Devotionals for the Heart: Learning from the example set by Jesus Christ

Whose Feet Are You Washing?
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

—John 13:14-15 (NIV)

How can we move beyond loving only our own and embrace the radical, foot-washing love Jesus Christ calls every one of us to live out?

Have you ever been caught completely off-guard by powerfully unselfish love for another person? By nature, we humans are pretty selfish creatures. I know I was certainly selfish and rather self-centered for many years until I had my kids. I’m certain I didn’t consider myself terribly selfish or self-centered at the time, but looking back, it was crystal clear.

But as soon as I found out I was pregnant, everything changed. I’m not sure if it was an emotional or spiritual urge or a biological instinct or what, but suddenly I didn’t much care what I wanted. I cared for what was best for my child. I ate foods that were ideal for the baby growing within me, and later when I was nursing, I even cut out coffee because my little one seemed sensitive to it. My whole lifestyle shifted.

That’s what happens in my Christian contemporary novel Hidden Seeds, which releases tomorrow as a paperback, audiobook, and e-book. One of the main characters, Laney, spent many years in a human trafficking ring. It was in jail, after they ran some tests on her and she discovered she was pregnant, that suddenly, everything changed. Determined to do right by her child, she testified against the ring leaders and entered witness protection. Later, she changed her name and hair and moved far away, doing her best to give her daughter a safe and wholesome life—a life nothing like the one she herself had led.

She no longer lived for self but for someone else. For something bigger. It’s not only mothers who experience this, of course, though most of us would be hard-pressed to live unselfishly and sacrificially for someone besides our offspring, biological or not. That’s the very thing Jesus Christ did for us—sacrifice. Unselfish living. Extravagant mercy and generosity. And as Christians, it’s the very thing we’re supposed to model. Yet do we?

Our Savior (Jesus Christ) died on the cross for us. He endured ridicule and suffering for us. He lived in poverty, preaching and teaching for three long years, so all could hear his good news. The night before he was betrayed, as he and his disciples ate their meal at the Last Supper, Jesus stripped off his outer clothing, knelt, and personally handwashed every single one of his friends’ feet. Their feet!

Later, when he resurrected and walked again among his disciples, he taught them that they needed to spend the rest of their lives doing as he did—suffering, serving and teaching others, and preaching the good news to have every corner of the earth, come what may.

Our society teaches us something far different, doesn’t it? We live in a me-first society and have for millennia, where our personal happiness and that of our loved ones surpass every other concern. We protect ourselves, our families, our communities, and our nation at the expense of others. Sometimes that’s because it’s human instinct, but other times it’s out of fear. Yet we, the followers of Jesus, are not of this world. As Christ-followers, we cannot reserve our unselfish and sacrificial love only for our offspring or our family or friends. We must love the whole world that way, even at our own expense.

Jesus said that after loving God, our second greatest commandment is to love others as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40). Therefore, let’s take that seriously and give more than lip service to what our savior commanded. This week, ask God to show you one person outside your inner circle who needs your unselfish love—and then act on it. It may cost you something. That’s exactly the point.

~*~

Song of Reflection: "Know Us By Our Love" by Moriah. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian novelist, journalist, editor, blogger, and writing coach. 

Her newest novel Hidden Seeds, an Amazon #1 new release, is available now as a paperback, e-book, and audiobook. Find it on Amazon. Learn more about Jessica’s writing ministry and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com. She has a YouTube devotional, and you can also connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and more. She’s also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed.

Devotionals for the Heart: How to discover the gifts God gave to you

Finding Your Sacred Trust
A devotional by Sharon Musgrove

“Yet preaching the Good News is not something I can boast about. I am compelled by God to do it. How terrible for me if I didn’t preach the Good News! If I were doing this on my own initiative, I would deserve payment. But I have no choice, for God has given me this sacred trust.” –1 Corinthians 9:16-17 NLT

The last three years have brought great personal change in my life (retirement, children moving away, purchasing vacation property, parents dying, and loss of church community).

I’ve found myself feeling purposeless and unfocused. It reminded me of my early college years when I was expected to know what I was moving toward, but no job title motivated. This time I spent long hours “discovering myself” as a means of determining what special gift God might want to develop in me. I’ve been asking, “Lord, what do you want of me now?”

Have you wondered what specific role God envisioned when He mixed your DNA?

Two years ago, I was studying the spiritual gifts in Ephesians 4:11 (NLT): “Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers.” I defined these five titles and tried to pinpoint which one my 40 years of Christian experience qualified me for. Over the next twenty-four months I took personality tests. I participated in Zoom trainings on finding my unique design. I scoured the Bible, prayed, journaled, read books, and counseled with trusted friends and a therapist. All those insights were helpful in inching toward what was more “me”, but none of it was feet on the ground action.

