A Surprising Snow

November 17th, 2012 dsisler

Last weekend, my area of Colorado experienced another snow storm. The snow began to fall and it didn’t stop the whole day. We were in an area that received about 5 inches of snow. It was very beautiful.

My daughter brought the grandkids up for the day, so we stayed cozy warm inside and had lots of fun. I made a little area by the back door where they snuggled in blankets, ate popcorn and drank hot chocolate. It was the perfect day…until it was time for them to leave.

Mason and I went out to clean off their car and realized that we needed to get out the shovel and snow blower. It had really snowed.
Once Bethany and the kids were on their way, the praying began. I prayed for their safety. I prayed for their vehicle. I prayed for Bethany to be focused on her driving. I prayed.
Bethany called when she arrived home…home with no snow. Joy was so disappointed. But like I said, we were in the path of snow where we were dumped on and 30 minutes to the south, they received nothing.
I wasn’t expecting snow on this day, so I really wasn’t expecting as much snow as we received. It was a complete surprise to me.
I must say, Jesus was full of surprises too. If you look at each of the miracles He performed, there was surprise. Oh there was amazement and wonder and belief as well, but He did surprise people.
Mark 6:30-44 gives account of the feeding of the five thousand. Jesus takes five loaves and two fish, blesses them, breaks them, and then proceeds to feed the crowd with baskets of food left over.
When Jesus first meets Peter, Andrew, James, and John, they had been fishing all night long and hadn’t caught a single fish. Jesus asked them to throw their nets into the water and surprisingly, they catch an astonishing amount of fish. But then, they walked away from it all to “fish for men.” (Luke 5:1-11)
One of my favorite surprises was after the resurrection of Jesus and His encounter with Mary. She believes Him to be a gardener and asks “where the body of her Lord had been taken.” And with a single word, Jesus surprised Mary. He simply said her name. “Mary.” She immediately knew it was Jesus and nothing about her life would ever be the same. (John 20:10-18)
Those who encountered Jesus had surprising changes in their lives. Whether they were healed, raised from the dead, or forgiven of their sins, they knew something had changed. Their lives were changed by the Savior of the world.
Are you looking for God’s surprises today? Keep your eyes open. You just might be amazed by the graciousness of our heavenly Father.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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Lord, Make Me Like You

November 16th, 2012 dsisler

Today I will be preparing a Thanksgiving feast for 100 people. I actually began yesterday. I roasted two turkeys at home and carved them. Today I’ll roast two more and then fix the rest of the yummies that go along with a Thanksgiving dinner.

I used to prepare the meals for this particular church group a couple years ago and when they asked if I might want to do so again, I was excited…but now I remember just how much work goes into preparing food for this many. But in years past, I was cooking for 200+. Today it’s just 100, so I feel very comfortable and relaxed about that part.

(I decided to use this picture with this blog post but then thought I needed to explain it. We gave my grandson, Percy, a turkey leg last Thanksgiving. He had no idea what to do with it. I think he will enjoy Thanksgiving dinner a lot more this year. But he was so cute…he still is!)
This reminded me of the different gifts and talents each of us has. It reminded me that some types of service are hands on, while others are not. It reminded me that regardless of what we are able to do, we are called to do it.
In Philippians 2, Paul tells us that Jesus was a servant. “…taking the very nature of a servant…” (Philippians 2:6-7 – NIV). Just before this passage however, Paul tells us that our “attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5 – NIV)
So if we are to take on the attitude of Jesus as a servant, we must look at what He did as a servant to learn how to serve.
Jesus Had a Servant Heart
In one of Jesus’ teaching moments, He shared an important message with the disciples and mothers of two of the disciples. His message was that if you want to be great, you must be a servant. Jesus then tells them why He came to earth. “Whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:27-28 – NIV)
So we must be willing to become a slave. A servant. And always be searching for ways to serve another. It was how Jesus lived His life.
Jesus Healed the Sick
Jesus healed the sick. Both physically and spiritually. Through physical healing, Jesus opened the door to spiritual healing in many instances. But in each case, He never took the credit. God was always given the glory for the healing. A servant attitude overflows with humility.
While God is the only One who can heal, we can lead others to spiritual healing. We can serve others as we share the Gospel, teach its message, and proclaim God’s salvation to the world.
Jesus was Hospitable
Yes, when Jesus shared the last meal with His disciples, He was hospitable. He was a gracious Host. “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples…”(Matthew 26:26 – NIV) Jesus served at least a portion of this meal.
Hospitality goes beyond serving meals. It is making others feel comfortable around us. Jesus’ example of hospitality leads me to believe that we are to be hospitable in our attitude.
Jesus Did Whatever was Necessary
In John 13, we see the example of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples. This simple act of service caused great turmoil. But it was yet another teaching moment. When He was finished, Jesus asked the disciples, “Do you understand what I have done for you?” (John 13:12b – NIV)
I’m sure they were confused, but He then explained the importance of serving others. “I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”(John 13:16-17 – NIV)
As believers, we know these things. Now we must do them. So what are we to do? Anything that puts others before ourselves. It may be washing feet. But it also may be raking leaves for an elderly person or mentoring an at-risk child or visiting a nursing home.
In the parable of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 26:31-46), as the King gathers all the nations, He blesses those who fed Him when He was hungry. Who offered a drink when He was thirsty. Who invited Him in as a stranger. Who clothed Him when He was naked. Who cared for Him when He was sick. Who visited Him in prison.
The righteous were confused. They had never done any of these things for the King.
He then offers these words. “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 26:40 – NIV)
I believe the message here is clear. We are called to serve others. In whatever way we possibly can.
Jesus Loved
Jesus also loved with a servant heart. He was compassionate (Matthew 9:36; Matthew 14:14; Matthew 15:32; Luke 7:13). He was sorrowful (Matthew 26:37-38). He grieved (Luke 19:41; John 11:35). He knew how to love.
Oh to have Jesus’ compassion, sorrow and grief for a hurt and dying world. That is how we are to love others. By living life with them. By showing them that we care. By sharing God’s love with them.
These are my observations on serving. Perhaps there are more. I’m sure there are. But as we look into Jesus’ heart, we can see nothing but that of a servant. And that is the exact attitude we are to take upon ourselves.
How will you serve others today? Over the next week? Over the next month? I pray that you have something already set up. If not, why not connect with your local church and see what they have going on and find a place in the serving crowd. There’s always room for one more.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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The Road I Travelled

