I don’t know much about Will. He’s a black gelding horse. I don’t know his breed or his age. I don’t know anything about his past except that he was rescued from a kill pen. He was skin and bones and now looks fat, sassy and beautiful. For the next three months, I am leasing him as we prepare for horse ownership.
Will has been a bit aloof and tough one to catch. The other day, it took over an hour to catch him, even while being lured by food! History has taught Will some lessons. Somewhere along the way, he learned that not everyone could be trusted. Obviously, he had a master along the way that didn’t love him the way he needed to be love.
Sometimes, humans can be a lot like Will when it comes to how we relate to God. Some of us prefer to keep our distance. Others may not believe or trust in God. Others grew up in church, but couldn’t wait to get free from the legalism and guilt. Many have viewed God through the lens of over-zealous, judgmental believers and can’t get away fast enough.
God is and will always be a good Father. He is the real deal and truly wants a relationship with every human being. He loves us so much, more than any human being can love. He wants us to want Him, all the time, not when we get in a pinch or hungry for something. He communicates clearly through His Word, how we come into relationship with Him. (John 3:16) We can act so much like Will….just running to and fro, looking for some other way, avoiding the very One who loves us and wants the very best for us.
I can’t imagine life without God. His love is the real deal. I’ve had times in my life where I wanted to run from Him, but learned quickly that it wasn’t a good idea. I’m so thankful I can trust Him, no matter what comes my way. To think He wants a relationship with all of us is beyond amazing! He is God. We are not.
Stop running. Ask God to show you more about who He is. If you ask, He will show you.
If you have a moment today, check out this song today by Chris Tomlin.(Good Good Father):
I’ve heard a thousand stories of what they think you’re like
But I’ve heard the tender whispers of love in the dead of night
And you tell me that you’re pleased
And that I’m never alone.
You’re a good good father
It’s who you are, it’s who you are, it’s who you are
And I’m loved by you.
It’s who I am, it’s who I am, its who I am
I’ve seen many searching for answers far and wide
But I know we’re all searching
For answers only you provide
Cause you know just what we need
Before we say a word
You’re a good, good father…. (continued)
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
Monday, September 25, 2017
Monday, September 18, 2017
Harvey Changed Everything
Little did I know what was in store in Houston. I had watched the news about Harvey. I had seen the pictures. I had heard the stories of so many flooded homes. But, it was being there that really touched my heart.
These folks have all sorts of needs. Financial needs. Finding a new home. Patience with FEMA. Wisdom for what's next. Clothes to wear. A car to rent. Food for the next meal. We listened to gut-wrenching stories that broke us.
How Josh and I wished we could provide an answer to the heartaches we heard. Obviously, we couldn't. But, what we could do is love, serve and care for those that we met. We could listen. We could pray. And everyone wanted prayer.
So often in the workplace we try to appear strong and together. We hide what we really feel behind a great appearance. We strive to appear in control. Right?
Not in Houston. Sometimes, things happen that change everything. Harvey changed everything. Harvey reminded me that everyone has spiritual, physical and emotional needs that sooner or later that bubble to the surface. Harvey reminded me that everything changes when we can't control our environment. Harvey reminded me that we're always in need of God, not just when things get tough. Harvey reminded me that you can't always make sense of God's ways, but you can trust His heart.
Today, I encourage you to run to the God who longs to be in relationship with you. He catches every care you cast in His direction. He longs to offload every burden that tears your heart apart. God welcomes every worry you rotate over and over in your mind. God knows your needs better than anyone else on the face of this earth. Whether you're in crises or semi-crises mode or no-crises, God longs for you to run to Him. Stop trying to be self-sufficient and in control. Someday it just won't be enough.
In the midst of Houston's need, there is a terribly beautiful thing going on there. There is more love, tenderness, giving, mercy, and grace being demonstrated like nothing I've seen before. People are loving people here in Houston, irregardless of race, politics, sexuality or faith. In the midst of great need, there is an abundance of love. Harvey changed everything. How will it change you?
