A God-Ordained Divine Appointment
I walked into the nursing home with the weight of the world on my shoulders. My eyes were red and swollen from a troubled sleepless night and the many tears I had shed. Betrayed by people I loved, it felt as if my safe and comfortable world was crashing around me. I was shaken to the very core of my being. I felt emotionally battered and bruised, and I was wondering how I was going to survive my new reality.
I went to the nursing home hoping to get my mind off the turmoil of the unexpected storm which had just knocked me off balance. Overwhelmed by my feelings and the pain I felt from enduring a long night of disturbing confrontations, I knew I was supposed to GO and DO something for someone else. There was no doubt in my mind. I remember a strong and almost desperate feeling. I MUST GO AND DO SOMETHING FOR SOMEONE ELSE! But, where could I go and what could I do? I decided to go the nursing home my husband and I went to every Christmas morning. Even though I was physically and emotionally exhausted, I drove to the nursing home hoping to aimlessly walk the halls and randomly spread some good cheer and encouragement to the residents living there.
Instead of being allowed to independently wander the halls, I was instructed to wait and speak with the Activity Director. After spending some time talking, the Activity Director led me down a hallway in a wing I had never been to before, and to a specific room of a lady I had never met. Her name was Jane E. Wolfe. Jane was sitting in a recliner chair in the corner of her room. I slid a chair up close in front of her and sat down. The Activity Director introduced us and then left the room.
Jane and I began to talk.
We had a very long and pleasant conversation. I asked Jane what she did and where she was from—a school teacher from Pennsylvania. I asked her what she taught—English. I told her I regretted not applying myself in my English classes at school and I've often thought I should take an English course now ... maybe she could help me? She smiled. I asked her about her family—she'd never married. I asked her if she knew anything about the Appalachian Trail when she lived in Pennsylvania—she grew up in a small town adjacent to the Appalachian Trail. Jane went on to say some of the best times of her life were spent hiking the Appalachian Trail. We talked about the Appalachian Trail blazes and how they let you know you are on the right path and how the double blazes warn you if you're coming to a confusing area where you could lose your way and get off course. I said, "Don't you wish our lives were like that, Jane? Wouldn't it be great if our lives had blazes which would clearly show us if we were following the right path and warn us if we were about to get off on the wrong trail?" Jane replied, "We do have that. We have the Bible; the Holy Spirit will guide us if we allow Him."
We had a very long and pleasant conversation. I asked Jane what she did and where she was from—a school teacher from Pennsylvania. I asked her what she taught—English. I told her I regretted not applying myself in my English classes at school and I've often thought I should take an English course now ... maybe she could help me? She smiled. I asked her about her family—she'd never married. I asked her if she knew anything about the Appalachian Trail when she lived in Pennsylvania—she grew up in a small town adjacent to the Appalachian Trail. Jane went on to say some of the best times of her life were spent hiking the Appalachian Trail. We talked about the Appalachian Trail blazes and how they let you know you are on the right path and how the double blazes warn you if you're coming to a confusing area where you could lose your way and get off course. I said, "Don't you wish our lives were like that, Jane? Wouldn't it be great if our lives had blazes which would clearly show us if we were following the right path and warn us if we were about to get off on the wrong trail?" Jane replied, "We do have that. We have the Bible; the Holy Spirit will guide us if we allow Him."
Hmm ... I already knew what Jane was saying was intellectually true; it's easy to believe Truth when your path is smooth and easy. But, the betrayal by loved ones had just shattered my safe and comfortable world, and it caused me to feel alone and feel unsure of my next steps. I was going to have to put what I knew as Truth into practice; I was going to have to trust God to lead us on our new journey. I said, "You're right Jane ... you're right."
One blaze at a time. One step at a time.
Part way through our conversation, Jane asked me, "What is your name?" I told her. Then Jane asked, "How do you spell it?" I spelled my name for her. She repeated it and said, "That is a beautiful name." The actions of my sister and brother-in-law had just stripped me of all my self-worth. God was again reminding me: "He knows my name, He knows my every thought, He sees each tear that falls, and hears me when I call." Grateful for the reminder, I said, "Thank-you, Jane."
Jane and I had such a sweet time of conversation. Near the end of our time together I asked Jane if I could pray for her, and I did. Then this elderly woman prayed for me. I heard the Activity Director walk in and sit on the edge of the bed, just in time to witness and hear what happened next. Jane took my hand in her hand. She gripped my hand firmly, and then raised our joined hands high over our heads. Without wavering or hesitation, Jane firmly held our hands together while she prayed the most remarkable prayer of God's blessings over my life.
Incredibly amazing!
