The heart of a teacher, the imagination of a storyteller, and the faith of a daughter of the King
Author: jodileabooks
I have had the privilege of teaching elementary students since 1996 at Southwestern Elementary, in Hanover, Indiana. Born in Connersville, IN, my family relocated to Madison, IN, when I was in fourth grade. I've been a resident of Jefferson County ever since. Currently, I live in historic downtown Madison with my felines, RockyTop & BlackTop.
I haven’t written for a while. Figured I should. I’ve tried a few times, but my focus has been frazzled. I always try to focus on the positive side of life and to find the good. In the end, I’m sure this post will do likewise. However, it may take a bit to get there.
Sometimes, things build up. Like dominoes being set up on a table. One at a time. You think you’re doing pretty well with it, but then…somebody or something jars the table. The dominoes fall. And…tears fall.
That is an analogy of my life or maybe just my mindset. Maybe I’m just looking for the good so much that I have failed to address the not-so-good. I don’t know.
Church life is good. I love my church family. I’m amazed weekly at how God took two church families “looking for something” and brought us together as “one family”. He is good. Plus, God has blessed the elementary ministry team with more volunteers. Now, we only have to miss the pastor’s message and teach the kids about twice in three months. When I think back to the spring when I was teaching 2-3 times a month, I know how much of an answer to prayer that is. In fact, just this past week, someone volunteered to be “a helper”. This is great since the last person who volunteered to teach also volunteered her husband to be her helper…and once was enough for him. LOL. I mean…if you know…you know. So, I told the newest addition to our ministry team that she literally was an answer to prayer.
As I’ve shared in previous posts, I was asked back in June to return to 3rd grade. I always loved teaching third grade (I did so for 24 years) and one of my closest colleagues is on the 3rd grade team. Our team of six has gelled perfectly. Melissa leads us curriculum-wise since she’s been in 3rd grade for the past five years while I was in 4th. I help as I can by being “the old wise one” – LOL. Honestly, in my 30 years of teaching, this team may be one of my favorite combos of personalities. It’ll only last 1 year – as we know in the spring we’ll get downsized to 4 teachers, so I’ll enjoy it while it lasts.
You would think…with those two areas of my life on point…the rest would be fine. However, a lot more goes into teaching then the people who make your teaching team. Even though I thought I was a decent teacher…even so much as a good teacher…I mean…all my teaching evaluations say that as well as conversations with past-admin and parents of students and former students….my classroom doesn’t seem like my classroom this year. The mandates delivered to us and various aspects of my daily/weekly teaching tasks…seem more like I’m a computer programmed than a professional teaching how I think things should go. It’s hard. I teach what I’m told to teach. It has been placing one domino after another. And with each decree, mandate, or hoop that I must jump through…the table is bumped. So randomly…for no other reason the high stress and shot nerves cause the dominoes to falter & the tears fall. THAT is not me.
The truth is — I’m not the only one who feels this way. I’ve had many chats with other teachers who have taught decades…and we miss being able to teach how we feel is best. In the end, I try to focus on my kids.
They…are my good. Even when they make bad choices. Even when the academic needs seem to be too great for me to address well. Yes, if I’m looking for the good….it’s the 18 students who spend all day with me and the 2 who spend part of the day with me.
It’s the kids who pushes my buttons, the kid who hates school, the kids who think I’m a good writer, the kids whose parent or sibling was in my class, the kids whose grandma went to high school with me, the kid whose parents are my colleagues, the kids who smiles daily, the kids who always has a story, the kids who applaud when it’s time for “Rock N Read”. The kids. They’re the good.
They’re the reason that I will work on dealing with my stress levels to try and calm my shot nerves. They’re the reason that…regardless of another mandate coming down or another independence taken away, I will keep at it. They’re my good. God placed them in my room for this year for a reason.
I’m going through this struggle and trust that in the end…I will see the purpose. I will see how He uses it for my good. I may not see it yet….but I trust that I will. He is faithful…even when the dominoes…or tears…fall.
So, just like Jesus…I’ll look at the Word of God to help me get through. In the writing of this blog, I was reminded of some truths to meditate on during those times of stress and tears. Perhaps you may benefit from them as well….
My original plan was to write about the sequel to my years in 3rd grade which began this past week. However, that has to wait for another day. Why? A dear friend passed away late last Saturday night. This week, her family prepared for the visitation, funeral, and burial which happened this afternoon. She’s been heavy in my thoughts around my teaching duties, so I thought I’d share those thoughts with you.
Last night, before I went to sleep, I changed my profile pic on FB to a picture of me and Betty. This morning, I added a caption. It mentioned that today we were celebrating who she was and what she did during her “dash”
Betty lived a long life of 88 years. She was born in 1937 and she passed in 2025. So, 1937-2025. That’s a fact. But…what matters is the dash. Then, as God does things, her grandson, Josh, actually read a poem entitled “The Dash.”
This morning, I told myself that if they opened it up for friends to share that I would. However, all the things I would’ve shared were shared either by her children or the pastor. As I drove away from the funeral, the part of “her dash” I shared rolled through my memories like one of those recaps in a television series going off the air. So, to honor Ms. Betty, here are the “scenes” that rolled through my memories.
The first scene was on July 3, 2022. I was invited to a holiday cook-out, and I met Betty and her son at his house to catch a ride to her daughter’s house. Tammy goes to church with me, so I had inferred that it was a large holiday gathering. As Joe drove out to Tammy’s, Betty apologized for sitting in the front seat to which I said, “No worries, I’m ‘good in the backseat.” Yep. That came out wrong. The three of us had a nice chuckle over that one. Soon, I found out it was a family cook-out, and I was the only non-family person in attendance.
Later that fall, Betty ended up in the ER and then the hospital. That visit prompted her entry into Hickory Creek. Understandably, that decision was hard on the family, and it started my real friendship with Ms. Betty. I started visiting her each Tuesday after school. We’d talk in her room while watching Fox News, and then I’d push her to the dining room. There, I’d sit and visit with Betty and the three other ladies at her table.
On Thanksgiving, I was invited to join their family for their meal. My family’s meal wasn’t until Friday, so it was easy to do. Again, I met Joe at his house, but he had forgotten something that he needed to take to Tammy’s house. We quickly stopped by Betty’s house to grab it before picking Betty up. Due to the extra stop, we were later than she expected. She looked at me and said, “I figured you were the reason he was late.” Well, I wasn’t, but…oh well. LOL
That day, I laughed a lot. I laughed to the point my stomach hurt. Why? We played euchre. Josh and I were partners, and we played against Joe & Betty. Oh. My. Word. The verbal sparring that went back and forth between them each time Josh or I got the play was too funny. I silently vowed to myself that day to always partner with Josh in order to enjoy the entertaining dialogue between mother and son.
