Faith Revealed

 

Photo by Tuxyso 2013

More than a decade ago, as my husband and I set off to Las Vegas to celebrate our 25^th wedding anniversary, we were excited yet a little apprehensive. We had been invited to perform a Theatre Arts solo exhibition at a ballroom dance celebration, and we were planning to dance our Christian ministry piece, “Transformed,” which uses the imagery of a caterpillar becoming a butterfly as a metaphor for salvation to eternal life (Romans 12:2). In our dance ministry, we often perform to largely unsaved audiences in secular settings. Yet we had never performed at the ballroom of a Las Vegas casino, so we prayed especially fervently that our message would be well received.

Added to that was the usual struggle of trying to tie up loose ends before we left home for a week, praying that our businesses would run smoothly and especially that our loved ones would be healthy and safe. Our son was suffering with a bad cold that kept him out of work for a few days and prevented us from getting together before we left. My husband’s mother, over 90 years old, had many chronic medical conditions that had caused her to be in and out of the hospital.

As our anniversary was in January, we were in the peak of snow and ice storms and bad weather, and numerous flights had been cancelled or delayed within days before our scheduled departure. It even crossed my mind that we might not make it to Vegas in time for our performance!

But as we left Tampa in unusually brisk 30 degree weather, we were relieved to be dressed in our long coats and even more blessed to have safe, on-time flights and arrival, so our fears were unfounded (1 John 4:18). Although the weather in Las Vegas had been chilly the week before, we were blessed with mild, sunny weather for most of our stay.

The gentleman who had invited us to perform, whom we had only met on one occasion several years before, could not have been a more gracious host, treating us to many meals and driving us around to see many sights that would not have been possible without a car.

We saw David Copperfield’s show and were astounded by one illusion in which he blindfolded a woman from the audience and had her wander under a canopy of 100 ribbons, each tied to a different word provided by 100 other audience members. Another audience member started and stopped a recording of music whenever she wanted to, and when she stopped, the blindfolded woman stopped and reached up with her hand to grab the nearest word. Of all the words (some proper names, some common objects, and some emotions) she could have selected, she chose the word “FAITH!”

I know that magic tricks have a logical explanation and are not miracles or evidence of supernatural power. Yet I was encouraged by this gentle reminder, regardless of the setting, that all we need is to have faith (Matthew 17:20; 21:21), trusting and obeying God whether or not we see His hand at work. But David Copperfield’s illusion had just begun, and he asked the audience to raise our hands high in the air. As we had entered the theatre, we had been given white paper bracelets printed in black with “David Copperfield.” But now as we raised our hands high, black light shone on our bracelets to reveal the word “FAITH” appearing in fluorescent letters on each outstretched wrist!

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1), and without faith it is impossible to please Him (Hebrews 11:6). But this got me thinking that every now and then, perhaps more often than we even notice, God gives us little glimpses of faith revealed (Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:23). We do not need signs (Matthew 16:4) to know that God loves us and is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). Still, I believe that He paints loving pictures to encourage and calm us, just as a parent might tuck a thoughtful note in their child’s lunch box to remind them how much they are loved.

Praise God for His faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 89:8; Isaiah 25:1; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 10:13)! This was manifest to us when all aspects of our performance came together beautifully, despite jet lag, lack of recent rehearsal, and what I thought might be a stomach flu and migraine I experienced that morning. We danced to a full house and very appreciative audience, and God allowed us to testify to His goodness and power of salvation, not only through our dance but verbally as well. Our prayer is that hearts were softened to Him as seed was planted (Matthew 13:3-32).

We had many exciting outings planned for the remainder of our trip, including seeing several Cirque de Soleil shows and walking around the magnificently decorated hotel lobbies. It is almost like walking around the world, as you can see replicas of the Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building, Venetian canals, and the Coliseum all in the same day! But lest you think otherwise, we do not drink, smoke or gamble, and I joked that our stay may have set a record for the longest vacation in Las Vegas without a penny spent in a casino!

Our faith would be tested yet again, as one morning as we were traveling to see the Hoover Dam, Richard got a phone call from his sister. His mother had just been readmitted to the hospital for low blood sugar and pneumonia, but his sister reassured us that she would handle things and that we should not cut our trip short.

