Stephanie’s Blog » Spirituality

The Little Green Grasshopper that could.

August 26th, 2010 by stephanie

As I got into the car and closed the door, I suddenly noticed a very large, antennaed, green grasshopper on my rear view mirror. Good thing I hadn’t seen it before I got in. If you know me, you know one thing well…I don’t do bugs. Truly. As I headed out to run errands, I noticed it had moved to my windshield. “Good luck,” I thought. “You’re going for a ride on the freeway!”
Sure enough, as I pulled into the bank drive through, there sat the grasshopper, still in tact. “Sheesh” I breathed out loud. “What on earth could be so special about my car?”

Pulling into the Chick-fil-a, I noticed, “Still there!” As I drove off for the freeway entrance I knew this would be the point where I would rid myself of this…thing. But I was wrong. He totally hunkered down and held on for the duration of the ride.

Arriving at my final destination, I knew it was time for some research. If this guy had managed to hang on that long, there just might be something to this. Why not grab the laptop and check out the meaning of grasshoppers. No, the symbolism of bright GREEN grasshoppers, actually. And so I did.

Apparently, the winged creatures have quite a message to tell if you’re into that kind of thing. I don’t take it too seriously, but then, he is one of God’s creations, and if God did want to get my attention, then He surely had done just that.

So here’s what I learned:

“The grasshopper is a fabulous messenger of ingenuity, resourcefulness, joy and honor. She speaks to artists, and inspires dance, song, and music.”

Hmmmm. I thought of my hopper as a guy, but you know, it could have been a girl. I read on…

“Further, the grasshopper is considered a good luck symbol in Japanese culture…and is a good luck charm as well as a symbol of fertility among Chinese symbolic language.”

Now I have to admit, the fertility part threw me for a moment. But I continued…

“The grasshopper’s coloring is significant. For instance, green grasshoppers indicate fresh starts (new beginnings), as well as the concepts of youth, rejuvination, sentimentality, nature, adventure, growth and health.”
Native Americans saw it as a messenger of good news. I liked that part. Who doesn’t look for good news!

So there you have it. The in-depth look at my grasshopper moment. If anything, that poor bug sure had an adventure that day. And if God did send “her” my way, she certainly paid a dear price to get my attention.

Just my thoughts.
Yours?
S.

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One Lump, or Two?

August 3rd, 2010 by stephanie

As I poured my cup of coffee from the large urn that sat on the white cloth covered table outside the sanctuary doors, I suddenly realized there was a line for the cream and sugar.

A line? How hard can it be to add cream and sugar I thought?

Apparently, harder than one might imagine. The person in front of me must have gone to tech school or, at least, he definitely took chemistry. Each container and packet was carefully opened. One at a time. Then each was methodically stirred into the hot ever-changing brew.

As the steam seeped over his shoulder, his hunched back only showed the intense form with which he utilized to maintain the concentration needed for this very special and precise formula.

At this point? I was ready to tap his knees lightly from behind which would cause him to fold, then, I could elbow him to my left, slosh some cream into my cup and slip out the side door. But no. I was at church. I would have to behave.

Not an easy task when all you want is your cup of joe, and the guy in front of you has some Emeril Lagasse complex. It was painful to say the least.

Call me crazy, but when people get to the cream and sugar station, something strange overtakes them. Have you ever noticed that they suddenly forget that anyone else is in the building, let alone the vicinity? They measure and pour and stir. Then consider, and begin the entire process again while 28 of us behind them frantically check our watches (or cell or PDAs) and lament how we’re ever going to get back on schedule.

These coffee snobs are just not polite. And I am thinking I might start a Hey, there’s a boat load of us behind you. Get it together and move on campaign. (Do you think that might be a bit over the top?) Those of you who frequent your favorite coffee dispensary or cafe’ totally understand this personal angst.

Just my thoughts on this very nice day, when my elixir of the gods is getting cold while the unsuspecting space cadet in front of me gets the perfect color and taste combination as I patiently wait contemplating whether or not I’d personally be happy to offer him one lump or two. (Whew! Got that off my chest.)

Let’s just keep this little rant of mine between us today, shall we?

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Does the Butterfly Bring Us a Message?

July 24th, 2010 by stephanie

A few weeks ago I was sitting in a glass lobby and noticed a butterfly alight on the door outside. I can’t say as I have seen that happen before. Or, if I had, not sure why this particular occasion stuck with me. A week later, as I was pulling up to a stop light, I noticed a butterfly land on the passenger side window. Again, I took notice. Since then, I have had numerous other butterfly sitings. So, I knew it was time to pull out the laptop. Perhaps it was simply Butterfly season?

