Tag Archives: light

Rejoicing in Life's Moments, Replenish

(The Everlasting Way) Recovering

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Basking in the beginning of a new year. It is chilly outside, but we are cozy inside. It’s so quiet. 😊

Jack, our two-year-old Aussie, is constantly making sure we’re okay. He’s been spending a lot of time checking on my bride lately as she is recovering from shingles and life-threatening clot removal surgery.

Today I want to take some time to align my insides with what’s happened externally. I don’t always take the time to do this.

Emotions from multiple difficulties tend to stack up in my soul and grow stale, numbing my tenderness. But today I need to steward my heart. It’s part of our recovery.

A Little Entomology

Re-covery – The word recover comes from Latin recuperare (“to get again, regain”), via Old French recovrer, meaning to return to a former state, health, or possession. [1]

I love ‘re’ words. There are several that work well as I unpack my heart.

• Reflect — to bend your attention back toward truth

• Replenish — to fill again what has been poured out

• Rejoice — to delight deeply, to let joy rise anew

Reflect

Reflect, to bend my mind back toward the truth.

 The truth is that my wife could have been blinded by a severe case of shingles. She could have had a stroke or lost her life with the blood clots in her leg and lungs.

Allowing these facts to pass the stubborn ‘No Entrance’ gate of my inner heart, I cry: “I could have easily lost by bride of forty-four years!”

The reality of these recent happenings is taking root deep within me. My eyes tear up.

Tears are rare for me, and I don’t hold back. My soul shakes a bit to go along with the tear, and soft sobs emerge.

With my eyes closed, I feel a gentle pressure on my arm.

My eyes open to find Jack’s paw on my arm, checking on me. Australian Shepherds are that way. I can learn a lot from him.

Replenish

re – (again) + plenus (full) to fill up again, to restore fullness

My tears don’t last long, and they never erupt into anything more than gentle sobs, but I’m glad for them.

I turn my thoughts to the word replenish.

During a crisis, you can’t easily tell how your soul becomes drained. But I could tell I was getting discouraged. It can be disheartening when someone you love is suffering and there’s not much you can do to ease their pain.

I felt this before during the deaths of my father, mother and sister. Seeing them suffer, I did what I could, but their pain remained.

In our present situation, many folks have rallied around us.

On the first day of the emergency, even before we knew how serious the situation was, Dean, Kevin, James, and Dave showed up at the first hospital.

On the day of the surgery, our kids came from all over the place; our brother Bill flew down. Elder Rob was with us in the waiting room.

The Andes, Anna, the Millers, the Hills, James, Kelsey and Becky brought food, and many others offered. Our kids cleaned up our house and even put clean sheets on our bed. Folks from our church, our neighborhood and long-term friends were constantly praying for us, checking in and offering help.

The presence of love replenishes. It was happening during the crisis, and it’s happening now.

And now, as I pause and draw near to God, though He never leaves me, His nearness, His comfort is replenishing me. My soul is being brought back to fullness. 😎

Rejoice

re–(intensive) + gaudere (to delight)–to delight deeply, to experience joy again

Being brought again to fullness in His presence, my soul senses joy.

In Your right hand there are pleasures forever (Psalm 16:11b NASB)

He is joy. All the “little joys” of this temporal place never satisfy us. Only God gives full joy.

But how can suffering and joy co-exist? The following answers to this question are not exhaustive.

Paul: For we don’t desire to have you uninformed, brothers, concerning our affliction which happened to us in Asia: that we were weighed down exceedingly, beyond our power, so much that we despaired even of life. 9 Yes, we ourselves have had the sentence of death within ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead (II Corinthians 1:8-9).

When our hard times stretch us beyond our abilities, it helps us realize our limitations. We can give up or we can trust in God.

James: Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4).

Testing builds our endurance and perseverance, teaching us not to depend on circumstances to be okay. In Christ, we lack nothing.

Peter: In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved in various trials, 7 that the proof of your faith, which is more precious than gold that perishes, even though it is tested by fire, may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ — 8 whom, not having known, you love. In him, though now you don’t see him, yet believing, you rejoice greatly with joy that is unspeakable and full of glory, 9 receiving the result of your faith, the salvation of your souls (I Peter 1:6-9).

Trials purify and strengthen our faith.

Prayer

Lord, thank You so much for never leaving our sides during these difficulties. Thank You for allowing me to come to the end of me quickly when it comes to nursing my wife. This is allowing me to stop striving in my strength and more quickly depend on You. I should depend upon You always, no matter what.

I desperately need You. Even when I don’t realize it.

Thank You for providing new ways to show love to my wife.

Lord, thank You for these moments today to steward my heart. Thank You for being my God of all Comfort who is always by my side. Thank You for some tears. May others flow.

I love You

Reflections

In the days since, my bride’s asthma has flared up.

Honestly, this is not what I was expecting. In my sometimes-overoptimistic way, I was sure that after tooth problems, shingles and life-threatening clot removal surgery, health would surely be coming.

