A Valentine's Reminder

For my beloved I will not fear, Love knows to do
For him, for her, from year to year, as hitherto;
Whom my heart cherishes are dear
To Thy heart too.

- Amy Carmichael

A Good Read

I was recently introduced to Isobel Kuhn and the books she wrote about her experiences in China in the 1940's. I highly recommend them to everyone.

Green Leaf in Drought is about a couple who got stuck in China as the Communists were taking over. At first, I thought I would have nothing in common with this couple, but their biggest life lesson during their ordeal was a huge eye opener to me in how I view circumstances.

In the Arena is an autobiographical account of John & Isobel's ministry. Here are several gems I am taking away with me:

"A platform is a very public thing, and a secret choice is an extremely private, invisibe thing. . . 'Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you' works in more matters than almsgiving. . .The choice and the struggle are not publicized - but the release of His resurrection power which comes to you on each platform is felt by others, and in that sense there is an audience. We may never know who this "audience" might be, but we do know that He gives us far more than we deserve."

"God's blessings are not reserved for those who are worthy; they are lavishly poured out on very unworthy ones, upon those who in their innermost souls are reaching out for Him."

"There are many small helps you can use, especailly in the area of the mind. Refuse to let your mind dwell on your loss. It will not make you love her [her daughter] less. Deliberately think of something more helpful, or anything rather than your loss. I have given you a thing called common sense - summon that to your aid."

I know my brother is saying a hearty "Amen." to that one. :)

A lesson recorded from one of Isobel's fellow sojourners, Alice Macfarlane," Keep your treasures on the open palm of your hand. If you hold something tight clenched in your fist, God may have to hurt you in order to open your fingers and take it from you. But if it is offered on the open palm of your hand, you will hardly know when it is gone."

I was just handed By Searching, and I am looking forward to uncovering more gems to be savoured and pondered as I read about those who have gone before us and are now surrounding us in a great cloud of witnesses.

Versus

Life in a temperate climate vs. Life on a tropical island

Life in a temperate climate says that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line.

Life on a tropical island says that the shortest distance between two points is through an air-conditioned building.