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need." Philippians 4:6
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
(Josh Heaston, Christian Mission Director with the Indianapolis YMCA and Nancy visited the YMCA of Greater Houston from September 10-14, 2017)
These folks have all sorts of needs. Financial needs. Finding a new home. Patience with FEMA. Wisdom for what's next. Clothes to wear. A car to rent. Food for the next meal. We listened to gut-wrenching stories that broke us.
How Josh and I wished we could provide an answer to the heartaches we heard. Obviously, we couldn't. But, what we could do is love, serve and care for those that we met. We could listen. We could pray. And everyone wanted prayer.
So often in the workplace we try to appear strong and together. We hide what we really feel behind a great appearance. We strive to appear in control. Right?
Not in Houston. Sometimes, things happen that change everything. Harvey changed everything. Harvey reminded me that everyone has spiritual, physical and emotional needs that sooner or later that bubble to the surface. Harvey reminded me that everything changes when we can't control our environment. Harvey reminded me that we're always in need of God, not just when things get tough. Harvey reminded me that you can't always make sense of God's ways, but you can trust His heart.
Today, I encourage you to run to the God who longs to be in relationship with you. He catches every care you cast in His direction. He longs to offload every burden that tears your heart apart. God welcomes every worry you rotate over and over in your mind. God knows your needs better than anyone else on the face of this earth. Whether you're in crises or semi-crises mode or no-crises, God longs for you to run to Him. Stop trying to be self-sufficient and in control. Someday it just won't be enough.
In the midst of Houston's need, there is a terribly beautiful thing going on there. There is more love, tenderness, giving, mercy, and grace being demonstrated like nothing I've seen before. People are loving people here in Houston, irregardless of race, politics, sexuality or faith. In the midst of great need, there is an abundance of love. Harvey changed everything. How will it change you?
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need." Philippians 4:6
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
(Josh Heaston, Christian Mission Director with the Indianapolis YMCA and Nancy visited the YMCA of Greater Houston from September 10-14, 2017)
Thursday, September 14, 2017
When I Am Afraid.....
As we wake up to another anniversary of September 11, it’s hard not to be distracted by all that’s going on in our country. I’m drawn to this powerful verse:
"When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise-In God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4
When King David spoke these words, he was a prisoner of Philistines in Gath. A prisoner. Life wasn’t easy by any means. Yet, he knew that when fear gripped his heart, he HAD to place his full trust in God. And so do we.
Father in Heaven, Thank you that we can trust you today with all that’s going on in our world. This day and even the hurricanes have not taken you by surprise. You are present and available to all people. You hear our cries for help. You know so well our broken hearts. You are present in our fears and desire to calm our hearts in times of devastation and tragedy.
For those who have lost loved ones throughout these past few weeks, we ask God, for your grace and mercy to comfort each and every family and friend member affected. There are no words, Lord. You tell us that you are close to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18) We believe that today.
For those who have lost property and personal items, Lord fill each heart with hope and peace. Remind us that stuff can be replaced; lives cannot. Your word tells us “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3) Be our perfect peace as we watch all that’s going on.
Father, may your perfect love calm our fears, deepen our trust and give us hope for the future. Allow us to be the hands and feet of Jesus by loving well, serving wholeheartedly, giving extravagantly and praying fervently. Thank you that we can come to you in these tumultuous times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I don’t know what this day holds. You don’t either. But, I do know my God. He can be our refuge and our fortress in times of need. Be assured that He is with you, (and your friends and family members) in whatever you facing. When you are afraid, will you place your trust in Him?
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
"When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise-In God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4
When King David spoke these words, he was a prisoner of Philistines in Gath. A prisoner. Life wasn’t easy by any means. Yet, he knew that when fear gripped his heart, he HAD to place his full trust in God. And so do we.
Father in Heaven, Thank you that we can trust you today with all that’s going on in our world. This day and even the hurricanes have not taken you by surprise. You are present and available to all people. You hear our cries for help. You know so well our broken hearts. You are present in our fears and desire to calm our hearts in times of devastation and tragedy.
