James Bible Sketches

What do you ask for?

 

What do you lack?

 

Which comes first, talk or hearing?

Do you ever wonder how to hear what God has to say? Certain Bible apps, studies/services at church, Christian radio streaming, podcasts, videos and websites are available. Peace comes in faith, by prioritizing and establishing regularity to hear what Jesus has done for us and all the reasons why it’s important. If we tune out God’s Word, we lack the Source of Life. Utilizing the Word’s guidance in relating to each other leads us to strive to—not react poorly—in patience, respond kindly. Everyone in our world, potentially, may be weak, vulnerable, proud or pushy. Truth in Christ flows compassionately, no matter what we’re going through or have previously experienced. God wants us to ask Him for the wisdom we need at all times.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. … Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:5-6,17

James 1:19-20

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20

Doing what’s right is to meekly see we’ve failed to do what’s right. 

What opportunities are lost when we’re quick to speak before listening, thinking and praying? Having closed ears to another’s story or ideas cuts off meaningful communication. Harsh, unhelpful negativity would turn people away from Truth.

So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! … no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. … Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:5,8-9,13-18

The spirit of repentance is received by the faith the Holy Spirit supplies. Christ blesses with forgiveness, comfort and courage. The faith of a person who gets into the Word of God is living and active. Faith’s seed produces all types of fruits that help and care for people. Good actions don’t make people right with God, Jesus does. Although true faith in Christ is invisible, it shows up in the healthy activities of life.

James 4:6

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6

True or false?

Although we don’t always see it, God knows the full extent of what’s at war with the faith. The present darkness of the world and our sinful passions stir up the kind of deceptive trouble that destroys souls. Human nature is so off that it could even go as far as to claim to use the faith as an excuse for bad behaviors such as tyrannizing or manipulating others out of arrogance and blame-shifting to avoid repentance. Sin shows up, big time, as mismanaged priorities. Rude talk as well as pick-and-choose Scripture out-of-context to serve selfish desires abuses God’s good commands. Engaging in quarrels is a waste of time that creates distressing chaos and distracts from the joy of life.

Truth encourages us to take an honest look inside ourselves, resist the devil by acknowledging what is sin—not to revel in it, but mourn it—then, humbly receive God’s mercy and grace with gratitude. Jesus provides the calm peace to those who ask Him for wisdom.

Let God lift you up.

Do you set daily reminders? Why not establish a routine Bible and prayer time to thank God for what He has done in Christ. In the faith, we’re free to personally and along with others in congregation, confess sin and ask the Lord for forgiveness. The Lord hears prayer requests for motivation to stay turned toward Him as well as inspiration to effectively help and offer grace to others. All the spiritual gifts are ours by showing up to participate at places, with other sinners who are praying and growing, where Jesus offers Himself, perfectly, in order to perfect worshipers by forgiving and strengthening us to move forward with a grateful heart. During good times and each difficulty—even in the toughest of situations that we don’t understand—blessings of Jesus are working on our virtues, also, on the character of others.

When our ungrateful wayward mind/voice/action wanders where we know it shouldn’t go, utilizing the power given to us in prayer, our goal is to intentionally stop heading down that path. When we turn toward God in mindful prayer, we know He walks us where we need to be. We trust He spiritually carries and protects us. Habitual prayers request things like discernment, forgiveness, strength, unity and opportunities. It’s good to know our compassionate Lord desires to hear concerns and desires. The Holy Spirit moves us to pray for excellent things such as humility of faith, that He would remove our wanting what’s wrong, faulty thinking, greedy ambition, grudges and resentment. Apologetic and prayers for direction can continuously be flowing. Faith keeps us wanting to remember others in prayer: family, friends, congregation, church, education and community. We may ask for courage to let the joy of the faith in Jesus, bubble up and overflow onto those around us. We can pray for insight on how to comfort (and be comforted), encourage (and be encouraged), uplift (and be uplifted). All of us are sinners whom the Holy Spirit has power to move to take positive action. Especially regarding those who’ve wandered away from the truth, we ask for inspiration to participate in ways which would call them back so that sharing the Gospel leaves all grumbling, complaining and concerns at the foot of the cross and the empty grave of Jesus who is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason in light of grace and mercy.

Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:7-11

Farmers are patient in certain aspects they manage as it relates to the business of crop production while weather, machinery glitches and market conditions aren’t theirs to control. Even though we aren’t responsible to control everything, we may pray for ourselves and one another. Our unreliable, irresponsible, cold, unkind, self-righteous, partial, sour attitudes may be turned toward the Light for forgiveness and patience. Energy of the Gospel produces good fruit that doesn’t push people around or away, but serves their souls hope and nourishment for growth. 

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. James 5:13-15

James 5:16

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. James 5:16

In Christ we’re firm in purpose, striving to be honest, affectionate, merciful and patient.

In this world, though we expect trouble, there’s wonderful opportunity to abide in the One who is perfect. We can pray over all the strains of suffering. Calling the pastor and friends in the Church for prayers isn’t putting attention on ourselves as much as putting ourselves in God’s hands and trusting Him and His people. Whatever the Good Lord decides, is what is best for those who love Him—ourselves and those in our circles whom suffering affects. Asking others to pray for us points them toward Christ and reminds them of the privilege to talk to God. Sharing needs and prayers allows the Light to shine in dark corners.

Focus on what we have been given.

Contentment and joy are rewards of the faith’s certainty. Jesus is the one and only judge. He lovingly hears prayers spoken in the faith. He mercifully cares for all people. His perfection through suffering completely erases he debt of sin we owe. He’s redeemed me and others who believe. Receiving His gracious gifts empower us to trust Him completely. Absolutely nothing we do adds to His work for us which absolves us from the responsibility of sin and it’s consequences. Our Creator Jesus is always working within us to perfect our faith, making us mindful of the excellent big picture He’s preparing for us. Abiding in Truth—acknowledging that when He returns, His power will destroy all that He declares is evil—believers are provided ability, through His Word, to be heard in prayer and trust His beautiful plan. Delighted to hear the Gospel spoken, we strive to live in the Light’s peace which surpasses understanding. The Father designed us to be Christ’s own subjects, by the Holy Spirit’s faith, held safely forgiven in the Masterpiece. He colorfully draws us into Himself as a perfected mix in Christ’s glorious humility. We’re a creative work-in-progress yet to be revealed. Compassionately, God will fully unite those throughout the ages who fear, love and trust Him. We’ll be together with Jesus—having tears wiped away for eternity. As He promised, because we are in Christ, we, too, shall never see death.

More on the Letter of James

• intro
• The Word Endures (17 studies) 
• sermon 1:16-21
• sermon 1:22-27
• study 1
• study 2
• study 2b
  
• study 3
• study 3b
  
• study 4
• study 4b
  
• study 5
• study 5b
  
• 30min 1:1-15
  
• 30min 1:16-27
• 30min 2:1-17
• 30min 2:18-3:5
• 30min 3:6-4:10
• 30min 4:11-5:6
• 30min 5:7-20
• overview trip
  

Philemon Bible Sketch

Weary of spinning wheels?

 

How do you refresh?

 

Do you call for help, shutdown, restart?

We need courage to ask for help and direction. Vulnerability, time and financial cost may be factors. Greed, indifference, conceit, pride, fear of not liking another opinion—whatever the reason—unwillingness to take advice may stem from stubborn insistence of being right which trumps everything. The unheard one may be labeled troublemaker, uneducated or worthless and should be ignored, scoffed, bawled out or shunned. These harsh examples and others more subtle, are summed up in one word: sin. Undesirable thoughts, words and deeds show up in ugly ways at inopportune times and cause damaging cycles which are hard to break.