Skip ahead to Christmas Break. As a teacher, I had some freedom. So, I made a point of going to Hickory to attend an “Elvis Concert” with Betty. Oh. My. Goodness. This lady LOVED Elvis and his music. It didn’t matter that he was in impersonator, she was whooping and hollering. There was no surprise when “Elvis” came over and gave her his first “scarf”. She proudly displayed it on the bulletin board in her room.
It was during Christmas break that I was introduced to the Tuesday morning Bible study. One of her table mates led the study, so I told the ladies that I would join them during my break. I’d go early enough to encourage Betty to get up if she was still in bed, then we’d go to the study. When Ms. Kathy finished leading the study, we’d use YouTube on the television to sing old hymns. The two favorites were….Amazing Grace and I’ll Fly Away.
Plus, since my family gathered on the evening of Christmas, I joined Tammy & Joe’s family for Christmas Day lunch. I brought small gifts for the whole crew, and I may have been most excited about the hat I found at Gabe’s. At that point, Betty, whose career was being a beautician, often donned a hat.
During spring break of 2023, two things happened to make a Betty memory. The first was that the activity director was on vacation, so I had made plans to go and do a craft with the residents. Often when I was there during craft sessions, she would decide that a craft went to Joe or Tammy, or sometimes it would be for Joey and Jacob.
That week was also the week of St. Patrick’s Day. That meant that it was Ms. Betty’s birthday. It also happened to be the return of Tammy & Cliff from their trip to Hawaii. The birthday meal was scheduled for Tammy’s that evening, so I volunteered to deliver the St. Patrick’s Day/Birthday cupcakes for the residents. Betty convinced me to stay for the craft time where we made crowns. I told her it seemed perfect for her to make a crown for her birthday. Then, off to their family birthday gathering where I took pics of Betty and her family, and Tammy snapped one that included me.
In May of 2023, I stopped by on the last day of school. She wanted to go for a walk on the grounds, so out we went. We decided it was hot and hard to keep our eyes open with the warm breeze, so our time outside didn’t last long.
Later in the fall of 2023, I threw Joe a surprise party for his 60th. Tammy made sure that Betty attended. She had such a good time spending time celebrating with their family and Joe’s friends.
Time passed and my weekly visits with Ms. Betty continued. I shared a few more holidays with her family. My final two were celebrating her birthday in 2024 at Harry’s Stone Grill and then Cliff’s at his & Tammy’s house. However, my friendship with Betty continued with weekly visits through the summer – most were on Tuesdays during their Bible study and lunch time. However, it was a Monday that had me spending part of my birthday with her as she wanted me to come to a special event. I believe the singer’s name was Michael, and we sang along to any of the songs we knew.
My visits ended in the fall of 2024. Not because my family connection had faded, as I’m still friends with all of them. But, the sadness of dementia had taken me from her memory. There were occasions when I’d arrive and she’d speak to me like she knew me, but…we’d get to the dining room and she’d leave…not “knowing” who I was or that I was there to spend time with her. It seemed my visits triggered more confusion than joy, so I told Tammy that I had stopped them…unless Ms. Betty mentioned me. Alas, that didn’t happen.
Regardless of the ten months that had passed since spending time with her 1-1, my heart hurt when I heard of her trip to the ER a few weeks ago. My heart broke for her family two weeks ago when I learned she’d transitioned to Hospice care. Then, last Sunday morning, I received a message from a friend who heard from Joe’s friends that Ms. Betty had passed the night before. I shed tears, but I also rejoiced.
What? Tears and rejoicing? That makes no sense. Ahhh, but it does if you know of Betty’s faith. It does if you know that last Saturday night her dementia had passed and she was made new. Oh, sweet Jesus, our masterful Savior. Thank you for the dash of Betty McCord. May her legacy be the montage of memories and lessons that she left in the hearts of all who crossed her path.
How’s your dash? Is it worth remembering? If not, it’s not too late to ask the One who was with Betty on her journey here and hereafter to guide your steps to bring Him glory as well.
Live well, my friends, and hug your family close & let them know they matter. Whether they’re your family by birth or by faith.
Rumor has it that our heat wave is on its way out. I certainly hope so. I mean, low 90s that feel like low 90s will be welcome over the 90s that felt like 100+. But…the humidity and heat aren’t the reason for today’s post. David is. Or…should I say…the lessons learned from this morning’s message about David and the worship service in general.
Since today was the last Sunday of the month, it’s our Family Sunday. This means that the kids stay with the adults, I have the privilege of sharing a children’s sermon, and our church family shares a meal following the service. To be honest, I LOVE this Sunday of the month (of course, I’m a fan of the other Sundays too.)
Let’s look back at David. He was a shepherd boy. Yet, when Samuel came to the house of Jesse…it was young David that God had him anoint as the one day king rather than his holder stronger brothers. Yep, that was….surprising.
Then, later Samuel sent him to King Saul’s camp. While he was there, he volunteered to face Goliath. It wasn’t one of the strong and mighty warriors. It was David. The one God chose. Normally, when you’re picking someone to defend you, you’re going to pick the strongest and biggest…not a young guy with a …slingshot. God doesn’t always do things the way WE think makes sense, but we can trust that His way makes MORE sense. Why? Because He’s God. He sees the whole picture, and we only see our little glimpse.
Jump ahead. King Saul becomes jealous and…well…he starts losing it. He tries to kill David. David had the opportunity to King Saul, but…David didn’t . Oh, and I didn’t mention that David’s best friend was Jonathan. Who’s Jonathan? King Saul’s son. Yep. The guy to become the king after Saul is the BEST FRIEND of the man who others would’ve thought would become king. Huh? What? See….God does things His way. Not according to the ways of the world.
Skip ahead. King David decides he wants to build a temple for the ark of the covenant. His adoration of the God who he worships prompts him to tell Nathan that he wants to build a temple worthy to hold the ark of the covenant That in itself isn’t a bad thing. David’s excitement and commitment prompts him to want to show them through an offering by building a temple. Then, Nathan sleeps. God speaks to him through a dream. And…God doesn’t rebuke David’s passion, but He redirects it to the plan God has.
He shares that David’s son will be chosen as the next king (Solomon), and that he would be the one who builds the temple. But…He also gives us a glimpse of His promise.
You see…not only would Solmon, David’s son, be the next king, but….THE KING would also be in David’s family tree.
