Fertilizer Years

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

Saving the Best for Last

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As we walked toward the house I called David over to see what was poking through the leaves. “Look! Here’s more!” Like a kid finding Easter eggs I get so excited to see hosta coming up each year. As we rounded the house a few bright tulips nodded approval as we moved pine needles out of the way in search of more hosta. My favorite chartreuse variety springs forth a little later. It’s barely starting to show. Azaleas are full and brightly blooming along with the dogwoods. I thought to myself, “Too bad everything doesn’t look its prettiest all at the same time. What a show that would be!”tulips

David however, being the positive one of us commented. “I’m glad they don’t all bloom at once. Now we have stuff to look forward too, just like life.”

Soft white dogwood petals drifted to the ground like snowflakes. Easter has passed so they have permission to let go. Orange breasted robins play in their midst in anticipation of babies to come. Bright green grass fills in the muddy spots where snow once lingered. All of nature joins together in a song of worship as even the rocks cry out, “He lives, people, He lives! Why sit hopeless with your curtains drawn when a soft spring rain falls, sweetly watering all He’s created? For if He dresses us so beautifully and feeds us so well, will He not also take care of you?”Hosta3

As we moved indoors I sat by the window watching the rain fall as the birdbath filled to the brim. Dogwood petals continued to float softly downward. Soon my favorite tree will be clothed in the bright green leaves of summer. Daffodils which were the first to announce the coming spring have too quickly wilted. Though they’ll be back next year bringing hope at the end of winter, they too confirm that not even this season will last forever.

Someday we’ll meet the Lord face to face. As beautiful as this earth is, heaven is bound to be breathtaking. That’s probably when everything will finally bloom at once, for the Lord is surely saving the best for last!

We’ve really got a lot to look forward too!

The Lord is Our Shepherd

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By Ann Farabee

While on a field trip to a farm with my 20 kindergarten students, we saw some sheep. You know — those beautiful pure white animals that softly and gently say, “Baa.”

Even though they were in a fenced-in area, and my students were safely huddled around me, I laughed when one of the sheep emitted a true, “BAA!” Every student backed away, immediately and collectively, sticking closer than a brother to their classmates. Seriously, though. That “BAA” was really loud! Plus, that fleece was nowhere near pure white! Some sheep stats for ‘ewe’ to read:

• They have no survival skills.

• They will follow the sheep in front of them, even off a cliff.

• They bleat, grunt, rumble, snort. (BAA is a bleat.)

• Their main defense mechanism is to run.

• Most die because of predators or from stress.

• They have poor vision.

• They feed from dawn to dusk.

• They are often referred to as being dumb. Some shepherd stats for ‘ewe’ to read:

• They guide their sheep to the best pastures.

• They are skillful, guard, lead, correct and teach.

• They tenderly search for sheep that stray.

• They protect their sheep from harm.

• They bind their wounds when they are hurt.

• They nurture them through health problems.

• They shear and clean them to provide better mobility and decrease stress.

• They anoint them with ointment to bring comfort when troubled by insects, so they can rest.

• They stay with them during the darkness of night, keeping them safe.

• They put the welfare of their sheep above their own lives.

Those sheep. They sure are needy.

Those shepherds. They sure are good.

John 10 says that Jesus is the good shepherd, and the good shepherd gives his life for his sheep. He knows his sheep. He calls them by name. They know him.

Say this aloud: The Good Shepherd. Beautiful words, aren’t they?

We like sheep have gone astray. We sure are needy, aren’t we? The Lord is our shepherd, and we shall not want.

We once were lost but now are found. He sure is good, isn’t He?

I don’t know how you feel while reading this, but I sure was thanking God while writing it!

It makes me just want to look toward heaven, lift my hands in praise, and cry out to Jesus, “Baa…baa. I need You, Lord! Thank you for being my Good Shepherd!”

If we truly get a glimpse of how much our Good Shepherd loves and cares for us, I don’t think we will need to count sheep to help us get to sleep tonight!

Ann Farabee is a teacher, writer and speaker. Contact her at annfarabee@gmail.com or annfarabee.com.

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