November 15th, 2012 dsisler


As young children, our family lived in the small community of Jeffersonville, Ohio. I have such fond memories of living there, both as a child and an adult.

My father was the minister of the Church of Christ and with growth, a church building was built and the old church building was transformed into a parsonage where our family was to live. All of this was happening about a mile outside of town.

Until it was time to move into the new house, we lived in a beautiful house in town. Again, more fond memories of this grand, spacious place.
On one occasion, my younger brother and I were thoroughly bored at the parsonage while my parents worked diligently to get everything done. So we asked Mom if we could walk home. She said “No.”
We begged her to let us walk home. Then she said, “Don’t you dare get on that road!”
To a 5 and 6 year old, that was permission. We’d just stay off the road. Walk in the ditch along the road. We could do this.
And our journey began.
A kind woman we knew stopped to see if we needed a ride and to make sure we were okay. But honestly, we were having too much fun. We were on an adventure. We were on our own. We continued our walking journey.
As we finally made it into the downtown area of town, walking on the sidewalk I might add, Mom drove up beside us. We knew she was mad.
“Get in this car. Your Dad is bringing a big stick home with him.”
Sometimes we do this same thing with God’s Word. We distort it to be exactly what we want it to say or mean to us. Instead of simply accepting it for what it is, we figure out how to work our way around the commands He has given us through Scripture.
God loves us. He wants what is best for us. So the commands He gives for us to obey have real benefits in our lives. God speaking through the prophet Isaiah said this. “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea.” (Isaiah 48:17b-18 – NIV)
Did you notice the benefits of obeying God in this passage? Peace and righteousness.
We also see from Scripture that if we love God and want to please Him, we will obey.
“If you love me, you will obey what I command.” (John 14:15 – NIV)
“This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” (1 John 5:3-4 – NIV)
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6 – NIV)
And what are the benefits we see in these passages of obedience? Freedom, conquering of the world, victory, rewards and it pleases God. Benefits I believe are worthwhile.
I love how the writer of Hebrews tells us that God’s commands are not burdensome. Remember Jesus’ words in Matthew? “Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 – NIV)
Suddenly, obedience doesn’t seem so difficult. And again, do you see benefits to obedience? Rest. When we are weary and when we are restless within our souls, Jesus provides the perfect rest.
On that day so long ago, my brother and I were very nervous waiting for Dad to show up “with a big stick.” When he arrived however, he didn’t have a stick.
Oh, I’m sure we were punished, but I certainly don’t remember it. I was just thankful that all was well once again in the Howard household.
I learned a valuable lesson that day about obedience. I’ve learned valuable lessons through the years about obeying God. I’m thankful that in His great love for me, that I am able to do my small part. Are you?
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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Are Stones Speaking for You?

November 14th, 2012 dsisler

On my recent journey to SE Asia, the team I traveled with had the opportunity to pray for the churches in the city where we visited. As we spent time at each location, we prayed for the churches, the leadership, the people who attended, and for future generations.

Outside the Catholic Church, as we discussed where we might head next, I heard a familiar sound. Within this busy intersection, where hundreds or possibly thousands of people gathered, “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing”[i]could be heard. From the steeple of the church, God’s message was being proclaimed.

