The Word, The Life, The Light, and The Feast of Dedication

Did you know that Jesus — Who is the Word, the One who was/is Life and the Light of Men — celebrated Hanukkah, also called, The Feast of Dedication? This shouldn’t be surprising because he was/is Jewish.

“After this the Feast of Dedication [of the reconsecration of the temple] was taking place at Jerusalem. It was winter, And Jesus was walking in Solomon’s Porch in the temple area.”
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

I enjoyed reading and learning from this very insightful article about The Feast of Dedication at this link: How Jesus fulfills the Hopes of Hanukkah by Thomas Boehm.

Here are a couple of excerpts from it:

“Although Hanukkah has no direct Torah command, its origins are rooted in the lived experience of the Jewish people as they struggled to survive culturally, spiritually, and physically under the pressures of foreign empires.”

Nearly two centuries later the empire threatening the Jews had changed, but their struggle was the same, and…

“Into this world stepped the Light of the World, who celebrated the Feast of Dedication not merely as a historical memory, but as one who fulfills its deepest meaning. Hanukkah becomes a window into the heart of Jesus’s mission: to cleanse, to restore, to rededicate, and to reveal God’s kingdom in the midst of darkness, on earth as it already is in his presence.”

As we approach the celebration of his birth, I have been meditating on Jesus, how He was Light and Life from the beginning. The star that led the wisemen to him and the bright glory of the angel’s message to the shepherds could not help but reflect that.

I want to share these scriptures to encourage you:

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.”
‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬, ‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men. And the Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it].”
‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.””
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“I have come as a light to shine in this dark world so that all who trust in me will no longer wander in darkness.”
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭46‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Dear one, Jesus gave his life for you. He wants you to receive his life, his salvation, and his light that leads to life. Will you open your heart and ask him to be your Lord today?

"Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc."
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible (AMPC), Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. www.lockman.org.
Scripture quotations marked TPT are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ThePassionTranslation.com.

Hineni – part 4: Here I Am

Hineni (הִנֵּנִי) is a Hebrew word that most simply means: Here I am, Here am I, or Behold, I.

With the murder of Charlie Kirk, who became a martyr for Christ on September 10, this word has taken on new significance for many people who are now saying, Here I Am, just as Charlie did.

Many have become hungry for God — seeking to know Jesus, to know that God loves them and has a plan for their lives. Churches are growing. Some people are coming back after being gone for long, others coming for the first time, Bibles are being bought and read. Many lives are being changed as they come to Jesus.

For many Christ followers it is a call to remember whose we are, who we are in Christ and that He has given to us the ministry of reconciliation. That we cannot be silent, the good news is ours to share.

As His, I am reminded that my aim is to live Hineni — Here I Am. To keep my heart tuned to the voice of the Holy Spirit. To be available to act whenever, however and wherever, as He directs. To be mindful that I get to choose to let His love flow through me, and that I may be the only Jesus someone sees.

As a result of this it is my joy and honor to share this truth with you:

“Now, if anyone is enfolded into Christ, he has become an entirely new person. All that is related to the old order has vanished. Behold, everything is fresh and new. And God has made all things new, and reconciled us to himself, and given us the ministry of reconciling others to God.

In other words, it was through the Anointed One that God was shepherding the world, not even keeping records of their transgressions, and he has entrusted to us the ministry of opening the door of reconciliation to God. We are ambassadors of the Anointed One who carry the message of Christ to the world, as though God were tenderly pleading with them directly through our lips.

So we tenderly plead with you on Christ’s behalf, “Turn back to God and be reconciled to him.” For God made the only one who did not know sin to become sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God through our union with him.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬-‭21‬ ‭TPT‬‬

There is nothing you can do to make him love you less, or more. Ask Jesus to come into your heart, receive the forgiveness for your sins that he offers, be reconciled to the one true God, He loves you perfectly and completely.

“Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in, and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation. The Scripture says, No man who believes in Him [who adheres to, relies on, and trusts in Him] will [ever] be put to shame or be disappointed. [Ps. 34:22; Isa. 28:16; 49:23; Jer. 17:7.]”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭9‬-‭11‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible (AMPC), Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. www.lockman.org.
Scripture quotations marked TPT are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ThePassionTranslation.com.