She’s had her weary moments, but overall, she’s kept a brave, persevering attitude.

I’m still very hopeful that things will turn around soon. But in the meantime, I’m reminded constantly of how needy I am of God’s strength and power. I must stay alert about this.

Allowing her to express to me what’s going on with her is vital.

I must Relinquish (give up the pursuit or practice of, desist, cease from) my dependence on me.

For my bride, I pray for her:

Recovery (return to health after illness, injury, misfortune)

Refreshment (to make fresh again)

Reviving (to live again)

Restoration (to be brought back to wholeness)

[1] Google AI search – entomology of recover

Note: Unless otherwise noted, all referenced Scripture is from the WEB World English Bible version of Scripture 

Other posts in our Everlasting Way Series:

Learning How to Overcome Emotional Numbness

Embracing God’s Amazing Love

Are we More Like Batman or Spider-Man

Transforming Awareness: The Power of God’s Love

Minding Your Busyness

Our Deepest Longings Filled

Rules Don’t Rule

Mice in the Sock Drawer

Turning Gainers into Drainers

Until the Darkness Fades

Courage Rising

Joy in the Journey is about the gladness of God’s nearness in the midst of life’s adventures.

Subscribe to get email notifications of new posts. We post a few times a month. Thank you for reading. 

 

Robby Buck

Nonfiction books by the Author:

This collection of devotionals chronicles a heartfelt journey from a life of striving and self-reliance to one of growing surrender and trust in God.

Through personal stories of family struggles, cancer, grief, and unexpected trials, the devotions show that true, unshakeable joy comes not from perfect circumstances, but from the constant, loving presence of Jesus Christ.

It’s an invitation to learn to let go of our burdens and find growing peace in God’s greater story.

Finding Joy in Life’s Moments

Because joy is rooted in God and is eternal, it doesn’t ebb and flow with the waves of circumstances. In fact, as we grow in our understanding of joy, we can even experience it more acutely when life is hard. Why? Because God uses trials to conform us into the image of Christ. With this awareness, which gives us glimpses of God’s greater purposes, we rejoice because of His masterful work to free us from needing anything but Him.

For these reasons, and many others, joy in the Lord is commanded in scripture. It’s not just a good idea, it’s vital to our journey as human beings. Rhythms of Joy

Novels by the Author:

What happens when a professor figures out how to send messages to his younger self to try and avoid the suicide of his best friend? Did he change more than he bargained for?  Beyond Time

By finding two undelivered letters in an old shack deep in the woods, Cassie and Daniel unknowingly set off a series of events which uncovers a plot to wipe out a whole family. Hope Remains

Please Check out the  Cola City Podcast . Discussions that impact the vision of reaching every man, woman, and child in a city.

Raw and Weary

(The Everlasting Way) Courage Rising

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I woke up this morning with light breaking through in my weary soul.

It’s a few days after Christmas, and it’s been a December to remember. In the last three weeks my bride has been through teeth issues, a severe case of shingles (V2 – maxillary variation, which affected the middle of her the left side of her face, very close to her eye), and potentially life-threatening blood clots (two of which traveled to her lungs).

She has been such a trouper through it all. 

Personally, I’ve felt extremely inadequate in my role as health care nurse. Nothing in me could have ensured my bride got the care she needed. But God’s strength held us up. I’m seeing that coming to the end of me sooner than later is way better, allowing His strength to shine through me. But it hasn’t been easy. 😑

I haven’t felt a lot of emotions during this time. As has been my MO, I tend to take a deep breath and keep on keeping on with whatever is required. This can be good, but now that there’s a break in the storm, I’m trying to care for my heart, to bring the realities of what’s been happening to Jesus, Keeper of my soul.

During my “soldiering on,” there was a moment, during the operation to remove the clots from my bride’s leg, that the severity of her situation hit me and emotions flowed.

At around 10:30 am, they wheeled her down to a special surgery room in the basement for a procedure that would last about an hour and a half. I met the surgeon and was told where to wait around the corner.

After two hours, I began to worry. I walked around to the surgery room and peeked in through a crack in the door. Bad idea. All I saw was a bunch of blood. Was she okay?

A few minutes later, the surgeon came in and let us know the surgery was successful, but that the clotting was quite extensive. He showed us the clot board. 

My brother-in-law, a cardiologist, flew down from Wilmington, N.C. for the day. After the surgery, he told me how serious the whole thing was.

As my bride continues to heal, I sense a measure of healing in my own soul. As I begin to come out of the raw weariness of what we’ve been experiencing, the Lord is showing me how to steward my heart, bringing all that I am to Him, my God of all comfort. [1]

 I’ve been quite discouraged, although I’ve only recently realized it.

Today I sense courage rising.

Affection

God’s truth always brings me courage. I turn to some of my favorite verses.

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Colossians 3:1-2 KJV).

I particularly like the way the King James renders ‘affection’ from the Greek word – “phroneite.”   

Other versions translate the Greek word as “mind.” But the idea of setting my “affection” on the things above resonates with me this morning.

