Thoughts Along the Journey

Life is never smooth, is it?  There always seems to be some trial--big or small--that puts stumbling blocks in our path, and tempts us to take our eyes off Jesus.  These verses are ringing in my heart today.  I wanted to share them with you, to encourage you.  No matter how hot the fire seems to be today, trust Him.  He's refining you.  Fire does not consume gold.  It purifies it.   * * * * * * * * * *  When He works on the left hand,   I cannot behold Him; When He turns to the right hand, I cannot see Him. But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot has held fast to His steps; I have kept His way and not turned aside.      ~Job 23:9-11 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Do you remember the old Ginsu Knives commercials?  "Cut a tin can, and still cut through a tomato!  These knives can withstand being pounded by a hammer, and still look great!"  The guy on the commercials put those knives through many things, and still, they were sharp.  Then there was always the clincher line: "But wait!  There's more!" Which was, of course, their way of trying to sell you something in addition to the AMAZING knives. Yesterday, we celebrated the Feast of Easter:  the Resurrection of Jesus.  Churches were packed.  Flowers were placed.  Candy was devoured.  New clothes were purchased.  Many hams were baked.  Eggs were colored.  Songs of praise were sung to God for His gift of redemption.  But today it is Monday.  Back to life as usual.  We did the annual celebration.  Now back to the "same old, same old" of life. But wait!  There's more! In the Catholic Church (and some ...