Charlie Kirk and prayer for the 9/21/25 Memorial service

I cried when I learned he had been shot and killed at just 31 years old. It was both shocking and heartbreaking.

I did not know him personally, but I greatly admired his faith in Jesus Christ, love for family, dedication to speaking truth, and his love for America.

I understand that Charlie wanted to be remembered for his courage and his faith. I believe that he is and will be remembered for both of those things, as well as for his passion for the youth of this nation. His impact was significant.

It’s amazing to hear, read about and watch all of the prayer vigils (world wide), the overflowing churches and to hear leaders in our nation worship and give honor to God at the Charlie Kirk Memorial Service at the Kennedy Center, 9/14/2025.

Tomorrow (9/21/2025) it’s expected that 100,000+ will gather in a stadium in Glendale, AZ for a final memorial service to honor Charlie Kirk. Millions more will watch via network television, YouTube, Rumble and more.

All who are there, or watching or listening will hear from highly respected leaders, but more importantly, they will hear the gospel.

Please join me in praying for:

Erika and the Turning Point family to experience the grace, strength, peace and comfort of God, personally.

The protection of all speakers and attendees and that any plots, plans, and schemes of the enemy to disrupt the memorial will be exposed and thwarted. And for great wisdom and insight for all law enforcement and security personnel.

Pray for Pastor Rob McCoy, that God anoints and uses him and the message he shares.

Souls saved, hearts open to truth and for a great and long lasting revival and impact to reach college and high school students with the love of Jesus.

No technical difficulties and no online hindrances will affect live streams of the service.

I am expecting a great move of God. I am grateful that He can take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it for good. It has already begun and I expect it to continue to be a turning point toward God by many.

You can learn more at https://www.fightforcharlie.com/?hsCtaAttrib=1959943

A Fresh Look at Proverbs 3:5-6

I was in Texas for 10 days recently, blessed to attend the Southwest Believer’s Convention (click here to watch on demand) and to be immersed in the Word of God and Worship from Sunday-Sunday. This was my 28th year and as always, God was faithful to fill me to overflowing, literally. From start to end would equal approximately 6 months of regular Sunday services. It was awesome, amazing and I am grateful for all I learned. As I work my way through notes taken, studying and relistening, I expect to share more here.

Today, I did a study of Proverbs 3:5-6 and below are the Amplified Version, the King James Version, and finally in a version that I wrote based on my study of the Hebrew words. It helped me see it fresh new perspective, and I hope that it will encourage you.

King James
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Amplified
Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.

My version
Be confident and secure, and boldly lean on and trust in the Lord with all your heart — with the very center and core of your being (mind, will and emotions) and don’t rely on what you think you know — your own insight, knowledge, wisdom or understanding. Throughout the course of your life’s journey talk with God, know, be aware of, consider, recognize, respect and regard and acknowledge Him. He will direct, make right, pleasant, prosperous and straight and clear your road (path) and race.

Another thing I learned about while in Texas, from a dear friend, Michelle, is this daily devotion available on YouTube. I am really enjoying it and thought you might as well. Here is the link to Jesus First

I am forever grateful, and mindful that OH, how HE loves you and me! Blessings dear ones!

Joy, Gratitude & Peace through Prayer

Sometimes we need a quiet place to retreat and listen to Him as He speaks to us through His Word, to be reminded of His love and care for us. To take time to talk, and to hear His heart.

These precious words come from God through the Apostle Paul to us. They are as needed and effective today as when they were written.

“Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let your joy overflow! Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God withoverflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life, then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will guard your heart and mind through Jesus Christ. Keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always.
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬, ‭6‬-‭8‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Today, Tomorrow, Future & Hope

I retired a week ago, and while I have some short-term plans and longer term dreams, I am also seeking the Lord for what His plans are next for me. Well today, I was going through a journal of things I have felt He spoke to me, and this one seemed good to share with you. Whatever place you may be in your life, I hope it will speak to your heart, as it did mine.