“Affection” brings my focus from thinking to a heartfelt, whole-soul longing.

It’s so easy for me to set my affections on the happenings of this world, seeking in what I see and experience to carry my hope, my peace, and my joy. These verses help change my focus from all that’s swirling around me and helps me orient my life around God’s eternal truths.

Setting my fondness, my tenderness, my devotion, my attentiveness, my attachment, and my caring on the things above, rather than on the fragility of the here and now, makes so much more sense.

But how do I do that?

Attentiveness

Attentiveness is listed as a synonym for affection.

Our attention is a resource of our minds. Perhaps that’s where the term ‘pay attention’ comes from.

If I spend my attention on sports, politics, entertainment, leisure, etc., these things tend to dominate my affections. There’s nothing wrong with any of these, but they need to be subservient to my higher affection: my Lord Jesus Christ, His commands, and His Kingdom.

As He said:

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you (Matthew 6:33).

And He said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the great and foremost commandment. 39 The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 22:37-40).

These verses seem to capture Jesus’ desire for us to set our attention and affections on loving Him and others, and on His emerging Kingdom (His rule and His reign).

Only by abiding in the Indwelling Holy Spirit, and yielding to His power, can I set my affection on the things above and not on the temporal things around me. [2]

Prayer

Lord, I thank You so much for Your care for us during these last three weeks. You’ve entrusted us with some hard things, but You have never left our sides.

These hard times quickly brought me to the end of me.[3] I can’t but You can. I need You desperately.

Thank You for the practical ways my wife is seeing how much I love her as You nurse her through me.

Thank You for bringing light to my weary soul and helping me process what we’re going through. And please continue Your healing of my bride, as the pain of shingles continues. 

And Lord, I desire to set my affections on things above, on You and Your emerging Kingdom. Please keep my attention on these things as the temporal world continues to swirl around me. 

Thank You for giving me courage through the truths of Your word.

I love You so much!

Reflection

As I continue to ponder, I see the connection between affection and affecting.

My affections affect who I am.

The words affect and affection come from the same Latin root meaning – “a state produced in a person by something acting upon them.” [4]

As I set my affections on the Lord and His ways, I’m affected in deep, soul transforming ways. 

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit (II Corinthians 3:17-18).

As I am transformed, I pray I might affect (love) all those around me as Christ has loved me. [5]

As I’m affected in the ways of Christ, as Christ is formed in me [6], His life is revealed. 

For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3).

Quotes 

  • “Where your pleasure is, there is your treasure; where your treasure is, there is your heart; where your heart is, there is your happiness.”  Augustine of Hippo (Augustine is essentially saying: your affections follow what you attend to.) [4]

  • “We are often distracted by trifles, and seldom fully recollected.” Thomas à Kempis (Our attention drifts toward what our hearts are already leaning toward.) [4]

  • “Set your affections on the things above, and your thoughts will follow.” John Owens (He often taught that attention is the steering wheel of the heart.) [4]

[1] II Corinthians 1:3-5

[2] John 15:5

[3] II Corinthians 1:8-9

[4] From Co-Pilot

[5] John 13:34-35, John 15:12

Note: Unless otherwise noted, all referenced Scripture is from the NASB 1995 version of the Bible.

Other posts in our Everlasting Way Series:

Learning How to Overcome Emotional Numbness

Embracing God’s Amazing Love

Are we More Like Batman or Spider-Man

Transforming Awareness: The Power of God’s Love

Minding Your Busyness

Our Deepest Longings Filled

Rules Don’t Rule

Mice in the Sock Drawer

Turning Gainers into Drainers

Until the Darkness Fades

Joy in the Journey is about the gladness of God’s nearness in the midst of life’s adventures.

Subscribe to get email notifications of new posts. We post a few times a month. Thank you for reading. 

 

Robby Buck

Nonfiction books by the Author:

This collection of devotionals chronicles a heartfelt journey from a life of striving and self-reliance to one of growing surrender and trust in God.

Through personal stories of family struggles, cancer, grief, and unexpected trials, the devotions show that true, unshakeable joy comes not from perfect circumstances, but from the constant, loving presence of Jesus Christ.

It’s an invitation to learn to let go of our burdens and find growing peace in God’s greater story.

Finding Joy in Life’s Moments

Because joy is rooted in God and is eternal, it doesn’t ebb and flow with the waves of circumstances. In fact, as we grow in our understanding of joy, we can even experience it more acutely when life is hard. Why? Because God uses trials to conform us into the image of Christ. With this awareness, which gives us glimpses of God’s greater purposes, we rejoice because of His masterful work to free us from needing anything but Him.

For these reasons, and many others, joy in the Lord is commanded in scripture. It’s not just a good idea, it’s vital to our journey as human beings. Rhythms of Joy

Novels by the Author:

What happens when a professor figures out how to send messages to his younger self to try and avoid the suicide of his best friend? Did he change more than he bargained for?  Beyond Time

By finding two undelivered letters in an old shack deep in the woods, Cassie and Daniel unknowingly set off a series of events which uncovers a plot to wipe out a whole family. Hope Remains

Please Check out the  Cola City Podcast . Discussions that impact the vision of reaching every man, woman, and child in a city.