I wanted to get there already!

And then, I began yet another Bible study. As I worked my way through the early chapters of 1 Corinthians, my peripheral vision picked up on the upcoming chapter on spiritual gifts. Was I wandering around the same mountain?

But here the Apostle Paul’s words about preaching in 1 Corinthians 9:16 stuck out to me as if in a bold font. The text reads, “I am compelled by God to do it.” A new question hit me: What is the thing I have been doing all my life that I must still do?

Suddenly, it was clear that I had already been in the habit of serving in my designated duty! It was so simple, going unnoticed, because I so easily answer “yes” when the requests come around. In fact, I seek out opportunities to do it.

God has given me the sacred trust of hosting people in need in my home.

Looking back over three decades of marriage, my husband and I have housed some 16 households (from singles to families) for lengthy periods of time. In 2020, we purchased a vacation home with the intent of gifting it to weary Christians who need replenishment. This year we added a third location.

How had I missed hospitality as being my special gift?

Honestly, my propensity for black and white thinking gets in the way too often. Without an official “Shepherd” placard for the wall, I couldn’t see the connection. And church culture can sometimes suggest that volunteer roles are the only way a Christian behaves. Shuttling newcomers through entry level services, like greeting or serving coffee, can keep them from developing into their full potential. But only within the walls of the church building. God, however, will never leave an eager believer stunted in spiritual growth. He will produce fruit in the lives of His children even when we don’t count it as such.

If you are as confused as I had been, let Paul’s passion help you think outside the box of Christian service. Do not think for one moment that God has passed you by on a special sacred trust! He has a compelling gift for others that comes through you!

God uses your heart and talents to serve Him by serving other people.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for creating each one of us perfectly and for a special purpose in Your Kingdom! We know that You have implanted desires in the hearts of every individual and that we can follow this sacred trust. Reveal this unique service to each person who asks. 

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sharon Musgrove is a self-proclaimed sociologist. The opportunities opened to her, over the years, have led her on a fascinating journey observing human behavior.

She has a diverse background in business, fitness, and health industries. This background led her to a unique position writing curriculum and teaching for two private, Christ-based, residential recovery programs. Both programs primarily served women in the homeless community.

Sharon has traveled multiple times to Kenya, serving on medical teams and teaching in the rural Maasai communities. She’s been privileged to participate in Leadership camps for maturing young women. These annual camps have a mission of encouraging and empowering the impoverished, underprivileged, and often abused young Maasai girls.

Identifying personally with the brokenness of the women she’s served, Sharon sees all people as needing more encouragement regardless of cultural or socioeconomic status. Within these ministries, Sharon has witnessed the transformative power of loving words spoken to the broken-hearted. Sharing God’s love and witnessing its transformative power has become her passion.

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel, and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, divide their time between Oregon and Hawaii. They have two grown children. Currently, Sharon is encouraging others via her inspirational blog, but prefers sharing face to face. Additionally, she is studying Christian fiction writing.

~*~
Connect with Sharon:
Website/Blog: Sharonmusgrove.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Sharon-Musgrove-Untethered-102208978041060
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharonmusgrove_untethered/

Devotionals for the Heart: When you are called to serve your enemies

Serving Judas
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” 

–Matthew 5:44 (KJV)

How did Jesus manage to not only eat supper with the man who would betray Him, but also kneel down and wash his feet?

I have heard people marvel about how Jesus ate supper with Judas, but Judas was still there when Jesus performed the servant’s task of washing his disciple’s feet. Jesus was all-powerful, but He was also completely human. How could Jesus so humbly kneel before Judas and wash his feet, knowing that he planned to betray Him that very night?

I think we can all agree that there are some people we do not necessarily get along with in our daily lives. There are some people who are rude and some that drive us crazy. There are certain people we always avoid when we see them in the grocery store. These people do not hate us or persecute us, and yet, we do not treat them half as well as Jesus treated Judas. Why is that? What mindset was Jesus in as He served Judas? What are we missing?

Thankfully, the apostle John explains exactly what Jesus’s mindset was in this moment. “Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God” (John 13:3 KJV). Simply put—Jesus knew what He had, where He was from, and where He was going.

So, what do we have as Christians? We have forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7). We have an inheritance (Ephesians 1:11). We have the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13). We have God’s love (Ephesians 2:4). The list goes on. Because of Jesus, we are now adopted by God and enjoy countless blessings as His children.

Where are we from? Though we all have different stories, there is really only one place we are from. We are from a life of sin. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23 (KJV). We fall short. We are human and we are broken because of sin. We must know accurately who we are if we are to serve as Jesus did. We must acknowledge who we used to be and praise God for interceding and making us new.

