Colorado

June 27th, 2012 dsisler

I flew from Colorado Springs to Ohio a couple months ago. It was the first time I’d been at that airport and if truth were told, I fell in love with it.
It was small. Very little wait time at any check in point. The atmosphere was energized by the view. Many photos were taken by travelers from the very location I snapped a photo.
From the gate where I waited to depart, Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the Air Force Academy were visible. What a sight! As I sat there, I remember the amazement. Three landmarks that make Colorado impressive were right there before me.
Now, these same landmarks are threatened. Threatened by yet another wildfire burning in Colorado.
If you have watched any news over the past few weeks, you’ve seen images of the State of Colorado battling fire on many fronts. Up and down the front range, smoke is visible due to the fires. Breathing is difficult on some days.
The devastation and destruction is heart breaking. Homes lost. Possessions ruined. Dreams shattered. Although these stir emotions within us, the worst has happened. Loss of life has occurred with these fires.
Today there is a good chance of rain for this dry, parched land. I ask that you join with me in prayer today. Pray for relief. Pray for the refreshing rains (preferably without lightning) to come.
Pray for safety of those battling these fires. Some are exhausted. They have been on the front lines for weeks.
Pray for those who have lost everything. For healing. For renewed hope. For peace in this troubled time.
Yes, Colorado is a dry, parched land. Yes, we are dealing with some remarkable issues. But I also pray for those who live their lives with a parched soul. A soul thirsting for something, anything to quench the burning with us.
David knew this feeling. He shares in Psalm 143:6 (NIV), “I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.” As we spread our hands and reach to the God who is able to give relief, the parched soul is refreshed.
If you are in this place, I pray that you will allow our gracious Father to give you His water. The Living Water. Reach out to Him. He will wash all the dust, dirt, grime, soot away. He will cleanse you and make you whiter than snow.
But that’s not all. The Living Water will also rehydrate your soul. Revitalize your heart. Fill you with refreshment.
I know there are other areas in our country dealing with forces of nature. My prayers are with family and friends in those areas. May God’s peace be abundantly upon those areas and people.
Thank you for your prayers for my little corner of this world.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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Prayer Walk – Part 3

