Share the Lord

by   January 5, 2024 with No Comments

By Roger Barbee

 Here we are again! Our news is full of reviews of the past year. We have reviews of “the best” of many parts of our lives. Lists of “the best” books, movies, photographs, and more are being written about. And the end of year 2020, the one of the COVID-19 pandemic, is being rightfully celebrated more than usual. But that is not going to correct the misery of 2020.

As I type these words, two grey squirrels are in our back garden under the dogwood tree. One is under the birdfeeder searching for fallen black sunflower seeds. The other runs up the trunk of the tree, rushes down,  rolls in the mulch, sits erect, jumps about and turns somersaults, then pauses to eat a morsel before repeating its acrobatic routine. The one is acting as we expect a squirrel to act while the other’s conduct causes a mix of questions or even concern. Is the flipping squirrel rabid? Is it simply happy to be out and alive? Why is it acting in such an unusual manner while the other acts so normal? The answer is that it has parasites which are causing irritation and itch. It is trying, in its only way, to relieve its discomfort. Unfortunately, it cannot come in to our veterinarian’s hospital to have the parasites eradicated and the awful itch cured. An animal in the wild, it will continue living as it is with the parasites and their itch continuing to be a part of its life.

We are much like that squirrel with the parasites. While it is understandable that we celebrate the end of this awful year,  we will continue to live with the cause of so many of our problems such as massive deaths, a poor economy, and loss of social contacts until we fully contain  the virus. The vaccines are to be celebrated and taken when made available. However, until then we should continue to do what our school children are instructed to do. Its that simple, and it must be done, and done by all of us. If we do not, we will be like that squirrel living as best as possible with its parasites as it tries to  run, bounce, and scratch its way from them.

One of my favorite passages in the Bible is Proverbs 27:17 in which it is written that “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” That is wisdom for any person, and it seems especially good in our time. We need to sharpen each other by sharing this load we have. It is not a time to squabble and move apart. Let us be the iron that our neighbor needs instead of being the squirrel under the feeder carrying on as usual while the other suffers it misery.

Christmas Thoughts on Giving

by   January 4, 2024 with No Comments

By David Freeze

Each year, I think about a few things we can do for others during this magical season and finally what we can do for the best of ourselves. To begin, if you aren’t already giving of your time to others, please consider doing it. Volunteerism in its purist form is on the decline, yet what better way to give of yourself? My favorite places to volunteer may not be yours so explore the opportunities. Many of us consider volunteering during the holiday season and how we can make a difference. You’re needed year-round.

Volunteering helps counteract the effects of stress, anger and anxiety. The social contact aspect of helping and working with others can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being. Nothing relieves stress better than a meaningful connection to another person.

Volunteering makes you happy. The more we give, the happier we are. Volunteering increases self-confidence. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity. It provides a sense of purpose too while taking your mind off your own worries, will keep you mentally stimulated, and add more zest to your life.

Volunteering helps you stay physically healthy. Studies have found that those who volunteer have a lower mortality rate than those who don’t. They tend to walk more, find it easier to cope with everyday tasks, are less likely to develop high blood pressure and have better thinking skills. Volunteering can also lessen symptoms of chronic pain and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Giving blood also ramps up this time of year, and it is always easy to do and very rewarding. The American Red Cross has made giving blood so easy especially by doing the Rapid Pass to answer specific questions ahead of time. I gave blood this past Monday and it took only 50 minutes of total time. A pint of blood is needed in America every three seconds and half of us will need blood during our lifetime. Do your part and you’ll get a mini-physical exam, a shirt and refreshments, and your own gift to yourself of accomplishment. Use redcrossblood.org

And finally, we are just ahead of New Year’s Resolutions, If you are asking what the best physical activity for you is, the answer is the one you will do regularly, several times a week. Do not feel as if you must join a gym and start powerlifting to get stronger or sign up for a marathon to accomplish more cardio. Many people love walking and running for their exercise while others enjoy lifting weights. Gyms can advance your workouts through group classes.

The key to physical, mental and emotional health is to do something daily, versus once a week. Even if it is a series of 10-minute walks during work or school breaks, you can accumulate significant stress-fighting capabilities if you can build up to 45-60 minutes a day, at least 3-5 times a week. Start by walking daily, even if only for 10 minutes. Mix several stretches and calisthenics (for example, sit down and stand up several times) to work your joints and muscles. Eventually, adding in regular resistance training (lifting and moving objects or yourself) for part of the day will continue to build a stronger, more durable body and mind.