Raw and Weary

(The Everlasting Way) Courage Rising

Leave a comment

I woke up this morning with light breaking through in my weary soul.

It’s a few days after Christmas, and it’s been a December to remember. In the last three weeks my bride has been through teeth issues, a severe case of shingles (V2 – maxillary variation, which affected the middle of her the left side of her face, very close to her eye), and potentially life-threatening blood clots (two of which traveled to her lungs).

She has been such a trouper through it all. 

Personally, I’ve felt extremely inadequate in my role as health care nurse. Nothing in me could have ensured my bride got the care she needed. But God’s strength held us up. I’m seeing that coming to the end of me sooner than later is way better, allowing His strength to shine through me. But it hasn’t been easy. 😑

I haven’t felt a lot of emotions during this time. As has been my MO, I tend to take a deep breath and keep on keeping on with whatever is required. This can be good, but now that there’s a break in the storm, I’m trying to care for my heart, to bring the realities of what’s been happening to Jesus, Keeper of my soul.

During my “soldiering on,” there was a moment, during the operation to remove the clots from my bride’s leg, that the severity of her situation hit me and emotions flowed.

At around 10:30 am, they wheeled her down to a special surgery room in the basement for a procedure that would last about an hour and a half. I met the surgeon and was told where to wait around the corner.

After two hours, I began to worry. I walked around to the surgery room and peeked in through a crack in the door. Bad idea. All I saw was a bunch of blood. Was she okay?

A few minutes later, the surgeon came in and let us know the surgery was successful, but that the clotting was quite extensive. He showed us the clot board. 

My brother-in-law, a cardiologist, flew down from Wilmington, N.C. for the day. After the surgery, he told me how serious the whole thing was.

As my bride continues to heal, I sense a measure of healing in my own soul. As I begin to come out of the raw weariness of what we’ve been experiencing, the Lord is showing me how to steward my heart, bringing all that I am to Him, my God of all comfort. [1]

 I’ve been quite discouraged, although I’ve only recently realized it.

Today I sense courage rising.

Affection

God’s truth always brings me courage. I turn to some of my favorite verses.

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Colossians 3:1-2 KJV).

I particularly like the way the King James renders ‘affection’ from the Greek word – “phroneite.”   

Other versions translate the Greek word as “mind.” But the idea of setting my “affection” on the things above resonates with me this morning.

“Affection” brings my focus from thinking to a heartfelt, whole-soul longing.

It’s so easy for me to set my affections on the happenings of this world, seeking in what I see and experience to carry my hope, my peace, and my joy. These verses help change my focus from all that’s swirling around me and helps me orient my life around God’s eternal truths.

Setting my fondness, my tenderness, my devotion, my attentiveness, my attachment, and my caring on the things above, rather than on the fragility of the here and now, makes so much more sense.

But how do I do that?

Attentiveness

Attentiveness is listed as a synonym for affection.

Our attention is a resource of our minds. Perhaps that’s where the term ‘pay attention’ comes from.

If I spend my attention on sports, politics, entertainment, leisure, etc., these things tend to dominate my affections. There’s nothing wrong with any of these, but they need to be subservient to my higher affection: my Lord Jesus Christ, His commands, and His Kingdom.

As He said:

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you (Matthew 6:33).

And He said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the great and foremost commandment. 39 The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 22:37-40).

These verses seem to capture Jesus’ desire for us to set our attention and affections on loving Him and others, and on His emerging Kingdom (His rule and His reign).

Only by abiding in the Indwelling Holy Spirit, and yielding to His power, can I set my affection on the things above and not on the temporal things around me. [2]

Prayer

Lord, I thank You so much for Your care for us during these last three weeks. You’ve entrusted us with some hard things, but You have never left our sides.

These hard times quickly brought me to the end of me.[3] I can’t but You can. I need You desperately.

Thank You for the practical ways my wife is seeing how much I love her as You nurse her through me.

Thank You for bringing light to my weary soul and helping me process what we’re going through. And please continue Your healing of my bride, as the pain of shingles continues. 

And Lord, I desire to set my affections on things above, on You and Your emerging Kingdom. Please keep my attention on these things as the temporal world continues to swirl around me. 

Thank You for giving me courage through the truths of Your word.

I love You so much!

Reflection

As I continue to ponder, I see the connection between affection and affecting.

My affections affect who I am.

The words affect and affection come from the same Latin root meaning – “a state produced in a person by something acting upon them.” [4]

As I set my affections on the Lord and His ways, I’m affected in deep, soul transforming ways. 

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit (II Corinthians 3:17-18).

As I am transformed, I pray I might affect (love) all those around me as Christ has loved me. [5]

As I’m affected in the ways of Christ, as Christ is formed in me [6], His life is revealed. 

For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3).