June 26th, 2012 dsisler

I have been sharing a prayer walk I wrote earlier this year over the past two days. If you missed reading Part 1 and Part 2, you can find them through the archive in the right margin of this blog. Happy praying!
Station #6 – Markers (Spiritual Rock)
Here we see markers that give us information. They are markers to show the type of plants that are growing in this park. You have seen versions of these signs in other places. In memorial parks, along the roadside to show a historical point, or to make mention of a particular person or event.
There are other markers as well. Remember the one in the TV show M.A.S.H.? It was a pole with arrows pointing to their hometowns and how far away they were. Journey markers are the roadside direction signs that show how far away you are from distant locations. Journey markers have become very popular. Not only can they be attractive and fun, but the personal stories attached are real!
The Old Testament is full of such markers. One in particular is after the Israelites crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land. God instructed 12 men to pick up 12 stones from the center of the Jordan River and build a memorial where they camped. It was to tell the story of how God led them to this particular point in their lives. A real story.
In the journey of life we have events or thoughts that mark significant times along the way.  We can choose to mark them or not, but if it tells a story, why not mark it? If someone can learn from our experience, why not share it?
Maybe it is a verse of Scripture in a frame, or a plaque that is especially important. Maybe you could write your name on a stone or perhaps something else. Something of meaning. Something special to you or the event. But then, be sure to tell the story. Share the story. With family, friends, or anyone who will listen. Mark your spiritual journey.
At this station, we will praise God for being our Spiritual Rock. Think of the three elements below in relation to this topic.
1) The hope to which he called you (that you followed markers to be where you are today);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (for being able to tell your story);
3) His incomparably great power (to keep you following future markers).
Station #7 – Demonstration Garden (God of New Life)
Demonstration gardens allow community residents and professionals the opportunity to see how certain plants handle the climate and environment of the area. They are wonderful tools for locals to learn techniques and maintenance procedures.
In this particular garden, there is little new growth. Nothing new is planted. There’s a broken tree limb. This garden is planned for future renovation, but right now, nothing new is growing here. It seems lifeless.
We can become that way in our spiritual lives. Where there is no new growth and we’ve turned brown and lifeless. Fortunately, we can call on the God of New Life to help us become rejuvenated.
Ezekiel 36:26 tells us, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” A new heart and new spirit create new energy, new desires, new tastes, and new hope.
1) The hope to which he called you (the new life you have because of God);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (your new life is for eternity);
3) His incomparably great power (that God is able to produce life…even from death).
Station #8 – Shelter (Everlasting Arms)
This is a basic architectural structure or building that provides cover. In parks, some may be reserved and others are available on a first come first served basis. You’ve heard of storm shelters and bomb shelters and these are there for protection. Here we can find shelter from a storm, the wind, the sun, and the cold.
ci.longmont.co.us/parks
Deuteronomy 33:27a tells us, “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” In His arms we have refuge. In His arms we find protection. With God, we are in the shelter of His loving arms.
Life is so much easier within the arms of our heavenly Father. Regardless of your struggle today, run into His arms. There you will find all that you’ve been looking for.
1) The hope to which he called you (the protection you have because you are within God’s arms);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (the gift of eternal God);
3) His incomparably great power (His protection from all the storms of life).
I pray that these few days have helped you along the journey. That you’ll be able to read through this prayer walk when you need to step a little closer to God. I’m fortunate to be able to walk in this area whenever I want. For that I am thankful.
I pray that you bring the Potter, the Fountain of Living Water, the Branch of Righteousness, Zealous God, the Breath of the Almighty, the Spiritual Rock, the God of New Life, God with Everlasting Arms alongside in your journey. He will make it all worthwhile.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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Prayer Walk – Part 2

June 25th, 2012 dsisler

Today’s post is a continuation of yesterday. A prayer walk written earlier this year. If you didn’t get a chance to read that post, it can be found in the archives.
Station #3 – Apple Orchard (Branch of Righteousness)
Apples are one of the easiest fruit to pick and use.  They’re big and easy to pick, they can be eaten fresh, cooked, canned, frozen and made into many tasty and healthy dishes. Apples are fat, sodium, and cholesterol free. A medium apple has about 80 calories.
Apples ripen from the outside of the tree towards the center, so the apples on the outside of the tree will ripen first.

 

www.longmontian.blogspot.com
The trees in this orchard stand as a representation of what is good in nature and how it was used in the past and what they mean for the future. With this particular orchard, the fruit is free for harvest.
In Scripture we see Jesus as being the Branch of Righteousness. God’s judgment was falling on the nation of Judah because of their sin and rebellion against God. But Jeremiah looks beyond that time of destruction to the day when God would send the Messiah, the Branch of Righteousness, who would rule over God’s people with love and mercy.
Unlike an apple tree, our spiritual growth comes from the inside. We produce fruit with the help of the Holy Spirit to become people that God can use in His kingdom.
At this station, we will praise God for being the Branch of Righteousness. For His willingness to redeem us through His Son.
1) The hope to which he called you (redemption and righteousness);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (fruit we bear);
3) His incomparably great power (Christ ruling within our hearts).
Station #4 – Amphitheater (Zealous God)
An amphitheater is an open-air venue used for entertainment and performances. We in Colorado know of this type of venue because of Red Rocks. We head to an amphitheater to see a concert or a play.

If we look at it from the performer’s point of view, it is a place where they can share something. Their craft, their music, their message. They are proclaiming something from the amphitheater.

We too are to be proclaiming something. We are to proclaim the Gospel with the help of Zealous God. We are to share His light with those in darkness. Remember we are to be infused with God’s Zeal.