Now THAT is a reason that David couldn’t see when he was picked as the next king…when he was picked to fight Goliath…. when his plan to build a temple was vetoed and redirected. As Pastor Tyler pointed out, “God has REASONS- plural– for what does. He’s too big of a God for a reason.” [Or he said something similar.]
Don’t get me wrong. King David messed up A LOT. He wrote some psalms about the BIG WAYS he failed God. Yet, he was known to God as one who loved Him faithfully and would follow Him wholeheartedly. He was a man after God’s own heart.
So, here’s the recap of the DAVIDIC Lessons I learned this morning…
God does things in a surprising way. (Picking Jesse’s youngest son.) He can do that because…He’s God.
God uses those who others would overlook to do great and mighty things. (David fighting Goliath.)
God doesn’t rebuke our passion when it’s prompted by our love and devotion to Him, but He will redirect it to align with His plan (David didn’t build the temple.)
God is too big of a God to have A reason for what He plans…He has multiple reasons (David’s life).
God forgives what the world may see as unforgiveable when we genuinely confess and repent (David’s sins)
God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things (Jesus’ family tree…look beyond David and you’ll find other surprising people [Rahab] making the tree).
Now, I also learned a couple others things during worship that had nothing to do with David.
7. God brings joy through the little things. My favorite hymn is How Great Thou Art, but the range…is beyond me. If I sing it in a key for the verses to sound good, then my ‘head voice’ would be required for the chorus and NOBODY wants my head voice amplified in a mic. If I sing it in a key for me to hit the chorus notes, then…the verses would go lower than my low voice. So….God allowed me to sing it with Missy – who’s blessed with a higher range and much more skill than I am. I led on the verses, and Missy led the choruses. Thankful.
8. Always listen to the still small voice. Whether it’s the Voice that gives you an idea on how to provide a message to kids on David OR if it’s the skilled un-amplified voice that hears me singing the first two words on the wrong key…and sings softly beside me…to get me to “the right notes”.
Always watch for the lesson. All of life is filled with take-aways. Whether it’s from a sermon, a children’s message, a song, or simply…life.
Now…I think….my next lesson is … when it’s summer and my eyes are struggling to say open…lean back…and see if “the boys” [aka RockyTop & BlackTop] want to lure me into a nap.
Thanks for reading. Enjoy your day. It’ll be a hot week, but…it doesn’t look AS hot as last week. So…that’s my final lesson…always look for the good. It’s there if you look for it.
I’ve wanted to write a post for a few days, but I wasn’t sure what to write about. Then, I came home this afternoon after worshiping with my church family, teaching Kids’ Crew, having lunch with friends, and visiting Mom & her dog. I remembered that I missed the sermon since I was back with kids, so I pulled up Facebook and forwarded to the sermon.
As I listened to Pastor Brynen, my mind often connected my lesson to the kids to his message to the older-than-kids. I thought I’d share those things with you.
Back in Crew, our lesson came from Mark 10. As we talked about it, I shared how Jesus wanted to let the children come to Him and He corrected the disciples. I pointed out that even though the disciples had been with Him as He preached and ministered….that they still had things to learn. Just like their parents, the pastors, and I do. We talked about what it meant to come to Jesus like a child and how children want to spend time with people and get to know them, how they have faith easier and learn easier. That we, as adults, can learn a lot from children. [Side Note: It was quite warm in the Crew Room, so this is a fair illustration. LOL]
Fast forward to the message I listened to from Pastor Brynen. He pointed out how scripture says we are God’s TREASURED POSSESSION even though we mess up a lot…and fail to have the faith we’re called to have. [Seems we still need to learn to have the faith of a child and a desire to build a real relationship.] As teachers (and preachers) do, he had two take-aways from the sermon. The first is that God loves you. All the time. Regardless of how awful we’ve been or how often we choose not to show our love to Him. Ahh, He’s a good and loving Father who love us. The second, He is with you always.
That first one, we hear a lot. I mean, that’s the first song that most of us learn in church. “Jesus love me, this I know…”
But, that second one, I think we lose sight of that truth. I mean, we acknowledge that He’s with us when we gather in our building to worship. He’s with us when we’re alone at home. Pastor Brynen added that He’s with you when you cuss out your co-worker and argue with family. Back in Crew, I would’ve added, “He’s with you when you talk back or disobey your parents.” During those moments of our selfish actions when our relationship with the One who created us has lost our focus, do we acknowledge that He’s there during those not-so-hot moments?
Here’s the truth of the matter. We are His treasures, but we let our life get so full of “stuff” (our ideas, our plans, and our desires) that we don’t have room for all He wants to pour into us. We are His treasured possession, but we need to be open to being emptied. I mean, the One who loves you more than anyone else does is surely going to fill you up with who He has created you to be. Serving Him. Being with Him. Loving Him.
This week, a group of 18 of our church family will be heading to New York to be the hands and feet of Jesus to the poor and homeless. Please pray for them. We’re all called to be His Hands and Feet to others, and even though we all could go on mission trips…we could also pray for avenues locally to be His Hands and Feet to others.
Perhaps, you can find your way to a local nursing home. Visit some friends you know, or…ask someone on staff for the name of a resident who doesn’t get visitors. Go be their reason to smile. It’s not hard. Most are filled with stories. Or would love to simply sing a hymn or two or have someone pray with them.
Perhaps, you can seek out your local Big Brothers & Big Sisters organization and commit to be the stability in the life of someone who may not have that in their life. I’ve had the privilege of being a Big to two girls over the past 20 years. I still interact with both girls on occasion.
Perhaps, you can look around your church or your neighborhood for a stay-at-home mom who could just benefit from conversation with an adult. Or extra hands to hold her baby or play with her son, so she can take a leisurely bath or squeeze in an afternoon nap?
There’s lots of ways to be His hands & feet. For some, that opportunity leads you to New York or Liberia (we have a team of four going there in July), but for others…you can be called to do likewise right next door.
Just be watching. Be open. and BE…in a relationship with the One who died for you & lives again. Be open to wherever He leads you. Because remember…He loves you…and He won’t send you solo. He’ll be with you every step of the way.
My friends, it’s not something we “have to” do, but it’s something we “get to” do. There’s a difference. It changes your whole attitude. it goes along with why I have my daily #gratitudelistofjodilea on my final Facebook post each night. It helps me look at my day and see what the good was. Not what I HAD to do, but what I GOT to do.
So…what will you GET to do tomorrow for the One who loves you, is always with you, and sees you as His treasured possession?
Today, we buried my father. It was hard. It was emotional. It was a blessing. It was a gift. How can one day that is so sad be all those things?
