WHAT’S IN A NAME

People in New Mexico tell funny stories of people in other states who don’t realize New Mexico is one of our fifty states. One Santa Fe resident was denied the use of his credit card in another state because the establishment didn’t accept cards of foreigners.

A traveler boarding a plane to return home to Albuquerque was told he must show his passport. Most likely the confusion arises because of name association with the country of Mexico.

We are called Christians. Are people ever confused by our name? Disciples in Antioch were the first to be called Christians because of the lives they lived. (Acts. 11:26) What do people call us? We must live the name through our love and our actions.

A Good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold. Proverbs 22:1 (KJV)

A PIT SO DEEP

A few nights ago Marion and I watched the movie, “The Hiding Place.” This is the true story of Corrie Ten Boom, who lived in Holland with her family during the Second World War. As Jews were being deported to concentration camps, Corrie and her family hid a large number of them in their home.

The Ten Booms were found out and suffered much for their actions, even being deported themselves. Corrie and her sister, Betsie, ended up in the same women’s camp and, even through great hardships, became encouragers for others.

As the movie ends, the real Corrie Ten Boom quotes her sister’s words, “There is no pit so deep that the love of Jesus Christ is not deeper still.” This is the movie’s message: God does not forsake us in any situation. In fact, he has plans for us to share His love with others whatever the circumstance.

Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O Lord. Psalm 130:1. I waited patiently for the LORD, and He . . . heard my cry. Psalm 40:1 (KJV)

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A TIME TO SHARE LOVE

I remember as a child, gathering at the table on Thanksgiving day, feasting on the food Mother had cooked and hearing Daddy lead a prayer thanking God for His blessings. But try as I might, I don’t remember what food we had at those meals. What I do remember is being together with my parents and my brother and sisters. We were a family—and we loved each other.

Today, Marion and I look forward to the times we can be with our children and grandchildren for Thanksgiving or Christmas. The food is always good; but best of all is the love we share as a family. It’s good being together.

For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. I John 3:11 (KJV)