At this station, we will praise God for filling us with His zeal. For giving us a message to be proclaimed.
1) The hope to which he called you (we have a message of hope to share);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (we have been rescued from darkness);
3) His incomparably great power (go and tell this message…Christ is within you!).
Station #5 – Prairie (Breath of the Almighty)
The Rocky Mountains prevent moist air from moving over the Great Plains keeping the prairie grasslands extremely dry. Wind runs rampant across the plains. Despite the conditions, many plants and animals such as wildflowers, antelope, mule deer, prairie dogs, and coyotes make their homes in the prairie grasslands.
Just as the wind is part of what makes the prairie what it is, the Breath of the Almighty makes us what we are. Elihu told Job that he owed his life to the Breath of God. God breathed into the nostrils of Adam to make man a living soul. It was God’s own breath that brought Adam to life.
The Holy Spirit, or the Breath of the Almighty, also energizes us in a spiritual sense. As the Spirit breathes on us, we receive power, we are cleansed, and love is kindled within.
At this station, we will praise God for His breath. Without it we would live in a spiritual parched and dry land.
1) The hope to which he called you (you don’t have to live in the desert);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (the Holy Spirit is within us);
3) His incomparably great power (the Holy Spirit is at work in us).
Tomorrow will be the conclusion of this prayer walk. Together, the three days take us on a journey. A walk with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Praising them throughout.
Nothing compares to being in God’s presence. I pray that you’ll enjoy your time with Him today.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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Prayer Walk – Part 1

June 24th, 2012 dsisler

I took my Tuesday night Bible study ladies on a prayer walk to close our year of a Bible study on prayer in April. I searched the area to find a park that held all of the elements for a good prayer walk. There just happened to be a park with a learning center, so I felt that was the perfect location for this walk.
I scoured the learning center for unusual aspects and then headed home to write. What I found was that in writing the prayer walk, I was on my own journey. A journey that led me to a better understanding of God’s purpose for prayer in our lives.
Over the next two (or three) days, I’m going to share this walk with you. Why not join me on this journey? Pray as you read through these sections. You’ll have to imagine the setting, because I didn’t take pictures. But I pray that you’ll walk this prayer walk in the imagination of your mind.
Introduction
We are here at Roger’s Grove Park. It is a park, arboretum and outdoor learning center. Here we’ll be able to use some of their space to learn what God has to say to us. We are not only going to pray, but we are going to learn as well.
In the middle of Paul’s prayer of thanksgiving for the Ephesian Christians, he prays this. Ephesians 1:18-19 (NIV) says, “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.”
Paul desired for their hearts to be enlightened. God does as well.
That is exactly what Bible study does. It gives spiritual understanding to our lives. Helping us to see clearly what God’s Word has to say to us. When our hearts are enlightened, we are free of false beliefs and are no longer ignorant.
There are three ideas mentioned where our hearts should be “enlightened:”
1) The hope to which he called you;
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance;
3) His incomparably great power.
As we move on through our prayer walk and praise God for being who He is, keep these three things in mind. Allow God to bring a greater understanding of each of them in your life and in relation to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Station #1 – Mosaic (The Potter)
This artwork was created by Susan K. Dailey. It is titled, “Along the River.” Here we see a windmill, nature scene, animals, and the river.
Susan K. Daily.com
It is a beautiful piece with great detail. It also tells a story. The story of this area and how it has changed through the years.
We too, are a piece of artwork and have a story to tell. We are God’s masterpiece and because of the change He has made in our lives, our story becomes part of His story.
Remember Isaiah 64:8 (NIV)? “You are our Father, we are the clay, and you are our potter; and all of us are the work of your hand.”
This mosaic also represents the broken pieces of our lives that when placed side by side, a beautiful work of art is fashioned. God can take what we think is unfixable and mend it. He can make beauty out of ashes.
At this station, we will praise God for being our Potter. Think of the three elements listed above in relation to this topic. Remember the beauty God has created in your life.
1) The hope to which he called you (beauty from brokenness);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (how your life has changed);
3) His incomparably great power (what He is able to do in your life).