I stood among my team members, on the street corner and sang the words to this Christmas carol.
What impresses me about this experience is that God’s Name is not to be proclaimed in this place. God’s message of salvation is not to be shared. God’s Word is not to be spoken.
But in the midst of it all, God showed up. His Name was proclaimed. I heard it!
I’ve been reminded of Jesus’ words in Luke 19 from this experience. Jesus was entering Jerusalem and the crowd of disciples “began joyfully to praise God in loud voices.” (Luke 19:37 – NIV)
Some of the Pharisees told Jesus to control His disciples. Jesus replied with a simple statement and one that we should take note of.
“I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”(Luke 19:40 – NIV)
If Jesus’ Name is not proclaimed by Jesus’ followers, inanimate objects will do so in our place.
Scripture repeats over and over that we are to praise God. Here are the references to just a few.
“I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.” (Psalm 34:1 – NIV)
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music.” (Psalm 98:4 – NIV)
“Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore. From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.” (Psalm 113:2-3 – NIV)
“Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary, praise him in his mighty heavens…Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” (Psalm 150:1-6 – NIV)
“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:8-9 – NIV)
Isn’t the salvation of our souls enough to spend a lifetime praising God? I would say it is.
You see, as an American Christian, I have the freedom to praise God and speak His Name whenever I choose. As I wish. It isn’t that way in all parts of the world. I take far too many freedoms for granted. Including this one.
I wonder how many stones have cried out because of my lack of proclaiming God’s Name? Because I chose not to speak? I am not sure I want to know.
But I do know what I can do now. I can proclaim God’s Name. I can praise Him. I can share His message with my neighbor. I can spread His Gospel and gift of grace through this blog.
I am willing to be an ambassador for Christ from this day forward. I am not willing to let stones to do so for me. Are you?
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna

[i] Words: ‘Hymn for Christmas Day’; Charles Wesley, Hymns and Sacred Poems, 1739. Music: MENDELSSOHN§3500b -Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, Festgesang, 1840, adapted by William H. Cummings, 1850
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God’s Word

November 13th, 2012 dsisler

One of my greatest joys is to teach women about God’s Word and how it relates to our daily lives. I love how God used and uses His Bible to show us the inadequacies and the successes as we go through our spiritual journey. When I can share these truths with others, I’m so blessed.

I lead a wonderful group of ladies on Tuesday evenings that I have grown to love and cherish because of their desire to go a little deeper into Scripture to find the greater value of knowing God’s message inside and out. But they’ve gone beyond knowledge. They implement these truths into their daily lives. They live out their faith. They are spiritual warriors in their own worlds.
While I love getting deep in God’s Word, I also love teaching those who know nothing or very little about God. I love sharing the Gospel. I love sharing God’s grace and forgiveness. I love sharing the importance of learning and studying God’s plan through His Word.
Several years ago, I was asked to lead a study on a wonderful book called A Newcomer’s Guide to the Bible[i]. The book is a great tool for beginners, but I found it to be inspiring for me as well. It gives a clear view of how the Bible is a complete work. How it fits together perfectly. It shows that God had a plan from the beginning and how He connected that plan throughout.
We really wanted to use this in our women’s Bible study program, but the problem is that this book is all reading. A person going through the book would never have to open the Bible by reading this book. So our women’s ministry director and I took on the task of writing a companion study to go along with the book. It was the first study I’d ever written and I must say I was hooked!
I say all of this because I am now working one-on-one with a young gal and we are going through A Newcomer’s Guide. This will be my 4th or 5th time, but I can see how God will show me different ideas this time through…just as He has done in the past.
You see, God’s Word is very relevant for our lives today. It is living and active. And it points us to the exact place we need to be in our relationship with God.
Perhaps you understand what I am saying. Verses pop out that you’re certain you’ve read before, but never meant anything to you until a certain moment. Or a passage will have greater meaning depending on what is happening in our lives. That’s how God’s Word works.
This also validates that we must never stop studying the Bible. God will always show us something as we approach our study time with an open heart and mind. Don’t ever underestimate what God will teach you when you’re an eager vessel.
Perhaps we read verses of Scripture like Psalm 119:105 (NIV), “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” and wonder how God is able to do this. But He does. God directs us through His Word to show us the path we are to take. And as we study Scripture, we’ll gain more insight into that path and we’ll learn to hear His voice.
I’d love to hear from you about this topic. Have you experienced anything I’ve mentioned today? If so, how? What new information has God shown you through your study time? Has He pointed you directly to a passage that you needed for a specific situation?
I can honestly say that He has for me.
I pray that you’re getting into God’s Word today. I pray that new insight will be shown to you because of your eager heart. I pray that God will show you exactly what He wants you to learn today.
God’s Word is a precious gift to us. Let’s never take it for granted. Let’s spend as much time reading the pages of this book as possible. Let’s glean potential knowledge and wisdom from its inspiring words. Let’s see what God has to say to us today!
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna

[i] Armour, Michael C., A Newcomer’s Guide to the Bible. College Press Publishing Company, 1999.
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  • About Me

  • "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe." Ephesians 1:18-19

  • I am a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. I lived in the beautiful state of Colorado for 20 years where I found great inspiration for my novels and devotional writings. Currently living in Jacksonville, Florida.

  • I am passionate about helping women find their way to Jesus through Bible study, teaching, speaking, inspirational writing and creative Bible journaling.

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    In September 2012 I went to SE Asia on a service trip. For more information, check out preachitclearly.blogspot.com.

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