It was hard because regardless of your age…and the health of a parent…you’re never “ready” to say the final earthly good-bye.
It was emotional because…he’s my dad. He loved me. He made me laugh. He frustrated me. He was proud of me. I love him. I have episodes of tears and emotional breakdowns, but thankfully….those are most often when it’s just me & God….or me, God, and my cats.
It was a blessing because SO many people took time to let Mom and us know how much they respected and/or loved Dad. People from all four of our churches came to both the visitation and funeral. People who worked with me, my sister, my mom, and my dad at some point in time stopped by to give us a hug and offer a kind word. The love of others is certainly a blessing.
It was a gift. That one will be explained by the end of today’s blog post
As an almost 55-year-old, I have been at many funerals. I’m always touched when one of the children of the person share the eulogy. So, when Dad’s life on earth ended on May 28th, at 7:28 AM, I started pondering what should be shared. Immediately a 4-point eulogy came to mind with a Facebook thread weaving it together. I thought I’d simply share my eulogistic essay that I read this morning during Dad’s funeral.
Good morning, I’m Jodi-the youngest of the “Pflaumer Girls.” If you know Jerry, and I’m guessing you do since you made the time to join us today, then you know at least these four things about him.
You know he loved his country, his family, his wife, & his Savior.
If you do social media and are Facebook friends with Jerry, then you have seen post after post of evidence of those four things. You also may have noticed that his posts had decreased in recent months and ended on May 21st. For several of you, that was probably a sign that something was happening. To those of you who have shared thoughts of condolences & encouragement, we thank you for the kind comments you have shared on this avenue of communication that Dad took to like a fish takes to water…a fish with very strong opinions on life, love, and …pretty much everything.…I’ve added some of those comments shared to the thoughts that I’m sharing today.
Let’s start with his love of his country and his patriotism. Dad served in the Indiana Army National Guard and served as Military Police. He was quite proud of that alliance. As you can see from the color scheme, he loved his country. He would proudly proclaim his views on any topic thrown at him. He may not have always done it as tactfully as we would’ve liked, but he was who he was. He was a man of strong opinions and convictions. He shared them. He proclaimed them. He was thankful to be an American.
That’s the reason the song that just played was picked. Back when we lived in Shelbyville, Dad was the song leader of Calvary Baptist where we attended. The church would have song nights, and our family of 5 would always sing. Sometimes, we’d sing “Rock of Ages”, but we would ALWAYS sing “I Am Thankful to Be an American,” and it became dubbed as “The Pflaumer’s Song”.
Next, we’ll move to his love for his family. His sister, Nancy, who was “the chosen one” as he referred to her since his parents adopted her as a baby may live miles away in Maryland, but through phone calls and…Facebook, they were still close. Her career as a nurse also helped when Mom & Dad were trying to make decisions about health issues.
He was a proud and loving father. Dianna wanted to share a story from our childhood. Both Mom and Dad worked, so the three of us would be home after school for a bit until they got off work. One afternoon, in the midst of a tornado watch, Dianna was attempting to supervise two crying sisters. So what do you do when you’re scared? You call your dad. So, she called Dad, and he left work, came to pick us up, and took us back to Danners with him.
As many of you know, back in 2020, Covid started battling Dianna. Dad rallied his Facebook Friends and church family and anyone he communicated with via email….and had them praying.
Sherry was his “athletic daughter” as he would point out. During high school, he’d cheer and help at her track and cross country meets. Ever proud of her determination and shared with many people when her cross country team made it to the state finals that year.
About 30 years later, Sherry was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Our family changed directions in our fundraising efforts. Our prior work for Relay for Life switched to the MS Walk. Dad was the lead fundraiser on our team…Sherry’s Steppers. He hated not being at the walk this year, but he still sent out fundraising letters to some of his donors while giving Sherry the addresses to the others. Just a reminder that he would do what he could to help us even as his health was declining. He might gripe a bit here and there, but we knew he’d be there if he could.
As for me, the ‘baby’ of the family, he LOVED giving me a hard time about being “spoiled” by Mom. Then, when I became a teacher and Mom would go help me set up my room after she retired, Dad made sure I knew that he was able to “help to”. That was the year that he started checking my pens, markers, glue bottles, and sharpening pencils.
However, when his one and only grandson came along, he really hit the zone. Back when Connor was little, both Dad and Connor’s papaw would both “baby sit” Connor while Sherry & Matt worked. Connor shared that during those times of Pap babysitting that he would take Connor off to Mike’s Grill to eat breakfast with the ROMEOs. Retired Old Men Eating Out. Whether it was t-ball or Rebel Varsity baseball, he proudly wore his “Connor’s Pap” shirt and yelled…and took pictures…to post on Facebook.
His annual Connor Tie for Christmas from the Stewarts was always photographed for all to see. Sarah, Connor’s wife, even made the tie he received in 2024. In the words of my friend, Melissa, “Your father was a model for all in loving and caring for his family. “
But…let’s face it. As good of a brother and father and Pap as he was, his world was our mother. That’s how he started checking those markers in my classroom, because he always wanted to be where she was. He’d surprise her with gifts. Most recently buying her a peace lily because A. he knew she loved them, and B. it was a gift of gratitude for her extra nursing skills that she’s been using the first half of this year. He was all about loving mom and making sure everyone knew how blessed and thankful he was for her. He would joke that “she’s the boss” – even telling the paramedic that on Tuesday morning, but he loved her. And…if you’re on Facebook, then you’ve seen pictures of their romance and relationship all through the years. He’d often start a Facebook countdown in the summer proclaiming how many months, weeks, and days until it was their next anniversary.
For the record, they met on March 31, 1964. He gave her a diamond on June 5, 1964. They married on September 20, 1964. They were married 60 ½ years and not many are that blessed anymore it seems.
Of course, one of his favorite pictures of them was when they were in Springfield, IL, back on their 50th Anniversary trip where he FINALLY got down on his knee and proposed….because as they would laugh telling the story that neither of them ever remember Dad proposing. Regardless, I suppose the diamond ring was an implied proposal. As our friend Lora posted, “I loved to see his posts about your mom. He loved her so much!” We have no doubt he will be waiting for her when it’s her time – hopefully in the distant future – to join him. For now, Mom, cling to the words of Isaiah 41:10 that tells us, “Do not fear, for I am with you: do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you: I will uphold you with my righteous hand.”