Naturally we were concerned, but as I gazed out the window at the blue, cloudless sky, I was blessed to see a perfect, white cross, perhaps left by two intersecting jet trails. Yet there was no fading off of the lines at their ends, and the arms of the cross were in exact proportion and right angled to the upright beam. Without Christ’s finished work on the cross to pay for our sins, and His resurrection to eternal life, which conquered the curse of sin and death, there would be no physical or spiritual healing (John 11:25-26; Romans 3:25; 1 John 2:2; 4:10). 

He is the Great Physician, and we can trust Him to rid our bodies of the curse of sin (Psalm 147:3), whether through His design for recuperation and disease-fighting He has programmed into us (Psalm 139:14; Hosea 6:1), or through taking us to Himself where we feel no pain, sickness, or suffering (Isaiah 25:8; Revelation 7:17; 21:4).

The third reminder of faith revealed was at the Grand Canyon, at Eagle Point where the rock formation resembles the outstretched wings of a giant eagle. This of course brought to mind Isaiah 40:31, which has always been a special verse for us in our dance ministry: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

As we left this breathtaking view I was surprised to see a small rainbow from the bus window. These always remind me of God’s faithfulness to keep His promises (Genesis 9:12-17), and yet this one was extraordinary, not for its size or beauty, but because it was there at all! We were told it hadn’t rained for weeks; there were no clouds in the sky; and typically it only rains briefly on 10 days out of the year in Las Vegas, for a total annual rainfall of less than 2 inches. Truly a dry and thirsty land (Psalm 63:1), thirsty not only for rain but for the Living Water of Jesus Christ (Song of Solomon 4:15; John 4:10-11; Revelation 7:17), and yet God gave us a rainbow!

On the last day of our vacation, we were in fact treated to a 5-minute rain shower, followed by one of the largest, most brilliant rainbows I have ever seen, particularly resplendent as it stretched out over the blue and purple mountains outside the city. As we admired it, we reflected on God’s grace in arranging all details of our journey to make it a much-needed time of refreshing and renewal of our vows to one another, to our ministries, and to Him.

He saw us safely home to Tampa, and thankfully we traveled not on the day of, but on the day immediately following, massive delays and cancellations due to severe weather in Atlanta, and our flights were safe and only 30 minutes late. Richard’s mother was stable, and we were able to spend quality time with her in her last days, as He ultimately brought her safely home to Himself shortly thereafter, on Valentine’s Day. Once again a beautiful reminder of His perfect love, so great that He gave His only Son so that whosoever trusts in Him will never die, but will enjoy eternal life! (John 3:16)

 
Richard’s mother was saved very late in life, and it was our prayer that her memorial service would lead others to know Him. May we all continue to witness to and pray for those who do not yet know Christ, no matter how old or set in their ways, as nothing is impossible for Him!  (Matthew 19:26) May we not grow weary of doing His work, for if we persist, we will see the harvest in His perfect timing! (Galatians 6:9)

© 2014 Laurie Collett

Edited and reposted from the archives

What If the Mayor Calls?

 

I had a dream in which I was attending a professional convention held at an elegant hotel, accompanied by my son, who in the dream was still a small child. We had checked in to a luxurious suite on the penthouse level, provided gratis by the organizer. I had started to unpack the bags that the bellman had delivered, full of beautiful garments and jewelry I didn’t recognize.

I suddenly felt overwhelmed by the urge to explore our surroundings, and in my haste I left piles of clothing on the sofa rather than placing them in drawers, and even left jewelry out on the tables in the sitting area. I grabbed my son’s hand and led him into the hall, not even minding that the door was unlocked and open. Even worse, our suite was by a busy elevator where many people were coming and going, laughing, chattering and dressed for an evening of partying.

“But what if the mayor calls?” my son asked.

I looked at him quizzically, then giggled. “Well, if he does, I’m sure he’ll leave a message.”

We got on the elevator, surrounded by the intoxicating aromas of perfume, cologne, and alcohol swirling through wispy clouds of cigarette smoke. I sighed, starting to regret bringing my son into this tainted atmosphere. Soon we reached the basement and exited near the pool, where the air was heavy with chlorine and the muffled sounds of pump filters and whirlpool jets.

I had thought we might go for a swim, but the pool was packed with seniors doing a water aerobics class. So we boarded the elevator again and exited on the third floor, where a formal ball was in progress. My son had learned to dance when he was five, so I suggested we go back to our room and change for the party.

Thankfully, someone had closed and locked the door of our room after we had left, and it appeared that nothing had been disturbed. My son pointed out that there was a blinking silver light near the ornately carved, ivory telephone with gold filigree trim.