Today is a day of trust and rest, listening and learning, of obedience and test, a time to believe. There is a tomorrow coming, and you have a place in me both now and then. For now, don’t get caught up wondering what is next. Get caught up with me, I am where you are, with you – NOW.

I Am the One who gives you a future and hope. I Am everlasting. I was, I am, and I will always be. All that is good and satisfying is connected to knowing me. Shalom, which is true peace, nothing missing, lacking or broken, it’s only possible with, in and through me. It cannot be attained, or maintained apart from me. When you find me, you find that too.

Yes, your tomorrow is coming, and I will reveal my plan. I’ll make it clear, and I’ll equip you to complete it.

If you don’t already know my Jesus, listen, he is knocking on the door of your heart. Invite him in, ask him to reveal himself to you. He is love and he loves you. He wants you to experience the unlimited love and forgiveness that He died to give you, to reconcile you to the Father. He always has and always will.

Hineni – Part 2

As I have been studying the word Hineni, I noted that its first mention is in Genesis 22:1. God calls Abraham by name, and Abraham’s immediate reply is Hineni – Here I am.

I felt compelled to go back and read Genesis 12-22, to look at the relationship between Abraham and God. It helped me understand why Abraham answered, Hineni (indicating his willingness to do whatever God asked) when God called him that day. They had a relationship of friendship, of covenant, promises given, promises fulfilled. Abraham knew that what God said, He would do.

As I read Genesis 22:1-18, Abraham had no fear as he faced the test. He fully expected God to provide, and to return with his son. So much so that just as he raises the knife to sacrifice Isaac, he hears God calling and says once again, Here I am.

Abraham, the Father of our faith, believed God, he had faith in what he said, he trusted God. By doing that he had received his promised son, even though it was physically impossible. And God had promised that his generations would come through Isaac.

“By faith Abraham, when he was put to the test [while the testing of his faith was still in progress], had already brought Isaac for an offering; he who had gladly received and welcomed [God’s] promises was ready to sacrifice his only son, [Gen. 22:1-10.] Of whom it was said, Through Isaac shall your descendants be reckoned. [Gen. 21:12.] For he reasoned that God was able to raise [him] up even from among the dead. Indeed in the sense that Isaac was figuratively dead [potentially sacrificed], he did [actually] receive him back from the dead.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭17‬-‭19‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Because of Jesus this faith, this relationship with God is available to each one of us. He wants us to know Him, to learn that He is faithful. We do this by reading the Word, listening to Holy Spirit, praying (talking to and listening for God to speak to us).

He loves each one of us, He delights in revealing who He is and his good plans for us.

“[The Father] has delivered and drawn us to Himself out of the control and the dominion of darkness and has transferred us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, In Whom we have our redemption through His blood, [which means] the forgiveness of our sins.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬ AMPC

“Let us then fearlessly and confidently and boldly draw near to the throne of grace (the throne of God’s unmerited favor to us sinners), that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find grace to help in good time for every need [appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it].”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Think about it: Do you know that He delights in you? What promises have you seen fulfilled? What are you expecting? What blessings have you received? What can you do to get to know Him more?

Hineni – part 1

I haven’t written in a while, but writing has been on my mind as I have recovered from a total knee replacement surgery. It’s been a journey of healing and during this time I have quite often thought about the word, Hineni.

Hineni (הִנֵּנִי) is a Hebrew word that most simply means: Here I am, Here am I, or Behold, I.

Biblically it is significant, so there’s a lot we can learn. To start things off, I will share this song that inspires me.

Hineni (Here Am I) by Marty Goetz

I look forward to studying and sharing more thoughts about Hineni with you soon.

Think about this: not only is Hineni spoken by a person to God, God has spoken it to people as well.

Oh how He loves you and me!

Wave Walkers

Last weekend I attended a women’s event at Crossfire Church. My dear friend, Pastor Judy Hemmila and her daughter, Tammy Trent spoke.

God knew I needed it, and he met me there. I am being very transparent in writing this, in hopes that someone else will read this and be encouraged.