But…in the end, the relationship that matters the most was the one that started before he joined the military, got married, had children, and became a pap. That was the relationship he had with the One He called Lord. As Kyleen shared, “Your dad was a wonderful man of faith, with a loving, giving heart. He will be missed in our community. Dad accepted Christ as his Savior in elementary school. It was through his relationship with Mom that she accepted Christ on July 5, 1964 (one year before Dianna was born) and baptized on August 30, 1964 (3 years before Sherry was born). The three of us were raised going to church. Dianna accepted Christ when we lived in Lawrenceburg & she was 7 years old. Sherry did likewise while living in Tipton when she was 6 years old. Then, back when I was in 3rd grade living in Shelbyville, I recall Dad sharing the gospel with me just like churches often do in VBS. He sat beside me and explained that I first needed to Admit that I was a sinner and do things that displease God, then I needed to Believe that Jesus was the Son of God, that He died for those sins, and that He rose again. Finally, he said the next step was to Confess my faith in Jesus as my Savior & Lord.
It wasn’t just his kids though, when we first moved to Madison and attended Calvary, he and Mom worked with the kids and later he would continue to work with kids as they memorized the books of the Bible. As Becky wrote, “Your parents have always held a special place in my heart! I always remember your dad helping me learn Bible verses and studying so hard to get them down pat. He was a wonderful man!” In fact, some may have been concerned about the current church decor, but we found joy in it. Many decades ago, when we all attended Calvary, Dad would work his schedule so that he could drive the church van to pick kids up for Bible school. During his years being a member here at Cornerstone, he would often share the link to the church VBS. He may not have been physically helping to lead it, but he wanted to make sure area kids knew it was happening.
Besides ministering to kids and serving as a deacon, he and Mom started a card ministry at both of the Jefferson County churches they have attended. Sending cards to missionaries, military, college kids, shut-ins…anybody he thought needed a card. One of those recipients was Taleen Jackson – who also was one of the kids who learned the books of the Bible through his ministry at Calvary – shared this, “I don’t even have the words to express how much he impacted my life through his support whether it was from church activities or the dozens of cards supporting our military family.” And then Thomas shared, “Currently in the military, this gentleman consistently sent letters for years. Wish he knew the impact, very grateful and gone too soon.”
So, I can think of no better way than this to end a tribute to our father, Jerry Lee Pflaumer. JC Kimmer, who is serving God in Africa with his family, shared, “ Your father’s love for your mom and family was inspiring. His thoughtfulness towards others will always be remembered. We mourn with you today, but we do so with the unshakable hope for the resurrection when all things will be made new.”
So, our dear friends, Jerry’s family wants to remind you of his lessons. Love your country and be thankful for your freedom. Cherish your family-never take them for granted. Adore your spouse & tell the world how blessed you are. And ….if you don’t know Jesus Christ, as your personal Savior & Lord… Pastor Mike Johnson or Pastor Brynen Chitwood would be honored to take Dad’s place and share the ABCs with you, so that you can know the peace that surpasses understanding through the assurance of salvation. That peace mentioned in John 14:27, “I am leaving you with a gift –peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. Do not be troubled or afraid.”
Thank you for caring about my dad and loving us through this journey. Matthew 5:4 says, Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. We thank God for using you to help provide that comfort.
Today was a gift. An exhausting emotional…gift. Because…our faith tells us that our good-bye is temporary. Dad’s pain is gone. Life won’t be the same without his bigger-than-life personality here walking through the days with us, but…we know, through our faith, that we will once gain be together again…
Have you ever just been filled with so much joy that you find yourself simply smiling – even when you’re home alone? (Or…in my case, with your cats) Well, my friends, that’s how I find myself this week.
Now, as a teacher, this is a ‘standardized test week’ (for my non-standardized students), and I am STILL joyful. That right there…is proof of something.
What is it proof of? Hmmm….
Inside recess is not for the faint of heart, but yesterday I sat at my desk with over 30 children in my room. Some working on late work, some with their heads down to “pay” a fine, and others…enjoying quiet recess. Quiet? Yep, you read that correctly. Why? I told them as long as “the lights stayed on” that recess would continue. I mean, if they’re testing in the morning, I’m okay with giving them some extra free time.
Now, inside recess requires…patience. Generally, there’s not much I think is worse than inside recess, but yesterday…it wasn’t stressing me out. Hmmm….
As I was pondering the joy and patience mentioned above, a passage bursts into my thoughts. You see, my Monday Bible study group is going through a study called “Meeting the Spirit.” Therefore, the Holy Spirit has been in my thoughts more, so I suppose I’ve been doing a self-assessment on my “Fruit of the Spirit.”
Well, my JOY is strong. My PATIENCE is growing, but…what about… Love, Peace, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, & Self-Control?
Immediately upon pondering the other fruit, I have a WARNING light trigger. Guesses? Well….it would be GENTLENESS & SELF-CONTROL. A flashback to yesterday. My “hall monitor” was getting snippy about the “boys’ restroom monitor” not reporting to her. Now, I had just told her that the boys all earned a + as they showed self-control with their noise level. I could’ve simply reminded her of that, but instead…I was a bit snarky back. I was DEFINITLEY not gentle. As I pondered it last night, I made a note to myself to show that student extra gentleness today. And….maybe….try counting and breathing before speaking to someone who may have been a bit snippy with me.
Then, as I pondered the others, a colleague was sharing her lack of affection for lunchroom duty. I mean, I don’t know anyone who ENJOYS cafeteria duty. However, I don’t mind it. Plus, recess duty tends to affect my breathing, eyes, etc. You know…the joy of allergies. So, I told her I’d take her lunch duty on the 21st since we scheduled our work day on the 22nd (she was hoping to either get to KEEP her science lab or LOSE her lunch duty – Totally get it!). So, as I was watching my kids tackle the math performance task, I thought…Hmmm….grow my kindness. How could I take it a step further? Then, a HUGE LIGHT BULB lit up in my brain! It was like a strong nudge of a fruit application and a reminder of a Biblical challenge.
Well, I’m just going to say that the Holy Spirit’s nudge just made my three colleagues happy campers! I’m not even exaggerating….one of them wanted to know my favorite candy or snacks, so she could be a blessing to me as well. LOL So, except for the next three Tuesdays (so I can share a lunch with Maria & Kim and monitor the inside workroom), cafeteria duty and I are going to be synonymous.
As for Peace, Goodness, Faithfulness, and Love…. That’s a daily personal challenge to know, show, and grow. I’m not a full-fledged fruit tree yet, but…I’m praying His Spirit keeps pruning away my bruised fruit and helping me show juicy goodness and genuine love to those I share this life with…even if it’s the cashier at Dollar General or a rude driver on the road. We shall see….
