance, Saul rejected God’s leading in his life. As with previous wrongs he committed, his intention was obvious, ‘if God won’t move as fast as I want’ Saul figured, ‘I’ll do it myself.’ He was unaware of that sin’s initial impact or the repercussions that would follow the rest of his life, affecting not only him but his family, friends and the nation of Israel. Sin is like that, so subtle, that one decision is all it takes to begin the erosion of moral decay that affects a person’s integrity, their testimony, even the witness they have to others. Israel’s continued unfaithfulness mirrored the repeated failures in Saul’s life, and in battle against Israel’s enemies. When the flush of his original successes had worn off, like Israel, Saul too turned aside, forgot God and sought to please himself first, and God last (1 Samuel 13:11-12; 1 Samuel 14: 24ff).

A Time to Heal, Part Two

2008-02-04T15:05:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column

Scripture to read: I Corinthians 13

As with all things created, death and life are but two steps on a journey that introduces us to the beginning of an adventure leading to a possible decision to receive Christ as our Lord and Savior. If we choose Christ, the obstacles, detours, sitchbacks and curves we face everyday give us the opportunity to surrender control of our lives to God, and enjoy the ride, learning and absorbing as much as we can from the experiences we encounter and go through.

My Pastor, Dennis Ingle had this to say about freedom in Christ, yesterday at church, "It's the deails in life, at work or at home that make all the difference." So if that's true and God is in the details, what's the big picture?

If our ego-self steps out of the way God's Love will transform circumstances and people. The key is our willingness to obediently accept what's happening as God's Will even when we don't understand it.

What about you? Are you willing to take the next step to heal by accepting without

understanding?

Everything is Exposed in the Light

Words that wound instead of heal
build walls instead of bridges.
No matter how weak we become, our appeal
is still the same: “Father, take me off this ledge
Please?”
His response: “No. You need to trust me
even if you fall,
especially if you fall.”
I shudder in fear
And I wonder, ‘does He know what I hold so dear
That I would rather hide than admit it and see myself torn asunder?’
His response is, “Yes. I know
and you will confess it before Me
rather than continue to wallow in it, before you join Me in eternity.”
‘Search me O God and know my heart
if there be any wicked way in me
expose it before I come apart
even if it is something I’d rather not see.’
Jesus’ response: “My child, I already know
that in which you wallow.
I forgive you and ask you to trust Me
to perfect you day by day until you enter eternity.”
‘Thank you Jesus I know I am always in Your Presence
now and forever, I am yours. I place my trust in your Hand
and I believe even though I see no visible evidence
that you guide me step by step through life’s journey to a far distant land
where I can lift my voice in eternal praise to sing,
Thank you Jesus, You are Lord of Lords and King of Kings
now and forever You reign!
In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.”

Written on:
November 3, 2007

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Scripture References:
Psalm 139 & John 1:9

Time to Heal, Part One

2008-01-31T11:47:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column

Scripture to read: Colossians 3:12-17

After a surprise sabbatical of three months I'm back! As the title of this series suggests I needed time to heal after dealing with some serious stuff-healthwise, as well as spiritual issues-what some Christians call "a valley experience".
This post reflects a change in the sense that I'm willing to share more openly about what's going on in my life. I know it may seem like I've done that already with other postings but like most people when confronted by pain, I tend to put a wall up to shield myself from further hurt.
There are good reasons such as a person can't be too open or someone else could take advantage of your willingness to help, or the pain you sense from others can overwhelm you and cause you to shut down emotionally. There are also bad consequences for putting up that wall, too. Like pushing people away when all they want to do is help, hardening your heart against God through bitterness and anger which prevents you from hearing God's voice or being able to reach out for help when you need it.
All of these reasons seem perfectly valid arguments for dropping friends or spouses but the real question is, "who is the one really hurt when this happens?"
Maybe this poem/song lyric can give you some ideas.

Hidden Wounds
Staring at a razor's edge
or teetering on the brink of a ledge
cold, cutting words
are sharper than a two-edged sword
and have the same effect. They wound
insead of heal, but God's Grace abounds
and His mercy stills
the pain hidden well,
and confounds those with hidden wounds
for whom looms
behind a smile, a mask of pain
that lingers covering a wealth of hidden shame;
they lash out drawing blood
in a flood
from others, to cover their own painful deeds.
Until one at last admits, there is a need
but if they don't, the specter of death looms
and they will continue to bleed from their own hidden wounds.
Chorus:
The cycle unfinished, only ends
when one makes amends
and God's forgiveness is sought
having been blood bought
through Christ
He, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
A torn soul
can become One at last whole.
IF forgiveness is sought
having been blood bought
through Christ
He, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
(Repeat 2 more times)
Then end with:
To heal
One must be willing to kneel
ask Jesus to cleanse your sin
and grant His Peace to live within.
Then a torn soul
can become One at last whole.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
November 29, 2007

Scripture References for poem:
Proverbs 17:5; John 3:16-17;
& I John 1:9

All Scripture used comes from the NASB Version.

In God We Trust, Part Two

2007-09-13T11:36:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column

Trust is an issue we all deal with at some point in our lives. We believe with absolute certainty we need to trust Someone or something in order to do more than survive each day. Yet, do we really practice implicitly trusting one another?

When Jesus and the disciples were out in the boat on the Sea of Galilee and a storm brewed up, tossing and turning the boat and its occupants every which way, only the disciples were afraid Jesus was in the stern sleeping like a baby rocked by the gentle motion of his parents' arms (Mark 4:35-38). The disciples after waking Jesus, questioned why He was not afraid. "Jesus rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace, be still." And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. But [Jesus] said to them, "Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?" (Mark 4:39-40)

Then there is the story of a soldier on military campaign, who in the midst of battle dropped onto the ground where he stood, falling into a deep sleep. Before his eyes closed he was heard to say, "Jesus, please take guard duty for me." For over an hour as the battle continued to rage around him, and soldiers swore in fear, an eye witness reported seeing a sentinel standing guard while the tired soldier slept soundly.

Both of these ancedotes illustrate the point I'm making--to place trust in Someone or something, we need to let go of our greatest fear--failure.

We recently commemorated September 11, 2007, the sixth anniversary of 9/11. I pray none of us currently living will forget the Day America was driven to its knees before God, in recognition that absolute Evil actively works to destroy all that stands for God and good in this world.

The sobering reality we faced that day is that America is not invincible. We also lost our innocence in the sense that other nations viewed America and Americans as people that they could no longer trust. Our own ability to trust others was shattered as well. We can no longer look at each other in the eye and accept what we see at face value because we don't know if the person looking back could be out to get us killed.

That realization humbled us as a nation, but not in defeat as some might believe. Rather, it gave us freedom to surrender to Someone greater than all our perceived strength. The One who is still carrying us through the refining fire of tragedy to the Truth that our sense of security comes not from temporary measures like better weapons or tactical strength. But rather if we choose, from a relationship, with Himself, the eternal Sovereign God of the Ages, the Great I AM, Jesus Christ.

He alone can restore us as a people, a nation others can trust. But only if we place our trust in God will we be able to trust others again.

In God We Trust, Part One

2007-08-27T16:10:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
Control is an illusion we try to convince ourselves we possess. What I learned is that we are never "in control" of anything. God, however, is "in control" of everything.
Here's an example: When Dad was placed on Hospice and I was confronted with his daily declining health I tried to keep my apartment clean and spotless. I reasoned that how clean my apartment was determined how much I had managed to deal with the looming reality that when Dad died I would be all alone. I didn't want to cope with all the murky memories, good and bad, of our lifelong relationship.
However after Dad's death, I began reading a journal I had kept during his prolonged illness. I discovered a simple, but profound Truth: while I was trying to comfort and prepare Dad to let go, he had done the same for me (Matthew 6:25-34).
In accepting that Truth I surrendered my will to God's Plan. True freedom of spirit, I found, lies in our willingness to trust God to know what is best for us even when it clashes with what we want or think we need.
I still struggle to trust. I find trusting God to be easier than trusting humans, because humans have become so morally flawed, they have grown careless about keeping their word. But I still try, because I know on that day when Christ returns, all of this pain-ravaged world will be set to rights again (I Corinthians 13:10-13).

Walking with God, Part Three

2007-07-16T16:41:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-column
For you who regularly visit this site, you know that just about everything I write revolves around God, in one form or fashion. Well, this past week God has impressed upon me that I need to share with you my personal testimony. "Why?" you might ask. I honestly don't know though I suspect it has something to do with actively surrendering my will to His, to serve Him and to worship Him.
When I was nineteen, I was diagnosed with MS--multiple sclerosis. The doctor told me to, "Go home and prepare to die." Talk about a shock! My whole world literally crashed to a halt. Instead of dating, going to college, or finding a job I was struggling to come to terms with a health condition, (for which there is still no known cure) learning how to use a walker, and most importantly, finding a reason to live. At that time there was no support group or assistance for people with MS, at least not in the northern part of Indiana.
Over the course of the last twenty years, God has taught me what it means to live in a state of Grace moment by moment, never knowing if I will wake up one morning, or not.
The fact is, we all face that uncertainty every moment of every day. We could walk out the door and be hit and killed by a car. The point I'm trying to make is this: in choosing to serve God with all that I am and all that I have or ever could be, I am (hopefully!) a reflection of His Grace to you.
This life I've been given is all about Jesus and what He can do for you. Like me, He can give you something more to live for! So, welcome back to the heart of Worship and walking with God.

Something More to Live For
As a teen,
I needed Someone on which to lean
who could fill the void in my soul.
my spirit seemed shriveled instead of whole.
People with fake smiles and insincere love made it hard to trust
so inside I became brittle like steel riddled with rust,
rather than soft and pliant like clay, able to adapt to any situation.
Then I was diagnosed with MS, a terminal health condition.
Suddenly, God entered the picture and I began to see
Him rearrange my life to better reflect His view of eternity.
I learned to roll with the punches instead of buckling under them,
by surrendering my will to His I experienced freedom from the bondage of sin.
Now I see the same struggle teens today live with
I know the times have changed, yet the Truth remains, what Jesus did
through honor: His sacrifice on Calvary
applied God's Grace to all humanity,
if we choose to believe
and if we're willing to do whatever it takes so others can receive
the chance to make the same choice.
Will you join your voice
to ours and sing?--
"Thank you Jesus, you are Lord of Lords and King of Kings!"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
July 4, 2007

Scripture References:
Isaiah 42:1-9 &
Isaiah 43:2

Walking with God, Part Two

2007-07-15T16:53:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-column
At the moment of salvation, Christ enters our being, illuminating all the dank, dark corners filled with dust, disuse and dirt. Christ rolled up His sleeves and started cleaning: first all the trash strewn about is bagged up and thrown out. Then He washed the walls, cleaned the corners and set up His office. The sign on the door reads "office hours: Open for Eternity." But wait a minute! Sin, like smoke, is pervasive and all encompassing. It seeps as an oily substance into the nooks and crannies of our hearts, lingering, waiting for the right time to strike out and surprise us with its power.
Just when we Christians think we are on track--witnessing, enjoying prosperity, standing firm in the faith, sailing along with no thought for the morrow or having to worry about consequences for wrong actions or bad decisions (after all, we are forgiven!). Wham! We hit a brick wall of resistance/reluctance and Christ draws our attention to something we've neglected to do--Trusting Him to lead and provide for us--its the whole reason He died. Christ suffered at God's request for us! With nothing to gain but bringing salvation through His death and resurrection to humanity for eternity. Why? Because He loves us. Why then do we get angry, frustrated or self-righteous when adversity comes into our lives?
God's design is that even through adversity, people who have never known God as anything other than a cuss word, will see Christ reflected in our lives. How we respond when trouble comes speaks volumes about the depth of our Christian faith more than anything we can say. The more we experience and observe through life, the more junk comes to the surface for Christ to clean so we better reflect Him to the world. In other words, Life as we know it, prepares us for eternity and while we might like to get out of suffering situations that seem to go on forever, it is not our right to dictate to God when or if we will. God alone knows the length of time required to teach us the true wisdom of walking with Him.
Walking with God means doing more than saying the words, living prosperously or planning for retirement. The act of walking implies listening to what is said, as well as implementing obediently to our lives, the advice that is given.
In the end, God's Wisdom is more precious than gold or silver, Trust in God more of a treasure than anything we might think we need.