Whether the task is learning a new tech device or trying to handle a personal issue, repeating the same unsuccessful action isn’t changing a thing. Perhaps blame is projected elsewhere, unaware of our own part in the problem. Discovering what’s wrong and working toward the remedy to resolve it may not happen. Things (and people) sometimes break down or wear out and die, never realizing. Failures remind us to pause the dream and face reality. By faith, we may pray.

Help, Lord! I realize I don’t know what I’m doing. Forgive my impatient, resentful thoughts … and all of my faults which I’m unaware. I’m grateful Your comforting love goes before me and all people in this confusing and frustrating world. I pray, Holy Spirit, draw me near, mediate, bless me with wisdom, discernment and lead me where and how you want me. I trust You are right here with me now and always. Thank you for centering me among brothers and sisters in Christ. Amen.

Curiosity inspires research online, browsing forums or initiating a chat. We can ask a librarian, friend, pastor, whoever is beside us in Bible study class, or a total stranger at the gas station. Oddly, there’s comfort in discovery that others wonder the same or similar thing. We’re grateful for people who admit they’re not sure what to say and those who share wisdom—they’re more helpful than they realize. Frustrating are those whose efforts (or lack of) cause more trouble than support. All people, loved by God, fall on both sides of the fence as we wander through life. By grace, we’re privileged to keep at moving forward—to pray for each other and ourselves.

When the idea of interrupting someone with my problem was all it took for a bell to ring, ding-ding—a light bulb moment—or when a conclusion surprisingly surfaces before the person I asked even begins to think, I’m reminded the Lord is in control, thankfully. Feel-good cooperation is real. Inquiries desire the satisfaction of respect and create opportunities. Assistance isn’t an inconvenience, rather, to be asked to share knowledge, wisdom and experience can be taken as a compliment. The day is brightened by working together in a positive way. Appreciation for the other’s enthusiasm and gratitude of a creative idea, quick-fix or honest helpful tip is welcome. Perhaps the question may even help the other gain new perspectives on their own issues.

The limited mind’s ideal result isn’t instant or guaranteed. Could it be that

• having confidence that an answer exists—a solution which doesn’t depend on me
• willingness to voice my concern with eagerness to listen, learn, put into practice
• allowing another (Jesus or one of His messengers) to step-in 

is the mix of thoughts and actions which make the faith God gave me effective? I probably won’t discover why things happen the way they do; nor do I need to know the great mysteries of what’s going on behind the scene of every situation. All I really need to cling to is that God the Father who knows all, planned before the ages began, to send His Son Jesus to 

• be lowered to our level, becoming a man birthed by a virgin woman
• teach forgetful people who resist learning to live repentantly
  
• remain innocently victorious over the tempter
  
• be abandoned into the hands of evil people who torture and nail him to a cross
• finish the redemptive work
  
• rise from the grave
• ascend to heaven
• guarantee a solution for all who believe
  

Perhaps by now, everyone’s had access to our loving Creator’s work by availability of gifts from our gracious risen Christ who makes salvation certain. Faith given by the Holy Spirit in Baptism and the Word of God receives reconciliation with the Father in heaven and enjoys communion within the believing community.

Philemon 6

and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. Philemon 6

You, who are loved by God, know Jesus has promised to see you through this.

Scripture claims we should expect hard times. Anyone might end up on the receiving end or in the middle of spiritual battles. Bullish dysfunctional negative energy horribly kills trust between people and makes enemies. Distressing struggles emerge in destructive activities, uncontrollable complaining and disturbingly strange silence. Satan’s lies, topped-off with unhealthy temptations, dangerously affect all involved. Jealousy, anger, fear, discontent, entitlement or other characteristics of human nature probably motivate habitual fits and other toxic behaviors which drag others along down into the deep, dark places of self-isolation. 

