LIFE IS NOT A BED OF ROSES

By Vernalee

Without question, life and living are not without troubles or its accomplice, worry. Sooner or later, they walk through your door. Sometimes we worry about issues that do not directly concern us, but if they affect people that we love, they naturally become an extension of our lives. Flowers, particularly roses can be calming/soothing. Although they don’t wash our troubles away, roses brighten up our space. They are such beautiful flowers and come in an assortment of colors. Often, I think that roses, particularly red ones, have magical powers. A dozen delivered to my door can heal emotional wounds and bring instant joy and jubilation. A delivery of two dozen once made me jump through hoops. To its recipient, roses show thoughtfulness from the giver. They can definitely liven up your day and spirits with their fragrant delight. As beautiful and fragrant as roses are, rose bushes have thorns. The piercing of a thorn against our skin hurts. When that happens, we have God’s healing hands to give us relief. For certain, life is not always easy and is not without its problems. Certainly, it is not a bed of roses, but thank God for his mercy, love, grace, protection, and covering. Thank God for continuing the breathe of life in us and our loved ones. Actually, we need to thank God for the bed ... and for the roses.

Thank God for today and a tomorrow! As we feel the smooth petals, smell the fragrant scent, and adore the beauty of roses, we can digest God’s words and take in the beauty of his garden of life that is filled with many flowers along with life’s varied assets. As we stand, sit, and walk in God’s rose garden, we are provided with all of the necessities that we need in this life. He gives us the strength to make it through those troubled days. Oh yes, we are truly blessed! James 1:12 tells us – Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. Photo credit: www.brooklynmusuem.org

I FEEL LIKE PRAISING, PRAISING HIM

By Vernalee Come go to church with me! Ready?

I want to take you on a virtual tour this Sunday to a country church in the Mississippi delta.

Traveling down south, we first pass the crystal clear Lake Washington; then we'll drive past the shotgun and mobile homes before we arrive to the segregated section of the town where the colored folks live. Walking on the gravel paved road, we enter the church house.

As we walk toward the front door, we are hugged, kissed, greeted, and welcomed southern hospitality style by these friendly folks dressed in their “Sunday go to church” clothes. Only the best for God!

The choir stand is exuberantly rocking as it has Mahalia Jackson type of talent. Everybody has golden voices!

The traveling choir dressed in their purple robes go from church to church singing to the heavens. The pianist who can’t read a stitch of music plays by ear so magnificently that even you believed that the sounds were produced by a trained classical musician. There is a resounding reverence as the singing preacher brings down the house with his James Cleveland’s rendition of “Amazing Grace.”

Standing in the pulpit, his far reaching pastoral message is so religiously and emotionally intense that you feel that he is talking directly to you. As communion is ceremoniously served, petitions are quietly whispered.

The congregation holds hands as they seemingly pray your troubles away.

I‘m here to tell you that this place exudes love and immediately you feel the Holy Ghost spirit and an incredible closeness to God!

A soloist grabs the microphone and starts her rendition of ”I feel like praising him.” In a raspy tone, her voice so closely resembles the sound of Shirley Caesar that your ears can’t discern the difference. As you sing along, a member of the church dressed in sparkling white touched your shoulder and said, “Child, keep on praying. Everything is gonna be alright. God is watching over you, will take care of you, and graciously bless you. Oh, yes he will!”

Holy hallelujah!

How did she know that you were troubled? It’s a miracle because suddenly a calmness filled your soul!

You walked in worried and confused.

You walked out as a jubilant believer in The Lord!

What a transformation!

Exiting your spirituality propels you to jump with joy as you realize that “It’s a New Day” in your life ... as you gloriously sing “Let everything that has breathe praise The Lord!” As my pastor always says, “God is able!”

Oh, yes he is!

Happy Sunday!

Blessings!

ORDER MY STEPS

By Vernalee

One of my daily prayers is for God to order my steps. Years ago, I thought that I was capable of finding my way. Life taught me otherwise. I have realized unequivocally that I can't do it alone. I cannot step correctly or walk in the right path without The Lord's hand. I thank you Lord for guiding me and giving me enough sense to hold tightly and not let go of your unchanging hand. Hallelujah!

Happy Sunday! Blessings!