Quotes 

  • “Where your pleasure is, there is your treasure; where your treasure is, there is your heart; where your heart is, there is your happiness.”  Augustine of Hippo (Augustine is essentially saying: your affections follow what you attend to.) [4]

  • “We are often distracted by trifles, and seldom fully recollected.” Thomas à Kempis (Our attention drifts toward what our hearts are already leaning toward.) [4]

  • “Set your affections on the things above, and your thoughts will follow.” John Owens (He often taught that attention is the steering wheel of the heart.) [4]

[1] II Corinthians 1:3-5

[2] John 15:5

[3] II Corinthians 1:8-9

[4] From Co-Pilot

[5] John 13:34-35, John 15:12

Note: Unless otherwise noted, all referenced Scripture is from the NASB 1995 version of the Bible.

Other posts in our Everlasting Way Series:

Learning How to Overcome Emotional Numbness

Embracing God’s Amazing Love

Are we More Like Batman or Spider-Man

Transforming Awareness: The Power of God’s Love

Minding Your Busyness

Our Deepest Longings Filled

Rules Don’t Rule

Mice in the Sock Drawer

Turning Gainers into Drainers

Until the Darkness Fades

Joy in the Journey is about the gladness of God’s nearness in the midst of life’s adventures.

Subscribe to get email notifications of new posts. We post a few times a month. Thank you for reading. 

 

Robby Buck

Nonfiction books by the Author:

This collection of devotionals chronicles a heartfelt journey from a life of striving and self-reliance to one of growing surrender and trust in God.

Through personal stories of family struggles, cancer, grief, and unexpected trials, the devotions show that true, unshakeable joy comes not from perfect circumstances, but from the constant, loving presence of Jesus Christ.

It’s an invitation to learn to let go of our burdens and find growing peace in God’s greater story.

Finding Joy in Life’s Moments

Because joy is rooted in God and is eternal, it doesn’t ebb and flow with the waves of circumstances. In fact, as we grow in our understanding of joy, we can even experience it more acutely when life is hard. Why? Because God uses trials to conform us into the image of Christ. With this awareness, which gives us glimpses of God’s greater purposes, we rejoice because of His masterful work to free us from needing anything but Him.

For these reasons, and many others, joy in the Lord is commanded in scripture. It’s not just a good idea, it’s vital to our journey as human beings. Rhythms of Joy

Novels by the Author:

What happens when a professor figures out how to send messages to his younger self to try and avoid the suicide of his best friend? Did he change more than he bargained for?  Beyond Time

By finding two undelivered letters in an old shack deep in the woods, Cassie and Daniel unknowingly set off a series of events which uncovers a plot to wipe out a whole family. Hope Remains

Please Check out the  Cola City Podcast . Discussions that impact the vision of reaching every man, woman, and child in a city.

Kindness

Packages (Part 2)

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Part 1 (Slightly updated since posted)

I found myself seated among the packages again at dawn the next day. Was this part of a long dream? It felt so real. And what were these packages anyway?

Trying to rest was challenging. I was worried. I felt sure the upcoming meeting with the vice president was connected to Harrison.

Then I remembered what He had said before my lunch: “Avoid defensiveness and remain true to your identity.”

I had avoided defensiveness. This was hard, especially since I knew Harrison’s accusations were wrong. I had to suppress the impulse to proclaim my innocence. It was a sudden surge of control I doubted I could repeat. Knowing He was with me made all the difference—it was as if He provided the strength.

What identity was He referring to?

“The identity you experience while you’re here,” the voice said.

As before, the voice caught me by surprise. Had I said that out loud?

“Sir?” 

“These boxes you’re resting on. Any idea what they are?”

“Not sure. I’ve never seen one opened.”

“There’s no need to open the package to understand them; it’s all about the delivery.”

Thinking of the deliveries, I said, “They all seem to be delivered with some aspect of kindness, per your instruction.”

“You’re beginning to understand,” He said. “Kindness is certainly a part of it. Imagine if, during these eternal moments before your day begins, you’re resting on boxes of kindness. How might that influence your sense of personal value?”

“If each one of these boxes contained kindness from another,” I responded, as I waved my arm across the sea of brown. “And I lay among them for even a few minutes every day, it seems like the kindness would soak into me.”

“Even enough to counteract what happened with Harrison?”

I nodded, finally understanding what he meant.

Subsequently, I found myself walking across the parking lot at work. In the elevator, I punched the 10th floor and asked for package delivery instructions for my boss, Mike, and for John.

“Maintain high integrity,” I was instructed. “Answer each question truthfully, with composure and no defensiveness. John doesn’t know you and has associated you with others he thinks you’re like. Do your part. The impact will not be instantly noticeable.”

As I entered the conference room, Mike and John, already in conversation, ceased talking abruptly. I noticed an Anti-Discrimination Policies document on the table.

“We’re facing a lawsuit,” John began as I sat down. “Harrison, a former employee of yours, is alleging you discriminated against him based on his religious beliefs. He says you overlooked him for a promotion because you disapproved of his religious beliefs.”