Just as Jesus needed prayerful rest, so do we. He prays for those who mocked, tortured and killed Him, and so can we. When we reach a point of exhaustion, Christ’s prayers, mercy, grace and love for us continues. The world as we know it is not our final home. Our worry, guilt, sorrow and wounds fall onto Jesus who innocent and uncomplaining became our Substitute at the cross. Out of love, He rescued us from the punishment we deserve, intercedes with the Father for us and sent the Counselor to train us in Scripture, constantly guiding us how to live by grace in peace among those who annoy and hurt us.

Personally seeking help and trying to care for others is good. Realization of the serious need for spiritual and professional care may come, yet in this lifetime, such counseling isn’t always effective. That doesn’t stop God’s love, though. Jesus lifts the weight. When burdens are heavy, Christ’s grace for all involved stands sure. Prayerfully, we allow the Lord to carry us through intense and sad situations. He turns everything into good purposes as He sees fit. In repentant living, there’s forgiveness for failures. Salvation doesn’t rely upon our successes; it all depends on the work of Jesus who never fails. Remembering our loving God’s ways are higher than ours, we pray that the Holy Spirit would work through cravings, deflate desire to control, and pump up the faith in everyone.

We don’t deserve forgiveness, yet are free by the passion of Jesus to forgive one another, blessed to confess our own personal failures and receive grace. Since Christ’s wounds paid for all wrongs, His power heals wounds each time we stumble, stray and suffer. Jesus refreshes us as the Holy Spirit diverts focus away from obsessing over ourselves and the distressful things in life that aren’t ours to fix. 

Remembering we’re cleansed by the water of Baptism, its forgiveness creates a cheerful outlook—praise the Lord! By the faith our Creator renews in hearts, Christ’s body and blood given for us in the bread and wine strengthens our hope. We joyfully celebrate the counsel of the Holy Spirit who assures us all things work together for good.

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

Every good fruit of the Spirit within us is a gift of Christ meant to polish what is tarnished and build each other up. Thank the Lord for hurt-healing blessings. Positioned to mingle with generously compassionate, meek people who fully trust the Lord, together we beam the energetic Light of Christ, share genuine love, cherish honesty, speedily forgive, optimistically encourage each other as we continually learn and strive to grow into spiritual maturity.

How is it possible to best handle sticky situations?

Realize God doesn’t operate by standard of human expectations, nor does he lord-over and force us to receive His love and blessings. 

By the power God, we confess the faith in Christ. [Please, ask about the faith if you haven’t yet received it.] Repentance receives coverage in God’s love for us. At the cross and empty grave, our Redeemer took the win over the devil, the world and sin. Depending on Christ’s rescue, defense and protection, we prepare for each meal we receive at The Lord’s Table where we hear His Word, “Given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins” which strengthens us every time. 

Genuinely effective conversation raises difficult issues kindly, with gentle, patient expectation and warm freedom of the Gospel. Coerced, cold interaction keeps situations icy. Context of a small group safe environment can be helpful, beneficial and useful. Carefully, thoughtfully, in consideration of each other’s points and emotions, welcoming open honesty is about learning what’s on minds and in hearts of each other. If possible, it’s good to get together in-person, taking time during the exchange to read faces and listen well. Effective communication is a lifelong process. 

Ineffective conversations, offensive texts, one-time, one-way upsetting talk at the end of the day, just before you want to shut down for rest, aren’t helpful. Lacking empathy is unloving; it causes lingering confusion that questions sincerity and motive. We cover more ground when we take time to discuss and apologize for specifics, than over-generalizing. Sorrow based on being caught rather than the actual wrongs done, as well as vague brevity about complex problems, suggest hidden issues exist. Being hardened, stubborn, or blind to the damage we cause keeps relationships functioning in superficially dull mode. When prescribed, an obligatory apology under compulsion—hesitantly, reluctantly insincerely given—holds onto lies stuffed into a grudge. 