What a life changing moment. I had never experienced a prayer of God's blessings before. I thought I was going to the nursing home to share compassion and give encouragement to those less fortunate than myself. Instead, God arranged for me to be the recipient of encouragement and I was given the most astounding gift of a personal prayer of God's blessing. I left the nursing home a completely different person than the person who walked in. I went in crushed in spirit and hoping to be a blessing to someone else. I walked out with the burden on my shoulders lifted and GONE. The storm clouds were still swirling and brewing around me, but it was like I was protected within the eye of the storm. The storm no longer felt personal. It was like God had put a cushion—a protective barrier—between what was swirling around me, and myself.
God's word says He doesn't give you more than you can handle; I was witnessing this biblical principle happen as the weight of the world was removed from my shoulders.
I thought my almost desperate feeling of needing to GO and DO was just a one-time act of kindness and compassion—but God had other plans. After meeting Jane, I strongly felt I was supposed to GO and DO even more; I was supposed to go and see Jane every week. At first, I wrestled with the idea of going every week, I was reluctant to make that kind of time commitment. The conversation between myself and God went something like this. "But God, how am I going to fit driving to the nursing home to see Jane into my already busy schedule? How long would I be making a commitment for? What if she lives a long time? You want me to go every week!? You sure about this God? I know, maybe I could go that way on Wednesday nights when I go to choir practice. Maybe I could fit it into my schedule that way." It was like God clearly stopped me in my tracks and admonished me with a holy thump to the head: "If I am asking you to do something, I want you to do it. I don't want you to try to figure out a way to 'fit it' into your schedule. I just want you to obey me and do it." Okay, God. Okay. I'll do it. I will go the nursing home to visit Jane every Monday morning.
The rest of the weekend felt like a whirlwind. The barrage of false accusations and disturbing behaviors continued and intensified. The sister and brother-in-law I loved and thought I intimately knew became like people I didn't recognize. It felt as if we were dealing with Jekyll and Hyde split personalities.
The weekend passed and Monday morning came. I excitedly (and a little nervously) headed out for my first planned visit with Jane. As I drove and reflected back over the miraculous nature of our first visit and Jane's amazing prayer of God's blessing over my life, I began to understand that meeting Jane was not mere happenstance; it was God-arranged and God-ordained.
I thought my almost desperate feeling of needing to GO and DO was just a one-time act of kindness and compassion—but God had other plans. After meeting Jane, I strongly felt I was supposed to GO and DO even more; I was supposed to go and see Jane every week. At first, I wrestled with the idea of going every week, I was reluctant to make that kind of time commitment. The conversation between myself and God went something like this. "But God, how am I going to fit driving to the nursing home to see Jane into my already busy schedule? How long would I be making a commitment for? What if she lives a long time? You want me to go every week!? You sure about this God? I know, maybe I could go that way on Wednesday nights when I go to choir practice. Maybe I could fit it into my schedule that way." It was like God clearly stopped me in my tracks and admonished me with a holy thump to the head: "If I am asking you to do something, I want you to do it. I don't want you to try to figure out a way to 'fit it' into your schedule. I just want you to obey me and do it." Okay, God. Okay. I'll do it. I will go the nursing home to visit Jane every Monday morning.
The rest of the weekend felt like a whirlwind. The barrage of false accusations and disturbing behaviors continued and intensified. The sister and brother-in-law I loved and thought I intimately knew became like people I didn't recognize. It felt as if we were dealing with Jekyll and Hyde split personalities.
The weekend passed and Monday morning came. I excitedly (and a little nervously) headed out for my first planned visit with Jane. As I drove and reflected back over the miraculous nature of our first visit and Jane's amazing prayer of God's blessing over my life, I began to understand that meeting Jane was not mere happenstance; it was God-arranged and God-ordained.
The 20-minute drive to the nursing home felt like it took forever. My reluctance to add weekly visits with an elderly woman in a nursing home to my already full schedule, was quickly replaced with an eager anticipation. What would I find when I got there? All the incredible circumstances surrounding my first meeting with Jane seemed so surreal ... was there really a woman in the nursing home named Jane? Had I experienced an encounter with an angel? Did the woman who prayed such a remarkable blessing over my life and with whom I had carried on such a pleasant conversation even exist?
I entered the nursing home and walked down the hallway to Jane's room. Jane did exist, but that was just about all she was still capable of doing. I never again saw Jane sitting in her recliner chair. I never again had a long (or any) mutual conversation with her. It wasn't until Jane died, almost a year and half later, that I learned Jane had not been able to have a conversation like we had during our first meeting for years—years before our first meeting! The "real" Jane did not even remotely resemble the woman I'd met three days earlier and with whom I'd spent an hour or so of time enjoying a friendly and engaging conversation.