Lastly, where are we going? As children of God who have accepted the free gift of salvation from Jesus, we are all going to the same place (Heaven). Each of us will spend an eternity with Jesus, which is the greatest and most beautiful hope that we have here on earth. No matter what happens today or tomorrow, we are traveling upward the whole way. Heaven is our final destination.

Once you know what you have, where you are from, and where you are going, you can find true humility. I think humility is best described in this quote by C.S. Lewis: “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” Once you know who you are, you no longer need to think of other people’s opinions, how you appear, or how you want your life to turn out. You can stop thinking about yourself altogether.

Our confidence comes from who we are in Jesus Christ. We are given everything in Him. We were saved by Him. We will spend eternity with Him. Christ is who we should be centered on. Simply know, dear reader, who you are in Him.

Let’s Pray: Dear Jesus, thank You for Your servant’s heart and example of true humility. Please help us to remember who we are in You so that we can live out each day as Your faithful servants. Grant us the humility to kneel before the Judas in our own lives and serve them as You would so that Your goodness and mercy is revealed through us. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Remember Who You Are” (song) by Crystal Lewis. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Tessa Huckstep grew up in rural Illinois to Christian parents and has known Jesus personally since the age of five. 

She is currently attending community college and majoring in elementary education. In the future, she plans to teach in the public school, hoping to bring the love of God with her.

God’s dream of Tessa becoming a writer was revealed to her at the age of sixteen and she hasn’t been able to stop since. Though she has not yet been published, Tessa enjoys writing historical romance novels and speculative fiction.

Tessa believes God loves stories, and through her writing, she wants to reveal the happily ever after God dreams of for each of his daughters—one where Jesus is the knight in shining armor.

Tessa loves all things Georgian/Regency, needlework, and dainty teacups of every size. When she isn’t writing or studying for exams, Tessa can be found in the kitchen with more flour in her hair and on the floor than in the mixing bowl, though the mess is always half the fun!

~*~
Connect with Tessa:
Blog: https://beautifulbeloved937002841.wordpress.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/101227

Devotionals for the Heart: Your Gifts

Your Gifts Have A Unique Purpose 
A devotional by Mirachelle Canada

“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us . . .” 

– Romans 12:4-6 (NIV)

Can a hand function as a foot, or a foot as a hand?

Not effectively because each is uniquely designed for a reason. Though similar in the digits of fingers and toes, the vast differences between the two are in their design, structure, and purpose. The hand provides strength, power, and protection to the body. The foot provides support, balance, and mobility of the body.

In this same way, God created each of His children with a special purpose. To each one He establishes a unique destiny with gifts to match. Why then do we desire to change ourselves or our circumstances, ignoring our unique gifts? A choir member wishes to be the lead vocalist on the praise team. An usher wishes to be the deacon. The Sunday school teacher wishes to be the credentialed pastor. A youth pastor wishes to be the senior pastor. A band leader wishes to be the musical director, and so on.

These wishes are all a part of the proverbial “grass is always greener on the other side” mentality. Wishing to be other than you have been called or designed to be by God is the same as wanting to trade in your hand for your foot. If the position is not what He designed you for, then you won’t function properly within the body of Christ.

When we covet someone else’s gifting in the body, we are taking our eyes off the mark, which is in Jesus Christ. This type of sin will hinder us and our purpose. Hebrews 12:1-2 says that we are called to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (NIV, emphasis added). Don’t miss the enduring hope in that instruction! Jesus pioneered the way for us to fulfill our calling both faithfully and effectively. Rather than looking to someone else’s gift to fulfill your purpose, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, who knows your unique giftings and will champion them to completion within you.

In this festive holiday season, there are so many of our unique gifts that we can humbly offer to God for His purpose. More than anything else, let us be willing to be the extensions of His hands and His feet by offering to others His unending mercy and everlasting love.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for the unique gifts within me that You designed for your purpose. Help me to use my gifts as You intended them as I keep my eyes fixed on your Son, Jesus Christ, who died so that I can live in hope and victory. Show me how to be a part of the Body of Christ with a cheerful heart—whether hand or foot, arm, or leg. Thy will be done. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Reflection Question: What has God shown you is your unique gift in the Body of Christ? Tell us about it in the comments section!

~*~
Author Bio:

Mirachelle Canada is a writer, playwright, screenwriter, and theatre director/producer from Northern Virginia, where she teaches television production at her high school alma mater. 

She earned her Master of Fine Arts in Script & Screenwriting from Regent University and is an alumnus of Act One: Hollywood Film & Television Writing Program.