I had recently received news about my husband’s health, and honestly I was struggling to continue to stand in faith. It will be 5 years in November since he became ill. Through prayer and faith he gained back much of what had been lost, but this news from the doctor made my heart ache. I was shook up thinking of what things were like 5 years ago and not wanting to go through it again.

So, back to the meeting, and what helped me to regain hope.

The message: Wave Walkers

“Peter shouted out, “Lord, if it’s really you, then have me join you on the water!” “Come and join me,” Jesus replied. So Peter stepped out onto the water and began to walk toward Jesus. But when he realized how high the waves were, he became frightened and started to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he cried out. Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and lifted him up and said, “What little faith you have! Why would you let doubt win?” And the very moment they both stepped into the boat, the raging wind ceased.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭14‬:‭28‬-‭32‬ ‭TPT‬‬

“Do not yield to fear, for I am always near. Never turn your gaze from me, for I am your faithful God. I will infuse you with my strength and help you in every situation. I will hold you firmly with my victorious right hand.’ I am Yahweh, your mighty God! I grip your right hand and won’t let you go! I whisper to you: ‘Don’t be afraid; I am here to help you!’”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭41‬:‭10‬, ‭13‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Tammy shared:

  • God was there…and is now.
  • Never mistake your numbness for his absence.
  • Stay anchored. Keep going back to the Word, what he as promised, what he has done.
  • He is the way out.
  • His intentions are good.
  • We need his blueprint and his vision. His Direction – Deut 2:3.; He is doing something new – Isa. 43:18-19; His promises are Yes and Amen – 2 Cor 1:20

Judy shared:

  • What are you rooted in that will help you weather the storm?
  • Where are we right now in the waters of life – head above? Or below? He keeps us from drowning.
  • Stay focused on Jesus! With Him all things are possible. 
  • Don’t let your reasoning block you from experiencing the will of God.
  • Doubt is a friend to unbelief.
  • Let’s stop looking at what is pulling us down. And look at what is pulling us us up — the Word. (My add – the Living Word, He is Jesus, who loves me unconditionally, who NEVER leaves or forsakes me.)

I know they said much more, but these are the words that reached in and pulled me up, back into the place where I could once again breathe the air of faith.

Their words of faith, and both Judy’s and Linda’s prayers helped me to regain hope, faith, and trust in who He is always – a faithful God.

If you are struggling today, I speak the name of Jesus over you. Close your eyes and whisper His name. As you do I pray that you will sense His presence, reach out to Him and let Him fill you with the peace that only He can give. Know that He loves you, sees you, and cares deeply for you.

All Scripture quotations are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ThePassionTranslation.com.

A Little Brown Dog’s 1st Hunting Season

The weather is still unseasonably warm here in West Michigan, but that doesn’t impact the dates for waterfowl season. Over the last few weeks Jackson began hunting with Jon for Canada Geese and Teal.

September On the Grand River
September north of Traverse City

Last Friday Jon, Jackson and my brother-in-law Jim left for 9 days of hunting in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

1st afternoon scouting trip
A view from the dog door in the blind – 1st early morning.
1 day’s morning results

So far it looks like they are having a good trip. Although, I guess Jackson was pretty tired from Friday and Saturday, and wasn’t too thrilled with the early morning wake up call. I understand they might do some grouse and woodcock hunting too.

Jackson is still young at 14 months, and he’s not perfect, but both his early days of training and training/experience with Jon’s are working.

At home it seems very quiet with just Oliver (the labrahound), myself and my husband. But I think it’s good for us too, to have a change of routine.

We celebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary this weekend with a nice dinner. I took some time too, to look through old photos and to reflect on wonderful memories made over the years. I have much to be grateful for, and I am thankful for the goodness, kindness, and faithfulness of God that we have experienced.

Faith’s Gift

I am sure you’ll be blessed by reading about Faith’s Gift. I am republishing it with permission of the author, who is a dear friend that I met while in Israel in 2019. Lori wrote a series of books that get right to the heart, I’m sure you’ll enjoy those, too. You can find them through https://wordscroll.org/ or https://nationofwomenpublishing.com/.

https://wordscroll.org/

Trust Him, He Hears, He Saves

Under pressure? Busy? Wondering about all the things going on in our world today?