The "real" Jane had Parkinson's disease and advanced dementia. Jane's mind was living in a different era. Jane thought her mother was still living, however, her mother passed away when Jane was in her early 20's. Jane couldn't walk, couldn't dress herself, or perform any activities of daily living. None. The "real" Jane struggled to speak even a few words. She seldom tried to speak, but when she did try, it was painful to watch as she struggled to form a word and try to vocalize it. Jane spent her entire days either lying in bed or sitting in a wheelchair. The "real" Jane had very limited physical control over her body. Her muscles were rigid; if her body began to lean to the side while sitting in her wheelchair she could not reposition herself. I would try to help her straighten back into an upright centered position but it was nearly impossible.
The "real" Jane never again knew my name or anything about me. Our "visits" were all one-sided. I would read to Jane from one of her well-worn Bibles or sing softly to her. During most of my visits I wasn't even sure Jane was aware I was in the room but I read to her anyways hoping she could hear me. Even when she was totally unresponsive, there was still something calming about spending time with Jane. It was never something I had to "fit" into my schedule. Instead, it was something I looked forward to each week. I realize now that God used my time visiting Jane as a way to insulate me from the turbulent and violent storm surrounding me; it kept my mind and thoughts focused on Him.
Our visits almost always went something like this:
"Good morning, Jane."I would continue to carry on a one-sided conversation.
No response.
"How are you today, Jane?"
No response.
"I've come to visit with you, Jane."
No response.
"Is there anything you would like me to read today, Jane?"
No response. Then, either sitting alongside her bed, or sitting in front of her wheelchair, I would begin to read to Jane from one of her Bibles or devotionals which were on her nightstand.
Jane rarely gave any kind of acknowledgment or response to my questions. I remember one time, however, early on in our visits, where Jane responded with an answer. She was in her wheelchair and I was sitting directly in front of her. In response to my question on whether there was anything she would like me to read, Jane replied, "Psalm 8." Psalm 8 is an entire chapter about the Majesty of God. When I finished reading, Jane said, "What is man..." with her voice trailing off. It was the first time I knew she could hear me and was listening to what I read. I then asked if there was anything else she would like me to read and Jane replied, "Psalm 1."
Psalm 1 is a chapter of contrasts. We each have a choice. We can either choose the path of righteousness or the way of the wicked. Psalm 1 clearly defines the importance of choosing the right path and the blessings you will receive if you choose to follow HIS path. However, those blessings are not for everyone. His blessings are reserved for those who choose HIS path of righteousness and lie in sharp contrast to the consequences reserved for those who refuse to follow HIS path and choose to follow their own path instead.
Because Jane requested those specific chapters, I would almost always include them while reading to her. I thought I was just reading them to her. What I didn't realize at the time was this: by reading those chapters over and over to Jane I was planting those concepts deep into my own subconscious mind. I thought I was visiting an elderly woman in a nursing home as a way to keep my life balanced during a very stressful time. I didn't know God was using those visits as a way to prepare me for what was to come. I didn't know what lie ahead in both my personal life and my visits with Jane. I thought I was just busily living my own life. I didn't know my visits with Jane were all part of God's greater plan for her life, my life, and now—your life.
Seven months passed.
Jane's fragile physical health continued to deteriorate and her advanced dementia became very apparent. There were no mutual conversations between us and very little outward responses of any kind. Then on a warm and sunny Friday afternoon in July—IT happened. Our lawyer came to our home to personally deliver the shocking news: my sister and brother-in-law had just filed a lawsuit against us. They rejected all of our attempts for a peaceful dissolution of our partnership and filed a lawsuit instead. Our lawyer said it was one of the most (if not the most) personal and vindictive lawsuits he had ever seen. He gave us a copy of the lawsuit but recommended that we not read it right away; it was that vile and vicious.
We followed our lawyer's recommendation and did not immediately read the lawsuit. We decided to take the lawsuit and literally and symbolically give it to the LORD. We drove the 45 minutes to our church. The doors were open but the sanctuary was dark. We made our way down the aisle in the darkness and laid the lawsuit on the altar. My husband and I knelt and prayed. We shed some tears over the ugliness of the past seven months. We sought the LORD's guidance for the unknown path we were embarking on. We surrendered our lives to HIS will, and we asked for HIS protection from those who were seeking our harm and financial ruin.
