I will always remember the song Mrs. Harley, my elementary school music teacher, taught us about the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We learned the song in a modular unit in the back of the school, which was also attended by my mother and her siblings. Much had changed for the Title I school, but teachers like Mrs. Harley always made us feel special while making do with minimal resources.
"He wanted peace and love all over this land." We sang our parts and reflected on the man and his dream. He was a great man!
As we approach the celebration of the national King Holiday, I honor the sacrifice of Dr. King and remember the sacrifices of those whose names will never enter the historian's inquiry.
I shared these reflections in a guest column published at:
http://m.chronicle.augusta.com/life/your-faith/2014-01-17/remembering-faith-king-and-all-those-who-worked-freedom
As always, look and live! Visit the new Web site at www.looknlive.com
Friday, January 17, 2014
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Sunday, January 5, 2014
Friday, January 3, 2014
What About Your Friends?
Psalm 41:9 Even my bosom friend in whom I trusted,
who ate of my bread, has lifted the heel against me.
Reflection: A quick review of my Facebook Timeline suggests the New Year has arrived with a few “friends” being in love or like “under new management.” Oh, some will remember that 1989 Miki Howard tune where she sings about changes taking place in her love life. My 15-year-old self would sannnnngg, honey, like I knew what she was talking about. I didn’t even know the half.
For some, both romantic relationships and friendships are currently in transition.
In recent years, friends once labeled “best friends” are now identified as simply “friends.” Time and circumstances have changed the dynamics. The older I get, it seems like the fewer genuine friends I have. My granny says we often just have “associates.”
While our FB friends may equate to hundreds of people, our real friendships may be limited as way to protect ourselves from hurt or manipulation. I am cautious when someone is quick to establish a relationship with me; I want to know their motives. I want to know what their intentions are. I want to know if they can be trusted with hearing my hopes and dreams. I want to make sure that what takes place in this passage above does not happen to me.
God has blessed me with some of the most amazing friends who are more charitable and patient than I deserve. However, I have come to realize that while earthly friendships are important, the most important relationship is the one I have with God. My earthly friends would call and have me committed if they ever heard some of the conversations we have. In the words of the familiar hymn, “there’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus. No not one, No not one.” If you’re reading this today, my prayer is that you will also know the love and friendship of Jesus. It is also my prayer that friends after God's heart will be sent your way!
Prayer: Lord, please continue to bless those friendships that you have ordained for my life. May I be able to discern those relationships that are not in your will? Thank you, Lord, for sending people into my life that will help me to accomplish all that you have given my hands to do. Bless my friends and those who extend their love and kindness toward me. Keep them in your care and allow our relationship to bring you all the honor and glory. Amen!
As always, Look and LIVE in harmony!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)