Mirachelle is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, American Fiction Writers Virginia Chapter, The Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, and Your Novel Blueprint.

She is currently working on her first historical fiction novel set during WWII.

~*~
Connect with Mirachelle:
Website: www.mirachellecanada.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mirachellecanada/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/miracan

Devotionals for the Heart: Gratitude

A Season of Gratitude 
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“These be the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the seat, chief among the captains; the same was Adino the Eznite: he lift up his spear against eight hundred, whom he slew at one time.” – 2 Samuel 23:8 (KJV)

It is already November 2021! Can you believe it?

I’ve been wondering, “Where has this year gone?”

Since the end of World War I, we in the United States of America have celebrated Armistice Day on Nov. 11. This is because the armistice that ended World War I was effected on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. It is an unforgettable time and date for an event that the entire world noted and reflected upon for the first time in 1919.

November has also become known as the month of gratitude.

At the end of WWI most people believed that there would never be a war like that again. Yet, 20 years later the world was warring again. WWII lasted six years, but it involved more soldiers globally than did WWI.

Nine years after the cessation of World War II, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day. In doing so, this annual celebration of valor would perpetually include all of the men and women who served in defense of the United States of America and our allies.

War is antithetical to the character and will of God. Because of original sin there will be conflicts and casualties until the world order is divinely reset after the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Because there will be conflict, encroachments and violations of civility and humanity, there must be people who will prepare for and respond to evil advancements. These are our first responders along with soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and guardians.

Celebrating warriors, patriots and patriarchs is biblical. The Old Testament book of 2 Samuel, chapter 23 gives a list of 37 men of valor. As he neared the end of his life, King David paid homage to the men who valiantly fought, with supernatural ability, to protect Israel.

In chapter four of the book of Judges, two women are lauded for their valor in combat: Deborah, (a prophetess who led 10,000 men into battle) and Jael (the wife of a diplomat who assassinated an enemy of Israel named Sisera).

The fifth chapter of the book of Judges is a song of honor. It was a national celebration that extolled the providence of God in delivering Israel from warmongering neighbors. While these stories of valor include miracles, they also demonstrate that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Honoring the valiant among us who invested years of their lives in the service of our nation is a good thing. Decades ago, some churches posted the names of congregational members who were veterans. Those who were killed in combat were differentiated on the plaques. I have not seen that lately, but I always thought it was a good idea.

November 11 is a good day to express some gratitude to the veterans in our social circle. If you know a veteran, say a kind word or share a blessing with them.

A few years ago, my daughter and I went out to dinner on Veterans Day. We wore some of our military swag. When we were ready to pay the bill, the waiter told us that our bill had already been paid. He pointed across the room to a man who was having dinner with his family. As we were leaving the restaurant, we stopped by his table to say thank you. He was a patriot who could not serve, but he was profuse in his sincere appreciation for those of us who did.

Nationalism can be leveraged inappropriately, but national service should be affirmed. During the month of gratitude (November), look for someone who serves in your community and affirm them. I usually leave an envelope with a small gift for the mailman and greet the men who collect our garbage with a gift at Christmastime.

Unexpected affirmations carry more weight than those that are expected. Join me, this month, in affirming those who served in the military and showing gratitude to the civil servants in our community.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank you for the men and women of valor who served in the military. Thank you for those civil servants who provide security and support within our communities. Bless them because of their devotion to duty. As we honor them, may our gifts of affirmation be like prayers to you. Enlarge our deeds and offerings of gratitude. Like the fish and the loaves that Jesus used to feed thousands, may the magnitude of our gratitude be larger than the substance of our gifts. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Chaplain Anderson served for 20 years as a U.S. Navy Chaplain. Over 26 years of active duty, he was promoted through the ranks from Seaman Apprentice (E2) to his final rank as Commander (O5) in the Chaplain’s Corps.

Prior to his Naval career, Chaplain Anderson pastored in the Allegheny East and Potomac Conferences of Seventh-day Adventists. His undergraduate preparation for ministry was completed at Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park, Md.

He has subsequently earned four graduate degrees: a Master of Divinity from Andrews University in Michigan, a Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland and a Masters of Sacred Theology in Religion and Culture from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry degree was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Chaplain Anderson also completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He also holds certifications in Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Civil Mediation, Alternative Workplace Dispute Resolution, Temperament Analysis, Marriage Enrichment, Workforce Diversity, and is a certified Life Coach.

You may connect with Chaplain Anderson via email at this address, psanderson75@gmail.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: Worship

Everyday Worship
A devotional by Kay Pflueger

“… But the Most High does not dwell in sanctuaries made with hands, as the prophet says: Heaven is my throne, and the earth my footstool. What sort of house will you build for me? says the Lord, or what will be my resting place?” 