Because Jane requested those specific chapters, I would almost always include them while reading to her. I thought I was just reading them to her. What I didn't realize at the time was this: by reading those chapters over and over to Jane I was planting those concepts deep into my own subconscious mind. I thought I was visiting an elderly woman in a nursing home as a way to keep my life balanced during a very stressful time. I didn't know God was using those visits as a way to prepare me for what was to come. I didn't know what lie ahead in both my personal life and my visits with Jane. I thought I was just busily living my own life. I didn't know my visits with Jane were all part of God's greater plan for her life, my life, and now—your life.
Seven months passed.
Jane's fragile physical health continued to deteriorate and her advanced dementia became very apparent. There were no mutual conversations between us and very little outward responses of any kind. Then on a warm and sunny Friday afternoon in July—IT happened. Our lawyer came to our home to personally deliver the shocking news: my sister and brother-in-law had just filed a lawsuit against us. They rejected all of our attempts for a peaceful dissolution of our partnership and filed a lawsuit instead. Our lawyer said it was one of the most (if not the most) personal and vindictive lawsuits he had ever seen. He gave us a copy of the lawsuit but recommended that we not read it right away; it was that vile and vicious.
We followed our lawyer's recommendation and did not immediately read the lawsuit. We decided to take the lawsuit and literally and symbolically give it to the LORD. We drove the 45 minutes to our church. The doors were open but the sanctuary was dark. We made our way down the aisle in the darkness and laid the lawsuit on the altar. My husband and I knelt and prayed. We shed some tears over the ugliness of the past seven months. We sought the LORD's guidance for the unknown path we were embarking on. We surrendered our lives to HIS will, and we asked for HIS protection from those who were seeking our harm and financial ruin.
Much of the rest of the weekend became a blur.
Monday morning came and I went to see Jane as usual. Jane was in bed, lying on her side as the nurses had positioned her; her body was facing the wall with her back towards me. She was totally unresponsive with no movement at all. Her eyes were closed and her mouth was gaping open. Jane appeared to be asleep. I carried on a one-sided conversation for several minutes, then I stood by her bedside and spent about 20 minutes reading some of the well-marked passages in Jane's NIV Bible to her. There wasn't even the slightest indication of any type of alertness or a hint of cognitive awareness. None. I finished reading and was preparing to leave when the incredible happened.
Jane spoke. Jane had not spoken in months.
Jane clearly said, "Read Psalm 150." I was stunned to hear Jane speak. I couldn't immediately remember how many chapters there were in the Psalms. Was there a Psalm 150? I turned the pages and there it was. Psalm 150—the last chapter in the Psalms. I began to read it aloud. Psalm 150 is line-by-line an entire Psalm of praise to the great I AM. I finished reading and looked down at Jane. There was no movement or response of any kind. Stunned to hear Jane speak, I stood by her bed and read a few other Psalms. There continued to be no visible response. As I once again prepared to leave Jane spoke again. I was on the other side of the room and I wasn't sure I heard her correctly, so I walked back to the side of her bed and asked, "Did you say to read Psalm 40, Jane?" Jane clearly and distinctly replied, "No, I said to read Psalm 140."
Monday morning came and I went to see Jane as usual. Jane was in bed, lying on her side as the nurses had positioned her; her body was facing the wall with her back towards me. She was totally unresponsive with no movement at all. Her eyes were closed and her mouth was gaping open. Jane appeared to be asleep. I carried on a one-sided conversation for several minutes, then I stood by her bedside and spent about 20 minutes reading some of the well-marked passages in Jane's NIV Bible to her. There wasn't even the slightest indication of any type of alertness or a hint of cognitive awareness. None. I finished reading and was preparing to leave when the incredible happened.
Jane spoke. Jane had not spoken in months.
Jane clearly said, "Read Psalm 150." I was stunned to hear Jane speak. I couldn't immediately remember how many chapters there were in the Psalms. Was there a Psalm 150? I turned the pages and there it was. Psalm 150—the last chapter in the Psalms. I began to read it aloud. Psalm 150 is line-by-line an entire Psalm of praise to the great I AM. I finished reading and looked down at Jane. There was no movement or response of any kind. Stunned to hear Jane speak, I stood by her bed and read a few other Psalms. There continued to be no visible response. As I once again prepared to leave Jane spoke again. I was on the other side of the room and I wasn't sure I heard her correctly, so I walked back to the side of her bed and asked, "Did you say to read Psalm 40, Jane?" Jane clearly and distinctly replied, "No, I said to read Psalm 140."
Psalm 140 is the account of an innocent person's cry for help when being falsely accused and deceitfully entrapped. The Psalmist describes the innocent person's total dependence upon God as their Deliverer and Shield in the "days of battle" and their earnest pleading with God for HIM to hold the wicked accountable for their actions. The chapter ends with, "I know the LORD secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy. Surely the righteous will praise His name and the upright will live before Him."