As many of you may already know, the butterfly is quite symbolic to many peoples and cutltures. Apparently, the Mandarin Chinese say the insect symbolizes long life. 70 years, actually. They also feel it is telling of young men in love.

The Japanese see it as a sign for young maidens and marital bliss.

In Germany, butterflies having once hovered around the butter churn became known as “stealers of the cream”.

Greeks saw the butterfly as a symbol of the soul. They even considered white butterflies as the souls of those who had passed away and gone on to the great beyond.

In Western culture, the creature has become a symbol of Freedom.

According to a Blackfoot Indian, the butterfly brings us our dreams. A tribal member might say after the fire burns low and the people began to make up their beds about the lodge, ‘Well, let us go to bed and see what news the butterfly will bring?” Interestingly, The Native American Indians also use a cross, similar to a Maltese cross, as a sign for the butterfly.

Which brings us to the topic of the butterfly and its connection to the Resurrection in the Christian realm. I was surprised to learn that butterflies were actually engraved in the stones of many a Christian’s tomb centuries ago. A sign that the person who had, having died and entered the tomb, had now departed their earthly cocoon only to have experienced release into life eternal.

Regardless of your particular thoughts on butterflies, one thing we can all agree on is that they truly symbolize change. A massive transition. From an, earthbound groveling worm to a free-flying, creature of beauty.

In truth? I’d love to think something wonderful is heading my way. But for now, it’s enough to be reminded of the freedom I do cherish and enjoy. Both here on my native soil and the freedom that I will someday enjoy in heaven above.

Just my thoughts. Yours?
S.

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The 24-Hour Challenge. Up for it?

July 20th, 2010 by stephanie

As the yoga instructor guided us through our final relaxation exercise, she wrapped up the session with the following challenge, “Try this. For the next 24 hours see if you can only think and speak positive.” Funny. I had done yoga for about 3 years, and I can’t say I remember that kind of homework before.

My brain froze for a moment and focused on the discipline it would take should I be willing to embrace and attempt the task. “Gosh,” I thought, “Is that even possible?” But I thought it was worth the attempt.

My mind wandered off to a verse in the Bible. It’s found in Colossians 4:6 and it goes like this: Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. It’s something I have strived for since I was a teen-ager. But it truth be told? I usually fall short.

Here’s another one to ponder: The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart. Lk. 6:45.

And if you like ancient Proverbs, this one usually does the trick: Prov. 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.

As the instructor brought us back to her world with the “Ok…it’s time to go, folks.” I rolled up my mat and picked up the routine I’d left off at the door. My first stop that night was to pick up a prescription. When I got to the counter I was informed that they had put it back in stock. Apparently, I had not come for it soon enough, and so it was returned. To top that off, the prescription, I learned, had now expired. I was duly informed that I would not be receiving any of my meds anytime soon. Great.

I am pleased to report I kept my cool. I mean hey, it was my fault after all. I ordered the stuff then forgot to go and get it. Not their error. Lesson learned.

I slept 8 of those 24 hours. But I can honestly say that happy thoughts and words filled the other 16. That was awhile ago. I am thinking this week I might revisit the challenge.

Join me if you dare.

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Good News for a Weary Soul.

May 12th, 2010 by stephanie

Spread the Word. The Gospel, that is.

There was one particular song I enjoyed that became popular in the 1990s that was by the band Whiteheart. It was called Say the Word. I just could not get enough of it. The words spoke directly to my heart. They were so simple and true. Basically, the song explains that you don’t have to do much, just speak the words of God (the Bible), and amazing things happen. After all, it is God’s Word. I think it can pretty much stand on it’s own.

Outside the written word, some people are just so full of the love and the Spirit of the Lord that their actions speak louder than any words that can be said. The Gospel shines through them on a daily basis.

With that, what it all comes down to is getting out the news about the Gospel. The Good News. And with the situation America is in today, I’d say that what this country could use more than any Stimulus package is a good dose of the Good News of the Gospel.

Just think, if instead of a mandate for tax payer dollars, Congress had signed into law a bill that stated we had to be honest, had to share, had to think of others first, had to give first, had to meet each others needs, had to pay our bills, had to pay on time, had to pay in cash, had to honor God, and had to live Godly lives, this world would heal up pretty quickly if you ask me.

But the answer isn’t money. It’s peace. Peace of mind. Peace of life. Peace of heart. Something that money just can’t buy. Without inner peace, all of the money in the world and the good life it can bring simply isn’t enough.

Sure, we only get one shot at this life. And there’s nothing wrong with wanting to make the best of it we can. But may we not forget, there’s a whole lot of living that comes in the hereafter. As a matter of fact, it’s called eternity. And that’s a really, really, really long time. With no end!