“Maybe the mayor called,” he said.

I shrugged, not really wanting to check messages. “Oh, we’ll worry about that later.”

I awoke with a sense of remorse over not listening to my son’s repeated warning, for out of the mouths of babes comes praise and strength (Matthew 21:15-16; Psalm 8:2). To be saved by trusting in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior Who died to pay for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) to give His followers eternal life (John 3:16), we must have a childlike faith (Matthew 18:3-4; 19:14).

One day Jesus Christ will return again to defeat the enemies of Israel and the devil himself, and He will then reign over the new Jerusalem for one thousand years as the Mayor of that holy city and as Lord over all (Revelation 21:1-5). We must wait for, heed and follow the Mayor’s call!

As born-again believers (John 3:3-8), we are so blessed to have the privilege of constant communication with Him even now, should we so desire (Hebrews 4:16). Yet He will not force His will or His guidance on us (Revelation 3:20), and so often we are guilty of ignoring His still, small voice (1 Kings 19:12) and not even caring to listen to what He has to say (1 Thessalonians 5:19, Ephesians 4:30).

In the dream, I dismissed my son’s reminders to wait for the Mayor’s call, because I was too distracted by worldly lures, represented by the hints of drinking and flirtation on the elevator. But Scripture tells us to be sanctified, or set apart (Romans 15:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11). We should flee temptation (2 Timothy 2:22; 1 Corinthians 10:13) or risk being dragged down to the basement level. The world offers “solutions” to the consequences of succumbing to these temptations, symbolized in the dream by the chlorine in the pool and rituals to improve physical fitness.

But nothing but the blood of Christ can wash away our sins (Revelation 1:5), and for a daily cleansing we need to be washed in the pure, living water (John 4:10-14) of His Word (Ephesians 5:26) that forever quenches our thirst! What a contrast to harsh chlorine that could burn us and yet not protect us from all bacteria and parasites, representing the filthy contaminants in today’s world. The consequences of sin are disease and death, and only Jesus is the cure (Romans 6:21-23). Physical exercise is of little benefit if we are spiritually unfit (1 Timothy 4:8).

Evangelicals often frown upon all dancing, yet there is a distinction between worldly dancing, used as a sexual provocation (Matthew 14:6-9), and dancing as an expression of joy and worship. Approximately two thirds of references to dancing in Scripture are in the context of offering praise to the Lord (Psalm 150:4), as in David dancing before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:14), Miriam rejoicing over God’s deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage (Exodus 15:20-21), and even John the Baptist leaping for joy in the presence of His Savior while he was still in his mother’s womb! (Luke 1:41-44)

Dancing to me is a unique form of human expression because it involves our whole triune being: body, soul and spirit, reflecting the image of God as the Trinity (Genesis 1:26-27), symbolized in the dream by the third floor where the dance was taking place. Once my husband and I were saved, we realized that God had uniquely equipped us through our dancing experience and training to use this art form as a ministry to reach the lost with the Gospel message.

Upon awakening from the dream, I also experienced regret that I was not saved until my son was 10 years old, and that I had therefore missed the potential opportunity of raising him in a Christian environment before then. But praise the Lord, His timing is always perfect (Ephesians 1:10). Thanks be to God that He did give me the opportunity to share the Gospel and Scripture with my son once I was saved, and our son came to know the Lord soon after we did.

Once we are saved, we are seated in heavenly places with Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:3; 2:6), represented in the dream by the lovely penthouse suite He had so graciously provided as a freely given gift. The abundant blessings of clothing and jewelry are reminiscent of our garments of salvation, for the Lord has covered us with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns himself with ornaments, and as a bride with her jewels (Isaiah 61:10).

 
These freely given gifts also reminded me of how the prodigal son was treated when he returned home to his Father (Luke 15:22). Yet, like the prodigal, we often fail to be good stewards (1 Peter 4:10), indicated in the dream by my carelessly leaving these blessings strewn about and unsecured. Praise the Lord, He is faithful (1 Corinthians 1:9; 10:13) even when we are not, and in the dream someone else had locked the door, protecting us from the consequences of my being irresponsible.

The dream reminded me to listen and follow when our Lord calls, to remain in the world and yet not of it by being set apart, and to flee temptation. May we be Godly examples to those He entrusts to our care and good stewards of all the many blessings He has provided, until He comes again!