Stop for a few minutes, be quiet, rest, read His Word. Pray.  Oh, how He loves you. Trust Him.

The Lord alone is our radiant hope and we trust in him with all our hearts. His wraparound presence will strengthen us.

As we trust, we rejoice with an uncontained joy flowing from Yahweh! 

Let your love and steadfast kindness overshadow us continually, for we trust, and we wait upon you.

Even when bad things happen to the good and godly ones, the Lord will save them and not let them be defeated by what they face. 

Psalms 33:20-22 TPT‬

Yet when holy lovers of God cry out to him with all their hearts, the Lord will hear them and come to rescue them from all their troubles.

The Lord is close to all whose hearts are crushed by pain, and he is always ready to restore the repentant one.

Psalm 34:17-19 TPT 

All Scripture quotations are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ThePassionTranslation.com.

The Little Brown Dog at 6 Months

Jackson reached 6 months old on January 28, and wow, has he grown!  He is long and sturdy, and at a bit over 30 lbs is getting to be quite a lap full! His fur has gone from wavy to downright curly, and his adult teeth have grown in.

Play is still a big part of his day, catching balls and playing with Oliver. But there is also more time spent now just hanging out and chewing on antlers.

He hasn’t attempted the basement steps yet — which is more than OK with me, but he is well able to jump up on furniture. As you can imagine, this is an opportunity for learning and discipline.

Jackson’s adult teeth have had a big impact on his toy selection. About a dozen toys that made it through Oliver have been thrown out, and even “extreme chewer” toys are no match for those teeth.

Jackson is soft-hearted and wants to please,  but also a bit willful and stubborn.  Next month, he will go to a trainer for obedience and bird hunting training. I feel a bit like I am sending him to military school, but I know it is for his good. An undisciplined dog can be a danger to itself and others. An obedient dog trusts his master, responds to his commands, is safer, and has a more enjoyable life.

This made me think of Hebrews 12.  It says that God’s discipline isn’t always enjoyable, but it is evidence of His faithful love.

‭‭Hebrews 12:6-7 TPT‬‬
For the Lord’s training of your life is the evidence of his faithful love. And when he draws you to himself, it proves you are his delightful child.” Fully embrace God’s correction as part of your training, for he is doing what any loving father does for his children. For who has ever heard of a child who never had to be corrected?

Scripture quotations marked TPT are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ThePassionTranslation.com.

Choosing Peace

Sharing some thoughts about His peace with you has been on my heart for a few weeks, particularly with all that’s going on in the world thesse days.

If you are feeling anxious, fearful or stressed, I hope you will be encouraged by this good, good news!

You get to choose: No Jesus — No peace, OR, Know Jesus, Know Peace!

How do I/we choose peace?

The 1st step is to ask Jesus to come into your heart, to be your savior and Lord.

The next step is to get to know Him through His Word — and to choose to trust and believe that He is who He says He is, and that His Word is truth.

Then when a fearful or anxious thought comes, you fight that thought with truth the truth. You remind yourself of who He is and that you are His.

Next, read and personalize scriptures, speaking and applying them to yourself. Here are some examples:

Isaiah 9:6, says that Jesus is The Prince of Peace.

John 14:27 TPT says, I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace. Don’t yield to fear or be troubled in your hearts—instead, be courageous!

Philippians 4:6 TPT says, Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life,

1 Peter 5:7 TPT says, Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you.

One of my favorite scriptures is found in Isaiah 48. It reminds me of who He is, and that is teaching me and leading me.

This is what the Lord says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is good for you and leads you along the paths you should follow.
Isaiah 48:17 NLT

My prayer for you is found in Romans 15:13 TPT, It says, Now may God, the fountain of hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in him. And may the power of the Holy Spirit continually surround your life with his super-abundance until you radiate with hope!

Be encouraged dear one. Oh how He loves you and me!

Scripture quotations marked TPT are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018, 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ThePassionTranslation.com.