–Acts 7:48-49 (CSB)

The word “sanctuary” is defined by Merriam-Webster as “the most sacred part of a religious building” or “the room in which general worship services are held” or “a place (such as a church or a temple) for worship.” We may hear church sanctuaries referred to as “houses of worship” as that is where we expect to go to honor the Lord through song and prayer. But is that the only place where worship can take place?

When you think of worship, what setting comes to mind? Are you in a majestic cathedral with a massive pipe organ? Maybe you are in a little country church with wooden pews? Or are you standing in a homeless shelter serving soup to hungry families?

Worshipping the Lord is not confined to the four walls of a church building. It can happen as you are standing at the kitchen sink washing dirty dishes, or in the quiet of the night while feeding and soothing a hungry infant, or when hammering the shingles on the roof of a “Habitat for Humanity” project. According to Mark 10:45, we are called not to be served but to serve. This is not meant to be obligatory service but rather should be a deep-down-from-the-heart prayerful outreach.

What does this kind of worship look like? Envision it as embracing interruptions in our day when an opportunity to serve presents itself. See it as bravely praying God would send someone our way who we can share His love with. Picture it as asking Him to reveal opportunities to worship Him through service—service that helps us embrace the uncomfortable and not shy away from that call due to fear of the unknown. Believe that it is connecting to God in the whole of our daily life.

Worship is showing reverence and adoration for God. When we reach out to serve others, we are demonstrating our love for Him in a very tangible, practical way. In John 13, we read how Jesus modeled servant behavior by washing the dirty feet of His disciples. Note Jesus’s words in John 13:16-17 (CSB): “Truly I tell you, a servant is not greater than his master, and a messenger is not greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.”

The idea of worshiping God throughout the week might feel somewhat intimidating as I suspect it is easier to think of worship as something we do for an hour a week within the four walls of our church buildings. But consider how we can honor God by the way we act among our families, friends, and co-workers—how we can worship Him through offering every action to Him. Billy Graham said: “The highest form of worship is the worship of unselfish Christian service. The greatest form of praise is the sound of consecrated feet seeking out the lost and helpless.” Let us praise God today by seeking out opportunities to serve others.

In closing, I’d like for you to listen to this song “Heart of Worship” by Hillsong United.

Let’s Pray: Help us, Father God, to find ways to worship you in our daily activities…from caring for our own families to reaching out to those in need. May we learn to worship you each moment of every day. Teach us to see our whole lives as one great worship service, in which we honor you through every word, every thought, every deed. Open our eyes to those in need of your love. Show us ways to serve in the same manner as Jesus served. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Learning to read as a young child opened a world of adventure for Kay Pflueger. She came to realize that words can have a unique power and beauty.  

Choosing to share those words in her devotional writings has become a joyful and rewarding experience for her. As a widow, she feels a special affinity towards those who are grieving or experiencing loss.

When she is not spending time with her married son and three grandchildren, she is either reading, cooking, writing, or working on pursuing her Copyediting Certification.

Kay is an avid baseball fan who looks forward every summer to following her favorite team, the Chicago Cubs. 

Kay is an active member of Victory Lutheran Church in her hometown of San Diego, California. 

She enjoys writing devotions to be shared on her church’s website and personal social media.

~*~
Connect with Kay:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kay.m.pflueger
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irishsweetpea/

Devotionals for the Heart: Service

Washing Feet
A devotional by Sharon Musgrove

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” –John 13:14-15 (ESV)

This devotional is being written as I prepare to leave India, traveling home at a time of crisis. My husband and I have been on a two-week tour seeing and experiencing the great history and culture of this country. Our itinerary has not only covered great sites like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, but included visiting families choosing a more “primitive” lifestyle, homesteading in the country. We peeked into yesterday’s grand India while walking in today’s culture.

When meeting our Tour Director, I expected a guide with great knowledge and an energetic personality, but Mr. Kohli’s demeanor surprised me. He was highly educated and polite, yet reserved. In hindsight, I understand his decorum was appropriate, however initially I was skeptical thinking he was stand-offish.

With only four in the group, it was really more of a private tour. My husband and I were joined by a Canadian woman and her special needs adult child. Our group dynamic was a complete twist from what I had anticipated. Special needs require special attention.

As we traveled from city to city, touring monuments, memorials and museums, the days were long and full. The energy of crowded streets and minimal regimen created a sensory overload. The stress proved difficult, not just for us, but especially our fellow travelers. The growing coronavirus pandemic rolled in like an ominous bank of storm clouds, adding temptation to worry.