© 2019 Laurie Collett

Edited and reposted from the archives

Our Old Christmas Tree

 

Photo by Richard Collett 2019

Nearly a decade ago, when we moved into our present home, we decided to decorate for Christmas with a new artificial tree, wider and taller than our previous tree, as our new living room was larger. Setting up the tree was a lengthy project for my dear husband, as he spent hours on his knees removing the individual branches from their cells in a honeycomb-style container. Then he inserted each branch in its own groove on the trunk (which itself first had to be screwed together from its component pieces).

Finally we would look at it from all angles to get it as straight as possible, which meant my husband would lie prone on the floor, the lowest branches scraping his back, while he tweaked the trunk base this way and that in response to my direction.  Then came the lighting, with a key section inevitably burned out once the whole connected string was in place, requiring weeding out the defective chain and reconnecting a new one.

This process took its toll on my husband’s back and knees, not to mention on the tree limbs, which lost needles every time the tree was assembled and disassembled. Over the years, we thought about replacing it with a fresh cut tree, but we felt that a live tree looked and functioned much better in its native environment than in our living room.

Yet each year, the once beautiful and full spruce had more bare spots, with many branch tips brown from the absence of needles. My husband finally cleared out enough space in the lanai closet to store the fully assembled tree strung with lights, so that we could just do the “Christmas tree drag” through the sliders from the lanai to the living room, which was much quicker and easier. But needles still continued to fall because of contact with the tarp covering it while being stored, and because of the many ornaments we hung each year.

We thought about getting another artificial tree, but we found it difficult to justify the expense of a new tree of similar size, fullness and quality. More importantly, so many memories in our new home were inextricably linked to this “new” tree!

Such as the first Christmas we celebrated with the lovely young woman who would soon become our son’s wife! The first Christmas dinner, a succulent Beef Wellington, prepared under the leadership of our son. 

The first Christmas we enjoyed the antics of a canine guest – our son’s and daughter-in-law’s Australian shepherd, as he “herded” the stuffed toy squirrels we gave him, dashing around and around the tree, stopping and starting on a dime, changing direction abruptly, while miraculously knocking no ornaments off the tree!

And, a few years later, a second Aussie, learning the ropes of how to behave around the tree by following the example of his older yet smaller "brother."

Every Christmas we record a short video in front of this tree, recounting the special events of that year, the most memorable gifts, and especially the many blessings for which we thank God and give Him all the glory.

So each year, including this one, we drag the old Christmas tree, always showing its age a bit more, into our living room. It looks sparse and awkward at first, like Charlie Brown’s tree but broader. But soon the bare branches disappear as we fill them with special ornaments, each telling a special story that reflects a precious part of our history.

Some collectible ornaments were given to me by my mother when I was still in college. Others commemorate my rescue dog (rescued from dog lab in medical school!), our first Christmas together, our engagement, our honeymoon in Hawaii, our first Christmas in our new home, our son’s first Christmas, his first apartment. Mementos of our many travels, for dance shows and vacations, from England, Hong Kong, Japan, Italy, Ireland, Switzerland, France, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and so many more.

Our dance ministry history can be read from this tree. Special performances we gave and competitions at the Grand Ol’ Opry, Blackpool Dance Festival, World Swing Dance Championships. And a unique ornament depicting each of the dances we choreographed, to music and themes including O Holy Night, Phantom of the Opera, Christmas Toys Come Alive, Transformed, Bring Him Home, Sun and Moon, and many others!

Our old Christmas tree also reminds me of our senior saints. They may have walked this earth for many years, seen much better times, and lost some hair and teeth along the journey, but their memories, wisdom and experiences are truly irreplaceable. As lights of the world, they shine brightly with the inner radiance of knowing Christ (Matthew 5:14).

Once we are saved by trusting in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:4) as the only Way to Heaven (John 14:6), He enables His perfect will and plan to be accomplished in our lives (Jeremiah 29:11; Philippians 1:6). Only He can transform what is broken, flawed and worn out into a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15) of unique beauty and purpose, for we are His workmanship (Ephesians 2:10).