Tears ran down my face as I stood beside Jane's bed and read a Psalm I didn't know existed, but word-for-word and line-by-line accurately described the dangerous and destructive lawsuit situation we were facing; our thoughts and feelings; and the prayers of our heart. When I finished reading, Jane immediately began to pray. With her body and face still turned away from me, Jane, in a clear strong voice and without any hesitation or difficulty, prayed for every relevant and important thing in our lives. She closed her prayer by praying for encouragement for this "dear one who comes to visit me."
Tears ran down my face as I stood beside Jane's bed and read a Psalm I didn't know existed, but word-for-word and line-by-line accurately described the dangerous and destructive lawsuit situation we were facing; our thoughts and feelings; and the prayers of our heart. When I finished reading, Jane immediately began to pray. With her body and face still turned away from me, Jane, in a clear strong voice and without any hesitation or difficulty, prayed for every relevant and important thing in our lives. She closed her prayer by praying for encouragement for this "dear one who comes to visit me."
I most certainly needed encouragement.
I stood beside Jane's bed in awe of what I was witnessing. How can it be that someone who struggled to speak and had not spoken in months, just spoke so distinctly and without any difficulty? How can it be that Jane "randomly" asked me to read a Psalm that word-for-word accurately described not only the vicious and vindictive lawsuit which had just been filed by my sister and brother-in-law, but also our thoughts and feelings about it and the prayers of our heart? How can it be that Jane would have the ability to pray a long and detailed prayer about every important thing in my life, when she had no knowledge of my personal life? How can it be that Jane's long personal prayer concluded with a prayer of encouragement "for this dear one," when she knew nothing about the difficult circumstances my husband and I were facing or that encouragement was needed?
I stood beside Jane's bed in awe of what I was witnessing. How can it be that someone who struggled to speak and had not spoken in months, just spoke so distinctly and without any difficulty? How can it be that Jane "randomly" asked me to read a Psalm that word-for-word accurately described not only the vicious and vindictive lawsuit which had just been filed by my sister and brother-in-law, but also our thoughts and feelings about it and the prayers of our heart? How can it be that Jane would have the ability to pray a long and detailed prayer about every important thing in my life, when she had no knowledge of my personal life? How can it be that Jane's long personal prayer concluded with a prayer of encouragement "for this dear one," when she knew nothing about the difficult circumstances my husband and I were facing or that encouragement was needed?
How could this be happening? What was I witnessing?
When I arrived back home, I got out my Bible to read Psalm 140 again. Psalm 140:12 in my NCV version says, "I know the LORD will get justice for the poor and will defend the needy in court." Wow! I called my husband to tell him about all the events of the morning. Just three days after receiving the shocking news that a lawsuit seeking our ruin had been filed, Jane—who had not spoken for many months—spoke with clarity and told me to read Psalm 140 which word-by-word described our situation and HIS promised protection. Amazing.
There was (and is) NO earthly explanation.
Seven months had passed since my first visit with Jane. Seven months of little to no response. And now, just three days after receiving the disturbing news that a lawsuit seeking our financial ruin had been filed, Jane spoke what can only be described as God-inspired words of praise, protection, and encouragement for those who put their hope and faith in Him. I knew Jane's actions were not humanly explainable and that meeting Jane was God-ordained, but I didn't know God had brought the winding paths of our lives together as part of His greater plan. I didn't know that for the next nine months God was going to continue to use Jane to speak HIS words to us at pivotal times. I didn't know Psalm 8 was the first step on God's footpath until I began to compile a list of all the scripture Jane specifically asked me to read. It was then that I began to understand the significance of the very first chapter Jane asked me to read.
Psalm 8: The very foundation for our life's purpose.
Purpose! It's all about purpose! Purpose: "the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists." Psalm 8 sets the foundation for understanding the Majesty of God and our relationship to Him. He is God—we are not!! This is not Jane's story and it is not our story. This is HIS Story! Everything we experienced with Jane was for the purpose of bringing honor and glory to HIS name!
There was (and is) NO earthly explanation.
Seven months had passed since my first visit with Jane. Seven months of little to no response. And now, just three days after receiving the disturbing news that a lawsuit seeking our financial ruin had been filed, Jane spoke what can only be described as God-inspired words of praise, protection, and encouragement for those who put their hope and faith in Him. I knew Jane's actions were not humanly explainable and that meeting Jane was God-ordained, but I didn't know God had brought the winding paths of our lives together as part of His greater plan. I didn't know that for the next nine months God was going to continue to use Jane to speak HIS words to us at pivotal times. I didn't know Psalm 8 was the first step on God's footpath until I began to compile a list of all the scripture Jane specifically asked me to read. It was then that I began to understand the significance of the very first chapter Jane asked me to read.
