We raise our cups this New Year's eve to our new friends and old friends. We'll take a cup of kindness yet, for Auld Lang Syne. And when Revelations 20 - 22 happens, we'll raise our toast with Adam and Eve in The Shimmering City with Gates wide open where He will wipe every tear from our eyes. Death will be gone for good---tears gone, crying gone, pain gone (Rev 20:14). And the Book of Life will judge how each man and woman has lived their life. I don't want to "miss" exchanging the days of this coming year for worthless stuff. The Bible begins with the Tree of Life in Genesis...the Bible ends with the Tree of Life producing once again.
"Blessed be the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book (Rev 22:10)." That is the immense privilege of walking with you this year for you so long with every fray of your heart to keep His Word...and you do it.
"Let the righteous maintain a straight course and the holy continue on in holiness (Rev 22:11)." Because, He is on His way here! And He is bringing His Payroll with Him. "I'll pay all people in full for their life's work (Rev 22:12)." The Bright Morning Star (Rev 22:16)! "The grace of the Master Jesus be with all of you. Oh, Yes!"
Raising a toast to each of you precious pearls on the eve of a new decade...
You've been so faithful to read His Word.
Now, Keep His Word.
Let the holy continue on in holiness.
May you be more concerned about your holiness than your comfort in 2011.
And to my friend, Larry Crabb, I raise a toast for your life is a living letter to me.
Thank you for 66 Love Letters! I'm alive in ways I have never been because of you. Psalm 50:2 says it's a Beautiful God Who is pouring out of you. And I'll close this year-long blog with a quote from Larry:
"Things are not as they seem.
Evil, though widespread, is not winning.
The Lion's roar will soon be heard.
Until then, Reign with The Lamb.
Live to Love, not Control."
Raising my cup to my new friends and my old ones, for Auld Lang Syne. I left my toast on my post. You've left your footprints all over my heart this year.
ReplyDelete"The Morning Star is most visible when the darkness is deepest." 66LL. It has been a dark year and my Beautiful God has so shown up for me every day through each of you. I cannot find the words to say thank you for being Him here for me. Angel-God-of-the-Armies. Sovereign Strong. Bright Morning Star.
I love Him more this day because of you. 2 Thes 1:11 - May He fulfill every desire you have for righteousness, every act prompted by your faith. May He work a work of faith in His Power in you and through you that He may be glorified. Not that everything works out down here...not for us but for Your Glory!
And I'll close this blog with Col 1:29 - it is the Energy of Christ that is powerfully at work in you. And if there is any other energy working in you this day, "let the holy continue in holiness."
Tell us what God is stirring in your heart as you close this Book, this decade.
Rev 21:1 ~ "Look! Look! God has moved into the neighborhood, making his home with men and women! They're his people, he's their God. He'll wipe every tear from their eyes. Death is gone for good—tears gone, crying gone, pain gone—all the first order of things gone." The Enthroned continued, "Look! I'm making everything new."
ReplyDeleteRev. 22:5 ~ "The shining of God, the Master, is all the light anyone needs."
Rev. 22:6 ~ "These are dependable and accurate words, every one."
He's on His way...Come!" say the Spirit and the Bride.
Whoever hears, echo, "Come!"
Is anyone thirsty? Come!
All who will, come and drink,
Drink freely of the Water of Life!
Yes, come Lord Jesus!
So much to digest. What an unspeakable privilege it has been to walk with you all this year. Words are inadequate to describe my gratitude for you all.
I am forever changed by this year's basking in His Word, walking side by side such sweet pearls, fellow journeymen. I have resisted calling you "pearls" because I thought originally the pearls were our treasures we found in the Word. However, at the end of our journey, I see clearly each of you as pearls on a string of Life, hiding His Word in your hearts, walking faithfully through the thickest thick and the thinnest thin. And from the deepest places in my heart, I give thanks for you.
And to Bev, our faithful and loving Party Girl--I cannot thank you enough. You inspire me. And you do love so beautifully well! You put words to feelings and concepts for me that until now were too big for my own words. I feel we've walked into a Greater Truth this year together and I am forever grateful for the gift. I love you, dear friend.
And to Dr. Crabb- I am so endebted to you for your obedience in listening to God to write these letters. I can't wait to have a long talk with you at the Party!