Walking with God, Part One

2007-03-31T20:06:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-monthly column
Since the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, God has expressed His Grace through His creation and wooing of humanity. From earliest times until now, God desires to have a personal relationship with people. A relationship that begins when we ask forgiveness for sin, believe Jesus has the authority to forgive our sin, and receive Him into our lives as Lord and Savior. When we do, Jesus gives us the strength and Grace to meet each day's challenges as they come. To "walk with God" is an expression of our faith and trust in God that while we may not understand or accept what circumstances we fall in, "we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
Walking with someone implies a willingness on our part to better ourselves, through exercise or good health, as a stress relief or to get away from something we don't want to face. Too often, we wear devices like an iPod w/headphones, or a CD player so we don't have to think. Yet, that is when we miss opportunities to dwell on the beauty that surrounds us in nature or the times we could contemplate what God has done in our lives. It is also when we stop listening to God and talking to Him that our spirit shrivels, our strength dries up and our growth to maturity stops.
"How can we change this about ourselves?" you ask. Well, I have a challenge for you.
Until I post my next column practice the art of Prayer Walking. Leave the iPods and CD players at home, take a friend and a journal or notebook w/pen or pencil with you and spend fifteen minutes a day listening to nature, noticing what goes on around you. As you strengthen your body, you'll notice a quiet stillness fill your mind and soul. Ask God what He wants you to do for Him, then write it down. Meditating on His Word (the Bible) as you walk orders your mind, clears away confusion, tangled thoughts and emotions. You will be surprised how refreshed and invigorated you feel afterward. Send some comments to me.
I will check before I post my next column to see what you have to say. God bless!

What is Your Safety Net?

2007-02-26T20:15:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
When all of the world seems to conspire against you, and the ground beneath is shifting sand, what do you place your trust in? Who do you turn to when everything you have is stripped away? I'd like to share with you the answers I've found.
To start with, some people strive to be financially secure, deeming it all important as a safety net. They've bought into the hype that they need more "than what they have to save for a rainy day." Because it represents stability in uncertain economic times. Other reasons might be provision for serious medical bills down the road, retirement, travel, etc. None of these goals are wrong, I might add, to pursue. However, when people fall into the trap of viewing others without the means to do this as slackers, irresponsible, or not worthy to know personally that it becomes a question of poor moral ethics. Most everyone I know who is poor or of a low to middle income struggles to make ends meet. Some even work 2 or more jobs and still need help to put food on the table.
For some people, power, that prestigious but most elusive of goals is the ultimate safety net. Fame, in the form of public recognition becomes the name of the game. For still others, status equates with security, be it cars, new homes, new clothes, whatever fits works. 'Who better to judge me than me?' is the core mentality of this trap.
Alas! All of these are jyst symbols, none can provide you with the assurance of eternal security as only God can and will. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 4:11-13 had the right idea, "Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity, in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Christ who stregthens me."
Life, with all of its flaws, foibles, and misguided tendencies is fleeting. Life passes away, and you can't take anything with you, except faith in God.
God does expect you to save and spend wisely what you recive or earn in this life, but He also expects each of us to remember who holds you up when everything is gone--Him.
We are to honor God not just with words, but with actions, as well. In surrendering to His Will for us, there is sacrifice true, but there is also triumph. Freedom to fail, and get back up to start again. Triumphant freedom to trust in Someone bigger and better than ourselves who will Never Fail! A freedom to live life fully, unconditionally embracing God's Love and Grace to share it with another who needs it more than we do. That is why I choose life,I choose God as my safety net. What is yours?

A Spirit for Missions, Part One

2007-02-13T22:10:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
It's been eight weeks, give or take a day or two, since I last posted anything. Sorry about that! I've been swamped with homework for a college class on Missions. Which brings me to the subject for this post.
Ever since the fire at my church-Albright UM Church in Mishawaka, IN- God has placed a burden on my heart for missions. Specifically, overseas missions. You know, we have so much to be thankful for here in America. Freedoms that include the right to free speech, to free press, to religion, and to assemble peaceably in public. But in other countries these rights are restricted or abolished at the whim of political or religious intolerance. Repression of expression is the norm, and cultural differences are considered just as dangerous. I believe, however, that Jesus Christ died for all the world, and that even now He sits at the right hand of the Father, interceding, ahh . . . praying on our (the world's) behalf, so that those who have never heard will have the chance to do so. And those who have, will experience the urgent desire to share what they know with everyone they meet.
All it takes is one willing person to ask God in faith, 'What would you have me to do to bring the Light of God's Word to people who have never heard?' Then go out and do it. Will you accept that challenge?

A Christmas Prayer of Blessing to You!

2006-12-05T11:32:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
Seasons Greetings to Everyone! This week I'd like to share another one of my Christmas poems with you. I pray it blesses you with God's Peace now and throughout the upcoming New Year!

O Child of Grace!
There is hope for this war-torn Christmas season,
that goes beyond all commonsense or reason.
For what Christ gave to this earth,
was the Promise of a new birth,
and as we struggle to win the fight
let us remember, on that long ago Bethlehem night
Christ came to earth a Child,
soft, gentle and mild.
And just as Joseph and Mary weighed this same Truth
so do I now Lord, as I think of You.
"O Child of Grace, Child of wonder,
filled with all mysteries yet to be pondered.
I ask Thee to come, dwell here in my heart,
imbue me with the assurance You will never depart."
With these words I am replenished with His abiding Peace,
and the knowledge He will never cease,
to change
and rearrange,
my life to resemble His.
Oh! How precious His Love really is!
With this my soul bursts forth in song to sing,
"Jesus Christ is Immanuel, God Incarnate, the Everlasting King of Kings!"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
December 7, 1993

A Christmas Prayer for Soldiers Everywhere

2006-12-04T20:39:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
During this Christmas season I wanted to take the time to say," Thank You!" to all the soldiers around the globe still fighting for freedom. I received this poem in the mail from the Disabled America Veterans. It so touched me I'd like to share it with all of you.

Untitled
'Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
in a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give,
and to see just who in this home did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by mantle, just boots filled with sand,
on the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
a sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
not how I pictured a United States soldier.
Was this the hero of whom I'd just read?
Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed?
I realized the families that I saw this night,
owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight.
Soon 'round the world, the children would play,
and grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,
because of the soldiers, like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home.
The very thought brought a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more,
my life is my God, my Country, my Corps."
The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still
and we both shivered from the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night,
this guardian of honor so willing to fight.
Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure,
whispered, "Carry on Santa, it's Christmas day, all is secure."
One look at my watch, and I knew he was right.
"Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night."

-Anonymous-

Merry Christmas Everyone! Please say a prayer for all those still serving at home and in far distant lands. God Bless!

The Nativity Story, Part Two

2006-12-04T20:03:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
This year marks the sixth year without my Mom, and the second without my Dad. Christmas for them always meant two things: families spending time together and food to share. Mom loved to bake. Each October, she and I would start baking pies ( Sweet potato, Raisin, Apple, pumpkin, lemon meringue, etc.), cookies, our famous Christmas Peanut Butter fudge, equally famous cheese biscuits, cinnamon rolls, and whatever else Mom could think of. The lucky recipients would be our family, friends and the Pastors' families. On Christmas morning, we would roll out of bed, to the smell of steaming hot coffee, fresh squeezed orange juice and hot buttery cinnamon or crescent rolls. Depending on how much money we had.
On a much smaller scale I still bake. These days, members of my family are likely to receive chocolate chip or peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, my Autumn Harvest Peach Pie or Mom's Sugarless Apple Pie.
On Christmas morning, it's usually me and my cat Sweet Pea, enjoying crescent rolls and hot cranberry apple herbal tea. Then later in the day, I'll call my sister, brother, friends and family, long distance and local, to wish them a Merry Christmas!
Which is what I am doing with you today. I pray all of you reading this have a blessed and joyous Merry Christmas, and an equally Happy New Year! I'm also sharing with you my own Christmas tradition, one of my Christmas poems. Enjoy!

The Messiah
Long ago and far away,
there began a brand new day
when time stood still
and revealed to us, God's Will.
We shepherds watched from afar,
the bright and shining Star,
when the Angel appeared,
and told us, "Do not fear!"
Then a Heavenly Host began to sing,
"Jesus Christ has come as King!"
We arose and flew,
to see if it was true!
In Bethlehem we found
Him, and gathered 'round,
to worship Him as King
for the Messiah had come to reign!
On that cold, starry night,
He had shed His awesome might,
coming to earth, a Child
soft, gentle and mild.
His Love unfolding as if in a dream,
flooded earth with its stream,
bathing us in God's sight,
as we beheld His Holy Light.
In this day and age
as nations war in rage,
God wants us to remember,
the time we have to choose Him, won't last forever.
So, during this war-torn holiday season
please consider the reason
Jesus came to this earth:
we have the chance for a new birth.
Through Jesus' atoning sacrifice
we can have eternal life.
The forgiveness of our sins
IF, we ask Him to come and live within
our hearts. Then we too will lift our voices to sing,
"Thank you Father God, the Messiah reigns!"

Written by:
Mildred A. Baker
& Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
December 19, 1990

Scripture Reference:
Luke 2:8-20

One last note: On Friday, December 1, 2006, the movie The Nativity Story hit theatres nationwide. Please take a couple of hours to go see it. I promise you, it will light a spark of Christmas Spirit in your hearts. Enjoy! Merry Christmas!