Our Christmas tree may be old, but when lit and decorated with the colors of the season, it still serves the purpose of praising Him and reminding ourselves and others of the miracle of Christ’s birth – Emmanuel (Matthew 1:23), God with us in the flesh! He came as a lowly Infant (Luke 2:5-7), the sinless Lamb of God (John 1:29), to suffer and die on our behalf (Romans 3:25), that all who trust Him will live forever! (John 3:16)

Only Christ can take our bare frame and adorn it with precious ornaments of Godly virtue, meek and quiet Spirit (1 Peter 3:3-5), fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), the light of His love, and testimonies of His faithfulness and provision through challenges, storms and trials (1 Samuel 7:12). 

May we cherish each of these gifts and call them to remembrance daily, praising Him for the new life He breathes into our old frame. And may we look forward to that day, which I pray and believe will be very soon, when He replaces our tired, aging bodies with glorious resurrection bodies (1 Corinthians 15:42-58), and we shall be as He is!

© 2021 Laurie Collett

Reposted from the archives

God’s Provision and Protection

 

Photo by Richard Collett 2024

My husband Richard and I are blessed to be able to continue in our dance ministry, in the physically demanding style of Theater Arts Ballroom Dance, which combines elements of ballroom and Latin partnership dancing, ballet and contemporary, with overhead lifts, drops, and other strength moves.

Every day we are able to dance is a gift from God, especially given our ages (Richard is 76 and I am 71) and physical limitations. One of our favorite dance ministry verses is therefore Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

While training for a world competition held in the UK in 2000, Richard was suddenly unable to breathe and was diagnosed with a heart condition, for which recommended treatment included exercise to the extent he was able! We competed successfully just 3 weeks after his heart procedure.

In 2017 I was bedridden with pneumonia for 6 weeks, but gradually improved through gentle exercise, singing, and a return to dancing! Four years ago, Richard was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer but responded well to treatment. We were able to perform 3 weeks after his surgery, even though the doctors had predicted 3 months of recovery! God is good! Praise God that His grace is sufficient, His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9), and that with Him, all things are possible! (Matthew 19:26).

Recently we were blessed by an opportunity to bring our dance ministry to a new audience, venue, and state. We submitted a video audition to a senior talent competition in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and were selected from many in-person and video auditions to be one of 12 acts performing, including singers, musicians, comedians, and even a magician!

We were the only dancers, performing to a recording of Christian lyrics I wrote and sang to the song “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Carousel. As it was a full day’s drive to get there, we planned to combine the competition with a mini-vacation and found a reasonably priced AirBnB to rent for several days.

But it seemed that our recreation plans would be foiled by bad weather, as the forecast called for 80% chance of rain and thunderstorms every day we would be there. But thankfully, we had good weather on our trip to Tennessee, no issues with our aging and often ailing vehicle, and light traffic – all answers to specific prayers!.

We were delighted by our accommodations – clean and comfortable, nestled on the side of a hill with privacy, fresh air, and lovely mountain views. Every morning we enjoyed breakfast on the front porch, serenaded by robins, cardinals, mockingbirds, and even a crowing rooster!

As predicted, it rained often while we were there, but never while we were out in it, and we were able to enjoy the many beautiful sights of Chattanooga. Surprisingly, we experienced the unique rock formations and gardens of Rock City with only a few visitors we passed along the trails, rather than the dense crowds we had expected. We had Lookout Mountain practically to ourselves, with its breathtaking views and moving battle monuments.

Again, these were answers to specific prayers. We had almost wondered if it was appropriate to “trouble” God regarding these relatively minor requests, but then remembered the apostle James’ admonition that we have not, because we ask not (James 4:2), and that God delights in giving good gifts to His children (Matthew 7:11).

As thankful as we were for these abundant blessings, our main focus was on the ministry aspect of our trip, with many concerns and hopes that God addressed. Safety is always a priority when we dance in a new venue, as the floor surface can be too slippery, or too sticky, which hinders the speed needed to enter and travel in lifts. Spotlights can be disorienting or even blinding during spinning lifts, increasing the risk of a missed connection or even a fall. Musical equipment or other obstacles in the dancing space can pose their own challenges!

But praise God, the stage floor was painted wood, an ideal surface for our dance shoes. The stage was evenly well lit without spotlights, and the dance space was clear! The crew and volunteers were welcoming, helpful and supportive. When we set out on a mission God has appointed to us, He will provide whatever we need to accomplish it, according to His riches in glory! (Philippians 4:19).