My deepest thanks and love, Annette
Although life has been crazy for me this year and I've seemed so distant, I need you all to know that I've stopped here almost daily just to get a glimpse of what God was teaching you. Your dedication and faith have been an inspiration and I'm so grateful. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteMuch love and Happy New Year!
Angie
Rev 22:17 "Come!" say the Spirit and the Bride.
ReplyDeleteWhoever hears, echo, "Come!"
Is anyone thirsty? Come!
All who will, come and drink,
Drink freely of the Water of Life!"
I didn't realize how thirsty I was before I was invited into the String of Pearls family. This year has been turbulent, tramatic, and has tested my faith, my relationships, and the intermost part of me.
My faith has not only held fast, it has been my rock, my anchor, my deliverer. I have felt your love, your prayers and your encouragement through the year.
I am a work in progress, a mess at times, I rejoice in the promise that I will never be alone, Christ is there, lovingly supporting me, gently correcting me when I need it.
Pearls, your prayers and comments have touched my heart. You are in my prayers and in my heart.
I am looking forward another year of discovery in 2011.
Blessings, dear Pearls.
During this busy month, I have gotten behind and will finish up within the next ten days. I felt like I was rushing through just to finish and decided to slow down so I could take in what the Lord may have to say.
ReplyDeleteI have been most challenged by Crabb and he has caused me to think more deeply about what I believe. I would say in my head that I believe one way but yet in my heart, I have lived and applied it differently. I've had to say I'm so sorry, Lord for my "spirit of entitlement" that I have had.
I just started Revelation this morning. I have never read through it before. In the past, I was afraid to read it. I'm not sure why. I think in part is that is so beyond what I can imagine. Pray for me as I read it for wisdom and understanding. I have no reason to fear for I know my name is written in the Lamb's book if life!
I am still reading your insights from the daily readings as I get to them. So, I hope the sight will remain open until then.
Thank you for the encouragement and love I have gotten through you and the new friends I have made. You have been a blessing to me. I am thankful for the unusual way the Lord met a need I had in my life through this group.
I love you!
Thank you, Bev. You are more than my friend, you are my blood sister by faith, forever and ever. I love you and I am so thankful to know your heart as well as your sweet voice. I acknowledge every person who has taken the time to comment here. You have blessed me, you have encouraged me and you have shared some very intimate thoughts with me and I will never be the same again. Thank you for the intimacy of communion we have shared here with our Rabboni. Isn't he just beyond beyond?
ReplyDeleteDr. Crabb. Everything you have written has been a word to me. I was beaten and robbed and left for dead on the side of the road when you came along in the name of Jesus and allowed Him to use your book to wash me, anoint my wound with Oil, and set me up in a safe place until I was ready to stand on my own two feet once again. Truly, you have ministered to my broken heart in a way no one else could have. In this "blessing" church, you have spoken truth to me that if I am on the road of "suffering," I am on the right road. So be it. I'm more prepared to endure this race. Thank you, Dr. Crabb.
From Rev. 22
"I, Jesus, sent my Angel to testify to these things for the churches. I'm the Root and Branch of David, the Bright Morning Star."
"Come!" say the Spirit and the Bride.
Whoever hears, echo, "Come!"
Is anyone thirsty? Come!
All who will, come and drink,
Drink freely of the Water of Life!
Every word from The Message has gone into my soul and taken root. Dr. Peterson, I thank you for the drama of God's Word in The Message.
I want to be an Oak of Righteousness. Praying that for all of us. God has plans for us, I know that. This has been a time of preparation. Let's use what He has taught us wisely. Thank You, God, my God, my Father.
Listen to the prophet Isaiah...
Isaiah 61
Announce Freedom to All Captives
1-7 The Spirit of God, the Master, is on me because God anointed me.
He sent me to preach good news to the poor,
heal the heartbroken,
Announce freedom to all captives,
pardon all prisoners.
God sent me to announce the year of his grace—
a celebration of God's destruction of our enemies—
and to comfort all who mourn,
To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion,
give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes,
Messages of joy instead of news of doom,
a praising heart instead of a languid spirit.
Rename them "Oaks of Righteousness"
planted by God to display his glory.
They'll rebuild the old ruins,
raise a new city out of the wreckage.
They'll start over on the ruined cities,
take the rubble left behind and make it new.
You'll hire outsiders to herd your flocks
and foreigners to work your fields,
But you'll have the title "Priests of God,"
honored as ministers of our God.