What about you? Why not do a Fruit Inspection of your own and see which areas need some attention? You’ll be glad you did. Maybe not as glad as my colleagues with me taking their May lunch duties (except for 1 each)…but you’ll be glad. More importantly, He’ll be glad.
Oh! The title! Since my church voted on “RiverStone” as our new church name AND I’ve been pondering children’s message…two songs from decades ago that we would sing at church camp have been playing through my head. One was “River of Life” and the other is maybe “Bubbling Over” or something like that?
This is the only video I found with the “extra words”…maybe I should make my own?
Hello, my friends. I have lots of thoughts going on again, so I’m going to attempt to weave them into a post. We’ll see how it all comes together. Here’s hoping.
Pray. Wait. Trust. For more than 5 years, that’s been my mindset in regard to my life at church. I love my church. I love my church family. I love serving the One who saved my soul. For the past several years, I’ve seen people who were close to me exit. It was hard. I prayed. I stayed. I trusted. I waited.
Last Tuesday, I learned that I would be singing on praise team this Sunday. This Sunday was going to be a big day in the life of our church as we were scheduled to vote on the “church marriage” of two bodies of believers. I always create a playlist on YouTube of the songs, so I can sing through them at least once a day. Well, each day since Wednesday…during one of the songs or another…tears would fall. Not sad tears. Not tears of mourning. Tears of Joy & Thanksgiving.
So, when I would listen to or sing through “I Am”, these lines would trigger the waterworks.
I am holding on to You I am holding on to You In the middle of the storm I am holding on, I am
Next, “Praise” would begin….and on a few of the times I’d listen or sing, these lyrics would spring the leak…
I’ll praise in the valley Praise on the mountain I’ll praise when I’m sure And praise when I’m doubting
Then, the kicker would come in. “How Great Is Our God” by Chris Tomlin. I sang it as a solo in worship when it first came out, and the lyrics were used in today’s children’s message. But…He used them to trigger another leak a time or two…
How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God
Now, looking at those lines, you might wonder…how in the world did THOSE words prompt tears. Oh, my friends, this long road has been hard, BUT…He is and always will be a Great God! As I told the kids (or I think I told the kids), even when we go through hard times and stormy times, God is GREAT. He works all those things together for our good and His glory. Yes, when I was watching people I love leave and go to other churches, I had no clue what His plan was. But…I know that I know that I know….that He IS a GREAT God!
Well, this morning as we practiced, Patty told me to keep singing “those lines” as she sings the “Name above all names, Worthy of our praise, My heart will sing, How great is our God” with the congregation. No problem. It wasn’t…during practice. But….then worship started.
Pastor Brynen moved the sermon up earlier in the service, so his words were in my head….As I got to those lines declaring the greatness of our God, my heart was overcome, my eyes watered, my brain glitched, and….I came in a couple lines later. Goodness.
Well, then it was time for the children’s message. I LOVE giving a children’s message. Today, it meant more. Why? Because…during the sermon I was convicted of an attitude adjustment that needed to happen. Let me explain.
I have taught kids at my church in some form or fashion since I was a senior in high school. Back in the spring of 2020, I “took over” coordinating the “elementary” ministry. I don’t do preschool or nursery ministry because I wasn’t blessed with skills in that domain. However…teaching and interacting with kids. Yep. Got that.
When our two church families started worshiping together, besides thinking…”this is an interesting storyline, God”, I selfishly thought about the elementary ministry. My thoughts were basically…there are SO MANY teachers and parents attending church together, SURELY we’ll have volunteers to serve. Currently, my friend Jennifer teaches one Sunday a month. One Sunday is Family Sunday (that was today). All other Sundays are me. This basically means that I teach kids two to three Sundays a month. I love teaching. I love children’s ministry. But…selfishly, I really thought I’d be down to one Sunday a month.
However, during the sermon today, it was as if God said, “I made you with gifts and you need to use them as long as there’s a need…but I need you to do it JOYFULLY and just focus on Me & the kids.” So, I mean…I won’t turn down people if suddenly I have volunteers willing to teach, but…I’ll keep teaching…with a better attitude.
Well, I mentioned today was the BIG VOTE. Do we merge (I like calling it a marriage of church families instead of a merger…merger sounds too much like a business.) or do we separate? Two colors of ballots for the two separate bodies of believers. And…UNANIMOUSLY …yep you read that right….TWO CHURCHES voted to become ONE. That Good News was shared before communion.
As I prayed before taking communion, the tears started again. This did not bode well for our final praise song. Alas, the music started.
Our final song was “In Jesus Name”. Patty sings the first verse before we join in. As we started singing the first chorus, my lips started quivering as tears started again, and I prayed that I wouldn’t “ugly cry” in front of everyone. I pulled the mic away until I could get my emotions under control…and joyfully sang this song.
So, I just wanted to write this post to say, God is good. Pray. Wait. Trust. Then, CELEBRATE.
God is good. All the time. We may not see how He’s working, but we can trust Him.
If you don’t know Him, here’s some verses I was reminded of while watching “The Forge” this afternoon.
As the movie concluded, my friend and I were standing up to leave, and I saw a couple that attended Calvary many years ago. I was asked a question that I’m often asked by former church members, “Do you still attend Calvary?”
Today, I answered, “Actually, as of this morning (around 11:30 to be specific), I began attending RiverStone Church.” Same building. Same God. But…He’s got something NEW planned for this body of believers. Join us!
Greetings! I had planned to write this last weekend, but alas…my internet was out.
A couple weeks ago, storms seemed to have raged across the country. During those storms, my power went out. It was Wednesday around midnight…or maybe Thursday around 12:30 AM. Regardless, it kicked off my fan which caused this 54-year-old lady to awaken. Storms grew, and I pondered getting out of bed. However, I was tired. So, I rolled over and asked God to watch over my home and the homes in our county, and I thankfully fell back to sleep. Warm, but sleep nonetheless.
The next morning, my cell dinged telling me we were having a virtual day. However, my electric was out, so I threw on some clothes…and headed to school. I can’t teach virtually in a house without electricity. Thankfully, before class was dismissed, my electricity was restored. Or…was it?
It seemed like I had electric, but…it was on an uneven path. By the following Wednesday, it was evident that though I had power…I didn’t have full power. Duke came out twice the next day while I was at school. When I returned home, I flipped the switch, and the lights were on. However, when I turned on the kitchen light, the living room light went off. When I opened the fridge door, the light was on “dim”. Hmmm, I called Duke.