So, if you aren’t sure where to focus some of your time, money and energy this year, why not focus on clever ways to personally Spread the Gospel.

I know it’s been on my heart this week. And I hope it might be on yours as well.

Spreading the word…

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It’s Just So…Surreal.

May 4th, 2010 by stephanie

That’s the statement I keep hearing over and over again. Each time I look at a new email or text message, it’s news of loss. And it can be hard to take. If you haven’t yet heard, Nashville, TN received 3 months of rain in a 48 hour period this past weekend. And the city and surrounding regions paid a dear price. 28217_393407042045_700762045_4635340_4398649_s

At the end of my subdivision is a branch of the Cumberland River. And so I wait.
In the meantime, many around me are experiencing a major change in their life plans. They had no idea they’d be without home, and many too, without cars this week.

It’s a good thing those folks aren’t too tied to their worldly possessions. But that fact never takes away the pain of loss, the shock, and the hassle of inconvenience. For some, it’s the reality of starting over.

It reminded me of some verses in the old book of Habakkuk. A gentle reminder that this life really isn’t all there is. And too, that the things we acquire while here are just that: things to help us in our earthly journey, and at times, things that bring us joy during said adventure.
With that, here are some words, penned thousands of years ago, that also remind us: things happen. And sometimes, they aren’t what we were expecting. They aren’t welcome, and they can leave us feeling as if we are living in a very surreal existence.

Hab. 3:17 Though the fig tree should not blossom
And there be no fruit on the vines,
Though the yield of the olive should fail
And the fields produce no food,
Though the flock should be cut off from the fold
And there be no cattle in the stalls,
Hab. 3:18 Yet I will exult in the LORD,
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.
Hab. 3:19 The Lord GOD is my strength,
And He has made my feet like hinds’ feet,
And makes me walk on my high places.

Selah.
Stephanie

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It’s the Simple Things…

April 11th, 2010 by stephanie

Many of you may be familiar with the once popular reality TV show that was called The Simple Life. It featured Paris Hilton and her BFF Nicole Richie. They would travel to the more rural areas, at times, and experience life outside of the Gucci and Prada set.

Now, I have been to, and pass through, Arkansas quite often, a place the TV show also visited. But nothing is as truly “simple” as the areas where you find the Amish folk.

My mother loves to devour any fiction book that features the Amish in its theme, so, when she was visiting me once, I figured it would be fun to take her down to the Amish community a few miles away.

I can tell you, there is nothing quite like the beauty of those gorgeous horses elegantly trotting down the lane as they pull those sweet carriages. Sitting inside are very quiet, composed riders. If you are fortunate enough to catch a quick glimpse as they pass, when you look at their faces, it appears as if their thoughts are miles away, while their ride methodically makes its way through town. It is in a way a poetry in motion of its own. I could sit and watch those and similar scenes over and over again when I am in “their” neck of the woods.

As we spent some time at the produce auction, we watched the barefooted little boys in their straw hats and their blue shirts as they downed cans of Coca Cola.

The teen-aged boys huddled in a back corner off to the side. And I bet you money they were talking about girls in those hushed tones that we heard wafting over the warm breeze. Men huddled, negotiating prices and quality, while the women, in their dresses, stayed on the other side the of the building minding the little ones.

When we headed out to leave, we decided to take a drive down the dirt roads and past their homes. This was when we noticed that it was laundry day. “Wash on Monday” as the old saying goes. That made sense. Sabbath was over and it was time for a fresh new week. Gardens needed tending, food needed preparing. What they had done last week, they would begin anew during this one. They knew the drill. Season after season after season. There is something soothing about simplicity and routine.

It got to me. “Why do we feel the need to be so busy?” And, more than that, I got to thinking, “Why do I need so much stuff?” These people are truly of the “…with food and clothing, with these we shall be content” crowd. It was at the least – inspiring.

I don’t know about you, but the more I am around money, or those who have it, I find that I too need, well, more. Why? I have no idea. I have food. I have clothes. But suddenly I feel that I need that special new handbag or that condo at the beach. However, when I step away, even for a short time (like I did for those few hours that day in Amish Country) to where the simple life is led, it’s amazing the perspective that comes washing over me. These people require very little. And their lives seem healthy and whole. Perfect? No. But there’s something to be said for the simple life, I’m just sayin’.

Tell you what, if we find ourselves stressing and straining this week over the “don’t haves”, let’s agree to pause, if you will, and ask ourselves three things: Do we have clothes? Do we have food? Do we have a roof over our head? If you and I can answer “yes” to each of those questions, for today, I’d say we’re doing pretty good.

Just my thoughts.