With all these things said, a great opportunity to volunteer or commit to your new regular exercise for mental and emotional health is to join us for the Bradshaw Rogers Financial Resolution Run 5K at The Forum on Monday, Jan. 1. This run/walk event is open to everyone and walkers are especially encouraged. It’s low-key and cheap at only $10 that includes plenty of refreshments, an accurate finish result and a race shirt, this time left over from other higher priced races.

Look for more information about the Resolution 5K and other events ahead at www.salisburyrowanrunners.org.

Finishing Our Task

by   January 3, 2024 with No Comments

By Ed Traut

John 4:34 “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.

  • It was a mega focus of Jesus to stay on point and to finish His tasks.
  • John 17:4 says He completed His task – may we be aware of our tasks and actually fulfill it.
  • We all have been given by God tasks and not one is more important than the other and we will be rewarded according to what we finish. 

Prayer:  Lord I commit my life to You and my heart to You.  Direct me, teach me and show me what Your will is for my life continually.  Keep me on task and not get distracted or diverted by something that seems to be You, but rather finish what You have appointed in my life.  I belong to You willingly and gladly and I am thrilled to be Yours.  Amen.


Ed Traut
Prophetic Life

Praying Psalm 23

by   January 2, 2024 with No Comments

Lord, You are MY Shepherd.

I have every single thing I need, and plenty besides!

You allow me to rest in peaceful places. You gently lead me into thick grassy meadows. I lean on You and rest in Your care.

You renew my strength when I have nothing left. When cancer and sickness sap every ounce of energy I have, YOU dear God are the lifter of my head.

You guide me along right paths bringing honor to Your Name. Yes Lord! Make it so!

Even when I walk through the darkest valley…

Like when we lost our first grandson before he took a breath; when sickness took hold of our frail bodies; when we lost our ‘forever home’ and the security of our jobs, I admit… I’ve been really afraid at times.

But You dear God, YOU are faithful. You are close beside me! I know You are with me even when I can’t feel Your presence.

Your rod of protection will strike down my enemies. Your staff of comfort will keep me on the right path. You treat me so well that those who doubt my walk with You have to admit how blessed I am.

You honor me! Why in the world would You do that when You know what’s in my heart? I don’t understand why You’d pour oil on my head. Is it to heal my wounds or to give me a glimpse of days ahead when we rule and reign together?

My heart overflows with the joy of Your presence! You alone are so good to me!

I have no doubt that your goodness and love will track me down all the days of my life. When I think of being pursued by the One Who knows me best, my heart overflows!

And THEN I get to live in the home You’ve lovingly prepare just for me!

OH GOD! How blessed I am to know You! Praise Your sweet holy Name!

Christmas miracle

by   January 1, 2024 with No Comments

By Ann Farabee

When I was growing up, Christmas was very special. My parents went above and beyond. Christmas food was plentiful for at least a week. Christmas gifts seemed to be much more than we deserved and probably more than my parents could afford.

On Christmas Eve, as I was in the bedroom I shared with my two siblings, I would always listen for sounds of Santa moving around in our living room where the Christmas tree and the chimney were located. Apparently, Santa would never arrive until after I fell asleep.

After a long restless night for me, it would still be dark when my father would come into our room and loudly say, “Looks like somebody’s been here!” That was our signal that it was time to get out of bed and go see what Santa had left for us under the tree.

Our living room would be covered with gifts, especially after they had been unwrapped and the wrapping paper was strewn everywhere. We would spend our entire day looking through our gifts, trying them on, using them, playing with them or looking for batteries. Santa never left batteries. Late in the evening on Christmas Day, when it was time to go back to sleep, we would try to find the perfect spots to keep the gifts. This comment was always made at the end of the day from my father, “Santa sure was good this year.”

The day was over. But, even though the gifts had been opened and put away in their new home, I was still happy, although the decorations and lights from the tree had been put back in the attic for another year — and were now only memories.

The star on top of the tree was often the last memory of Christmas to be put away. It was a gold star with a white light behind it. It was beautiful, and I always handled it very carefully, because to me that star felt like one of the most important parts of the holiday.

I still think of that star. Just looking at it seemed to tell a story of hope — just like it did that night at the manger when the Light of the World was born.

Just like it did when the wise men saw that star and followed it to worship Jesus, the One who had been sent to be born in a manger, so that he could grow up as the Light of the World who would save the world!

Just like the gold star with the white light that I would take out of its box year after year and place on my family’s Christmas tree, it still shines in my heart.

I love that Christmas will always be special, no matter our age.

I love that Christmas will always be a time of good tidings of great joy.

Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Lord, thank You for peace, joy, love, and salvation that we have because of Jesus. Amen

It truly is a Christmas miracle! Ann Farabee is a teacher, writer and speaker.

Contact her at annfarabee@gmail.com or annfarabee.com.

Fertilizer Years

by   December 31, 2023 with No Comments

By Ashlie Miller

Are you reflecting on the year this weekend and looking forward to the coming year? Our calendar begins the year “January” as a tribute to the Roman god Janus, who, with two faces, looked at beginnings and endings, transitions, and passageways. You may reflect with great pleasure and look forward with anticipation of great things. Maybe you pray Psalm 65:11, “You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.”

Perhaps you look back, however, with a sigh and sorrow. The late Queen Elizabeth II referred to 1992 as her “annus horribilis” (Latin for “horrible year”). A significant fire upon Windsor Castle and scandal after scandal within the marriages of her adult children certainly brought much scrutiny and criticism. The effects of the pandemic in 2020 may have made that year an “annus horribilis” for you, or perhaps you have another year (or two!) that you look upon with sadness and grief.

Back in 2018, when my husband and I were dealing with many issues in parenting, ministry, and a new diagnosis of what would eventually lead to a terminal illness in my family, I recall equating the season to a “crappy year” (a word I am not prone to use freely). My husband, who could greatly empathize but is always optimistic, responded, “These are the types of years that can be fertilizer years.” Like the prepackaged bags of nutrient-rich plant food filled with their pungent odor, “fertilizer years” come into our lives to promote growth. Undesirable things like scraps, debris, decay, and other unmentionables are the ingredients that make fertilizer. The same can be true of what a year can hold for us. It may be smelly and feel more like punishment or even judgment, but years like this can lead to self-analyzation and asking our Creator and Savior to reveal any hindrances to our growth and “lead us in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24). Maybe it is not a fertilizer year of our own making. We are in a flow of burdens we did not take on. These burdens placed upon us hopefully call others in the community of Christ to step in and help us carry them (Galatians 5:6). Sometimes, however, the weight is so crushing and personal that even the fellowship of believers is not enough to lighten it. It is a time to lean into the Maker and Sustainer (Psalm 55:22).

God is at work. He often works deep in the ground, below the surface, at the root. Though tilling, watering, and pruning are all effective in our growth, eventually, a dose of fertilizer is necessary. They are things we would not ask for – relocation, death of a loved one, a new diagnosis of a chronic or even life-limiting illness, the loss of a job, death of a dream, a closed door – so many things that will happen in a broken world and can often pile up in a small window of time. Still, they are God-ordained in their timing in life.

It can be enough to throw up our hands in despair; for a moment, we may. Hopefully, it drives us to our knees, in submission, with hands of surrender and accepting our reality. There, in trouble, God meets us (Psalm 46:1-3). He communes with us (1 John 1:3). He lifts our heads (Psalm 3:3). He reminds us He has abundant love for us (Psalm 86:15).

As you reflect on your year, whether in joy or despair, I pray you see the goodness of God and look forward with hope and anticipation of growth. If not, I pray you reach that point by leaning into the Father. There is still time.

Ashlie Miller is certainly no gardener, but she cultivates her home with her husband, Chad and their five children in Concord, NC. Email her at mrs.ashliemiller@gmail.com.

Preparing for What is Ahead

by   December 30, 2023 with No Comments

By Doug Creamer

            The packages have been unwrapped. The paper is lying around. The bows and ribbons are tossed here and there. The delicious food has been consumed. The beautiful music still wafts from the speakers. The baby Jesus has finally landed in the manger.

            Sometimes I like the days after Christmas about as much as I like the day itself. It’s peaceful and quiet. We have some instrumental Christmas CDs that I enjoy listening to after it all winds down. The music lifts my soul and I find myself softly humming the words I know so well. There is no hustle and bustle, no rushing here or there. There is no list to get done. There is time for a few quiet moments sitting by the Christmas tree, time to reflect and be thankful for all the new memories that Christmas brought.  

            I really didn’t want to get up from my recliner even though there were some things to do. Eventually, I got up, only to be pulled back later in the day. The house was quiet, other than the music playing softly. I love so much about the Christmas season. I want to allow myself to soak in the wonder and joy of the season for more than just one day.

            When I finally moved from the recliner it was well after noon. I looked out my window and saw it was raining. I wanted to grab a book and return to my recliner and read by the light of the Christmas tree. That needed to wait until lunchtime. I needed to get going. There was laundry, dishes, and the Christmas wrappings that needed to be cleaned up.

