Shelter in Christ Jesus

 In the July/August edition of The Messenger, Dr. G.M. Bilkes has a meditation entitled All My Journey Through. In this article he explains a very interesting thought with respect to the pillar of cloud and fire that led the Israelites as they journeyed through the wilderness for 40 years. “The impression you get from reading all the passages about it is that the higher the cloud got, the more the cloud expanded and dispersed, making a canopy or umbrella-like shape over the people to give them shade from the blazing wilderness sun (see Psalm 105:39).” (Bilkes, p.3)

What amazing care God provided to lead and shelter the Israelites. God is still the same today. He leads, and guides by His Word. And in that Word we can find a shelter in Christ, Who bore the wrath of God for His people. How blessed to take shelter under the shadow of His wings.

A verse in Psalm 63 has been a great comfort to me: “Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice” (Psalm 63:7) Just like the pillar of cloud and fire was an umbrella for Israel, so we too can find shelter, peace, and contentment in Christ Jesus.

Jack.

Here is a link to the blog site of Chris Vandoodewaard. He suffered from ALS and passed away earlier this year. Chris was a Christian from St. Thomas, an elder in his church and a friend of our family. The blog is full of tips and helpful information for those who suffer from ALS. His wife Mary has been very helpful to us, and gave us permission to post this link.

http://www.alsorlou.blogspot.com/

I opened the blinds this morning and commented to Jack that we hadn't spent much time sitting in our little back yard this summer. "Next year we'll probably spend more time there since we won't be going to the trailer". He said, "you will be going there but I wont". I knew what he meant and said, "are you planning on going to a better resort?" He said, "yes, an "all-inclusive!" He always makes me smile. I said " I guess you'll find out the true meaning of "all-inclusive" there".

Today was his last day going to school and it was the end of an era for him as he slowly took down the pictures and diplomas from off the walls, removed his name from off his mailbox and unscrewed the nameplate from off his office door.(he had to ask Dick to help him with that).  I asked him if it was difficult but he said no, he was fine with it. He explains that it's like the tent strings are being cut one by one, God is releasing him slowly from all earthly ties and "that's ok".

After work we had a good visit with two deacons from the church and then we went to Sam and Cara's for a delicious supper and good fellowship. Sam,Cara and Leah sang a song for us, accompanied by Leah on the guitar. They heard this song at the Carey conference this week and wanted to share it with us. It was very touching and the song echoes Jack's desire exactly. We thought we'd share a version of it here. (You may want to pause the music player at the bottom of the blog). 

UpWords with Max Lucado (Week of August 19-25, 2011)

The following devotional was found here http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/upwords/#comments on UpWords with Max Lucado. 

Posted for the week of August 19-25, 2011.


Problems Have a Purpose

Trust me in your times of trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory. Psalm 50:15 NLT

God will use whatever he wants to display his glory. Heavens and stars. History and nations. People and problems. My dying dad in West Texas.

The last three years of his life were scarred by ALS. The disease took him from a healthy mechanic to a bedbound paralytic. He lost his voice and his muscles, but he never lost his faith. Visitors noticed. Not so much in what he said but more in what he didn’t say. Never outwardly angry or bitter, Jack Lucado suffered stately.

His faith led one man to seek a like faith. After the funeral this man sought me out and told me. Because of my dad’s example, he became a Jesus follower.

Did God orchestrate my father’s illness for that very reason? Knowing the value he places on one soul, I wouldn’t be surprised. And imagining the splendor of heaven, I know my father’s not complaining.

A season of suffering is a small assignment when compared to the reward.

Rather than begrudge your problem, explore it. Ponder it. And most of all, use it. Use it to the glory of God. . . .
Your pain has a purpose. Your problems, struggles, heartaches, and hassles cooperate toward one end—the glory of God.

—from It’s Not About Me

Pigeon Lake August 2011 - Photo Credit: Nell deVries (Lena's Sister)