You'll feast on the bounty of nations,
you'll bask in their glory.
Because you got a double dose of trouble
and more than your share of contempt,
Your inheritance in the land will be doubled
and your joy go on forever.
Shalom,
Deborah
Ang, I was surprised that you came by almost every day. Oh, thank you! You were always with us in spirit. You're a beautiful girl Angie with heartfelt questions that are so good. You've faced a lot with courage and you've come through in love. I know you don't think having childlike faith is positive but it's one of the best compliments I ever give. Your childlike faith is so inviting. Love you Lots! And thanks for stopping by almost every day! Wow! Bev
ReplyDeleteDear Dear Jan, you have welcomed us all into your heart. It has been such a difficult year for you yet you've let us walk through it with you and watch a very Good God grow you so much this year. We've been witnesses! You're honest and humble and i can't wait to see what God is going to do in your life this coming year! My love to you, Bev
ReplyDeleteIt is difficult to say goodbye to such an amazing read. I am such a better person from getting to know each of you on this blog. I had no idea what a huge difference reading The Message by Eugene Peterson along with Dr. Larry Crabb's 66 Love Letters would make in my life this year. WOW!
ReplyDeleteI always read my NIV and now have found The Message a good one to make sure I'm aware of today's language. Also, I had never heard of Larry Crabb before...I have marked up my copy and I don't know how many copies I have given away this year.
As I was reading through the posts from Bev, our Mama Pearl Thank You is so inadequate to say how much you have taught me this year in your faithfulness to HIM in all things no matter what.
Annette thank you for inviting me again to join this group of believers on line. I'm so glad I did. When I read your entry today all I could say is "ditto" you express yourself so amazingly well. Yes, you are an author.
Angie, I was so thrilled to see your comment. You encouraged me so much last January and help me see how to do what I thought was impossible.
Twinkle, you are so amazing and have such a gift of writing as well. I was so thrilled to get to meet you in October. Thanks for blessing me.
Hurst Mom, what a blessing we have shared over the year and then to get to meet you and learn we live in the same city. I will never forget our conversations at the ranch in October. You bless me to.
JHPainter Girl, a.k.a. Wonder Woman. You are so amazing and God has really taken you through the valleys this year and yet has allowed some mountain tops as well. Not only are you a gifted artist but also a wonderful writer too. Let me say right here....Early Happy Birthday!!! You were a New Year's Day Baby. You bring so much joy, laughter, organization with deep thoughts to my world. I'm so happy you decided to join this blog. You have contributed so much..
Now, there are more of you out there. Though I have not mentioned your names you know who you are this has been a wonderful love letter from God, Larry Crabb and each one of you as you commented all through the year. Yes, some just read and did not comment...still we all have grown closer to our Savior because HE LIVES as we close out 2010 and enter into 2011.
This is a Song I must Sing.
Grace and Peace, Sylvia
Michele, what a privilege to re-connect with you after all these years. You've always been a humble girl but you showed up again once more humbled before a Holy God. I love how you want to make things right...it comes from good places within you. Thank you so much for doing this with us! It has been a real joy to have you and what you have contributed! My love which will always go on for you and Rod! Bev
ReplyDeleteDear Deborah, I don't know how you found us here but you walked in as a passing stranger and leave as our lifelong friend. Your words have sunk deep into my heart this year. Psalm 51:6 They have fallen like much needed rain on my thirsty heart. Deut 32:2. You have brought the God Who picked you up on the side of the road to all of us, especially to me. You have offered me a taste of Him and I'll never be the same! My Gratitude and Love, Bev
ReplyDeleteSylvia, there are not many women I know who sing a song in suffering. You are so committed to The One you adore. So obvious. Thank you for invading our lives with tiaras and toasts and thoughtful words that sink deep. Being in your presence is such a joy! You've been a faithful friend giving to all of us here on the blog in the midst of your own difficult circumstances that only God knows. Your kindness and love is always noticed by the Unseen Hand on your life. We've all been touched by it. Our Gratitude and Awe, Bev
