Focus

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“For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20

“But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them.” – Hebrews 11:16

“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household.” – Ephesians 2:19

“For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come.” – Hebrews 13:14

“In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.” – John 14:2

May these verses bring you certainty, peace, and focus. Turn your eyes towards Jesus, look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.

Love, Lisa

Swimming for the Surface

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The sea was relatively calm. Once she got past the small breaking waves, it was easy to swim. But the thoughts kept coming. She decided to swim down, into the deep of the water for a moment. She saw dark murky sand in the water through her slightly opened eyelids. The pressure of the water pushed hard against her head, her body. She could feel the pulse of the tide also. Random pieces of seaweed and a possible jellyfish brushed against her skin.

Finally, the need for air arose. She stopped the motion of her arms, her legs, and released. Her body rushed towards the air. Simultaneously, a gulp of fresh salty air, sun on her face, seawater on her hair. She felt young again with no responsibilities or expectations. Relief and joy flooded her soul. Simple joys, water and air and sky and sun. Good things. God things.

The thoughts were clearer now, not so murky and cluttered. New her, new dream, new day.

Whatever it is that you are dreaming about, maybe that is God nudging you to go for it. You have permission to dream and to go after your dreams, no matter how old you are, no matter if COVID is in the world, no matter if politics are a mess. God is on His Throne. He made you and gave you this day, today. Since God is in control, there is a bright and glorious future. Grab on to Him and your dreams, let go, and swim for the surface. Love, Lisa

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” -Isaiah 43:18-19a

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” -John 8:36

Fix My Eyes, Lie Down, and Rest

The storm came out of nowhere. The waves which once gently lapped the edges of the wooden boat were now crashing wildly over the sides. The wind ripped one of the sails, rendering it useless. We knew there was no hope, and began crying. Some calling for help to the heavens. Some weeping quietly inside.

Then we saw Jesus. He was sleeping, so quietly in the corner of the boat, totally unconcerned with the storm. We awoke him, terrified. He saw our fear, heard our cries. He had mercy on our unbelief. Peace, be still! The waves were quiet instantly at His command. The wind ceased without a moment’s hesitation. The boat ceased its rocking. We fixed our eyes firmly on this One who controls all things. Hope, rest, peace all found in One Person, this Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ. We laid down and rested. He did the same, and we knew we would always be safe with Him.

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The prescription I am ordering for myself for this week and the weeks to come: fix your eyes on Jesus, lie down, and rest. He is always in control. Praise to God! Love, Lisa

Golden Glory

Moments before this photograph was taken, our skies were dark and turbulent. The remnants of what was Hurricane Zeta were exiting to the east. Then, in a blinding second of golden glory, the sun illuminated the trees. God is His excellent wisdom left the black clouds behind the mountains for dramatic effect.

What was dark became light.

The ash tree, which sadly is dying and must be removed soon, looked amazingly vibrant.

Golden light bathed all in its path, and all was breathtakingly beautiful.

This is what Christ does. He makes all things new. He turns darkness into light. He can make what is dying in you come to life in a beautiful way. In a blinding second of golden glory. Love, Lisa

Weightless Moment

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Close my eyes, think, feel, wonder

Begin to type without fear of failing

Pressure inside starts to crumble

As the words appear upon the screen

Praying You are pleased with me

The One who loves me unconditionally

Laughing, I imagine Your smile

And I let the words continue a bit more

Until I can rest and be and breathe

c 2020 Lisa Lyons