It was Mr. Kohli’s calm confidence that made a successful trip possible for us. Had he been one to ride on adrenaline, we’d have been in chaos. This man was our North Star in many ways. He was a teacher. He was an authority. He was our protector. But overall, he was a servant.

Sometimes I have difficulty relating to the stories in the Bible to my everyday life. Are you like me? Jesus Christ’s last supper act of washing feet is hard to identify with because we don’t practice that service in the western world. Remaining focused on that fact, I lose the meaning of what Jesus was conveying.

In a time of great personal distress, Jesus took off his coat, rolled up his sleeves and served. He asked his followers to do the same. Don’t let this timing be lost on you! Jesus was moving toward suffering and death, and yet, he bent low, washing foot after grimy foot, leaving out no one.

Mr. Kohli, though not of Christian faith, has diligently served the four of us foreigners in a time of significant worldwide stress. He has gone above and beyond with our awkward group. He has washed my feet.

As I wrote this devotional, I was preparing to board one of four flights to return home. Each of those planes has a crew whom are not flying home during crisis. They are washing my feet.

I cannot know what will be happening in future weeks, with respect to the Coronavirus pandemic, but I know the position I must take: that of washing feet.

I am not immune to the temptation to worry or be swept up in speculation, therefore I must be intentional in keeping my mind set on the examples of Jesus and those following his example.

Whose feet are before you?

~*~
Author Bio:

Sharon Musgrove is a self-proclaimed sociologist. The opportunities opened to her, over the years, have led her on a fascinating journey observing human behavior. 

She has a diverse background in business, fitness and health industries. This background led her to a unique position writing curriculum and teaching for two private, Christ-based, residential recovery programs. Both recovery programs served women primarily from the homeless community.

Sharon has traveled multiple times to Kenya, serving on medical teams and teaching in the rural Maasai communities. She's been privileged to participate in Leadership camps for maturing young women. These annual camps have a mission of encouraging and empowering the impoverished, underprivileged, and often abused young Maasai girls.

Easily identifying personally with the brokenness of the women she's served, Sharon now sees all people as needing more encouragement regardless of cultural or socioeconomic status. Within these ministries, Sharon has witnessed the transformative power of loving words spoken to the broken-hearted. Sharing God’s love and witnessing its transformative power has become her passion.

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, make their home in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. They have two grown children. Currently, Sharon is writing her first Christian historical fiction novel utilizing her study, experience, and understanding of self-destructive behaviors.

Devotionals for the Heart: Service

On Service
A devotional by Lisa Lickel

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” – John 13:14-15 (ESV)

Before I moved to a new community last fall, I had volunteered for a number of years, driving people to medical appointments or shopping, or helping service organizations or non-profits with bookwork, cleaning, and the like. I helped out with secretarial duties at our church. I enjoyed those activities; they felt like service. But I realize service shouldn’t be relegated to volunteer activities.

The example Jesus gives is for everyday life. To me, in my modern lifestyle, that means actions of kindness like filling the car with gas, washing dishes or laundry, making the bed, taking care of the yard, or cleaning the bathroom. It’s not a matter of your job/my job. It’s a matter of “ought to.” It’s a matter of giving way or giving in to each other. It’s a matter of outdoing each other with showing honor (Romans 12:10, ESV).

A Christian discipline of service rises from gratitude, not from authority. It is seeing a need and meeting it, not forcing “help” on someone just because it would be easier or faster if I performed the task. It is patience, not self-righteousness, never self-serving. Service is Christian humbleness. “When we choose to be a servant, we give up the right to be in charge,” Richard Foster says in Celebration of Discipline. “There is great freedom in this.” Amen! When we allow others to direct our efforts we surrender any form of ulterior motive for service. We might even allow others the dignity of seeing their own mistakes and correct them without needing to point it out.

There is great joy in loving Christ so much that it spills all around me. I can’t help but stop and be that third temporary hand, the one who picks up dishes so the conversation can continue, who changes the diaper, who lends a ride, who gives a drink when asked, to shut up and listen. I don’t pretend to hear every internal cry. I haven’t yet done more than meet my own need to volunteer in two areas I love in my new community.

Some days I’m still growly and grumpy when things don’t go my way. I’m unhappy when I don’t feel appreciated. In every sunset, every hymn, every blooming wild geranium, the Lord breaks through and reminds me that life isn’t about me. I’m released from the cage of narrow vision, of narrow-mindedness in which I’ve locked myself. I don’t have to be the greatest (Luke 9:46, ESV) and I can allow myself to be used as the servant of all (Mark 9:35, ESV).

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, as it would please you, bring me someone today whom I can serve.

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Author Bio: 

Lisa Lickel is a Wisconsin writer who lives in the rolling hills of western Wisconsin. 