The Nativity Story, Part One

2006-12-04T19:40:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
Well, it's official, winter is here. Along with winter came the arrival of the Christmas season, one of the holiest days on the Christian calendar, second only to Easter. For most people the hustle and bustle of buying toys, and gifts for the season takes precedence over spiritual matters. Once, that was not always so. Over three thousand years ago, Christmas came into being on a cold night in a little town called Bethlehem Ephratah, in Israel. There a small child entered the world and brought God face to face with His creation. The baby's name: Immanuel, means "God With Us." Most know Him today as Jesus.
Christmas is the celebration of His birth. For the next several weeks I'm going to share with you some poems that (hopefully!) will give light and joy to your lives. I also pray as you read and share them, that you will take a moment during the festivities to give thanks to God, for the wonderful gift He gave us in His Son.

The Christmas King
Humbly, He laid in a manger
the greatest Gift of all.
He was treated like a stranger
yet, He loves us big and small.
He is the Promised One
who has come to set us free.
For, He is God's Son
who died upon Calvary's tree.
The gift goes on . . .
let us love and adore Him.
The birth of this lovely one,
who found no room in the inn.
Go, tell it as the wise men did
over the mountains and the hills,
"Jesus Christ has come to Live.
He is the Hope for this world's ills!"

Written by:
Mildred A. Baker
&
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
December 15, 1990

A Thanksgiving to Remember

2006-11-17T19:27:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
This Thanksgiving holiday is filled with poignant reminders of God's Grace and blessings I'd like to share. My church-Albright United Methodist Church in Mishawaka, IN is preparing to move back into the educational building sometime next month. Despite losing our sanctuary in a fire October 4th, we have much to be thankful for. The community we have and continue to serve, has poured forth with help to us. It's been a very humbling experience to be on the receiving end of so much support and love.
There is also the sad fact, we are a nation still at war with terrorists who seek to destroy anything or anyone who stand for God. As of today, the troops remain committed to the course of standing in the gap between the terrorists and the innocents they are trying to protect. When they are able, the soldiers provide Hope to everyone they meet.
With so much sadness in the world, I thought it would be a good idea to reflect on some 'little things' we take for granted. Here's a poem that sheds light on what I mean. God bless and I wish you all a Very Happy Thanksgiving!

Thank God For Little Things That Often Come Our Way!

Thank you God, for little things that often come our way.
The little things we take for granted every day! . . .
The morning's glory as we rise,
which meets our tired, worn out eyes.
The music of the birds we hear,
when we face ourselves in the mirror.
The soul-cleansing bath we take,
when we get a good old coffee break.
The deafening, relentless roar
in traffic, as our tempers soar.
The maddening dash for cash
when the tradepoints flip and crash! . . .
May we never take these for granted,
nor the other blessings we've been handed.
May we always know
how much You love us so.
We must never underestimate
or stop to appreciate,
that through these blessings we often grow
to love You even more so!

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
July 6, 1991

Revival's A Coming!

2006-11-17T19:03:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
It seems every year about this time, churches the world over focus on what has been accomplished for God in their members' lives. Then they look ahead to what is coming for the new year. They plan and schedule every detail leaving very little room for change.
Sadly in their eagerness, I believe they have left out the most important part of church. Spontaiety. How can the presence of the Holy Spirit going to work with an empty hollow shell? The answer is obvious!
If people are willing to be flexible and adaptable in their Christian walk, the Holy Spirit will move in and begin to fill that empty hollow shell with thankfulness, joy, and Christ's Love. The key part is 'how willing are we to experience change? The kind of change that makes us uncomfortable, out of sorts and yes, a bit fearful.
This poem will (hopefully!) give you an idea of what I mean.

A Brokenhearted Cry
It began a low whisper,
spreading to every brother and sister.
Awakening as it rolled,
the heart of every spirit and soul.
Seeking to renew
our every longing for You.
Its purpose can not be curbed,
nor will its mission swerve.
Can you uncover its mask?
"What is it?," you ask.
It's a burning desire,
to kindle revival's fire.
All across the land,
you can feel its mighty hand,
pushing its way,
demanding to stay,
unwilling to bend,
until you defend!
With a broken hearted cry,
I ask, "Who is on the Lord's Side?"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
February 12, 1992

In Appreciation of Pastors, Part Two

2006-11-07T17:06:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
What would Pastor Appreciation Month be without acknowledging the unsung heroes behind those in the pulpit? I mean, of course, the spouses. Specifically, Pastors' wives. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all that you sacrifice in the name of ministry. Though the poem I've included is written with wives in mind; it is applicable to both genders. God bless you and know you are always in my prayers.

Pastors' Wives:
A Heart Full of Love
A Pastor's wife is gentle and kind,
and always willing to give of her time,
by letting her husband help someone desperate in need.
No reward does she get for this honorable deed.
Though her life is very lonely at times,
as she supports her husband in prayer, God's Love shines.
Her strength keeps the family growing,
even when illness is slowing
down their life walk, to a crawl
one can see, they still remain true to God's call.
With each impression their heart makes
one can hear the resounding cry, "I've done it for Christ's sake!"

Written on:
August 26, 1994

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie
&
Mildred A. Baker

Scripture Reference:
Proverbs 31:10-31

In Appreciation of Pastors, Part One

2006-11-07T16:47:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
October is Pastor Appreciation Month. I thought it appropriate to include something encouraging for all the Pastoral Staff serving Christ around the world. Here is a poem I wrote a few years ago that sums up thoughts on ministry from a Pastor's perspective. God bless all of you! You are in my prayers.

Pastors:
Always Seeking To Do God's Best
"Dear Father, this week I learned
if I continue to yearn,
for the approval of men,
I would not come to depend,
on what is the Will of God
but on mine, as I traverse life's sod.
Help me to remember,
I am Your child forever!
That I need not feel trapped or constrained,
nor without Your strength, though mine is drained.
Help my flock to understand, and not take offense
when I must follow Your Word, and commence
to confront those who commit to do wrong,
and who refuse to turn aside their wrath, replacing it instead, with Love which suffers long.
If there is one thing I could do to reach
the lost and my flock, it would be to teach
them, "and now abide faith, hope, and love,
these three; but the greatest of these is love."
Father, as I seek to do my best,
I know You will do the rest,
and may this ever be my song to sing,
"Jesus, You are Abba, Daddy, Father, Lord of Lords and King of Kings! Amen.'"

Written on:
August 28, 1994.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Scripture Reference:
I Corinthians 13:13

Clearing Away the Clutter

2006-10-24T12:39:00.001-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
How many of us go through life carrying habits, attitudes, and memories, like baggage? 'Clutter' comes in many forms. Past wrongs, and misdeeds we'd like to make amends for. Or, the 'clutter' of old papers, trash and junkmail. If we were to think abut it, the changes that come abruptly into our lives through death, divorce, circumstances, environment or other causes could also be considered 'clutter'.
All concept of waiting has been virtually eliminated from society's culture. We live in an instant, 'I want it now' mindset where everything at every turn must be accomplished immediately. From fast food restaurants to drive-thru grocery stores 'clutter' fills our lives.
As part of the creative process, a writer or an artist will methodically clear a space, wash dishes or remove obstacles from his/her way in preparation for beginning a project.
That is the same way we tend to treat God. We believe if we clean up our lives first we can then approach Him as an equal, not as someone who needs a Savior to clean him/her of sin.
To rid ourselves of all the 'clutter' in our lives we must first recognize there is nothing we can do on our own merits to accomplish this. It can only happen when we accept the 'hand up' offered by God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Through Christ's death, burial and resurrection we have access to God "by grace [we] have been saved through faith; and that not of [our] selves, it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, NASB)
Clearing the 'clutter' this way, is an act not only of faith but of surrender as well. When we surrender our lives (dirty, unkempt, marginally clean or spotlessly perceived), to Christ He will work (moment by moment, hour by hour or day by day) to teach us how to live better.
Just as an artist or writer works in conjunction with an editor or an agent to polish and refine their skills, so Jesus will cleanse, polish and refine us. One mess at a time. This transformation isn't instant or immediate but a life-long sifting process to eliminate the baggage of old habits, problems and/or negative influences that hinder our growth to full maturity.
The most important thing God wants us to remember as we persevere through life: Hope is always available if we look up and reach out to take hold of it. Perhaps this poem will help everybody to see that.

Come Walk With Me Through Life's Journey
From the dark recessed corners of my mind
they came, like specters, one memory at a time.
Taunting, tormenting and accusing me
of failures, mistakes I'd made, like chains dragging me down eternally.
Grim reminders of a scarred and battered soul
that longed to be clean and whole.
As I huddled in fright,
suddenly I was bathed in iridescent white light
and a voice called to me,"My Child, come here
there is no need to cower in fear.
When I died on Calvary's tree
it was humanity's face I saw before Me.
I gave My life in sacrifice
so you would have the Gift of Eternal Life!
These specters of your past have no power over you
for My Blood covers you."
When understanding dawned
I knew then that all along
God had been there
and I was safely in His care.
He will walk with me hand in hand
as together we faced life's demands
and I would grow in His Grace
as He stretched my faith.
I lift my voice to sing,
Thank you Jesus, you are Lord of Lords and King of Kings!"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
January 7, 2005

The Heavenly Father's Example of Fatherhood

2006-10-19T18:34:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
"I wish I hadn't given him up." sighed my Dad. Regrets, wishes, and hopes were the unspoken dreams my Dad expressed in his last days. How many of us would give everything we possessed to have one last chance to make amends? It's been three years since Dad died and still his words haunt me.
When Dad was a young man, he and his wife at the time, made a tough decision to give up their child for adoption. Dad knew it was the right thing to do. They couldn't provide for him because of circumstances and financial problems. That doesn't mean it was an easy decision to make then . . . or now.
In a perfect world, parents would never make mistakes, grow old or die. But, we don't live in a perfect world. As I gave him care during his last days, I learned to see my Dad as a human being. He had feet of clay, didn't live on a pedestal and simply loved . . . me. The life he lived was checkered with poor choices, snap decisions, vices and health problems. However, these things shaped who he became. I don't know much about his relationship with his own parents, except what I heard in passing from his siblings. I do know for a fact, the one thing he never regretted was pouring all of his love into me. Maybe he thought he could make amends for everything else, if he showered me with all the attention he never gave my brothers. (Including the one I didn't know about.) I know he loved them deeply, he just never knew how to show it in a positive way. Dad's gone and only God knows the truth now.
What I do believe is that in His own way, through the little details I most often overlooked, Dad loved me.
As a father, God did the same for his son, Jesus. While God gave Jesus life, He couldn't be present physically to teach Jesus how to make a living with His hands. Or take Jesus to His first service at the local synogogue. So, God did something wonderful. He gave Jesus two incredible parents, Joseph and Mary, to simply love him.
That's why I wrote the following poem. To share with everyone how much God loves us, and that the Heavenly Father's example of fatherhood is something everybody can do: love your children.