If you ask someone if they forgive you and they say yes—thankfully receive what is said. Pray the Holy Spirit would open your (and the other’s) eyes, ears, mind, and heart for discernment. Certainly, God allows difficulties to accomplish His will for everyone. Wait, refresh, reboot, repeat—comforted that as brothers and sisters in Christ, we’re reconciled to God. No one’s born an expert at relationships. Throughout life’s experiences, God causes growth in Christ. As each of us learn valuable lessons, we exchange in the family of Church—not forcing, but appealing to people in the Gospel.

Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you— Philemon 8

Everyone gets mentally, emotionally, bodily and spiritually weary.

Redeemed in Jesus, we patiently long to mend brokenness, animosity, hard feelings and nervous tension. Christ forgives us; so qualities of the faith include spontaneously forgiving others quickly, by grace which provides healing, love, good feelings and confidence to trust one another for uplifting experiences.

Yes, brother, I want some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ. Philemon 20

There’s no isolation in the giving and receiving God’s compassionate goodness. Grace makes space in places of rest, relaxation, positive energy and affirmation. Tis So Sweet to trust and remember What a Friend we Have in Jesus. He walks us into opportunities to communicate with experienced Christians who are full to overflowing in rich goodness of the Word of God. With freedom to find a church nearby, we can connect with people where there’s always more to be opened for us. All people need to continuously hear about Jesus who became sin to provide mercy for us. Repentant, supportive, and prayers of gratitude are lifted in the Church.

The process of God is always working. When we share His forgiving truth, His power changes us to grow in the knowledge of His Word. The Holy Spirit prompts activity of His design for us to function effectively well. Salvation is not on us, Jesus prays for us when we don’t know what to pray. Christ is the only and final answer for every good thing occurring right now. Baptism frees us to live as a new creation in Him. Heaven is open to all believers in His promise. Risen Jesus will return in person with full authority to gather together believers to enjoy peace forever, at the very instant of eternity when evil, sin, tears of pain and death will be completely wiped away!

More

• Intro
• Radio talk
• The letter discussed
  

2 Chronicles Bible Sketch

Humble + pray + turn = healing

The Holy Spirit nudges God’s people to humbly pray with thankfulness flowing from our hearts.

“if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV Bible marker sketch hand lettering

But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 ESV

Healing blessings are provided by God

Humbleness is power the Holy Spirit gives believers to

• know the value of Christ’s suffering
• take responsibility
• say: I am sorry
• get unstuck from the mud of all sin—ours and those committed against us
• reject temptations to stay in or return to that wrong place
• seek Christ for mercy, shelter, protection and safety
• pray and have prayers heard
• receive cleansing and freedom
• listen to other’s perspective: thoughts, feelings and experiences
• take time to process situations
• have compassion
• be merciful
• be genuine 
• be content with not knowing all the hidden things of God
• take comfort in Truth
• have confidence of the presence of God within
• push forward in joy during both good and hard times
• be motivated by a pure heart made holy by Christ
• receive inspiration to share hope in Jesus

Our Creator promises to listen to repentant prayers of believers who seek Jesus. His beloved Son sacrificed out of love for us, was born, lived perfectly, suffered, died, then rose from death and ascended victoriously, so by grace, sinners are saved from punishment deserved. Christ intercedes for all who seek Him—and repeatedly—now until God’s judgement for eternity in heaven or hell. Power to trust the Word, receive forgiveness, embrace grace, healing, hope and peace is beyond understanding—it is a gift of faith.

Read or listen to

• A relevant devotion about The Courage of Jehoshaphat 
• An excellent sermon titled First and Foremost
• A Hymn Jesus, grant that balm and healing

Pray

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for welcoming us to have personal conversations with You. Help us listen for Your prompts to seek You in every situation and in the beautiful sanctuaries where congregations gather to hear Your Word and receive Your gifts. Thank you for opportunities to attend Church for communion with all believers. Reside in our hearts to equip and motivate us to share Your love. We look forward with joy to the Last Day when Your saving love brings perfect healing of the world You created and unites all believers with You for eternity. Amen.