The customer service associate assured me that Duke had been to my address TWICE. They verified the meter was working. They replaced “something” that wasn’t working. She said it in a way that made me think she was about to dismiss me, so I said, “That may be true…but while we’ve been on the phone…the light next to me…just went off.” She made a call. She created a new ticket. “I’m guessing they won’t be here until tomorrow, right?” She replied that she had no way of knowing, so I hoped.
An hour later…a Duke truck slowly passed my house. I went outside and waited until the tech got out of the truck. I watched him check with my neighbors and NONE of them were having any issues. So, I explained how my washing machine was sitting full of water because there wasn’t enough power to finish the cycle. He assured me that he would work to figure out the issue. And….he did. Or did he?
My washing machine….kicked on. My fridge light was on full power. And…while the washing machine agitated, the technician said, “Turn on the vacuum. Let’s make sure you’re full power.” I did. It did. The house had power.
So, I turned on the TV and ….my modem was blinking. I tried the reset. I called the help desk. They said, “You just need a new modem”. On Saturday (2 days later), the new modem didn’t work when it arrived. So, they scheduled a home visit. Their tech couldn’t be here until Monday. Goodness… was I thankful for my hotspot. You don’t know how much you depend on something until it’s gone.
On Monday, the tech arrived about 3:35. An hour later, he had it up and running. Power was restored to my electricity and my online connection.
During this two week period, I have thought a lot about power. I thought about how as a teacher…by the 4th nine-weeks, it seems like I’m running on fumes. Some years more-so than others. This is one of those years. I love my kids. I love teaching. Alas, we’re under 30 days to go, and….I’m ready to rest. Sometimes, to be ready to go full-steam ahead, you have to rest and rejuvenate. I know the school year wasn’t established for that reason, but….He knew. He knew that the people He called to teach would need to rest and recharge in order to rise to the huge task of educating children. I’m thankful.
Then, as I have a lot in the past few years…and especially during these past four months, I pondered my spiritual life and my commitment to my church family and its ministry. To be honest, the past five or so years have been….draining. Yet, I had joy. In the midst of the tears of watching people I love exit our doors and find a new church family, I had peace. In the storm of discord and pot-stirring, I trusted. Through the joy…and the peace…and the trusting…I found myself becoming spiritually exhausted.
Yet, I knew the power source. As I reflect on the valley, I realized I could’ve “plugged in” more consistently and firmly. I often think in analogies and figuratively, and …. I have realized that I was a lot like my “loose outlet” that should be replaced. Because the plug wasn’t held securely, my spiritual power wasn’t as strong as it should’ve been. Duke discovered that my ground-wires weren’t connected (or something like that…), when they were fixed…so was my power. The Spectrum tech determined that a squirrel or a broken branch probably nicked the cable, and he replaced it allowing the internet to flow completely. I didn’t need a special technician to fix my spiritual drain. I just needed to plug into the outlet, to get a new battery, to…be hit by the Ultimate Energy Source.
How do I do it? I need to plug into my power source. I have multiple Bibles. I need to open them more consistently than on Sunday and Monday. Thankful for my prayers and praise songs, but….I must do my part to help THE Technician fix my connection. Honestly, how God has led us to join with another congregation family has been a huge boost in my power connection. I’m so thankful for answered prayers and for seeing how God is moving in our midst. Looking back, I realize that if it hadn’t been for those hard years and those exits and changes….that we wouldn’t have been seeking His direction as earnestly…to know what our next step would be and should be. A reminder that God uses all things for our good – even when we don’t see it at the time, and for His glory. I can’t tell you how often I’ve had talks with friends and colleagues about “what” God is doing in the midst of our two congregations.
It seemed like Holy Saturday was perfect timing for this post. Yesterday, Good Friday was a reminder about the power of the blood. You see, Christ was and is the Son of God. He submitted himself to the will of Father God by being obedient to death on the cross. He could’ve come down from it. I mean, He is God. But…He didn’t. He stayed there. He took the pain of the whip. He experienced the hammering of the spikes (more appropriate than thinking of them as nails like I hang pictures with). He did that…not only because of God’s plan but because of…LOVE. He loved me. He loves you.
And…tomorrow…we’ll celebrate that though He was dead and buried that His Power was greater. Even greater than death itself.
Honestly, last night, as we sang the final song sitting in a dark sanctuary, I had to get up. As I sang the words that Chris Tomlin recorded, it was as if electricity was flowing through me…and I had to stand in His presence to sing those words.
At the cross, at the cross -I surrender my life I’m in awe of You, I’m in awe of You Where Your love ran red And my sin washed white I owe all to You, I owe all to You
If I possess any power, it’s because of Him being my Power Source. Let Him be yours too!
Must be a Sunday thing. Home by 1:30. Started laundry. Changed clothes. Sat down to watch & listen to today’s sermon. So, here I sit…pondering church, the sermon, Crew time, and….rain.
First, we voted on a name for “the merged church” if the two congregations vote affirmatively on the 27th. I was okay with all four. I liked two a lot. The one I voted for…had a good connection to my thoughts
and a great tag line. It was based on the STONES that were placed in honor of God’s guiding the Israelites. Likewise, God has guided my church while we were joyful on the mountain, searching in the valley, and faithful through the storms. The name and people may change, but the reason we gather remains. We gather to serve the Risen Savior. We gather to worship the One True God. He is faithful. He is the Living Stone of our faith. He is the River of Life. As God guides us on the journey, He will be our RiverStone.
Then came, Crew Time. Currently, there are just two of us teaching the elementary group. My sweet friend, Jennifer, teaches one Sunday, and I tackle the others. This month, I teach today and on Easter. The final Sunday is always “Family Worship Sunday”, so I get the privilege of sharing a children’s message during the corporate worship service.
Anyway, our current curriculum is all focused on Jesus. They took “Holy Week” and broke it into many lessons: Triumphal Entry, Widow’s Mite, Washing Feet, Last Supper, Crucifixion (next Sunday), & the Resurrection (on Easter). That means today’s lesson focused on the Passover celebration on the day before Jesus was crucified….now known as the Last Supper. As the kids sat around the two tables, I passed out their “meal” – grapes, 2 types of cheese, & a slice of Italian bread. Then, I poured cups of grape juice. As they enjoyed their healthy snack, I finished reading the passage in Luke 22.
At the end, two girls volunteered to clean off the tables for me as parents were arriving to pick up the kids, I was overwhelmed with the joy I get by teaching children lessons from scripture. I mean, I’m not called to be a staff minister (I tried that once and was miserable.), but I truly enjoy the Sundays I spend with the kids. Now, that doesn’t mean I want to teach them every week because I love worshiping with other believers, but I’ll gladly keep teaching a Sunday or two each month as long as I’m needed.