Father to Son, Son to Father
Holding Heaven in his hands,
Joseph struggled to understand,
how a little baby boy could be
the answer to save all hunanity.
'How was he, a humble carpenter from Nazareth, supposed to teach
Yahweh's Son, to preach?'
Caressing Jesus' face with his callused fingertips
Joseph marveled at the hunger in the boy's eyes
as gut-piercing cries
spilled from His lips.
Silently, Joseph wondered,
'How would sin's curse be sundered?'
Thirty years later, Jesus sat by a dying Joseph's bedside
and described to him what would happen after Joseph died.
"The depths of God's Love will reach down from Heaven above
erasing the boundaries of time and space
proving nothing compares to the infinite span of God's Grace."
then Joseph reaching out, blessed Jesus, "My Son, may the Light of God's Grace shine upon you. May you always bring honor to your Heavenly Father."
When Joseph breathed his last and first breath, Jesus gathered him into His arms and cried, "Abba! Father!"
Then Jesus wept.
Three years later, Jesus kept
His word. And today we know the impact Joseph had on Jesus' life,
how communion with God came about because of Jesus' sacrifice.
Storm-tossed and buffeted on every side
we still need to tell others Jesus is Alive!
Then we too, like Joseph,can rejoice
with a loud voice
as we sing,
"Praise and Thank you Jesus, for You are Lord of Lords and King of Kings!"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
May 3, 2006

Faith: The Evidence of Things Not Seen

2006-10-12T14:56:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
A little over a week ago, my church-Albright United Methodist Church in Mishawaka, IN-lost its sanctuary to a fire. So much has happened that it still seems surreal to see the damage when I go by the location. Sunday services on October 8, 2006 were held at Battell Park across the street from the sanctuary. I attended the first service at 8:30 a.m. and witnessed more than one person glancing over, then with a dazed expression, turn back to focus on Pastor Dennis' sermon.
Seeing in the Dark
Over the course of this week, more than one person has asked questions like, 'Why would a just God allow this injustice to His people?' or 'Did God send this fire as a judgement for sin in the church?' or 'What about all the hype that people are supposed to experience prosperity when they become a Christian?' I have to be honest here. I don't know how to answer someone else's questions much less find ones for my own. I mean, when good things happen to bad people, I become outraged just like anyone else. Yet, when bad things happen to good people, doubt, fear, anger and confusion take over. Okay, I imagine I know what you're thinking. Something like, 'That's not how a Christian should respond to suffering.' Why not?
Faith, like Grace isn't a one-time offering or experience, it is a continual expression of placing your trust in God to see you through a situation. The key word to remember here is 'through'. Through good times and bad, prosperity or poverty, illness or good health, environment or circumstances, God wants a sin-darkened world to see the evidence of His Presence displayed through the faith of His people. God uses any method or experience to stretch a soul's faith in Him. To ask this question, just as Philip Yancey, in his book, 'The Bible Jesus Read' does, 'Can a person believe God for no other reason than, . . . for no reason at all?'
One of my favorite Bible stories from the Old Testament has to do with three men. Their names are Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. These guys were high profile Jews, members of the Persian King Nebuchanezzer's gubernatorial council. Kind of like President Bush's Cabinet ministers today. To put it in layman's terms, King Neb, he let all the power he had swell his pride. He began to think he was even a god. Pretty serious stuff.
Well, one day, King Neb decided to build an idol of himself. He ordered all of his people including his gubernatorial council to bow down and worship this idol. Well, Don't you know, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused to worship any god except their own: God. Their reward for believing God for no other reason than, well . . . no reason at all? King Neb was so furious he tied them up and threw them into a hot, fiery furnace. Almost instantly, King Neb noticed something unusual. In astonishment, he said, "I see four men loose in the midst of the fire and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God." (Daniel 3:25, KJV)
Now, when King Neb called to them, the three guys exited the furnace, their clothes were intact, they had no burns, and they didn't smell like smoke. Pretty amazing, huh? It's a true story. The point is, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had faith that "the God we worship can save us from [King Neb's] flaming furnace. But even if He doesn't, we still won't worship [any other] gods." (Daniel 3:16,CEV)
What About Today?
The fire at Albright United Methodist Church affected many people. One that stands out in my mind is a member whose family has been attending Albright's for over 30 years. During a women's retreat this past weekend, she related this story.
As she stood watching the fire consume the sanctuary, one thought, one breath prayer, kept going through her mind. 'Lord, Daddy's picture of Jesus, ( the one he painted, with Him standing at the garden door, knocking, waiting to be let in, with the doorknob on the inside) is gone. Oh, Lord.'
Four days laterat the women's retreat, the lady listened in shock as another member described the find.
"The day after the fire was out, a firefighter approached one of the Pastors and asked him to follow. The firefighter led the Pastor into the charred remnant of the sanctuary. Bending down, the firefighter brushed aside some rubble to reveal . . . the picture of Jesus. The firefighter lifted it out and said, "I thought you might like to have this." The Pastor wiped the soot off the glass with a rag, and stared in disbelief. It was completely intact, with no smoke or water damage to its frame or contents."
The lady remarked, "You mean Daddy's picture survived the fire?" After the other woman nodded yes. The lady wept.
What's the point? God displayed evidence of His Presence through the fire, not around, under, past or over it. I've found that is the only way to get to the other side. Sometimes, I wish I knew the answer to why there is so much pain and upheaval in life. What I do know (and believe) is that God will walk with us through the fire.
Hope for Tomorrow
It is inHis perceived absence as well as in His Presence that people see the evidence God exists, the most. Each person meets God at a different point in their walk with Him. It is through life, with all its lemons that we do, say, and become faithful servants of God. What will be our response when storms come upon us?
A very long time ago, at the edge of a primeval forest, laid a meadow. Its boundary was marked by a wide, flowing river. At the edge of the forest stood an old oak tree, its arms waving majestically to the sky. Along the river's banks, stood slim willow and cattail reeds.
One day, stormclouds built in the sky. With a mighty thunderous roar, wind and rain ponded down to the earth. The willow reeds bent, slapped, and hummed in the blinding fierce gale. The old oak tree sank its roots down deep, as it braced itself against the wind.
Suddenly, a tremendous CRACK! split the air. With a scream of pain, the oak fell with a loud crash to the ground. Time passed. The storm drifted off and the world was right again. And yet, as the air grew still, gasps could be heard from the woodland creatures.
The old oak tree, laid broken and dying on the ground. While the willow and cattail reeds, straightened, as they shook off the remaining droplets of water. They were strong and resilient as ever.
What type of faith do you want to be known for?

Heaven's Music
In this world, there's too much sorrow, too much fear
In order for God's Grace to appear
Heaven's music must be heard
through the revelation of Jesus, found in God's Word.
And just as all of nature sings in perfect harmony
so too can humanity when Jesus calls, "Follow Me."
The question he asks each of us is, "Will you surrender your life
to tell others I AM alive?"
From the birds singing in the trees
to saints bowed, praying, on their knees
to a child's laugh or the wind as it moans thru a mountain pass
Heaven's music, like streams of living water, flows fast
and only the bravest can tread to safety
when one places their trust in God not, "if, and, or maybe."
Only then will one remember
in the silent, still moments Jesus is near
and the bleak darkness of one's life rolls back to hear,
Heaven's music is everywhere!
Then this song of praise will lift one's heart to sing,
"Thank you Jesus, for You are Lord of Lords and King of Kings!"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
May 23, 2006

If you would like more information about Albright United Methodist Church, you can visit their web page at www.gbgm-umc.org/albright-mishawaka/

Also, I would like to recommend some books for those who enjoy reading.
They are:
'The Bible Jesus Read' by Philip Yancey
and
'Hadassah: One Night with The King' by Tommy Tenney

And for anyone looking for a great date movie, I recommend:
One Night With The King, opening nationwide, Friday 13, 2006. It is a wonderful movie based on the above listed book by Tommy Tenney.

Also, I recommend for viewing:
The Second Chance, now out on video and DVD. It features Michael W. Smith as one of the principle players.

I leave you with this verse:
"When you walk through fire . . . . the flame shall not consume you." (Isaiah 43:2-3, NRSV) Emphasis mine.

Bite-Size Chunks of Grace

2006-10-05T16:30:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
In this world, everyone assumes contentment comes from having possessions and doing something important in one's life. An "I want it now" or "before now" mental attitude or expectation is the most common reaction to having to wait.
However, waiting is most often God's answer to prayer, and to our expectations. Waiting produces patience, and let's face it, humanity sorely lacks patience right now. For example, my church-Albright United Methodist Church in Mishawaka, IN, is learning firsthand what it means to wait. On October 2, 2006, as a severe thunderstorm rolled through the area, a lightning bolt from the storm struck the church sanctuary. Within minutes, the sanctuary was on fire. Flames shot 30 feet into the air, as the monster fire reduced the building to rubble. Word spread to the congregation just as quickly, and people began to gather. Within the hour hundreds of parishioners, neighbors, and fellow churches in the area knew about the fire. It took the fire department 12 hours to put it out and keep it from spreading to other buildings. By the next morning, everyone in the area counties knew or thought they knew what would happen next. People thought we would fold up and die. They were wrong.
By Tuesday night, a mobile food pantry truck pulled into the parking lot across from the shell of the sanctuary.Between 15-20 people showed up to help distribute food to the needy. Passersby were heard to remark, " I don't get it. Their church is gone, but they are still serving the needy. Don't they know they are the needy?"
My Pastors just smiled. One parishioner said, "We will rebuild the building. But the most important part of a church is still here. The people, that is what is important. Things are just things. But the people are the church and we will remain a church as long as we remember who we serve: Jesus Christ our Lord."
I can testify to that. Through the black plumes of smoke pouring forth from the sanctuary, one sound could be heard, that even the fire in all its rage could not quench, could not even come close to. "What was it?" you ask. It was the fervency of the prayers lifting as incense to the heavens, permeating the air before the throne of God.
And so like the Apostle Paul says in Phillippians 4:11-13, "I have learned in whatever state I am in, to be content. I have learned to be without and to abound that the power of Christ may be fully expressed through my life. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Flexibility+Adaptability=Grace above and beyond what we need. That is the equation of contentment. Grace isn't a one-time offering, it is a continual outpouring of God's Love and Mercy.
Just when you think you can't take one more moment of pain or suffering because the struggle to adapt seems too difficult, that is when "God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble." (James 4:6, NKJV) God will give you the strength for one more moment, (another 60 seconds, 10 minutes, or 1 hour) at a time. Then when you get through that chunk of time, God will give you the amount of Grace you need for the next chunk and so on.
Life is hard but God's Grace resonates even stronger and will sustain you if, you accept the situation, willing to roll with the punches, instead of bracing yourself against them.