Psalm 8: The very foundation for our life's purpose.
Purpose! It's all about purpose! Purpose: "the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists." Psalm 8 sets the foundation for understanding the Majesty of God and our relationship to Him. He is God—we are not!! This is not Jane's story and it is not our story. This is HIS Story! Everything we experienced with Jane was for the purpose of bringing honor and glory to HIS name!
Purpose—It's all about HIM!!
Purpose—HIS story must be told.
Purpose—Let everything that hath breath PRAISE THE LORD!
For sixteen months Jane miraculously spoke what can only be described as direct messages from God. HIS words at pivotal times in our lives. HIS words of Purpose, Praise, Protection, Provision, Path, and Promise. HIS words of Blessing and Encouragement. God used Jane to bless us with HIS Truth for HIS Purpose.
2007
Prayer of Blessing (January 5th) – This is when and where Jane's and my path first intersected. On the very day my personal world fell apart, God arranged for Jane and I to meet and for Jane to pray a prayer of blessing over my life. He knew the journey I was embarking on was going to be long and difficult—and the journey began with a prayer of God's blessing over my life.
Psalm 8: Purpose (January) – It's ALL about Him! HIS Power. HIS Greatness. HIS Majesty. HIS Might. I didn't know this was the very foundation for all that was to come until much later. This Psalm has now become part of my DNA and is always on my mind. When I awake in the morning—Psalm 8. Throughout my day—Psalm 8. When I go to bed at night—Psalm 8. At all times—Psalm 8.
Psalm 150: Praise (July) – Jane asked me to read this chapter (and Psalm 140) just three days after we received the news that my sister and brother-in-law rejected our attempts for a peaceful resolution and instead filed a vicious and ruinous lawsuit against us. Like Psalm 8, I didn't fully appreciate the importance of this Psalm until much later. Psalm 150 keeps everything in the proper perspective. First, foremost, and always—PRAISE. By far the single most important thing Jane taught us was the concept of praising the LORD for who HE is—in all things, and at all times. PRAISE keeps your eyes focused on HIM and HIS surpassing greatness. PRAISE silences the "foe and the avenger." (Psalm 8:2) PRAISE—it's all about HIM. HE is worthy of all honor, glory, and PRAISE. Whatever situation you are facing pales in the light of HIS greatness when you are praising HIM.
For sixteen months Jane miraculously spoke what can only be described as direct messages from God. HIS words at pivotal times in our lives. HIS words of Purpose, Praise, Protection, Provision, Path, and Promise. HIS words of Blessing and Encouragement. God used Jane to bless us with HIS Truth for HIS Purpose.
2007
Prayer of Blessing (January 5th) – This is when and where Jane's and my path first intersected. On the very day my personal world fell apart, God arranged for Jane and I to meet and for Jane to pray a prayer of blessing over my life. He knew the journey I was embarking on was going to be long and difficult—and the journey began with a prayer of God's blessing over my life.
Psalm 8: Purpose (January) – It's ALL about Him! HIS Power. HIS Greatness. HIS Majesty. HIS Might. I didn't know this was the very foundation for all that was to come until much later. This Psalm has now become part of my DNA and is always on my mind. When I awake in the morning—Psalm 8. Throughout my day—Psalm 8. When I go to bed at night—Psalm 8. At all times—Psalm 8.
Psalm 150: Praise (July) – Jane asked me to read this chapter (and Psalm 140) just three days after we received the news that my sister and brother-in-law rejected our attempts for a peaceful resolution and instead filed a vicious and ruinous lawsuit against us. Like Psalm 8, I didn't fully appreciate the importance of this Psalm until much later. Psalm 150 keeps everything in the proper perspective. First, foremost, and always—PRAISE. By far the single most important thing Jane taught us was the concept of praising the LORD for who HE is—in all things, and at all times. PRAISE keeps your eyes focused on HIM and HIS surpassing greatness. PRAISE silences the "foe and the avenger." (Psalm 8:2) PRAISE—it's all about HIM. HE is worthy of all honor, glory, and PRAISE. Whatever situation you are facing pales in the light of HIS greatness when you are praising HIM.