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Did You Catch the Red Egg in that One Movie Scene?

April 5th, 2010 by stephanie

I remember the first time I visited and toured a Greek Orthodox church. It was during the annual Greek Festival in my city and I was amazed at how little I knew of the Eastern Orthodox faith. Saints in those churches are a really big deal and the art in the building and the paintings are simply stunning. But, as usual, once the spiritual portion of the day was complete, I could be seen pushing my way through circles of dancing greeks yelling “opa!” as I made a beeline for homemade baklavah.

Iconography is a strong part of that denomination of Christian faith. But I must admit, I never did catch the very prominent portratit of Mary Magdalene holding the red egg. It wasn’t until recently that I was even aware of such a work. Neither did I notice that one particular scene in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, where the guests are holding up and “klinking” their red eggs! Did you?

Apparently, the red egg (during Roman times) symbolized life arising from a sealed chamber and was a symbol that would have been very meaningful and understandable to Roman citizens.

There are multiple versions of the legend:

One says that Mary Magdalene was bringing cooked eggs to share with the other women at the tomb of Jesus, and the eggs in her basket miraculously turned brilliant red when she saw the risen Christ.

A different tale boasts that after the Ascension of Jesus, Mary went to Italy to share the Gospel and was granted a meeting with Tiberias Caesar. She greeted the Emperor of Rome with “Christ has risen,” whereupon he pointed to an egg on his table and stated, “Christ has no more risen than that egg is red.” After making this statement it is said the egg immediately turned blood red.

Whatever the legend or the case, I have to admit, I had never heard of the Red Egg until a cousin of mine sent me a link about it during Holy Week. But now, both you and I, and some of you orthodox or high church types, are all on the same page. Whew!

And that, my friend, is the legend of the Red Egg. You’ll never watch that movie that takes place in Chicago about the family that owns Dancing Zorba’s the same again.

Just my thoughts.
S.

For further research, check out wikipedia.

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He Is Risen!

April 4th, 2010 by stephanie

He is Risen Indeed.

Holy Week. Easter Sunday.

Such is the call and response that is very familiar to those in the church world. One person will say, “He is Risen,” to which the other will reply, “He is Risen Indeed.” Many of you will enjoy this exchange today in celebration of what happened over 2,000 years ago.

It was the 3rd day. If you’re counting in Jewish time.

Day 1: Friday. (Thursday sundown to Friday sundown.)

Day 2: Saturday. (Friday sundown to Saturday sundown.)

Day 3: Sunday. (Saturday sundown to Sunday sundown.)

And it went a bit like this…

Matt. 28:1-9

Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave.

And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it.

And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow.

The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men.

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified.

“He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying.

“Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.”

And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples.

And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him.

Then Jesus *said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to My brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they will see Me.”

He is Risen-indeed.

Happy Easter, my friend.

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It’s Good Friday.

April 2nd, 2010 by stephanie

Holy Week. Day 6.

I started a new tradition last year. And I’ve been looking forward to it all week. My first plan of action for today is to head out, with the Judge in tow of course, and make the trek toPanera Bread. They have the BEST Hot Cross Buns and they will only have them through Easter Sunday. So, off I will go! To not only keep my new Good Friday tradition, but to enjoy a yummy treat.

Sure, I make it sound like Good Friday is all about the food, but you and I both know the cross on those holiday buns are simply to remind us of what happened on this day more than 2,000 years ago.

Basically, in the middle of the night, (Thursday night) Roman soldiers accosted Jesus. They arrested him then drug him to a trumped up, illegal trial by the Jewish leadership that was held in the wee hours of the morning. After that, He was brutally beaten.Passed between Herod and Pilate, he was finally handed over for the most brutal torture – crucifixion. Where he was hung between two thieves. (By the way, did you catch that? They crucified thieves! Today, pedophiles and murderers enjoy prisons. But I digress…)

Jesus was put on the cross close to 9:00 am in the morning and hung there most of the day. At noon, the sky grew dark, and there was an earthquake. Close to 3:00 pm, He gave up His spirit and died. One of my favorite parts, that you don’t hear much about, is that graves opened when that happened and the bodies (not spirits mind you. See: Soma-Gk.) of the saints came out and visited loved ones. If you don’t believe me check this out.

Matt. 27:52-53 The tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the tombs after His resurrection they entered the holy city and appeared to many.

That is just too cool! It was a very full and powerful day. Don’t let it go by without taking a moment to pause and revisit this amazing event.

I know we are all busy, but may I encourage you to read Matthew chapter 27 today.

In Remembrance of Him.

Verses for Today:

Matt 27:1-61

Mark 15:1-47

Luke 22: 66- 23:55

John 18:28-42

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