A multi-published and award-winning novelist, she also writes short stories and radio theater, is an avid book reviewer, blogger, a freelance editor, and workshop leader. 

She is a member of Chicago Writers Association and part of Novel-in-Progress Bookcamp and Writing Retreat, Inc., mentoring writers from across the US and Canada. 

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Connect with Lisa:
Website: http://www.LisaLickel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lisalickelauthor
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/lisalickel
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lisajlickel
Amazon Author page: http://amzn.to/2bPxi2X

Devotionals for the Heart: Stress, Love, Service and A Mission Trip

Overcoming stress through love and service
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

I’m just going to admit it: I’ve been a giant ball of tension and stress recently. Kids, work, illness, and a silly-but-debilitating fitness-inspired injury—you name it. Even though I’ve been trying hard to breathe, to rest in the presence of my Creator, and give all my concerns to the Lord, the fact remains that I’m doing too much, not giving myself enough downtime, running on empty, not getting quite enough shuteye, and it’s been taking a toll.

As I write this, I’m also knee-deep in preparations to head off with my husband on a one-week mission trip to help hurricane victims in Puerto Rico. And ironically, I know deep down the trip, more than anything else I could possibly do, is my ticket to stress-busting.

See, I know it’s not going to be easy. We’ll be staying in the mountains in rather rustic conditions with no electricity, and the work will be grueling: tarping, tear-out, roofing, rebuild.

But if I’ve gleaned one bit of wisdom in my life so far, it’s that pushing myself aside to focus on others is probably the best stress-reliever is existence.

We all know that Jesus said the two greatest commandments are, first, to love God with everything we are, and second, to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:35-40). But what we might not know is that the secret to bliss also has everything to do with keeping those commandments. In today’s me-driven secular society, we get so many mixed messages about happiness. We’re told we need to prioritize ourselves and do what feels right.

But as Christians, I think we need to ignore that and instead focus on turning ourselves over to the Lord in whatever way He calls us to do. Sacrificing—our time, our money, our material possessions, our very lives—helps us become one with God. Why do we think Jesus taught that it is more blessed to give than receive? I think He knew that relinquishing control and worry over ourselves and our needs was a consuming, ever-downward-spiraling track to despair. His path is the one we are to follow: the way of truth, love, and humble service with God at the center.

The Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians, “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (Philippians 2:1-4, NIV).

Loving others, for me, is serving others. And whether that service is through reading to kids, cooking a meal for people in need, being a shoulder for a friend (or stranger), being a cheerleading encourager, or hopping on a plane for a weeklong mission trip to Puerto Rico, you can be sure of one thing. Putting myself on the backburner to engage in some love-filled Christian service is a balm to the soul.

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Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning journalist, Christian author, editor, blogger, and writing coach. 

She is the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate (AdvocateSC.org), the oldest continuously published newspaper in Methodism. 

Learn more about her fiction and read her blog at http://jessicabrodie.com/

Interview with Terri Wangard, author of Soar Like Eagles

Welcome Terri Wangard to the blog today! 

She's here to talk about her latest release, Soar Like Eagles. It's a delightful romance story that will encourage your heart with its theme of how love conquers all, and its thread of faith will inspire your heart.

Enjoy your time with Terri!

Here's the book blurb for Soar Like Eagles: 

Carol becomes a Red Cross doughnut girl, serving GIs and boosting their morale. Believing wartime romances are doomed to disappointment, she attempts to avoid entanglements and transfers to France, away from Chet, the airman she’s falling for.

Chet’s father always belittled him. Now a well-regarded navigator, he longs to prove him wrong. After he’s ditched in the North Sea, parachuted into France, and been called before a review, his focus changes to staying alive, and winning the Red Cross girl he keeps crossing paths with.

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Interview with Terri Wangard, author of Soar Like Eagles:

Alexis: Soar Like Eagles is book number three in your series, “Promise for Tomorrow.” What is your book series about?

Terri: All three follow B-17 navigators based at Ridgewell, England, during World War II. The first one is shot down in Germany, where he finds a woman he’d gone to school with. The second is interned in Sweden, where he meets the woman who crossed to Europe on the Queen Mary with him. And the third meets a woman at a train canteen who follows him to England as a Red Cross volunteer.

Alexis: What makes Soar Like Eagles unique? Share the storyline.

Terri: Soar Like Eagles features a Red Cross clubmobiler, and you won’t find many, if any, novels about that. She wants to do her part for the war, but struggles to maintain her ideals. He joins the air force, hoping to find peace.

Alexis: Tell us about the heroine of your story, Carol. Describe her looks, personality, passion and hope.