The theater was packed out – 650 enthusiastic spectators. As the newly built, spacious theater was on a Baptist academy campus, it was an inspirational setting because the walls in the lobby were filled with metal plaques and engravings of Bible verses about God being the source of our ability (Philippians 4:13) and about glorifying God in all we do (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Especially uplifting was an unsigned poem handwritten on a dry erase board by the stage entrance, entitled “A Liturgy Before Taking the Stage.” As I don’t know to whom to attribute it (other than to Holy Spirit inspiration) or how to get permission to post it, I will select only a few lines from this poem of many stanzas:

“What have I to offer here that might sustain the souls of others?…O Christ, as I step onto this stage, meet me amidst the wreckage of my ego and my woundedness, and through me give what I alone cannot.…Take this tiny heap of my talents and my brokenness alike…and meld it to the greater work of Your Spirit [so that] Your grace might somehow be revealed upon this stage in whatever gloried and peculiar patterns You have fashioned me to display. Amen.”

Praise God, He answered that prayer to use what He had given us – our talents and our trials -- to bless others and glorify Him! Many of our competitors were brothers and sisters in Christ who also took that poem to heart, and all were extremely talented. Rehearsal went well, with many of the crew, volunteers and competitors expressing their appreciation for our dancing, my singing, and our message. We often replied “Only by the grace of God!”

The actual performance went better technically and expressively than we have ever danced this piece, and it was one of those rare moments of complete immersion in worship through dance. The crowd applauded at lyrics and at lifts portraying the salvation message. One of the judges, herself a dancer and choreographer seeking to glorify God in this art form, gave us a standing ovation, and another judge said he had goose bumps the whole time!

Praise God, if we delight in Him, He will give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4) -- in this case, to glorify Him in our performance!

Three of the four judges gave us a perfect score, and we received second place of the 12 competitors selected from preliminary auditions and video submissions. The cash prize of $500 paid for our AirBnB and was an unexpected blessing! In all aspects, God answered our prayers for this ministry opportunity far beyond what we could even imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

The day after the competition, we had a full day of sightseeing then returned to the AirBnB around 5PM. Around 6PM the internet and power went out, and winds began blowing in a circular pattern, making an eerie sound.

“I hope it’s not a tornado,” Richard said. As if on cue, a tree 4 ft. In diameter and 30 ft. long crashed straight across our driveway, only about 5 feet from our car. It pulled down all the power lines, which also blocked the driveway, broke the sturdy chain link fence, and snapped a telephone pole in the neighbor's yard.

Although the storm left as quickly as it had come, and we thanked God for protecting us, my heart sank as I feared we would be stuck there for weeks, with no power and no way to use our car. When a similar tree blocked the road leading to our beach house after Hurricane Ian, it took a full crew about a month to clear the road.

But amazingly, the AirBnB owner showed up with a chain saw. This wizard with a glorified weed whacker had it all cleared out in a couple of hours – just before dark!

Before he started working, Richard asked him if he was sure the power company had cut the electricity to the downed lines, tangled up in the fallen tree branches. “Oh, I’m sure somebody’s reported it by now,” he replied cavalierly, seemingly unphased by the destruction, by the potential danger, or by the herculean task ahead of him. “I’m surprised this tree was the first to go – I always figured it would be the one right over the house!”

We shuddered contemplating that scenario, especially when he told us that two houses had collapsed just a few streets away. Apparently the storm had indeed been a tornado, as the fallen tree was the only damage on our street, and the rest of the neighborhood had been spared except for the two collapsed houses.

The power was out all night, but it was a strangely relaxing experience. We had enough light to read the Bible out loud and then prayed in bed in the dark, giving praise and thanksgiving for God’s deliverance and prayers for all those affected by the storm and for our safe journey home. The open windows offered a cooling breeze and the soothing sounds of rain and light thunder in the distance.

We had so many praises to God for His protection and provision!  Praise Him that the tree didn't fall on our car, or worse yet, on the house! Thank God we were able to get out the next morning and get home safely, again with good weather, no car issues, and light traffic on the way home!. God is so good, all the time! Praise Him for the many prayer warriors at home and in our church family who stood in the gap for us during our journey and facilitated this unique ministry opportunity!

© 2024 Laurie Collett

Photo by Laurie Collett 2024

Sunlight, Moonlight

 

S

Photo by Michael Clarke Stuff 2012

In April of this year, a total solar eclipse will be visible from many parts of the US, Mexico, and Canada. As this and other "signs in the sky" herald Christ's imminent return, it is a good reminder for Christians to reflect His light in all we say and do. May you enjoy this repost from the archives.