The Warrior's Way

2006-09-21T15:45:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
When I think of war I imagine, like most people, it will never happen here or in my lifetime. I don't know why, I suppose that attitude comes from society's belief that humans are invulnerable, immune to harm. I've discovered that particular belief is a bald-faced lie.
History teaches that humanity's sense of right or wrong, its "moral compass" has constantly been corrupted, distorted and broken resulting in repetitive acts of war on humanity's weaker members. The people humanity deems unworthy or undeserved of life.
The reality is just the opposite. The people deemed unfit for "society's" idea of perfection are the very individuals God gave the abilities to guide and lead in times of crises. Ironic, isn't it?
When a soldier goes to war he/she is hailed as a hero; clapped on the back and told America is proud of the service him/her rendered to the country. However, when the soldier comes home he/she joins the ranks of all the others whom history would rather forget. The reason, if any is actually given for this disregard, is that the adjustment a soldier goes through while transitioning to civilian life is awkward at best, and frightening at worst. The most difficult said adjustment is, the more embarrassed society becomes at the soldier's inability to be perfect. At that point, society's "moral compass' turns upside down, and the soldier is deemed unworthy by everyone but God.
To the soldier struggling to fit in and find their place in a society that has turned its back on him/her I share these words from Psalms 91:1-2, 15-16
"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress; My God in Him will I trust. . . . He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation."
To God every soldier, whether on the battlefield, or struggling to fit in at home, is loved, wanted, needed and honored not because they chose the warrior's way, but simply because each one is a child of God, created in the image of God. Each soldier is considered one of his special joys. Never forget as you read this, like the poem I'm ending this article with says, "God will never leave you nor forsake you."

The Warrior King-a soldier's psalm
When the cover of night closes 'round about me,
and I hear the breath of mine enemy,
the Warrior King on high,
protects me.
When the guns explode and strafing fire slices the air over my head
and I am afraid,
the Warrior king on high,
shelters me.
When the burning of the sands
matches the grief I feel over the loss of my comrades,
the Warrior King on high,
comforts me.
When the tormeny of my captors seems endless and I am all alone
longing for Heaven and home,
the Warrior King on high,
reminds me: "My child, you are never alone."
When I returned home
and felt the strangeness of 'where do I belong?'
the Warrior King on high,
encourages me to sing this song,
"The Warrior King
of whom I sing
holds me in His Palm.
He wishes to share with everyone
this Soldier's Psalm!
A promise to all who serve King Jesus
is this,
"'He who perseveres
will no longer have to fear,
for one day wars will cease
and Peace
will reign
when Jesus comes back again.
On that day we will find
longed for hope and serenity of mind'
And in Heaven's house--a home
where all soldiers can have a place to belong and call their own."

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
May 14, 1995

Scripture References:
Psalm 91 & John 14:1-4

9/11, Five Years Later-The Choices One Makes

2006-09-14T15:08:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
My Personal Recollections
The year 2001 started with the loss of my mom on April 13th. I struggled with the grief and the crippling sense of fear. 'What would I do next?' Any person who has ever given care to another knows the emptiness I felt when mom died. For months I could barely cope with the myriad details of life. It was like I was in a vacuum, unable to see a way out. I grasped at straws looking for some sense of identity separate from the one of caregiver. I spent most of my time occupied with my own needs.
On September 11, 2001 that all changed. I remember sitting down to breakfast, and switching on the remote to NBC afilliate WNDU-Channel 16 to catch the morning news with Katie, Al and Matt. It was 9:00 a.m. The camera focused on the World Trade Center. I remember thinking, 'This picture is wrong. The smoke isn't supposed to be coming out of the top, but from the basement.' For some reason, perhaps my brain's attempt to shield me from the reality, my mind had flashed back instantly to the terrorist bombing in 1993. In the next breath I uttered, "Oh. My. God. No. This is happening right now."
Automatically, I reached for the phone and began calling friends and family. I was on the phone with one of my friends when the north tower fell. My mind latched onto one thought, "Thank God, mom is in Heaven. She would have had a fatal heart attack watching this." The reactions everyone I talked to experienced were mixed, ranging from absolute shock to disbelief to even scorn. Later, most would admit to not knowing how to cope with the fear.
A Glimpse into Evil
Even today, a glimpse of the twin towers of the World Trade Center with smoke billowing from their fractured heights sets my insides to quaking. Instinctively, I want to hide. 'Why?' I wondered. The answer I came up with is simple . . . yet arresting.
The images of the twin towers collapsing, with people screaming as they ran from the debris clouds, hold the same distinction in history now as those of hollow-eyed, emaciated survivors of Hitler's holocaust against Jews, Christians and other oppressed groups. The implied message of these images is chilling; it is one of unadulterated Evil against all that stands for God and good in this world.
No himan being, let alone a single nation, has the strength or courage to confront such a mindset bent on killing. But "if two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them" in battle. (Matthew 18:20, NKJV) United in prayer before God's Throne, a world can and will win against Evil.
A Call to Repentance
The decision then is clear, "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (II Chronicles 7:14, NKJV)
It's been five years since that tragic day when America lost its innocence; its sense of invulnerability to Evil attacking its own shores. America is very much still a nation at war. We live with the uncertainty every day could be our last. President George W. Bush in his address to the nation Monday, September 11th, the fifth anniversary of the attacks, said, "America is safer but not completely safe." So, the choices one makes in life determine what a person's destiny will be. What will you choose?
If you decide you wish to make a profession of faith in Jesus Christ. Then pray and ask, "Jesus, forgive my sins. I choose to trust You with my life and my soul. Please come and live within my heart. I give You the right to lead me and guide me in all things, and I ask You to be my Savior. Thank You, in Jesus' Name, Amen."
An Additional Note:
If you are still searching for answers and not sure whether you can trust Christ to be the answer you are seeking. Contact me through the comments section on this website and we will talk. I will be praying for you.

Here is a poem I wrote several years ago, I hope you enjoy it.

Lightning
Lightning forks slash the sky,
splitting wide the veil between God and I.
His face glows with the Love of a Father,
for His adopted sons and daughters.
as the thunder rolls,
the time of reckoning comes for mankind's souls.
We have been presented with a choice
in the quicksilver flash that follows, will we heed God's voice
and turn from our wicked ways,
to follow Him until the end of our days?
Or will we allow the brevity of time to close
the Door between this world's and God's? Yet only He goes
for the chance still remains,
for us to gain
the Promise of Eternal Life,
through the Gift of His son, Jesus Christ!
When we surrender our lives to Him,
He will gladly forgive and cleanse our sin.
A new creation we will be
for all eternity.
And when the portal again opens and Christ returns to stay,
we will sing with the angels on that Day,
"Jesus Christ is Lord of Lords and King of Kings,
now and forever He reigns!
The Peace that passes all understanding rules our hearts,
filling it with the knowledge He will never depart!"

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
June 2, 1994.

Scripture Reference:
2 Chronicles 7:14 & Matthew 18:20

A Bit of End of Summer Fun

2006-09-07T19:45:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
Everyone I know has experienced a rough week so I've decided on a change of pace for my column. Here is a taste of summer to keep my readers happy until next year. Enjoy!

Middle of the Night Fright-short story
One summer night in South Carolina I awakened with a start, my heart pounding in fright, to a sudden crashing noise. Reaching under my bed, I grabbed "Old Louie" the Louisville slugger bat Dad gave me for protection. As I rose from bed and crept out into the hallway a strange cloying scent tickled ny nose. I moved slowly in the moonlit darkness to Mom's bedroom and peeked in. Good, nothing but Mom in bed asleep.
The bare bathroom received a quick check, only the chrome gleamed in the light of the window. Only the kitchen and living room remained to be cleared of danger. I crept soundlessly down the carpeted hallway into the living room. In the semidarkness, the only shapes visible were those of furniture and the TV. However, as I approached the kitchen the odd odor I had noticed earlier, grew stronger and more unpleasant.
Mentally the thought of a burglar raced through my mind, as I warily prepared for anything. I raised "Old Louie" level with my head in a fighter's stance, swallowed hard and jumped out of the living room into . . . the trash can!
As my pulse raced with adrenaline I lowered "Old Louie" and started to laugh at the absurdity. Apparently, the trash can had tipped over, unbalanced when the dust pan slid down underneath it and crashed to the floor.
The kitchen clock read 3:15 a.m. and here I was standing in my pajamas, my hair a rat's nest with an old bat ready to do battle with a trash can. Shaking my head with silent mirth, I cleaned up the mess and went back to bed.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
April 10, 2006

After reading the book and viewing the movie based on C.S Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe", here is a poem I wrote that I thought you might also enjoy.

Summer Roses

Images of summer roses,
and snowdrops on noses,
glimmering lights
and angel eyes
mingled with hope in a dream.
All of it echoes my grief stricken screams:
Dad's ashes on snow
scatter, as brisk winds blow
my mind numbs with fear
as my blank eyes stare
at a bewitching cat
perched on a hardwood slugger bat
who dreams of mischief in the rain
while nonsensical words rhyme in my dream:
cottonwood dregs,
and prairie schooner wrecks
or maybe it's the image of woodchuck foes,
those misbegotten voles!
How do you describe the image of honor in glass
before a wind driven mast?
These thoughts and more,
drive me to my knees on the floor.
A simple cry, "Help God!" brings the thought, Harry Potter meets Christ
darkness turns into Life
The cat runs away, as ravens haunt the misty shored glen
I live in.
Time stands on end
as Aslan the Lion, my childhood friend,
trumps Satan, the old witch.
Aslan reminds me that the stone table split.
At last the battle is over. Life eternal wins
and Christ returns to rule again.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
April 10, 2006

Communion with God, Part Two

2006-08-31T16:10:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
I've often wondered, what is Heaven like? Will I recognize the people I love, like family and friends? Jesus promises in John 14: 2 that "In My father's house are many mansions [rooms]; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. " (NKJV)
This is what I imagine my heavenly "home" looks like. It is a low rambling structure with a wrap around porch. I see lots of cats resting in the Light of God's Love. The scent of honeysuckle, lavender, and roses hang heavy on the air. I see my Dad and a friend, Johnny Dycus trimming the bushes out front while they keep an eagle eye on the lane leading from God's Throne Room. Mom, and my grandparents, along with the Apostles Peter, John and Paul are sitting in rockers on the front porch as they talk about the Savior. Moses, with his brother Aaron are pouring iced tea and lemonade, and setting out plates of Mom's molasses cookies. Suddenly a shout comes from Dad and Johnny. "He's Coming! Jesus is coming!" There's a mad rush as the best rocker is brought out and Mom pours an extra tall glass of lemonade for the Savior. Just then Jesus strides through the gate , greeting Dad and Johnny. He invites them up onto the porch where He settles in to the cries of everyone around Him, "Hosanna! Praise God!" and "We love you, Lord!"
That is how I picture Heaven. You may have a different idea of what Heaven will be like, I don't know. If you would like to know with absolute certainty where you will spend eternity, then all you need do is accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior by choosing to place your trust in Him. He will keep His word, as He said in John 14: 3-4, "And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself; that where I am there you may be also. And where I go you know and the way you know." He will forgive your sins and come into your heart and life for eternity. There is no other way to receive eternal life. As Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." The assurance of salvation is obtained only through faith in Jesus Christ. Grace is offered, but each person must accept it. God is begging to forgive us but we must want to be forgiven.
Believe me when I say, there is no better way to face life, than with the faith that God is always with you, giving you the Grace to sustain you moment by moment. This poem reflects my faith in a God who is always there when you need Him.