After the laundry was started (it’s finished now), I started listening to Pastor Brynen’s sermon (as I held an armful of cat). Today was the conclusion of a four part sermon series focused on the greatest commandments. The final message focused on loving others. Even the unlovables (they were created in the image of God and were purchased by the blood of Christ…so they’re all lovable). Even the people who don’t flush the commode. Even the people who walk out of a public restroom without washing their hands. Even people who vote differently than I do. Even those who find practices acceptable that scripture teaches are wrong. Even…your betrayer.
You see, as I taught my group of 13 elementary kids about the Last Supper, we discussed how Judas had his feet washed by Jesus (our lesson two weeks ago) and enjoyed the Passover meal at the same table with the One he would betray. Wow! Jesus loved the one who betrayed Him. Of course He did. He loved the guard who would pierce His side. The ones who would cast lots for His garments. The ones who demanded Barrabas, a notorious prisoner, be released because releasing a murderer was better than the man who “claimed” to be the Son of God.
Yes, we are called to love the “unlovables” because….we’re called to love like Jesus. He loved them all. He loves them all. He loves me with all my weaknesses and failings (aka sin). He loves me when I have not-so-hot thoughts and when I don’t love myself. He loves me. Therefore, I need to be like Him. I need to love those who may not fit the “image” in my mind of lovable because we were created by the One True God and in His image.
Well, that about sums up my thoughts. I may have been a little ADD in this post, but…there were lots of thoughts in my head & heart. I hope at least one of them reached yours.
I don’t know if a Sunday post is now my new routine, or if my mind just has lots of thoughts on Sundays. Regardless, here’s what’s marinating in my mind currently….
–I love to sing. I sang in worship back on January 19th. Then, the next two Sundays Patty had me scheduled to sing with the praise band, I either was battling my allergies or a cough. Last weekend, my cough was gone, and my voice was back. However, I didn’t trust spring. This past week, even though I was on spring break, I vetoed outside walking…to avoid my allergens. Yesterday, I went to celebrate the upcoming birth of a baby girl. It was at the Old Red Barn, so the doors were open. Didn’t think a thing about it…until this morning when I spent a few minutes coughing. Ugh. I used the dreaded neti pot and said a prayer asking for the voice to make it through the singing. Thankfully, except for a cough between the first two songs, the voice hung in there. But…goodness was it warm.
–Since today was “Family Worship Sunday”, I had the privilege of sharing a children’s message as part of the worship service. I love teaching kids lessons from scripture. Yesterday, as I sat coloring my Message Box objects, I thought, “Wait! The bulletin didn’t switch the ‘children’s dismissal & blessing’ to ‘children’s message.'” Now, sadly…there was only one person to blame for this snafu. It was me. I do the bulletins. I made the mistake. I was highly irritated with myself. I confessed to Pastor Brynen, Tyler, & Kamra, and they extended grace to me. Alas, I wasn’t as nice to myself.
–As I sat visiting with Chuck prior to the service beginning, I looked up at the screen. The slide asking for volunteers to help with the children’s ministry popped up. My first thought was, “I really like how that looks!” My second thought, “Ugh! That IS should be IF.” Man, I’m really slipping.
–My low voice came in really handy during the second song this morning. Patty, who leads the praise band, has to work to hit the low notes of the verses of “Good God Almighty.” During practice on Wednesday, she asked me if I wanted to sing them since my voice can go there more easily. Low voice for the win…and today’s after effects of yesterday’s outside air made it even easier.
–After the songs concluded, the kids gathered around me. I’m always tempted to break out in my ‘Granny Myrtle’ voice…as it feels like I’m Mother Goose getting ready to teach the children. Alas, I withstood the temptation. The objects in my box guide the message and the kids interaction help it move along. To be honest, today’s was a challenge. I try to align it with the pastor’s message…or at least the pastor’s scripture focus. When he told me his focus for the day’s sermon, a couple of friends and I determined that was a bit above the thinking of a child. So, I took his “4 part” series and combined it into a 5 minute message. I thought it went pretty well. Pastor Brynen even game a high five afterwards for pulling it off as he told his wife he didn’t know how I was going to tackle today’s passage. That’s all well and good, but….as I listened to it afterwards, I sadly focused on, “Wait! I made a point of sharing that I had THREE scripture passages, but…I only shared TWO.” UGH.
Then, Pastor Brynen started preaching. He started with a question: How are you today? I’m just saying…90% of the time when I’m asked that question, my response is a simple, “I’m peachy”. I figure…life could be worse, so I’m peachy with what the day holds as I trust Who holds it.
Then, he moved on to today’s challenge. He reminded us that we need to love ourselves and find our identity through Christ and not the approval of men. He proclaimed that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. As I told the kids today, we were created in the image of God. For us to genuinely love others, we must love ourselves which requires us to fill our tank. How do we fill our tank? I mean, we can’t pull up to Shell or to Kroger’s. LOL.
We must fill our tank by resting in the assurance that God loves us. We are called to be children of God, and as His child we must find our identity in Him. Not in the opinion of men…Our identity must be secure in the fact that we are a child of the Living God!
What does filling our tank look like? We do so by training to be godly. By setting our hearts on the things above and pruning away those things that belong to our earthly nature. As a child of God, we should bear fruit. When we’re bearing something other than the fruit of the Spirit, we must prune it away.
So, what needs to be pruned from your life? If you’re like me, you tend to be more critical of yourself than you are of others. That typo in the bulletin. That misspelled word on the announcement slide. That skipped verse in my message. That cough between songs. Countless other things I could list….they’re the thoughts that want to bruise the love and acceptance I am called to have for myself.
At the conclusion of the sermon, Pastor Brynen asked us what “fruit pie” we needed to eat….humility, goodness, patience, joy, etc. As I sat around the lunch table, I realized I needed to eat some “Gentleness Pie” and “Patience Pie”. I need to treat myself more gently and less critically, and I need to accept my shortcomings and not expect perfection.
What about you? Where does your identiy come from? Do you love the person God created you to be? Look in the mirror. See the image bearer of the Living God. Let Him train you to be godly, so that you can truly love Him, others, and yourself.
So, were you curious which Bible verse I neglected to share? It was my wrap up verse. After reminding the children that the greatest commandments tell us to love God and love your neighbor as yourself, I was going to share John 13:35. You see, that love that we show to God and to others…and to ourselves shows the world that we belong to Him. It’s our birthmark. It’s our fruit. So, my dear friends, bear fruit through the love you show God, your neighbors, and yourselves. It’s a great choice. It’s….the greatest commandments.
Jodi Lea Pflaumer, Author 