I glanced at Mike, anticipating he would inform John that it was his decision not to promote Harrison. But he remained focused on John with no comment.

“Did you ever discuss religion with him?” John asked sternly.

Before responding, I noticed Mike and John’s packages on the seat next to me.

“A few months before his resignation, Harrison asked to meet with me. He disclosed that he and his wife were having marriage problems, mainly because of finances. He told me he’d applied for the new position. He was looking for my assurance he’d get the promotion. Naturally, I wasn’t able to provide such a guarantee, even if the decision had been mine to make.

“He also shared some medical challenges his son was facing, so I offered to pray for his family. He accepted my invitation and seemed appreciative. So, I prayed with him.”

“So, you never asked Harrison anything about his religion?” John asked.

“No, sir.”

“I’m afraid your account conflicts with what Harrison’s attorney has claimed,” John said. “Seems you’re not one to hesitate in expressing your religious beliefs.”

“Only when asked,” I interrupted, instantly regretting it.

“Our policy strictly prohibits any form of discrimination, including religious. We’re putting you on leave until we can sort this out. We’ll call you when we need you to come back in.”

Afterwards, I lingered in my car, uncertain of what to do next. How could I possibly break the news to Jill, my wife? I was shocked, angry, and felt betrayed by both Mike and Harrison. What had I ever done to them?

I didn’t want to talk to anyone.

I decided to grab a coffee and head to the park to be alone. As I pulled away from the shop, coffee in hand, I noticed an elderly gentleman wearing a Vietnam cap. He was stepping out of his old pickup truck near the exit to the main road, steam billowing from beneath the hood.

Glancing to my side, I noticed a package addressed to the Vietnam veteran. Strickly out of obligation, I grabbed the package and headed toward him, feeling a bit frustrated. As I approached, I saw that he had no right leg.

“Tell him you appreciate his service and listen to what he has to say. He feels unappreciated and alone. Help him.”

The veteran seemed a bit timid as I walked up, unsure of what I might do. I introduced myself, thanked him for his service to our country, and asked if he needed any assistance.

“My name’s Sammy,” he revealed. “Folks like you typically ignore me. I appreciate the offer, but once the engine cools, I’ll add some water and be on my way.”

“How long has it been leaking?”

“A few months.”

“What if we fix it permanently?”

He agreed, looking stunned. We fetched pitchers of water from the coffee shop, and he followed me to my regular mechanic on the next street.

As his car was being worked on, I listened to his story. He’d survived the injustices of racial prejudices during the sixties, even getting arrested during a courthouse “sit-in.” In Vietnam, he’d lost his leg while saving his wounded buddy. Like most veterans of that war, he returned home to hostility, not honor. He and his wife, Milly, had four children (one of whom had passed away), eight grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren.

When I paid his bill, he teared up. As we parted ways, we exchanged phone numbers.

Back home, Jill looked up from her desk and asked, “How was your day?”

I smiled. “A Vietnam vet turned my day completely around.”

“What do you mean?”

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you (Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT)

To Be Continued

Please Check out the  Cola City Podcast . Discussions that impact the vision of reaching every man, woman, and child in a city.

Joy in the Journey is about the gladness of God’s nearness in the midst of life’s adventures.

Subscribe below to get email notifications of new posts. We post a few times a month. Thank you for reading. 

 

Robby Buck

Novels by the Author:

What happens when a professor figures out how to send messages to his younger self to try and avoid the suicide of his best friend? Did he change more than he bargained for?  Beyond Time

By finding two undelivered letters in a old shack deep in the woods, Cassie and Daniel unknowing set off a series of events which uncover a plot to wipe out a whole family Hope Remains

 

As I Have Loved you

Packages (Part 1)

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Waking up, I found myself seated on a mountain of brown packages, stretching as far as I could see. Behind me, the first rays of sun were increasingly chasing away the greyness of the dawn.

An overwhelming feeling hit me. Was I supposed to deliver all these packages?  I’m not a delivery guy but, being busy and task-oriented, this was my first thought. 

After a moment, a deep, authoritative voice said, “Rest.” I turned, but no one was there.

I waited for more guidance, but that was it. How was I supposed to rest here? I leaned my head back against one of the boxes and closed my eyes. After a while, warmth and deep peace enveloped me.

I had no idea how long, but later, the voice returned. “Who will you see today?”

I had become quite relaxed. The sound, right in my ear, startled me. I felt like I was in one of those spy movies where people communicate through tiny earpieces.

After thinking for a moment, I replied, “I’ll be having breakfast with my son soon. Then, I have a work meeting with Kevin and lunch with Harrison. When I get home, my wife and I plan on walking in the neighborhood. So, no telling who we’ll see then.”

“During each of these planned encounters, along with those you’re not expecting, give them one of these packages.”

“How?” I exclaimed, trying not to sound disrespectful. “How will I carry them all? And how many should I take?”

“Don’t worry, I’m coming with you,” the voice assured me. “And I’ll give you the package for each person, at the time you need it.  If you have questions about the delivery and what you might say, just ask me. You can talk to me just like we’re doing now.”