Psalm 140: Protection (July) – I cannot adequately describe how much this Psalm—which so accurately described the seriousness of our situation and God's promised protection—blessed, encouraged and emboldened us. For thirteen years we hung on to HIS promises found in Psalm 140. HE is our protector; HE is our help; HE is our Deliverer; HE will secure justice. HE will defend the needy in court. This Psalm clearly lays out how to pray during tough situations. Lord, here is the problem. Rescue me and keep me from those who are against me. I put my faith and reliance in You. Hear our cry for mercy. Don't let evil succeed. YOU protect. YOU avenge. YOU secure justice. And then, when you have turned everything over to HIS control, with calm assurance and confidence you can say—I KNOW!!
Prayer of Encouragement (July) – To stand by the bedside of an elderly woman who hasn't responded or spoken in months, to hear her clearly and without any difficulty pray for every relevant thing in your life even though she knows nothing about you, and then listen as she concludes her prayer by asking for encouragement for "this dear one who comes to see me," humbles you and fills you with awe and wonder as you realize there is a God in heaven who personally cares about the details of your life. Even if things look hopeless—HOLD ON! Be encouraged. Be brave. Stand strong. Continue doing good. Even if months pass and there appears to be silence—HE is there. HE knows. HE is aware. HE is faithful. HE will secure justice. HE cares.
Isaiah 30: Provision (September) – God's promise to provide, go with us, and give us direction. Jane gave us this special promise on a Sunday afternoon. My husband and I stopped at the nursing home on the way home from church. Shockingly, Jane was sitting in a wheelchair at the end of the hallway instead of her usual position of lying unresponsive in her bed. I remember excitedly saying, "There she is!" as we rounded the corner. This was the first time my husband had gone with me to the nursing home to see Jane. I introduced Jane to my husband and Jane slowly lifted her hand to graciously take his. We wheeled Jane back to her room so we could talk privately. I asked Jane if there was anything she would like me to read. I was not expecting an answer and I was surprised when she spoke and said, "Yes, let me think for a moment..." and then Jane said, "Isaiah 30." Isaiah? Really? Isaiah?!? I turned to the page and began to read. When I finished reading Jane said, "Read the part about wait on the Lord again." In the process of reading the long chapter, I totally missed God's message. Isaiah 30:18 - "Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!" My husband was able to see and experience for himself the miraculous as Jane once again clearly spoke and directed us to God's Word. When I didn't understand the significance of what I was reading, Jane directed me to: "Read the part about wait on the Lord again" ... just as I was preparing to face my first deposition.
2008
Psalm 1: Path (January) – Evidently I still had not grasped the importance of this chapter which Jane had asked me to read (along with Psalm 8) very early on in my visits. Because here we are a year later, and while reading this chapter, Jane stopped me and asked me if I had this chapter memorized. I did not, but I certainly do now. There are two paths to choose from. The path of the righteous and the path of the wicked. God in His Sovereignty has given each of us the ability to choose which path we will take. There are no gray areas; it is either one or the other. God promises happiness and protection to those who follow Him and "love the Lord's teachings and think about them day and night." Because of the Lord's blessings, everything they do will succeed. But the same cannot be said about the wicked. They have chosen the path of following after their own selfish desires. They think they are in control of their lives, but they are not. They will not be able to escape God's guaranteed punishment and their path eventually leads to destruction.
Jeremiah 33: Promise (April) – Jane's last God-given message. God's promise of help and deliverance. When we call to him—HE answers; HE shows us great things; and HE will deliver. Assurance! Restoration! A "New Beginning" is coming. The lawsuit WILL end and the storm WILL be over. Things may look hopeless, but a day is coming when you will hear the words, "You are free to go." HE hears. HE will rebuild. HE will restore. Wait for it—it WILL happen.
Prayer of Praise (April) – Jane tried to pray one last time. After much effort Jane managed to get out three words. Puh .. Puh ... Puh ... PRAISE. THE. LORD. Everything had come full circle. It's ALL about PRAISE. It's ALL about HIM.
Prayer of Blessing → Purpose → Praise → Protection → Prayer of Encouragement → Provision → Path → Promise → Prayer of Praise
It is amazing to look at the comprehensive list of all the scriptures Jane spoke and all the prayers she prayed and see the perfect sequential progression of all of Jane's God-given messages. Everything Jane spoke led me directly to God's written Word. Everything! Jane wasn't instructing me in her words, she was telling me what to read in God's Word; and it was all in perfect and clear logical order. It can only be described as Holy Spirit inspired direct messages from God's Word.
I didn't know the plans God had for Jane and me—but HE did.
I thought I was just visiting an elderly lady who was all alone in a nursing home. I didn't know it was all part of God's greater plan.
I thought we were the victims of a vicious and vindictive lawsuit. I didn't know God was going to take what was meant for our harm and instead allow us to be the recipients of a Blessed Event.