            I enjoyed seeing the Christmas cards that are neatly displayed. I read a Christmas letter from a relative that I missed. The house was humming. It was the sound of the dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer all working in the background. Their hum couldn’t squash the hum in my heart. I headed back to the computer to write my column. I was still in my sweats, humming some Christmas tune.

            I looked out the window and saw our humble manger sitting in the rain. I knew I needed to get focused on my column, but the quietness of the day kept calling me. Two snowmen sit on my desk, smiling at me in spite of the warm rain that was falling outside, mocking them. I chuckled at their cheeriness and wondered if I might be able to build them a friend. The weathermen are predicting snow for this winter; I hope they are right.

            My calendar hangs beside my desk, informing me that we only have a few more days left in 2023. The tasks of the day were calling to me and yet I found myself wanting to linger here quietly with you on this damp and cloudy day. I swear it’s not laziness that kept me here; it’s the peacefulness that was stirring within me. I was afraid if I “got busy” that this refreshing peace would ooze away.

            I received a new calendar for Christmas and soon I will have to get it out. While a part of me longs to stay right where I am, I know we must move forward to whatever adventure lies ahead. We know that God has good things planned for our future. But we also know that there will be challenges that we must all work through. The good news is that we don’t have to do any of those things alone. God will be with us.

            As we turn the page and begin a new chapter called 2024, we can know that God has gone before us and is preparing us for the wonders that lie ahead. There is no fear for 2024. There is only hope and excitement for all the good treasures that God has hidden for us. He is a good Father who loves us more than we can imagine. We know He gives good gifts because we have just celebrated the most wonderful gift of all, Jesus born in a stall.

            So, as we prepare for what is ahead, I want to encourage you to put your faith and trust in God. He knows our future because He sees our future. We don’t have to worry because our lives are in His hands. We can have confident faith in God, and expectant, pregnant hope for the future, and His perfect peace that will guard our hearts and minds as we enter 2024. I bid you a Happy, Joyful, Faith-filled, Peaceful, and Magical 2024!

Contact Doug Creamer at PO Box 777, Faith, NC 28041or doug@dougcreamer.com

Chirping Sparrows

by   December 29, 2023 with No Comments

By Roger Barbee

This morning’s ride on the stationary bike began earlier than usual. When I had uncovered the bike and adjusted every detail to begin my five-mile workout, the small grove of 14 pine trees between our road and me were still shrouded in soft, morning shadows. Because of the crisp December wind, I hurried to get moving in order to create some warmth because the sun had yet cleared the horizon of Lake Norman.

Before too long, my rotations on the stationary bike began to create a stronger blood flow, and I sensed a rise of temperature. While no sweat dripped from my brow, the steady wind was not now causing as much discomfort as it was just a few minutes before. The rhythm of the ride steadied, and as my arms flowed into it my entire body joined. It was then that I noticed a small movement in the pine tree grove next to me. Then I saw another and another and another.

I watched as I cranked the bike. The small sparrows were busy looking for a morsel or more on the ground under the 14 pine trees. Because of the morning shadows I could not see the sparrows as clearly as I wished, but by the small bodies and action, I think that I was seeing a morning flock of chipping sparrows. It seemed that when I saw one, I saw another. Their constant movement along the ground prevented any accurate count, but I was more interested in how they were almost indistinguishable from a pine needle or piece of pine bark or a fallen leaf from one of the dogwood trees. When I thought I was seeing a chipping sparrow, the breeze would blow the leaf across the ground. But I saw many as they flurried across the ground in search for food. Then they quietly disappeared, leaving me to now have time to notice the first sun rays grace the grove’s shadows.

 I have watched many sunrises from this postage stamp of earth where I ride each morning. All of them are the same, but all are different. They are like people in that way. But no matter, I watched this one as I shifted to a higher gear for more resistance. I wanted the heat created by the harder riding, but I also wanted the warmth the sun would give. And I also needed to observe it, aware that the rotating earth and nature’s way would not wait. Aware of the moment,  I watched as the sunlight first graced the tree tops across the road in Ken’s yard and, clearing the housetops on our side of the lake, cast shadows of morning on the pine forest floor where the chipping sparrows had just been. Soon the shadows under the pine grove disappeared,   its needle covered floor revealed by soft, early morning sunlight. Deep shadows, chipping sparrows, and a morning moment replaced by another as the day, like all days, made its offer.

