"Surprise Math quiz this week. Be ready!" the instructor warned. I grumbled. Can't he at least tell us which day he'll give the quiz? 

Soon, the end of the semester closed in, with final exams looming before us. Coffee-imbibed days coupled with studying until the wee hours of the morning, my roommates and I crammed to withstand the inevitable. 
 
Exams in school are one thing. They're expected—most of the time!  

But life tests are different—they're unpredictable. We don't know if we'll get the job we want. Or if we will afford a home or be able to support a family. Then, other unexpected tests often come our way: handling illness, financial woes, the death of loved ones, and other losses. We don't always have a warning when these things will happen.      
 
Jesus faced insurmountable testing during his life—including temptation from Satan. The Gospels describe these accounts; Jesus refused each temptation. When Satan confronted Jesus in a high place, he offered him all the kingdoms of the world if he would bow down to worship him. But Jesus replied, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” – Luke 4:3 NIV

Sometimes, our faith is tested, too. But if we remain steadfast, prayerful, and trust in the Lord, we can get through some of the most challenging tests or trials.      
 
May  you remain deeply rooted in God's Word, so that when trials come, you will  withstand them with strength, courage, and perseverance.  
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“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
- Ephesians 6:11

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23

Scripture from the NIV Bible, 2011  
Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.com

​Happy Labor Day! I hope you are fortunate enough to have the holiday off—or at least have had time off during the weekend.  
 
Labor Day conjures up images of BBQs or picnics; however, historically, it was meant to honor those who suffered the effect of unfair labor practices. Only much later did it become a day off for civil or state employees. But many people still had to work—as is the case today. 
  
Work is instilled into our minds and vocabulary at an early age, isn't it? You may have received advice from parents or teaching while growing up, such as: “Get a good education and you'll find a good job," or, "Choose a vocation that will enable you to support yourself."       

We spend years devoting our time, talents, skills, and energy into making a living. We “make a living,” so to speak, but we also need to “make a life." (Says no one on their deathbed: "I wish I'd worked more hours"). So, take time—make time—for rest, for moments of solitude, and enjoy being with your family or friends. And, know divine help is at hand. Seek God and His Word for rest and encouragement.
    
Jesus took time for solitude, rest, and prayer. A few examples: In Luke 6:12-13, Jesus went to a mountainside by himself to pray. In Mark 6:30-32, he tells the disciples to separate themselves from the crowds (and their work) and find a quiet place to rest. 
 
My prayer for you today is that you will find time for rest and renewal.    
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“For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day.” - Exodus 20:11 NIV

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For yoke is easy and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28 NIV
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“It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed.” - Exodus 31:17 NIV

Scriptures from the New International Version of the Bible, 2011.
Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.com
    
 

​You’ve seen the tell-tale initials on headstones, sympathy cards, or comments made when someone dies: “R.I.P.” 

Have you ever wondered about that phrase? I have, for it brings up a subtle question: is it possible a departed person might not “rest in peace?” For example, what becomes of a troubled soul who never finds peace before death and has no belief in the afterlife?    

But, we are not to judge and we cannot answer this question. I apologize for writing about this morbid subject. The truth is it's hard to think about death, much less talk about it.   
 
Being a writer, I analyze words and phrases, so “R.I.P” lit up like a neon question mark in my head.  What is the real meaning behind “rest in peace” and where did the phrase originate?

A quick glance at *Wikipedia provides an answer. The phrase comes from Latin, “requiescat in pace,” historically used by certain Christian denominations to wish a departed soul “a decedent eternal rest and peace.”

I feel better knowing “R.I.P.” refers to eternal peace or rest. But, considering how often this timeworn phrase is used, how many people realize its true meaning? Eternal peace and rest come from belief in the Lord Jesus Christ and His promise of salvation and eternal life.   

My prayer is that all would know and believe in the promises given by the One who granted them life. If there is trouble anywhere—as there often is in life—may they know God loves them no matter what they’ve been through, and there is hope, even for the most troubled hearts.      
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“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 NIV 2011  

Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.com
*htps://en.wikipedia.org>wiki>Rest_in_peace

 "The Blessed Road"  - a lyrical poem for Harp  
(Pronounce "Blessed as "Bless-ed") 

"When you're going along,
not feeling so strong, 
and the direction seems wrong, 
Look up
Follow the Blessed Road.

In the distance, the sky is blue, 
The sun shines, too, 
The Lord is at hand
to help you stand
if you stumble   

Look forward,
For through faith and prayer
You need not despair
What trouble may be
The Lord surely sees.   

Song of renewal, take flight
as a butterfly glides in the light
Your heart can be free
when you give up the fight
of the struggle of sin from within

See the beauty of God's goodness 
Jesus' love surrounds you 
Savior, Lord, and Friend 
He  is with you
His love will never end   

His path leads to the cross
Lay your burdens down
as you kneel next to the tree
Where Jesus' gave His life
for you and for me.
  
Look ahead
His light shines bright
in the darkest of nights
Reach out to Him and stay 
on the Blessed road today."   

 -Nancy Johnson  8-3-23 
May the path you walk be one of hope, joy, peace, and love—all made possible by God.                                                                                                       <>< <>< <><                                             

"For by grace you have been saved through faith.  And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."  - Ephesians 2:8-10

"Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." - Proverbs 2:9

"You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." -  Psalm 16:11

"Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths." -  Psalm 25:4

Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.com  

"Get on the scale, please," the medical assistant says. I make a joke to ensure my overloaded purse won't be part of the measurement. Sigh. Even without the purse, my weight is more than I hoped.     

The same day, I stand in line at the DMV for my driver's license. They want to know my weight. So does the fitness trainer, the passport office, the amusement park, and the Burro ride at the Grand Canyon. Weight...weight...Wait!

I'm tired of waiting for the extra weight in my life to lessen. I'd be happy to be rid of a few extra pounds that stick to my frame like a double-dose of super glue. But there are other kinds of weight I'd like to get rid of, such as the weight of worry, sadness, or anxiety. The list could go on.       

One morning while praying, the following words came to mind: "I carry You in my heart, Lord." And, "My heart is full." It was then I thought about the "weight" of something good—like love.

If there is any weight I'd desire, it would be the weight of love. Lord, fill my heart with an overload of care, compassion, and kindness. Fill my heart with a love that deeply extends to my family, friends, and God's people everywhere.      

In my imagination, I picture the Lord measuring my heart for a "spiritual checkup." (Would he use a scale?) My usual joke about weight might work in this situation. I could say, "Jesus, I hope my heart weighs as much as my purse!"    

I can see it now. The Lord smiles, then chuckles at my dry humor. It's okay. He knows me well. I'm glad He loves me just as I am!      

And He loves you the same!

My prayer for you this week: May your heart be on overload—with the weight of something good. 

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"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." - Hebrews 12:1

The weight of Christ's love for us is immeasurable. He carried the weight of sin of all mankind when he opened his arms and was crucified. He died to save us from the sin of the world.     

The message of over 2,000 years ago stands true today. Jesus Christ is the Savior, the Lamb of God, our hope and our Salvation. If you are seeking a personal relationship with Christ, ask Him into your heart. You will be glad you did. If you need prayer, feel free to leave me a message. God's Blessings to you. 
 
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16

 Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.com