ReplyDeleteAnnette, I left a comment for you and it disappeared----kind of a watermark on our year here. We've done the best we can with what we have....but wait, no, life isn't about doing the best we can do. You are living the surrendered life and it has invited us to a Beautiful God. Your tongue is the pen of a ready writer, Psalm 45:1-2. I couldn't wait every day to take a break and come here to see what you would say. Your words are a letter to a waiting heart. You have offered me hope this past decade! Thank you for being a friend that sticks closer than a brother, Proverbs 18:24! With Deep Gratitude for gracing this blog with beauty, Bev
ReplyDeleteAnd to my friend Mary Lou who is always just a stroke away...thank you, dear friend, for being such a tremendous support and encouragement and love to me. Seems like God would give you thoughts for me that came straight from Him to my heart. You're always welcome on this blog and in our hearts! Psalm 3:3
ReplyDeleteCici, We've been through much together this year. Your weighty words sink deep. Your faith flames mine. Your kindness pours out. Your authenticity invites me in. Your passion intrigues me. It has been such a joy to talk through these truths of The One you so honor and adore. You make me hungry for Him! Thank you for bringing God to me this year! I appreciate your walking through 66 LL with us and for your friendship---my gratitude is more than I can say! My Love, Bev
ReplyDeleteTo My Precious Husband Bob who read the Bible, 66 LL, and your comments every single day but never commented. You are my tree planted by streams of Living Water, Psalm 1, offering me shade and strength. You have, once again, offered me a taste of God watching you embrace loss this year and finding God in the midst. He has put steel in your convictions. Most men would be sidelined by the loss. No, you are surrendered by it. I love you more today and look forward to what God is going to do in both of us empty-nesters. Love Always, Bev
ReplyDeleteWhew! Tree and decorations down.
ReplyDeleteMy husband commented: "We're getting good at this." Well, maybe some things.
But then I read this statement: "You sometimes think you're further along than you are..." (66LL) and I realize how far I fall short. And how often my kingdom (ha) collides with His. But I live in hope!
From Genesis to Revelation we've read His story of: connection, wickedness, estrangement, judgment and reconciliation. 66LL
God's story. The party where we will dance.(And no stepping on toes.)
Bev, you've stayed the course through such a difficult year. You've asked many searching questions - questions I've wrestled with. I am so grateful for your labor of love. My lack of posting did NOT mean that I didn't read. Thank you faithful friend!
Dr. Crabb's book will have to be replaced. I've never had a book that I've underlined as much as 66 Love Letters.
Both of you challenged me to let the knowledge that I've learned be "taken up into my life" by the Holy Spirit. ( A phrase by Kierkegaard quoted in 66LL.)
I, too, will treasure these new friendships. The comments from each one of you revealed your struggles and your desire for holiness and wholeness. I gained new perspectives and insights. Thank you for allowing me to join in.
He testifies: "I'm on my way! I'll be there soon!" Rev 22:2
"Yes, Come, Master Jesus!" Rev 22:20
Love and Blessings!
Forever Grateful
Forever Grateful, I am forever Grateful God brought you to this blog and blessed us with your comments.
ReplyDeleteBev, all I can say is Ditto to all of your comments as you acknowledge the various Pearls on this String...I look forward to one chapter a day from the New Testament in 2011 as I seek to know Him better in His WORD.
This is a Song I Must Sing. Happy New Year!!!
Sylvia
Gay, I'm eternally grateful you joined us on this journey. You always added so much. It was like God speaking to me through you, a stranger, who became my companion and comforter. Your words pierced and soothed and discerned and guided. I loved hearing from you! I will miss it so. I do hope you come with us this year through the NT. I don't ever want to lose touch with you. It was as though at times you could read my mind. Thank you for the beauty you brought to all of us. Love, Bev
ReplyDeleteIn a minute, this year will be over. One year closer to our real home. Thank you to all of you who have so brought God to me this year through this blog. This journey is over. I invite you to walk with us through the New Testament in the ESV and see what God does. Speak, Lord, for your servants are listening. My Love & Gratitude to every one of you!
ReplyDeleteLadies - this year was life-changing for me! Each of you ministered to me in ways you'll never know. I appreciated your wisdom, your encouragement, your honesty, and your faithfulness. Reading the Message and 66 LL with you gave me such a hunger for God's Word, in ways that I have never experienced before.
ReplyDeleteBev, you are such a dear friend! I adore you and am so grateful for what you've shared with me. I'm looking forward to the next chapter in our friendship.
Love you!
Cici
Much love to you, Cici...
ReplyDeleteYou are a delight. Always know you have a room here in Georgia if you ever pass this way.
Love,
Deborah
Good Bye Dear Friends...
ReplyDeleteHope Now. Hope Always. Psalm 131:3