Station #2 – River (Fountain of Living Water)

We know this river well. It flows through this town and meanders out across the prairie. Where ever this river flows, life flourishes. Plants and animals find refreshment at its banks.
Water is essential for life. Water is essential for our spiritual life as well. Jesus spoke of such living water in John chapter 4. He tells the Samaritan woman that “everyone who drinks this water (from the well) will be thirty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Come Living Water!
At this station, we will praise God for the Living Water He freely gave through Jesus. Without Him, we would indeed be dry and parched.
1) The hope to which he called you (refreshment, hydration, and abundance);
2) The riches of his glorious inheritance (eternal life);
3) His incomparably great power (His ability to bring such life to our lives).
I pray you’ll stop by again tomorrow for the continuation of this prayer walk. To learn what God might have in store for you as you make your way through this “park.”
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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Christmas in July

June 23rd, 2012 dsisler

My daughter, Candace asked the other day, “Why is it ‘Christmas in July?’ If we wanted to celebrate Christmas half way through the year it should be ‘Christmas in June.’ That just sounds funny, but I suppose if it had always been ‘Christmas in June’ it wouldn’t sound funny.”
I did a little research and found a couple of reasons. Some felt that it was because we go through a sad period in July, so this helps to brighten and bring cheer to our lives. Some say it is a retail ploy to get us to buy during the summer months.
I think the real answer, however, is that the southern hemisphere is in their cooler climate during July. We equate Christmas with colder weather, so some brilliant person came up with the idea to capitalize on this idea and “Christmas in July” was born.
For those of us (meaning me) who love Christmas, this is the perfect opportunity to pull out Christmas decorations. I’ve been known to have Christmas in July parties and have decorated my home for such parties.
I think God knew we would love celebrations. He gave the Israelites many festivals and celebrations to fill their hearts with joy and hope. God instructed their use of these festivals for them to remember what He had done and for what He would do in the future.
While there are too many to mention here, there are many great websites with all the festivals listed in the Bible. One that I found interesting is http://maranathalife.com/teaching/jew-hol.htm.  
There is a ton of information on this website, but I thought this piece of information was interesting. “You can divide the Jewish festivals into two distinct groups. The spring festivals showed the first coming of Christ, while the fall festivals showed the second coming.”
Maybe this is how we should look at our “two” Christmas’. The December Christmas to celebrate the first coming of Christ, His birth. The July Christmas to celebrate and anticipate His second coming. I’m not certain this will catch on, but it will change my way of thinking when it comes to Christmas in July.
The feast I’d like to chat about is the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:1-34; 23:26-32). While other feast and festivals are filled with dancing and food, this day brings fasting and purification.
On this day, the High Priest followed guidelines given by God. One goat is sacrificed for the sins of the Israelite people and a second goat is sent into the desert as a scapegoat. The scapegoat carried the sins of Israel with it.
As a Christian, I can see God’s foreshadow of the ultimate sacrifice in this day. The sacrifice freely given by His only Son Jesus meant that no others would need to be made. Jesus’ was “once and for all time.” (Hebrews 10:10 – NCV)
Hebrews chapter 10 goes on to tell us, “because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.” (Hebrews 10:14 – NIV) Jesus’ one time sacrifice took on all of the world’s sin from that moment on. What a burden He carried to the cross. My burden. Your burden. Because of His great love.
How different our lives would be if Jesus had not come. If He wasn’t willing to offer this gift for us. I pray that I will never take His gift for granted and will solemnly accept what He’s given.
I do believe there is cause for celebration as well. My life is different because of Jesus. I don’t have to live with my sin for an entire year before asking for forgiveness. I don’t have to carry guilt and shame day after day. I am able to break free of its hold daily.
“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”(2 Corinthians 9:15 – NIV)
“Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25 – NIV)
“Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57 – NIV)
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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  • "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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