I began my warm down, but I still looked at the day begin. Watching the sun rise, seeing its rays break the grip of night, and feeling its warmth, I applauded its promise and the hope of that promise. A new day that would resemble yesterday and tomorrow, but one that had its own personality and potential. Its own hope. The Pharisee turned Christian, St. Paul, writes in Romans—“we are saved by hope.”

During this time of pandemic, shrill voices, and violence, , let us all remember those words of St. Paul. We have and are saved by hope. Hold to that and do not let it flit away like that flock of chipping sparrows. Hold hope. Better is coming.

Going for a Walk @ Rowan Helping Ministry

by   December 28, 2023 with No Comments

By David Freeze

On Saturday, Dec. 9, five guests from Rowan Helping Ministries participated in their first ever 5K. The Santa Run at Sloan Park boasts a beautiful rural course that was hosted this year by the Country Life Museum. All proceeds, including donated canned goods and used running shoes, go to Rowan Helping Ministries.

The five guests are the graduates of an eight-week organized walking class, and none had ever completed the 3.1-mile distance before. Over the eight weeks, others came and went, but the graduates learned about the many benefits of walking and regular exercise, eating the right foods, stretching and what to expect on race day.

Ron Overton is a 61-year-old veteran of 23 years in the Air Force and a native of New Jersey. He has been at RHM for three months. He said, “I loved the whole experience, especially Bigfoot and even walking through the cow manure on the road as we passed the dairy farm.”

From northwest Pennsylvania, 75-year-old Cheryl Poli moved to this area in 2008. She’s been in Salisbury for five years and at RHM for seven months in hopes of getting back on her feet. She said, “I loved the country fresh air, the people and the camaraderie. I was sweating by the turnaround. The bagels and other snacks were wonderful as were Locke and West Rowan Fire Departments who kept us safe on the roads.”

The oldest of the group at 82 years, Mary Lucy Dowd said, “I always liked walking but had stopped for the last five years. I didn’t get tired, but I am glad to have finished because I didn’t want anyone to have to pick me up.”

Like the others, the class got 56-year-old Pam Bradshaw from Rowan County walking more. Pam said, “I liked seeing all my friends in the class. Good job on having us in the race, but next year I want to run/walk it. I missed Bigfoot, but I love all the photos from the event.”

Kelly Cooper is 54, originally from Charlotte, and has been at RHM since mid-June. She said, “I am so glad that the 5K proceeds come here because they are helping people like me. We all have our own individual circumstances. The scenery for the race was so beautiful, including just three houses and three hills. I was so grateful for being able to participate but was especially happy to see the finish line.”

Ron, Cheryl, Kelly, Pam and Miss Lucy are actively working with their case managers to find affordable income-based housing in our community.

Rowan Helping Ministries Executive Director Kyna Grubb said, “At Rowan Helping Ministries, we believe in fostering holistic well-being for our guests, and we recognize the profound connection between physical and mental health. Witnessing the transformative effects on our shelter guests as they took part in the Salisbury Rowan Runners walking class and 5K Santa Run inspires us to continue creating opportunities that not only address basic needs but also support the long-term physical and emotional well-being and resilience of those we serve.”

Cooper, Bradshaw, Poli and Dowd all earned age group awards. SRR members Matthew Weaver, Amanda Lewis, Connie Hoffner and Lynn Furr encouraged and walked with the RHM guests for training, and especially enjoyed their time talking while walking. Title sponsor for the event was Global Contact Services. Other major sponsors were Biscuitville, Shaver Wood Products, The Trophy House, Jeremy Carter Law, RLC Associates and Novant Health. The next eight-week session will begin the first week of February. Participants meet in the New Tomorrow’s training room and walking sessions are done on the area sidewalks.

Two recent running books worth considering as Christmas gifts for your runner family and friends are “The Longest Race” by Kara Goucher and Des Linden’s “Choosing to Run.”

Our next local race is the Bradshaw Rogers Financial Partners, Inc. 5K at The Forum on Jan. 1, 2024. It’s a great way to kick off your year.

Look for this and other events at www.salisburyrowanrunners.org.

Chosen

by   December 27, 2023 with No Comments

By Ed Traut

Psalms 4:3 Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself; the LORD will hear when I call to him.

  • Those that belong to the Lord are set apart by Him for His purpose and plan and have a special place in His focus. 
  • God chose us, we did not choose Him.
  • We have this confidence, because we belong to Him that He hears us when we call.

Prayer:  Hallelujah!  I rejoice today that I belong to You that You chose me.  I can not even thank You enough for choosing me.  I want to be and I am thrilled to be Your child and to belong to You.  I want nothing else.  I praise Your holy name.  Amen.
 

Ed Traut
Prophetic Life

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