Terri: Carol is named for my mother, who I think would have made a fine RC volunteer. The fictitious Carol is a newspaper reporter writing about social events. She wants to be more involved in the war effort and contribute in a meaningful way, which does not include describing ladies’ gowns at a Christmas party. The book cover pictures her well.

Alexis: Why did Carol decide to become a Red Cross doughnut girl?

Terri: She joins the Red Cross to find that meaningful contribution. Many girls serve overseas. Working in a factory may be a necessary and worthwhile occupation, but she wants to be closer to the action and the fighting men.

Alexis: What does Carol like the most about serving GI’s and boosting their morale?

Terri: Most of the men are thrilled to see American women. Many need a listening ear. The girls give them a respite from the consequences and strain of battle.

Alexis: Carol wants to steer clear of wartime romances. Why?

Terri: A close friend married a man Carol rejected within days of the rejection. She came to deeply regret it. Wartime romances, especially those overseas, take place in unnatural situations where they don’t necessarily get to know the real person. Marrying in haste only to discover she’s married a stranger holds no appeal to Carol.

Alexis: Tell us about the hero of your story, Chet. What is he like? Describe his looks, personality, passion and dreams. What is his greatest fear? Why?

Terri: Chet’s mother died when he was young. His father was stern and ridiculing, so his maternal grandparents took Chet. He wants to prove he’s not the worthless kid his father claimed him to be. He excelled at the Pan Am navigation school and was offered a postwar job (if he survived). But always, in the back of his mind, he hears his father’s taunts. He’s tall, dark haired, kind of like Ioan Gruffudd.

Alexis: What is it about Carol that attracts Chet?

Terri: They meet at a train canteen for only a few minutes. He’s quiet, polite, good-natured. And, of course, he’s easy on the eyes.

Alexis: What is it about Chet that makes Carol reconsider wartime romance?

Terri: She sees his concern for his friends, his grief when they die. He comes into the clubmobile’s kitchen and washes dishes when they run short. She sees his humor as he interacts with enlisted men. He’s responsible and well-thought of by the other airmen.

Alexis: Chet is from a troubled family/home life. How did the verbal abuse affect him as he grew up? What made him into the man he is today?

Terri: He’s determined to prove his father wrong. There’s always that extra push to succeed.

Alexis: Chet is a squadron lead navigator. What does that mean? Does he like his job? Why or why not?

Terri: The lead navigator has primary responsibility for guiding the wing, group, or squadron to the target and back to base, often covering hundreds of miles. That’s a pressure-filled job, especially in the often foggy weather. One time he’s blamed for a mission that goes awry, but is exonerated. It is very satisfying when he brings them to their destination and hears, “That’s good work, Chet.”

Alexis: Why did you choose to incorporate the real-life, airplane company legend PanAm into your fictional story? What is the significance of it?

Terri: I want my stories to be solidly based on fact. Even the missions the airmen fly go to the actual targets on the dates they were flown by the 381st Bomb Group based at Ridgewell. Many of the incidents my characters face grew out of real occurrences. I chose PanAm because it provided lots of story possibilities in Miami, primarily for book one, Friends & Enemies, where Chet and Paul (of Friends & Enemies) meet. Historical accuracy is important.

Alexis: What did you enjoy the most about writing this story?

Terri: I love the research. My personal library contains many memoirs by participants of the 381st Bomb Group and other navigators. For this story, I acquired lots of clubmobiler memoirs. I enjoy biographies and find it fascinating to learn about people’s lives. 

Alexis: What was the most challenging aspect of writing this wartime romance?

Terri: Getting it right and believable, and weaving all the threads together. I made flow charts of all three books to make sure their dates match, since they’re all in the same time frame.

Alexis: What’s the moral of this story?

Terri: I don’t start out with one in mind when I write. Carol stood up for her beliefs, which caused trouble with a colleague who was intent on marrying. Chet didn’t let his father’s criticism hold him back; he used it to prod himself to do better.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, Terri! Do you have any final comments?

Terri: Thank you for having me!

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Author bio: 

Terri Wangard grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, during the Lombardi Glory Years. Her first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. 

These days she is writing historical fiction, and won the 2013 Writers on the Storm contest and 2013 First Impressions, as well as being a 2012 Genesis finalist. 

Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Her research included going for a ride in a WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Classic Boating Magazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her busy as an associate editor.

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Buy Terri's book:

Amazon - http://amzn.to/2dMEDNJ 

Celebrate Lit - http://www.celebratelitpublishing.com/shop/ 

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Connect with Terri:
Website - www.terriwangard.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/AuthorTerriWangard
Pinterest - www.pinterest.com/terriwangard/