The Crystal Sea

Gulls swing in a ballet from current to current,
diving and plucking fish from the depths.
Waves lapping the shore
echo the praise from my lips.
Shafts of golden sunlight
break through the dense clouds
illuminating my soul's cry
with piercing gut-wrenching sounds.
As dusk washes the sky in shades of midnight blue,
God's still small voice whispers back,
"My Child, I Am always here for you.
When Satan's next attack
sends you running in fear
be calm, filled with power and love
and with a sound mind, know I Am is near."
With those words ringing in my ears, I know what faith is made of:
It is what I hope for, the evidence of what I cannot see
Heaven's Gates opened wide
and Jesus waiting to welcome me.
The saints, prophets and family inside
teaching beside the crystal sea.
All of this and more
I have to look forward to
One day, I'll be standing on Heaven's shore
until then, I need to share the Good News with you.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
October 9, 2005

Scripture References:
II Timothy 1:7 & Hebrews 11:1

Communion with God, Part One

2006-08-31T15:45:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
I miss my mom and dad. Some days, the ache in my heart becomes so strong I find I'm on the verge of tears constantly. On other days, I feel as if life is flowing past so swiftly that I'm standing still, waiting. Just waiting for something or someone to come along and remind me I AM loved, wanted and needed. That I am something beautiful in someone's eyes. That is when I reach for my Bible and turn to John 14: 1-4.
In this passage, Jesus' reassuring words to the disciples on the subject of His imminent death offered comfort while also providing hope for people like me, today.
Jesus said, "Let not your heart be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions [homes]; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, and if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the place you know." (NKJV)
For many people Death is a frightening reality they try hard to avoid. But for believers in Christ, it is the doorway to eternity with Jesus. After all, He gave His Life to save humanity from the wages of sin; we should (hopefully!) be willing to trust Him with ours by inviting Him into our hearts as Lord and Savior. Then through studying the Bible, and a daily time of devotions and prayer we can build a lasting relationship with Jesus.
Just like in a marriage or some other type of relationship, both parties must take the time to nurture, support and love each other. Then when a person does place their faith and trust in Jesus, one can be sure of this: He will never leave nor forsake us.

Honoring All Veterans, Part Two

2006-07-28T19:19:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
Perhaps it is the combined memories of my mom and dad weighing heavy on my mind these days. But whatever the reason, I would like to continue to give thanks to God for the men and women who serve this country. In conflicts great and small, through peace time and war, you are always in my prayers and in those of fellow believers the world over.
In 1995, I wrote the following poems. Their message is as relevant today as it was then. I pray you find a loving welcome and an easy adjustment when you come home. Thank you for your courage and your sacrifice.

Honoring All Veterans
From the beaches of Normandy
to the sands of Saudi,
we stand before you today
paying homage to those soldiers whose sacrifices paved the way
for us to live free.
So too, has Jesus' death and resurrection brought us freedom from sin for all eternity
if we only believe!
Then we too will receive
His Peace
and all misery will cease.
This is why we can sing,
Jesus Christ is Lord of Lords, the Eternal Father of Fathers and King of Kings!"

Written on:
May 14, 1995.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

A Soldier's Psalm
Past:
Strafing fire rakes the night sky,
a sniper's bullet meant for me,
catches you behind the knee.

Present:
Drug wars ignite,
drive by shootings in the neighborhood,
pine is the choice for coffin wood.

Danger works
to make my mind think everything's a trap,
as my tight control crumbles and snaps . . .

Sweating, I realize the only solace I see
may be
for me to disappear in a forest of trees.

Future:
God's "future" for me:
In my "heart, soul and mind" the war has finally ceased,
and through His Grace I truly have found Peace.

Written on:
October 29, 1995.

Written by:
Belle Ann Leslie

Scripture Reference:
Matthew 22:37-40.

Honoring All Veterans, Part One

2006-07-28T18:53:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
I've been reflecting lately on the men and women who serve in the military. How difficult it is for them to receive good news when all they see every day is fighting. I wish to thank them personally for their courage and commitment as they are on the front lines fighting to keep America safe.
I can think of no better way to do that than with this poem.

The Good News!
To the officer in the Navy,
who is fighting most bravely.
To the person in the Reserves,
who is willing to give more than we deserve.
To those in the Air Force,
whose mind is set on a steady course.
To the strong, stalwart Marine,
who has courage the like I've rarely seen.
To those in the Army,
who willingly drop everything to help ye.
To those in the Coast Guard,
who protect our shores from enemies afar
Thank you
for all that you do . . .
There is One,
proclaimed as God's Son
who came to set you free
from sin for all eternity.
He paid the ultimate price
to bring you and I, Life!
Yet, that's not the end
He rose from the grave, My Friend.
And now amid the battle zone,
He wants you to know, you are never alone.
For as you face our common foe
remember, He is with you wherever you go.
And even through the fear
you can still draw near,
for He came to declare the Good News,
you are free to choose
the Gospel of Jesus Christ
when you surrender to Him your life . . .
If you ask him to come and dwell within
your heart, He will cleanse you of sin.
Then the victory will be sweet,
when you meet,
Jesus Christ in the air,
when He comes back to reign down here.
At that glorious shout,
there will be no doubt
of One mind you will be
for the rest of eternity!
And in joy you can sing,
"Jesus Christ is King of Kings!"

Written on:
August 1, 1992.

Written by:
Mildred A. Baker
&
Belle Anne Leslie

The Art of Interdependence

2006-07-28T16:55:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
A friend asked me recently this question, "What does the Bible mean when it says to honor Mom and Dad?" That made me think and like a good writer, I did some research to find answers.
I discovered there are two basic principles involved.The first is the Law, as represented by the Fifth of the Ten Commandments found in Exodus 20:12, "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God is giving to you."
Biblical scholars believe that the Law represents a sense of duty in respecting your parents. After all, parents are supposed to take care of, nurture, and raise their offspring to be functional, literate, productive and responsible adults. However, in this day and age, children often wind up raising themselves. Whatever the reason, many children who grow to adulthood perceive taking care of older parents as a burden that drags their own sense of worth into the dust.
Because their own self-worth is tied up in material possessions and accomplishments the adult children fail to prepare for the day when they receive that call. The one that alerts them Mom and Dad aren't the strong capable people they seem to be. Suddenly, the adult children find it necessary to make choices and decisions for Mom and Dad regarding housing, and medical care. The devastating change-of-life event, be it a stroke or debilitating illness, reminds the adult children they too, are growing old. The transition to accepting the parents' very human weaknesses and needs is awkward at best and frightening at worst. But when the adult children do look beyond this they find the invisible rigid code of behavior that binds them, relaxing.
Honoring parents is not meant to be a heavy weight or burden. It is meant to be a time filled with enjoyment. Which brings us to the second principle, Grace. When the adult children acknowledge the evidence of God's Grace, Love. They learn to laugh at life's obstacles, cry over their sorrows, live and see through God's eyes, all the colors of His creation. Most importantly, it is hoped, they learn that God's Grace is a Gift of Love paid for through Jesus' Death and Resurrection.
So honoring Mom and Dad in Grace means going the extra mile when needed, and not easily taking offense when it seems as if every little thing is an excuse to pick a fight. It means remembering that the loss of independence and learning the art of interdependence, leaning on others, is hard for both parties. It also means finding that one bit of humor in an untenable situation. For example, when you try to maneuver a walker through a doorway that is way to small, you quip something such as, "Hey Mom, I didn't know you could dance!"
Finally, it means remembering daily the words that Jesus uttered in Matthew 22:37-40, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it; you shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the prophets." (NKJV)
For more suggestions on the art of interdependence, see the following poems.

Gossip
When people get older
I've noticed they tend to be bolder
or maybe, nosy is a better word.
Like, two old gents sat smoking cigars, one commented, "Say, haven't you heard?
This place is draftier than an old barn."
The other one said, "Did you hear the one about the cat who ate Irene's yarn?"
Along came the lady's neighbor
who remarked, "No, I heard her cat laid on it when it was in labor."
"Really?" replied one of the gents.
The other gent said, "No, No. I heard it was a bird caught in her hair net."
And on and on the story is told
until no one knows who started it and why
it was just a way to pass the time.

Written on:
January 15, 2004.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Life At a Senior Hi-Rise
Living at a senior hi-rise
time slows, and nature bends into a semblance of active lives.
Like fine wine that ages well,
one senior finds it hard to tell
the beauty of his former state
from his current, as slow of gait
he insists, "Don't call me sweet!
Crusty or cantankerous maybe, but I am fun to meet!"
Another calls to a grandchild, "Hop on board."
The child clambers on her lap as Grandma's wheelchair rolls out the door.
There is Euchre, Bingo and dominoes, too.
Don't forget there are also jigsaw puzzles to do.
The best part of living at a senior hi-rise to some
is that losing some independence, doesn't mean you can't have fun.

Written on:
January 15, 2004

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Doing The Right Thing

2006-07-23T11:04:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
As a young college student from a small town, the news report the other night on the Prison Camp at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba pricked my conscience. I seriously began to think about the situation there. Specifically, the conditions the detainees live in, and the fact they are held without legal representation or the right to a fair trial.
The photos captured the haunted look of hoplessness and despair on the detainees' faces. I was instantly reminded of the stories I had heard from World War II veterans of similar reactions they had witnessed, when the veterans liberated people from Hitler's death camps.
Now, I know in my heart that for the most part, the American military honors the Geneva Convention's code of coduct in regards to human rights. I also know no one is perfect. Many mistakes can and will be made in the interests of self preservation. We are a nation at war.
So it may be true many detainees at Guantanamo Bay are considered to be too dangerous to release to the general public. It may also be true quite a few don't wish to return to their own countries because they fear reprisal or death.
It seems, some of the countries whose people we hold would rather let the United States be responsible for the risk these detainees pose rather than take responsibility for their own inaction.
Consequently, America faces a moral dilemma. How does a nation respond appropriately when dealing with prisoners of war when there are ramifications, that shoot off in every direction, to the decisions a nation must make?
The Prison Camp at Guantanamo Bay stands in the crosshairs of a divided world. A planet whose differences seem insurmountable and cannot be easily resolved by a pat on the back or a friendly shake of hands. Or can it?
To do the right thing is never easy or uncomplicated. But when you take that road in a complex, violent world, the simplest solution may be the best.
It wouldn't hurt if the leaders of the countries whose detainees we hold, sit down over "tea and cookies" and talked. Really talked to come up with a solution that benefitted everybody, especially the detainees.
Like the Bible says in Romans 12;18, "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peacably with all men." (NKJV)

What's the Difference Between an Emigrant and an Immigrant?