I wasn’t sure how this was going to happen. However, the way this day was starting, I was expecting the unexpected.

Later, during breakfast, my son confided in me about the immense career stress he was experiencing. He had completely underestimated the challenges involved in launching a new division.

That’s when I decided to give him his package. Remarkably, I didn’t even need to ask for it. When I glanced down, there it was, right beside me, labeled with his name.

Before I picked it up, I heard, “Give him some examples of times you felt stressed at work and share an encouraging truth that helped you overcome it. And don’t forget to tell him you love him.”

Following the instructions, I shared my experiences with him. He was genuinely appreciative and even gave me a bear hug as we said goodbye.

Walking across the parking lot at work, I sought guidance for my delivery to Kevin. The voice instructed me: “Listen to him. He’s been through difficult times. While he respects you, he also finds you intriguingly different from others he’s encountered. Regardless of what he shares, avoid passing judgment. When he finishes speaking, offer a ray of hope and truth from your own experiences—not a solution.”

After Kevin shared, I told him of my own dark times and the hope which had lifted me. Although he didn’t say much when I was done, our eye contact conveyed his surprise and appreciation.

My lunch with Harrison ended up being far from enjoyable. I was surprised he wanted to meet with me in the first place, considering my unsuccessful attempts to reconnect. Driving to the restaurant I sought instructions and heard, “He harbors resentment toward you. He believes you’ve caused him pain. He’ll share the details. The offense has festered and taken on a life of its own. Humbly receive his words. Avoid defensiveness and remain true to your identity.”

Despite the coaching, I was unprepared for Harrison’s revelations. About a year ago, I had been his supervisor before he accepted a higher-paying position elsewhere.

As soon as we sat down with our food, he unloaded, “You’ve ruined my life. Why did you recommend Owens for that promotion over me? I was undoubtedly more qualified. The numbers supported my case, yet you overlooked me. I believed I was a shoo-in. I was depending on it. I confided in you and told you what was going on. But you decided to judge me for what I shared and rub it in my face by choosing someone else. Now my house is in foreclosure and my wife has left me.”

His anger and tone were shocking. People at adjacent tables kept glancing our way. His accusations were surprising to me, especially since I wasn’t even the one who chose Owens over him. If it wasn’t for the heads-up, I would’ve confronted him about the absurdity of his accusations. But I had a package to delivery.

I attempted to listen empathetically, asking only a few clarifying questions. Unfortunately, my calm demeanor seemed to only fuel his anger. 

“You’re so callous,” Harrison erupted. “You don’t even care about what you’ve done to me,” With those words, he stormed out, barely touching his salad.

Still rattled by Harrison’s anger directed at me, I headed home. During the drive, I inquired about the package delivery for my wife. I heard, “It’s really good you’re spending time together walking. It’s also beneficial that you’re both meeting your neighbors and engaging in conversations with them. It may seem simple, but just be fully present with her during your walk. Ask her about her day and share your own experiences, especially the encounter with Harrison. She appreciates being with you more than you realize, but it hurts her when you’re distracted.”

It was a crisp spring afternoon, as we turned right out of our driveway and headed toward the back of our neighborhood.

Taking the advice, I stayed engaged and dug deeper into her day than I normally do. I appreciated her interest in my experiences, and her questions helped me process.

Surprisingly, we encountered no neighbors this time, which was perfect. Not because I don’t like seeing them, but because I thoroughly enjoyed just being with her. The only thing that could have made it better was for us to be walking on the beach. And I told her so.

As soon as we turned into our driveway, I got a call from my boss. His tone was serious: “John wants to meet with you and me first thing tomorrow. He just got a call from the legal department. A former employee has made some serious allegations.”

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples (John 13:34-35 NLT).

To be continued.

Please Check out the  Cola City Podcast . Discussions that impact the vision of reaching every man, woman, and child in a city.

Joy in the Journey is about the gladness of God’s nearness in the midst of life’s adventures.

Subscribe below to get email notifications of new posts. We post a few times a month. Thank you for reading. 

 

Robby Buck

Novels by the Author:

What happens when a professor figures out how to send messages to his younger self to try and avoid the suicide of his best friend? Did he change more than he bargained for?  Beyond Time

By finding two undelivered letters in a old shack deep in the woods, Cassie and Daniel unknowing set off a series of events which uncover a plot to wipe out a whole family Hope Remains

 

God's Everlasting Love, God's Grace

Quiet Time with Hyatt

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Even before we had our first child, my bride and I have been praying that a Godly heritage would be established in our family. Both of us come from families in which Christ was not preeminent. We both believed in Jesus as our Rescuer and Transformer in our twenties. We’ve prayed early and often for our kids and grandkids that they’d come to faith at an early age and would marry spouses who put God first.

Because we’re traveling uncharted territory from our heritage, a friend calls us pioneers. Having taken plenty of wrong turns as we forged our way, I resonate with this description. We’ve had our struggles as a family, but in spite of us, our kids are establishing lines of their own and families of faith are growing.