I thought I was keeping a personal journal while reading through the Bible. I didn't know my journals would become the way God wanted the rest of HIS story told.
I thought I knew God's plans for my life. I didn't know God was scripting a story for my future that I could never have imagined.
2008
Psalm 1: Path (January) – Evidently I still had not grasped the importance of this chapter which Jane had asked me to read (along with Psalm 8) very early on in my visits. Because here we are a year later, and while reading this chapter, Jane stopped me and asked me if I had this chapter memorized. I did not, but I certainly do now. There are two paths to choose from. The path of the righteous and the path of the wicked. God in His Sovereignty has given each of us the ability to choose which path we will take. There are no gray areas; it is either one or the other. God promises happiness and protection to those who follow Him and "love the Lord's teachings and think about them day and night." Because of the Lord's blessings, everything they do will succeed. But the same cannot be said about the wicked. They have chosen the path of following after their own selfish desires. They think they are in control of their lives, but they are not. They will not be able to escape God's guaranteed punishment and their path eventually leads to destruction.
Jeremiah 33: Promise (April) – Jane's last God-given message. God's promise of help and deliverance. When we call to him—HE answers; HE shows us great things; and HE will deliver. Assurance! Restoration! A "New Beginning" is coming. The lawsuit WILL end and the storm WILL be over. Things may look hopeless, but a day is coming when you will hear the words, "You are free to go." HE hears. HE will rebuild. HE will restore. Wait for it—it WILL happen.
Prayer of Praise (April) – Jane tried to pray one last time. After much effort Jane managed to get out three words. Puh .. Puh ... Puh ... PRAISE. THE. LORD. Everything had come full circle. It's ALL about PRAISE. It's ALL about HIM.
Prayer of Blessing → Purpose → Praise → Protection → Prayer of Encouragement → Provision → Path → Promise → Prayer of Praise
It is amazing to look at the comprehensive list of all the scriptures Jane spoke and all the prayers she prayed and see the perfect sequential progression of all of Jane's God-given messages. Everything Jane spoke led me directly to God's written Word. Everything! Jane wasn't instructing me in her words, she was telling me what to read in God's Word; and it was all in perfect and clear logical order. It can only be described as Holy Spirit inspired direct messages from God's Word.
I didn't know the plans God had for Jane and me—but HE did.
I thought I was just visiting an elderly lady who was all alone in a nursing home. I didn't know it was all part of God's greater plan.
I thought we were the victims of a vicious and vindictive lawsuit. I didn't know God was going to take what was meant for our harm and instead allow us to be the recipients of a Blessed Event.
I thought I was keeping a personal journal while reading through the Bible. I didn't know my journals would become the way God wanted the rest of HIS story told.
I thought I knew God's plans for my life. I didn't know God was scripting a story for my future that I could never have imagined.
What I thought was a trial period in our lives turned out to be an amazing trail: a beautiful opportunity to follow a new life path custom designed by God for HIS purpose. HIS path. Oh, how grateful I am for HIS divinely arranged appointment with Jane and this Blessed Event.
This isn't our story and it isn't Jane's story. This is HIS Story. Blessed be the name of the LORD.
This isn't our story and it isn't Jane's story. This is HIS Story. Blessed be the name of the LORD.
Next Entry: Our Winding Paths
*****
A True Story of God's Faithfulness
The Amazing Story
The Sovereign Hand of God
Her Name Was Jane
HIS Story Begins
A God-Ordained Divine Appointment
Our Winding Paths
God's Scripted Plan
For Such A Time As This
HIS Greater Purpose
The Journey Home
One Last Promise
A Legacy Lives On
HIS Story Continues
A Story to Tell
It's All About HIM
Walking by Faith
It's All About the Journey
Following HIS Footpath
HIS Great Faithfulness
Jane's God-Given Words
God-Ordained and Holy Spirit Inspired
The Proof Came—AFTER
"You Are Free to Go"
The Path to Salvation
The Reward is Eternal Life
The Sovereign Hand of God
Her Name Was Jane
HIS Story Begins
A Blessed Event
Our Winding Paths
God's Scripted Plan
For Such A Time As This
HIS Greater Purpose
The Journey Home
One Last Promise
A Legacy Lives On
HIS Story Continues
A Story to Tell
It's All About HIM
Walking by Faith
It's All About the Journey
Following HIS Footpath
HIS Great Faithfulness
Jane's God-Given Words
God-Ordained and Holy Spirit Inspired
The Proof Came—AFTER
"You Are Free to Go"
The Path to Salvation
The Reward is Eternal Life
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