2006-07-23T10:37:00.000-04:00

Grace moment by moment-weekly column
This week marks the holiday of Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates the victory of the Mexican Army over the French Army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Many communities and cities in Mexico and North America set aside a day, the Fifth of May, to honor the beliefs of people of Hispanic heritage.
As is the case with Cinco de Mayo and many local, regional and national festivals, it is hoped through the sharing of food, music, faith and customs, people will learn to respect the diverse representation of ethnic heritage found in the United States.
After all, when you think about it none of us can claim to be a true American unless someone is of Native American descent. America is a hodgepodge of different backgrounds, faiths and social class. Many of our ancestors emigrated to the United States from other countries. Some came to start over financially, while others came to freely worship God without censorship or persecution. Whatever the reason given, it is wrong to deny someone the promise of a better life based on economics, prejudice or politics. Everyone deserves and needs to be treated as a human being with dignity, respect and compassion. The following poem is inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King's "I have a dream" speech.

Treat Me as Christ Sees Me: A Human Being
I have a dream . . .
to be treated like a human being.
"Not by might, nor by power
but by My Spirit, says the Lord."
Not for race, color or position
but for Love in God's disposition.
He alone is the One,
who made me in the image of His Son.
Through His eyes He can see
Christ's blood, shed for me.
Through His love alone
God's Grace has shown
that the pathway to God
is through the power of Christ's blood.
There is no other way
to face the coming Day,
when Christ comes back
knowing His forgiveness is what a person lacks!

Written on:
January 19, 1992.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

Scripture References:

Zechariah 4:6; Matthew 7:13-14; John 3:16-17; John 14:6;
Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:11; & Ephesians 2:10.

For more information on Cinco de Mayo, explore Mexonline.com

Easter Blessings, Part Two

2006-07-23T10:15:00.000-04:00

Grace Moment by Moment-weekly column
A friend asked me recently, "Why is Easter so important?" Aside from all the hoopla about the Easter bunny and the hunt for Easter eggs. The single most important fact about Easter is the celebration of the Day that changed history. The day Jesus Christ rose from the grave. In doing so, He defeated Death and became the offering for sin. All humanity needs to do is recognize Jesus died to save us because of His great Love for us. If we believe that and accept Him into our lives as Lord and Savior we will have eternal life.
Easter then, is the fulfillment of God's Promise to humanity. The promise of salvation foretold in the Bible. But Easter is more than that, it is the anticipation of Christians, scholars and the whole world who look for the Day when Jesus Christ returns to bring a true, lasting Peace to this globe. With expectant hope, humanity's gaze turns to the eastern wall of Jerusalem, in Israel. It is said, in the Old Testament, that on that day Jesus Christ will ride through the Eastern Gate of the city. What a day, what a glorious day that will be!
Here is a poem that accurately describes the scene and sums up my feelings for the event that could happen at any moment.

The Eastern Gate
Withe current Israeli-Jordanian talks completed, Peace was made
and though the plans of war by mortal men were delayed
the leaders still made history, for all could see
the fulfillment of prophecy.
With this in mind
we must be conscious of the time
for the day approaches fast
when the final die will be cast
and the efforts of those who are crazed for war
will find instead the world's desire for lasting peace, soar
and the alliances the terrorists would form
at best, lukewarm.
It is then, all eyes will turn towards the Eastern Gate
for the world's hopes and dreams will be realized as on that appointed date
all will lift their voices in praise to sing,
"Hosanna to the Son of David! Our Messiah has come to reign!"

Written on:
August 10, 1994.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

The Importance of Prayer, Part Two

2006-04-14T18:27:00.000-04:00

Grace, Moment by Moment-weekly column

This week is the holiest week on the Christian calendar, second only to the week of Christmas. So, I thought I would share another insight into the importance of prayer.

Clash of the Titans

As the soughing, icy chill wind rattles through the dry, brittle trees
the clock tower sounds the dinner hour; I freeze
my breath mists in the snow driven air
as I perceive the echo of all the saints' prayers.
Momentous and growing, the menace of Evil seethes
under the surface of present time, straining for release.
The clash of angelic and satanic powers meet
beyond the mortal ken of man; amid the sleet of Heaven's storm-tossed skies,
Michael the Archangel battles Satan, the Father of Lies.
But a moment is all that is needed
to hear God's clarion call. Heeded,
I whisper an unending litany of prayer
knowing, seeking, beseeching Father God's grace appear!
As I hurry on to eat, I wonder
was Satan's power play torn asunder?
Father God's Love infuses my being
with reassurance; I express my joy by singing,
"You are Abba, Father, Yahweh.
thank you, for being eternally My Daddy."

Written on:
November 16, 2005

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

May you have a blessed and joyous Easter!

By Starlight or Sunlight God's Grace Appears

2006-04-05T23:08:00.000-04:00

Grace: Moment by Moment-weekly column

God's Lamp Post of Light
As moonlight dances on the dark water
I seek the lamp post of my Heavenly Father.
Night shadows the path I take
His is the only source of light to make
the path ahead seem clearer.
Calmness fills my very being as dawn edges nearer.
I hear music of a different kind
its the first ethereal notes no one on Earth can find,
of an angel choir singing heavenly hymns
in praise to the great I AM.
I look and see
no one notices but me.
Am I the only one they are singing to?
What is it God wants me to do?
As the path winds through the dark,
Caverns of my heart
open wide,
flooding with the blaze of the Jesus' Son Shine.
Even the recesses are swept clean
with no cobwebs of old guilt left within.
Hope and Mercy break down the only protection I've ever known;
the walls surounding my soul's home.
Peace supplants fear, rooting out the weeds of discontent
so that in this place, only good things can vent.
No matter how faith appears on the outside, looking in
one can only see Christ again.
As the last light post fades to black
I know at last God's Grace is back.
Thank you Father God, for this prayer.
May I always know You are here,
close beside me all the way.
May I be a light for You until Resurrection Day!

Written on:
October 13, 2005

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

An Easter Basket of Blessings

2006-04-05T22:40:00.000-04:00

Grace: Moment by Moment-weekly column

An Easter Promise

Wounded and hurting, pain lances the depths of my soul
I wondered, would I ever again be whole?
The wounds only bled more
as I battled the bruising mind games of the dark lord.
As the thunder of guns echo the reverberations of St. Monica's bells
my mind can only handle so much grief--real
and anticipatory. How do I cope, let go, and seize life again?
Tears mix with the drumming rain
as the color guard moves into place
I question, "When innocents die, does faith?"
Who do I turn to? Which voice is clear?
When Jesus calls, His voice is harder and harder to hear.
All around
bombings and images of death surround.
Confused for a moment as lightning flashed, I froze
in the backwash the image of Christ at the garden tomb arose.
His nail-scarred hands spread wide
and with Love shining from His eyes,
He spoke to my heart, "My child, I died
so that you might have Everlasting Life.
Come unto Me and I will give you rest."
Then He gathered my weeping form to His chest.
At the grave of my father I rejoiced,
for I knew he too had made the right choice,
to trust God
no matter what life throws at one.

Written on:
March 18, 2004

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

The Importance of Prayer

2006-03-26T19:20:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment By Moment-weekly column
"The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much"
(James 5:16 NKJV).

"Where Were You When the Olympic Park Bombing Occured?"

The question from my friend startled me. When I agreed to do the interview I had no idea what to expect. I knew she wanted to ask me some questions about my time in South Carolina. Well, that certainly took place then. We were sitting in my house, sipping tea when the subject came up. Reflecting on that event, I smiled. It was one of my favorite memories of Mom. The day I learned how important taking time to pray could be. . .
I remember it as a warm summer day in Sumter, South Carolina. Sunny golden light danced across the carpeted living room and onto the kitchen table as we prepared to start the day. At 7:45 a.m. I checked Mom's blood sugar-140. So I prepared an insulin syringe and gave her, her morning shot while the griddle warmed. A few minutes later, I served our breakfast of hot blueberry pancakes and sizzling sausage with orange juice and coffee. By 8:30 we had eaten and I had washed the breakfast dishes.
As I put the dishes away I asked Mom, "What do you want to do today?"
I knew what the answer would be. It's what we did every Saturday.
"Let's start with baking cinnnamon rolls,then maybe, some chocolate chip cookies or pies later." Mom replied her eyes lit with a smile, "You know how Uncle Bob and Aunt Mary love them."
Yeah, I know." I laughed. "It seems we can't keep them around long enough to satisfy their sweet tooth."
"Or mine." Mom added with a laugh.
As I began setting out the pans and utensils, I reflected on our routine. Every Saturday morning, as we listened to the Christian radio serial programs, Mom and I baked sugar free baked goods. I did most of the physical work since Mom had suffered a stroke a few years before. But it in no way diminished her joy of baking or the time we shared together. As I set the final ingredient on the table, Mom's mood changed.
"Honey, we need to keep praying. That ominous sense of trouble I mentioned a few weeks ago is stronger than ever today. I don't know what it means. . . I hope nothing bad is going to happen but we just need to keep praying."
"Okay, Mom." I had felt the same troubling sense of unease for a couple of weeks now. I knew from Mom's teaching, and from my own experience, never argue with God when He impresses a need for His people to pray.
About an hour later, we were halfway through the second batch of cinnamon rolls, with the first one in the oven baking. Suddenly I had to go to the bathroom.
"Mom I'll be right back." I yelled as I ran down the hallway. The hall clock read 9:00 a.m. Mom's favorite radio program Ranger Bill was on. In the bathroom the words, "Prayer is the essence of our walk with Jesus. It is the pipeline through which He hears us." floated through my mind. Outside the thermometer read 92 degrees and even though I wore a tank top and shorts, I shivered.
Suddenly I heard Mom scream, "AH-H-H No! No!"
Startled, I ran from the bathroom, calling, "Mom? Mom, what is wrong?"
No answer came except . . . sobbing.
When I reached the kitchen Mom clutched her chest, her face the color of chalk. "Mom, Mom what is it? Are you having chest pains?" I asked as I crouched next to her.
Shaking, she hoarsely voiced, "No-o, the . . . the radio."
Nothing about this made sense because when I turned towards the radio I could hear Ranger Bill still on. Just then the morning radio host broke in to make an announcement.
"Folks, it has just been confirmed, A bombing occurred at the Olympic Park in Atlanta, Georgia during the wee hours this morning. There are unconfirmed reports as to the number of fatalities and injuries. The investigation is still ongoing. We will continue to break in with details as needed. Now, back to our regularly scheduled programming."
Shocked, I collapsed into a nearby chair. Moments passed as Mom calmed herself. Then her eyes locked with mine. I reached for her and she clasped my hand as we bowed our heads in prayer. The smell of warm, buttery cinnamon wafted from the oven and lingered in the air around us. Foremost in our minds were the thoughts of the families and victims in Atlanta. I'll never forget the words we prayed in unison.
"Lord, we come to you with heavy hearts today. People are suffering in Atlanta and elsewhere. Please, Father. Let Your Will be done, not ours, but Yours. Comfort and sustain those who are hurting right now. Thank you that You can always call on us to pray, in Jesus' name, Amen."
As I took a sip of tea, my friend said, "Wow! That is sure some story."
I smiled, then replied, "Yeah, it is. Today, we face similar situations all over the world, and it is more important than ever that people always, always take time to pray."