Losing parents at a young age. Growth through adversity. The big picture of life.

At the gas pump today a friendly stranger struck up a conversation. This person was waiting for me to finish washing my windows so he could use the squeegee sponge thingamajig next. He said, “nice car” to which I thanked him and told him I’d bought it from my mom when she became ill and was no longer able to drive. He said it might be good for 300,000 miles if I took good care of it. I said, “I hope so!” Then he asked if she was still living. I told him no, she passed away a little over a year ago. He told me his mom died when he was only 21 and that it had made a big impact on his life. It was time to move on, so I didn’t find out what he meant by that. I left with thoughts about how each of us never knows when we will lose someone we love. Catastrophes such as the violent tragedy in the Aurora, Colorado movie theater, the events of 9/11, war, car accidents; natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes; unexpected illnesses of children, young and elderly; and the inevitable death by old-age cause heart-breaking losses.

I began to consider my parents lives. When she was still a part of my life, my mom helped me record our genealogy information on a family tree chart I designed. Both of my grandmothers lived long lives, but I cannot say the same for my grandfathers. My mother’s father died from illness when she was only 17. My father was only 15 when he lost his father—a farmer struck by lightening while working in the field with two sons and his horses. My father’s and his brother’s lives were spared. I don’t like to imagine how hard it was to lose their pa that way and for their younger brother, sister and ma who were just a short distance away in their home. When anyone says the chances of being struck by lightening are slim to none, I differ, based on my own family history.

Not everyone will die of old age. It’s important to consider this as we live our lives. Life is precious. The family and friends we have are blessings. I can clearly see the peace, love and comfort of God shine through the lives of so many faithful people as they’ve touched my life when I’ve shared a trouble or sadness with them. Both of my grandmothers and their children (my parents, aunts and uncles) surely received loving kindness, sympathy, comfort and encouragement from their Christian friends and relatives when they suffered the loss of their husbands/fathers. I am learning that tragedies of all types—whether it be the loss of life or any kind of failure and suffering—has a higher purpose: to bring us closer to God and share His love as we serve Him by bearing each other’s burdens.

I wonder, since both of my parents each lost their father at a young age, was this common experience something that may have drawn them to each other? It certainly seems like more than a simple coincidence. The compassion they had learned from all of the people who surrounded them during their losses was now a part of their own character. This was something that they truly understood about each other. This love of God is what they built their marriage upon for 58 years until death parted them. How thankful I am that this love and eternal peace is what they shared with me. Now, through the gift of faith—by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ—they are united with God and all who share that faith—their loved ones who went before them and eventually with all who will meet them some day in eternity where there is no more pain and sorrow.

The fact that both of my grandma’s were named Ida just might be a coincidence, however, what comes next—following their losses—was different for each. My fraternal grandma never remarried. She was 47 when her husband died from a natural disaster and she remained a widow for the the next 42 years of her life. My maternal grandma remarried twice. She lost her husband when she was 42; lost her second husband when she was 54; and lost her third husband (the “grandpa” I knew) when she was 74. Our lives certainly are impacted by every event and person that shapes the path we follow. My grandmothers were truly blessings to me and each person within their circles.

In the big picture of life, I am amazed at how intricately woven together I am with other people—like mesh. Beginning from conception, we were physically and emotionally connected to our mothers. When we were born our uniqueness is tied to each person in our immediate family and circle of relatives and friends. As we grow up, our circle expands. With technology, social media or by chance, we have knowledge about lives of people we don’t know personally and are reconnected to those from our past. The size of our circle no longer has bounds. I will never know the story the gentleman at the gas station might have shared, but what he said made me think. We learn from others and are inspired by them. We empathize with them and help when we can. We pray.

For you formed my inward parts;
    you knitted me together in my mother's womb. —Psalm 139: 13