Recently, our daughter Elizabeth told us an amazing story concerning Hyatt, our young grandson. Our son in law  gave him and our granddaughter a journal and a pen. Hyatt asked his mom to be sure he was up at 7:00 on weekdays and 8:30 on weekends so that he could have a quiet time like Pop. This brought me unfettered joy. I had no idea he’d picked up on my habit of having time with God in the morning.

The next morning, Elizabeth saw Hyatt quietly writing in his journal. Later  she read, in beautiful six-year-old script, “Dear God, thank you for being the light switch when we’re being the light.”

I’m amazed at the depth and simplicity of his understanding. Do we as adults complicate things?  The innocence of a child seems to allow truth to travel unencumbered to the heart. I can learn so much from kids.

This summer, while at the beach, Hyatt had joined me on the porch and wanted to know what I was reading. I showed him from the Sermon on the Mount how Jesus told us we are the light of the world.[1] I had no idea he’d remember it. Makes me realize how important our actions are when little eyes are watching.

When we spent the night at Ben and Elizabeth’s a few days ago, I asked Hyatt if he wanted to have time with God together the next morning. He agreed enthusiastically.

Since it was the weekend, we slept in a bit and met in the den at 8:30. In our journals, we both wrote a prayer to God and discussed what we said.

Considering our life’s desire to see a Godly heritage take root and grow in our family, few moments have meant more to me than having a quiet time with Hyatt.

 Lord, sometimes I feel regret for the wrong turns I’ve made leading our family. We’ve been through the wilderness. But You’re so gracious. The sufficiency of Your love settles me. Thank you. Please continue your work in my family. Some are amid painfully, difficult battles. May Your Powerful Light dispel all darkness. May your Healing Love comfort all pains. I pray for all my brothers and sisters who desire Godly heritages to gain traction and grow in their families. Only you can change hearts.  I trust all outcomes to you.  I love You.

[1] Matthew 5:14

Joy in the Journey is about the gladness of God’s nearness in the midst of life’s adventures. Subscribe below to get email notifications of new posts. We post once a week. Thank you for reading. 

Novels by the Author:

Beyond Time

Hope Remains

The Lord is my Light, The Lord is Near

Son Shine

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A few Sundays ago, at the beach, a few of us woke up early to see the sunrise. I was a bit demotivated at first, especially since we were on vacation, but my son in law convinced us it would be well worth it.

“I walked out onto a sandbar about a quarter of a mile,” he said, speaking of his adventure the previous morning.

So, when my phone chimed around 6 am, I quietly dressed and headed down to our rendezvous spot. A faint tinge of light was beginning to illuminate the eastern sky as we walked the block and a half down to the beach. When we reached the sand, we slipped off our shoes and headed east.

An orange band hugged the horizon, topped by a pale yellow patch, slowing replacing the night’s darkness, already taking on a light blue hue.

After walking a few hundred yards we turned right ninety degrees and waded toward the middle of the ocean. Walking on a sand bar, we kept going until looking back, the houses on the beach were distant silhouettes. It was breath taking. My son-in-law was not exaggerating. It was truly magical.

When the first rays of the sun broke through, we were all captivated by God’s splendor.

Several weeks have passed since our early morning adventure and I determined last night to greet the sun again. I’m several hours from the ocean, but live half a mile from a large lake. Using my StarTracker app, I determined where the sun would rise over the lake and was waiting in my convertible with coffee and journal in hand. As the sun rose, I wanted to praise the Lord for His new day sun.

But I saw no sun. The sky brightened, but only with lighter shades of grey. The eastern sky was covered with clouds. I would see no sunrise, but was determined to still praise my God for His beauties.

When I returned home, I pulled out a camping chair and enjoyed the crispness of the morning air. Sipping on my coffee it occurred to me that even though I saw no sun, the Son still shines.

Sometimes my days can seem totally grey. Hard times can block the light of my Lord’s nearness. What a great reminder!

God’s light always shines, even when I can’t see it.

“I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” John 4:18

His word lights my way.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105

With God, there is no darkness. “This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.” I John 1:5

I have been called out into the Lord’s wonderful light. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a Holy Nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellences of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;”  I Peter 2:19

When I was a young believer, we would sing a Song about the Lord being our Light, based on the following verses from Psalm 27:

The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the defense of my life;
Whom shall I dread?

When evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh,
My adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell.

Though a host encamp against me,
My heart will not fear;
Though war arise against me,
In spite of this I shall be confident.

One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the Lord
And to meditate in His temple.

Prayer: Lord, thank you. You’ve shown me, even on this cloudy day, Your light shines brightly. You are Light. In You I have no fear. Bring light into every crevice of my heart. Light my way I pray, that I might follow Your path for my life. Please give me the peace of your presence, even when all around me is dark and evil. Though I walk in the shadows, I will not fear for you are always with me.

One Thing! Lord, you are my Light.  May my one overwhelming desire be to remain in Your presence and gaze upon Your beauties, even in the midst of my cloudy days.

Amen.