For those who have lost loved ones throughout these past few weeks, we ask God, for your grace and mercy to comfort each and every family and friend member affected. There are no words, Lord. You tell us that you are close to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18) We believe that today.
For those who have lost property and personal items, Lord fill each heart with hope and peace. Remind us that stuff can be replaced; lives cannot. Your word tells us “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3) Be our perfect peace as we watch all that’s going on.
Father, may your perfect love calm our fears, deepen our trust and give us hope for the future. Allow us to be the hands and feet of Jesus by loving well, serving wholeheartedly, giving extravagantly and praying fervently. Thank you that we can come to you in these tumultuous times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I don’t know what this day holds. You don’t either. But, I do know my God. He can be our refuge and our fortress in times of need. Be assured that He is with you, (and your friends and family members) in whatever you facing. When you are afraid, will you place your trust in Him?
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Stuff
Do you remember the old movie, The Jerk? Steve Martin’s great line: “And I don’t need any of this stuff. I don’t need the ashtray……paddle game…. remote control…..matches…..lamp." It was funny in the movie, because the movie wasn’t real. But, the fact is, losing stuff isn’t fun. It stinks.
Stuff. There’s been a lot of stuff lost this past week. I’ve heard people say “I’ve lost everything…” way too many times this past week. Hurricane Harvey has affected a lot of people’s stuff. Stuff gone forever.
We all have stuff that means something to us. Pictures. Treasures. Antiques. Electronics. Cars. Clothes. Gifts. Special memories. Precious memories and items drowned in Harvey’s aftermath. I doubt any of us can understand unless it happens to us.
Harvey’s devastation has broken the hearts of people all over the world. There are no words. But, over and over, we’ve seen beautiful pictures of what really matters. It’s not fancy cars or treasured heirlooms or even precious family pictures. It’s human lives. People matter. People matter to people and people matter to God. Max Lucado writes, “As you’ve listened to evacuees and survivors, have you noticed their words? No one laments a lost plasma television or submerged SUV. No one runs through the streets yelling, ‘My cordless drill is missing’ or ‘My golf clubs have washed away.’ If they mourn, it is for people lost. If they rejoice, it is for people found.”
Harvey has affected a lot of people in Southeast Texas. How has Harvey affected you? For me, I want to look into the eyes of fellow human beings with more love and compassion. I want to care more about people and less about my stuff. I want to hold my stuff loosely knowing it could be gone tomorrow. I want to roll up my sleeves and serve those who are suffering.
So, here’s to holding our stuff loosely, loving freely and serving joyfully! May God use you to encourage, inspire and give hope to all those who are suffering this week.
“But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
Stuff. There’s been a lot of stuff lost this past week. I’ve heard people say “I’ve lost everything…” way too many times this past week. Hurricane Harvey has affected a lot of people’s stuff. Stuff gone forever.
We all have stuff that means something to us. Pictures. Treasures. Antiques. Electronics. Cars. Clothes. Gifts. Special memories. Precious memories and items drowned in Harvey’s aftermath. I doubt any of us can understand unless it happens to us.
Harvey’s devastation has broken the hearts of people all over the world. There are no words. But, over and over, we’ve seen beautiful pictures of what really matters. It’s not fancy cars or treasured heirlooms or even precious family pictures. It’s human lives. People matter. People matter to people and people matter to God. Max Lucado writes, “As you’ve listened to evacuees and survivors, have you noticed their words? No one laments a lost plasma television or submerged SUV. No one runs through the streets yelling, ‘My cordless drill is missing’ or ‘My golf clubs have washed away.’ If they mourn, it is for people lost. If they rejoice, it is for people found.”
Harvey has affected a lot of people in Southeast Texas. How has Harvey affected you? For me, I want to look into the eyes of fellow human beings with more love and compassion. I want to care more about people and less about my stuff. I want to hold my stuff loosely knowing it could be gone tomorrow. I want to roll up my sleeves and serve those who are suffering.
So, here’s to holding our stuff loosely, loving freely and serving joyfully! May God use you to encourage, inspire and give hope to all those who are suffering this week.
“But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
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