Grace That Sustains

2006-03-18T10:20:00.000-05:00

Moment By Moment-weekly column

Overcoming Obstacles-Never Give Up!
I was nearing twenty when my world tumbled to the ground. One morning Mom and I walked to town, as we came to the main street, Mom said, "Honey, come on. We have to hurry to get across."
I remember thinking as we moved into the street, What's going on? My legs are tingling. Looking up I saw a semi trailer bearing down on us. The driver's eyes locked with mine and I thought I would faint. I managed to pick up my pace. We walked halfway across when my legs went numb, and I hit the pavement.
Mom's face reflected my own horror and fear. Then she grabbed me under the shoulders, and muttered, "God give me strength." Mom hauled me to the other side of the street. We both collapsed as the semi roared by.
Mom went into the grocery store next door and called for help. We waited only fifteen minutes for a ride but it seemed endless. My mind raced with questions. Why can't I feel my hand touching my thigh? Why can't I stand or walk? Why am I so sick?
At the doctor's office I underwent extensive testing. Dr. Rafe told us what wasn't wrong. "Belle, you don't have cancer, polio, or a tumor."
"Should I celebrate?" I wassn't sure.
Dr. Rafe replied, "No. I wouldn't. What you do have is Multiple Scleriosis."
Mom voiced my thoughts when she asked, "What do we do now?"
Dr. Rafe soberly replied, "There is nothing you can do. Go home and prepare to die."
"What?" Shaken to the core, I stammered. "There has to be something we can do. Is there someone we can contact for more information?"
Dr. Rafe answered, "Not in Indiana. I have asked all my colleagues here and no one knows anything. Keep track of your symptoms and rest. That is the best prescription I can give you."
During the next couple of months, I stumbled and fell when I tried to walk on my own so I used a walker for stability. The lesions developing in my brain caused severe headaches, blurred vision, and tingling in my limbs, followed by numbness. As time went by my health worsened and I became homebound. I felt depressed and discouraged, and it was a struggle to get out of bed, much less make it to the bathroom in time.
I raged at God. Even though friends and family come to visit, where are You in all of this?
But Mom never doubted God or what He would accomplish in my life. Instead, she encouraged me to "Write whatever comes to mind, but never, never give up!"
Privately, I railed at God. Why is this happening to me? All my life I've battled health problems. Now MS. Haven't I suffered enough?
One night, almost a year after my diagnosis, I lay in bed reading and praying. Even though it seemed as if my prayers bounced off the ceiling, I wouldn't give up. I ache with emptiness and a thirst for a closer relationship with You. Do You hear me at all?
Mom lay asleep in the next bedroom. I took a deep breath. The fragrance of lavender, like the sachets Grandma used to tuck in Mom's linen drawer, brought a smile to my face as it permeated the room. The hair on the back of my neck stood up. I knew God's presence was in the room with me.
As stones drop in a wishing well so these words from Philippians 4:13 and Zechariah 4:6 echoed in my mind, "My child, in My strength you can do all things. Not by might nor by power but by My Spirit."
I cried.
When I opened my eyes the next morning, I knew I was made of sterner stuff. I no longer wallowed in self-pity. From home, I started a prayer newsletter for the shut-ins of the church Mom and I attended. I also started compiling books of poems, stories and letters for my nieces.
Now as I sit at the computer typing, I smile. The fatigue I battle is a breath away, but the Grace God gives me sustains me moment by moment.

Planned for God's Pleasure: Worship

Prayer is an important part of the Person I choose to be,
it is a conscious choice of worship that sets My Spirit free.
I ask myself the question daily, 'What would Jesus do?'
than try to live my life, as an example, before you.
Finding hope where there is none,
means reaching upwards to Jesus, God's Son.
His nail-scarred hands clasp hungrily to mine
while He says, "Cling to me for I Am the true living Vine."
So, for every prayer of a person's name that enters my mind,
you will find,
my greatest treasure
is, knowing you were created for God's Pleasure.

Written By:
Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:
March 14, 2006

An Invitation to Worship

2006-03-11T13:43:00.000-05:00

Grace Moment By Moment-weekly column
Psalm 118:24,
"This is the day which the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it" (NKJV Thomas Nelson, Inc 1984).
I rush to Praise Team Practice at church. My mind races with all the details of schoolwork I have yet to do. When I walk in, though, I stop and stare. People are praying and the air resonates as if an electricity charge permeates the sanctuary. The hair on the back of my neck stands on end. At once, I feel I am an intruder treading on sacred ground.
I close my eyes and imagine I am transported to an ancient monastery where monks chant in a cadence as old as time. The air is redolent of frankincense, balsam and ginger . The spices mingle with the drip, drip of beeswax candles on crackling parchment paper.
In the mist of all this the awe of God's Presence fills the sanctuary with the fragrance of roses and lavender. Suddenly I am no longer an intruder but welcome as a friend. Calm infuses my being cleansing me of all doubt and fear. Time resumes as I open my eyes and step into the modernday shoes of a Praise Team member who, like the monks of ancient times, lift my voice in songs of praise. I am thankful to be here, now, so others can hear of God's loving Grace.

Profiling Ministries of Grace
Heart to Heart: An Interview with Marilyn Waughmans

In the Mishawaka/South Bend Indiana area you will find many individuals who are dedicated to serving low-income households. However, there is one who I've come to know as a good friend. Her name is Marilyn Waughmans and I'd like to share with you what I know about her.
About Marilyn Waughmans
Marilyn is a caring, compassionate, humble woman who selflessly gives of her time to help those in need. She is uncomfortable when praise is offered for what she does because she would rather have the attention focused on the people she serves.
People like your mother, father, sister, brother or grandparent who found themselves without the means to pay for both medicine and food. Instead they come to Marilyn and most times, she can help with one or the other. Sometimes both.
I had the privilege of interviewing her this week.
Here are some of the questions I asked her and her responses.

About Stone Soup Community
Q. What inspired you to become involved with Stone Soup Community?
A. I had been working in another agency that served the low-income population when the executive director was fired and everyone else walked out. There were thirty plus volunteers with no place to work. Stone Soup Community was born from that.

Q. How did you get involved in social and civic matters?
A. I believe strongly that a human right is a terrible thing to waste. For that reason I enjoy doing things to make peoples' lives better.

Q. What are the needs of the community?
A. There are myriad needs in the community. Hunger, homelessness and people who have no clue where to go for help. Lack of transportation. Being able to find suitable work for a living wage.

Q. Describe for me what happens when a client comes to visit?
A. First, we assess what the crises needs are. Beyond that we address the issues that cause the crises. Either by ourselves or in collaboration with another agency, we resolve the crises of the moment and resolve the issues that precipitated it.

Q. What is one of your most rewarding experiences?
A. Recently, two young men lacking transportation and looking for jobs came in requesting bus passes. They received bus tokens equal to three round trips, and some decent clothes they found in our free clothes closet. Afterwards they went job hunting. They returned, demonstrated they had found work and then received bus passes.

Q. What frustrates you the most?
A. The thing that frustrates me the most, is when a client refuses to cooperate to help themselves. Like, when we send them for an appointment for say, budget counseling, and they don't keep the appointment.

Q. Which direction do you see Stone Soup Community going in the future?
A. We are in the process of learning ourselves, and training counselors to solve issues in addition to, bandage patching them. For example, encouraging collaboration between other helping agencies, and using common data with permission of clients in order to serve them better.
Advice For The Community
Q. What are some ways the people in the local community can get involved in Stone Soup Community?
A. Volunteer, give money and pray for us.

If you would like to help or have a desire to start a similar ministry of Grace, please feel free to use the following:

Contact Information:
Stone Soup Community
Marilyn Waughmans

South Bend Office:
574-968-5204

Mishawaka Office:
574-250-1922

Silence

The stillness of time as you wait in the car during rush hour traffic,

the space between musical notes,

the calm before a storm,

the eerie quiet of a snowbound forest,

In all of these one hears the voice of God.

So wherever one travels across life's sod

One is comforted by the essence,

Of His Presence.

Written on:

April 25, 1994.

Written by:
Belle Anne Leslie

A Fistful of Grace

2006-03-08T17:50:00.000-05:00

Hello!
Welcome to my website. I'm Belle Anne Leslie and I'm a freelance writer. Sarting now I'll be posting a column entitled "Grace Moment By Moment." This column will feature ancedotes, poems and Scripture verses to encourage my readers. Another regular feature will be excerpts of my works in progress; fiction and nonfiction books.
Today's column focus is:
"How much Grace do we really need?"
Grace is God's gift. There is nothing we can do to earn it or to buy it. It is simply a gift we either accept or reject.
Think of it like this: If somebody gives you a shiny red present with a big bow and it wasn't your birthday or an anniversary gift, would you accept it or refuse it?
Too many times we panic because we don't get what we think we need when we need it. But if we are honest with ourselves, it's what we want instead of what we need. God's Grace is like that. We keep asking for more of it but, instead of a fistful or cup God gives us a teaspoon. Much to our surprise, it is more than enough.
Today I had my rugs cleaned professionally. God surprised me when an anonymous donor gave me the money through a friend at church. The only stipulation was I had to use it to clean my carpets. The Lord knew how sick I have been, and while I didn't pray for this gift specifically God answered it all the same.
God's grace is a miraculous thing. It brightens everyone's day when someone shares a blessing they receive. So please share the blessings God gives you with someone else. In this poem there's an idea of how you can do that.

Thornless Grace

When a friend calls to say hello

and I hear his/her voice,

I know God is with me.

When a butterfly on the air flits

hovering around my face, my spirit lifts

and I know God is with me.

On a gray cold day, when the sun plays peek-a-boo

betwixt a cloud or two

I know God is with me.

As the cool crisp bite of a winter's morn,

drives the birds to search for corn

scattered on the ground, I know God is with me.

As the heavenly scents of of warm ginger, lingering rosemary and sharp cheddar

bubble from the oven, I am reminded of mom and dad who are both gone

and I know God is with me.

I know there is no such thing as "thorn less grace"

for without the thorns one often forgets to seek God's Face.

"'My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness'

So when life grows frail and you become weak and worn

remember, I AM is with you."

Written by:

Belle Anne Leslie

Written on:

January 10, 2006

Scripture Reference:

2 Corinthians 12:7-10.

All Scripture Quotations are from (NKJV Thomas Nelson, Inc. 1984.)