The 4-H Pledge

All Blessings

This ancient blessing pronounced at the end of many church services brings with it a powerful reminder that God is the source of all goodness in the world. When we close a morning of worship by singing the well-known hymn, “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow,” it has the same effect. All blessings. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights,” says the apostle in James 1:17. As we bask in the sure knowledge of God’s love for us in Christ Jesus, we must not forget those living in homes where He is not known. The hymnist puts it this way: “A home that is not wholly His — How sad and poor and dark it is!” (“Oh, Blest the House”).

Road Trip

If we compare our life’s journey to an ol’-fashioned road trip, the “road trip” comes to an abrupt halt when we lose a spouse or loved one. It feels like simultaneously the road map has blown out the window, the road signs are upside down, the tires are flat, and the engine has stalled. Dealing with death can feel like a complete highway breakdown, often with no desire to get back on the road again. No one expects you to repair your vehicle; the mechanic will. Cling to what you know; for in it, there’s HOPE. Fervently pray. Call your pastor. Lean into God’s promises. Daily stay in God’s Word. God will take those cares He’s commanded you to cast on Him. You don’t need to have all the answers — you know all that’s needful is in God’s Holy Word.

Awaiting God’s Call

My sister, Donna, suffered from cancer for many years. When the treatments were no longer preventing the spread of that dreadful disease or shrinking the tumor, she decided to “let go and let it to God.” I visited her often in the last days; we enjoyed reminiscing about our life as sisters 17 months apart. Together we planned her final service. My sister, baptized as an infant, lived her life as a child of God, first as a child and teenager, later as a wife and mother. She loved doing for her family, even when it meant dragging the cord of an oxygen tank around with her. Health permitting, she still served at church. She seemed content, knowing our Savior would soon call her to eternal glory. May we all share such contentment.

Shining Lights

I was sitting outside hoping to enjoy a beautiful evening. We’ve all experienced some dark times, and this was one of those for me. As I watched the sun set, I prayed for a brighter tomorrow. Heading indoors, I noticed a gift bag nearby. Inside was a book about the realities of heaven. A note attached revealed the giver was my friend, Bette. She knows firsthand about the challenges of life yet always faces them with faith and hope. Her laughter is contagious and so is her love of Jesus! My light seemed pretty dim that night, but I’m hoping to remember the joy of Easter every day! Because of the love and sacrifice of Jesus for us, we can look forward to our real home in heaven!

Abound in Hope

Not long after my parents sold their home, a raging fire burned down about a third of the houses in their neighborhood. Years later, I visited the nearby cemetery where my dad was buried. A light rain fell. Charred tree trunks still surrounded the gravestones. This desolate environment portrayed my emptiness. I lovingly rubbed my fingers over my father’s name engraved in the stone. Searching for peace, I stopped by the sparse neighborhood where I had often chatted and laughed with my dad. To my surprise, glowing grasses and colorful bushes dotted these vacant lots. The sun came out, highlighting a brilliant, new landscape. It was stunning! My heavenly Father assured me that He rejuvenates my experiences. The world’s troubles cannot overpower His love for His children.