About 18 months ago my husband Richard and I were featured performers at the Coliseum, the beautiful ballroom in St. Petersburg, Florida, in which the dance scenes in the movie “Cocoon” were filmed. Because of a scheduling mixup, we arrived at the venue about two hours earlier than we needed to be there. After we had admired the recent renovations and dramatic new lighting, chatted with the event organizers, laid out our costumes and props, warmed up, and prayed, I grew restless and impatient to perform. Patience is not one of my virtues!

I found myself wondering, “God, why did you bring us here so early? Surely I could have put this time to better use working on my medical writing assignments, paying bills, or preparing next week’s blog or Sunday school lesson. We know that the time is short, and you don’t want us to waste it!”

Just then I recognized a song playing over the loudspeaker as patrons took the floor for general dancing. I hadn’t heard it for years -- it was an instrumental version of “Sun and Moon,” from the musical “Miss Saigon.” I felt God gently prompting me, “This is why you are here early. Write Christian lyrics to this song, and choreograph to it for your next dance ministry piece.”

Humbled and ashamed that I had doubted Him, I quickly answered in my heart, “Yes, Lord.” My mind began to drift to possible lyrics, theme and choreography, when I felt His firm suggestion: “One more thing – use a hoop.”

“A hoop??? You mean a hoop skirt?”

“No, a hoop.” This final thought was so emphatic that I could not dare to disagree, only to ponder how a hoop could possibly be incorporated into a dance by two people doing lifts that are challenging enough on their own, let alone while trying to balance a hoop or pass it back and forth.

I told Richard and he just laughed – nervously, though, for he knew from experience that I would not be easily dissuaded.

With much prayer, trial and error, a few minor injuries, and many bruises and scrapes, the new dance began to take shape, hoop and all, by God’s grace and Holy Spirit inspiration. The theme would be that Jesus Christ is the Light of Heaven, reflecting His light on the believer, who in turn radiates it to the world. To express this theme, the dance would use the symbolism of the sun being the source of light on this planet, and the moon passively reflecting the sun’s rays to illuminate the earth during the darkness of night (Genesis 1:3-5; 14-18).

God is Light, and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). He saved us by His grace (Ephesians 2:8-9) through our faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) as the only Way to Heaven (John 14:6), freeing us from the darkness of our sins (Jeremiah 13:16) to the holy light of His perfect righteousness (Isaiah 50:10; John 3:21; Acts 26:18).

Once we are clothed in His holiness (Job 29:14; Psalm 132:9; Isaiah 61:10), His light can reflect from Him to us, radiating from us so that others can see Him through us. He is the Light of the world (John 1:9; 8:12; 9:5; 11:9; 12:46), and by this process, we are also the light of the world (Matthew 5:14; Philippians 2:15), reflecting His love, truth and holiness to the lost, dark world (John 3:19).

We have no source of light on our own merits, for our self-righteousness is like filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). Rather, we are like an empty vessel or unlit candle (Psalm 18:28) through which His light can burn brightly and illuminate others with His truth (2 Corinthians 4:4-6). If we cease to revolve around Him, and block His light from reaching us because of sins and weights (Hebrews 12:1) that deflect His radiance, we can no longer light the world.

Based on the lyrics and choreography of our dance, the hoop, which in our first practices was a hula hoop, would at times represent the sun, the moon, the light, or the orbit of the moon around the sun. We soon realized it would be far more effective if we could use the hoop as a connection between us and to bear my weight in some of the lifts, rather than just gesturing with it or handing it back and forth.

But we learned quickly that a standard hula hoop is not strong enough for that (even reinforced with duct tape!) and that most sturdier hoops would be too heavy to carry in one outstretched arm.

In His faithfulness and foresight, God had prearranged the solution to these problems. It turned out that a specialty studio involved in hoop design was located right in our neighborhood – who knew?? Clearly God did! I also began weight lifting so that I could more gracefully handle the modified hoop, which weighs about seven pounds.

Despite my training since childhood as a ballet dancer, and our joint experience in ballroom and adagio dancing, neither of us had any acrobatic or gymnastic experience involving any type of apparatus. This is not the sort of experiment one ordinarily attempts for the first time at older ages! But God in His faithfulness (Psalm 89:8; 1 Corinthians 1:9) guided us through all of that as well. Since we have added this dance to our repertoire, I have often joked that now I want to run away and join the circus!

When God calls us to a particular assignment, we need not question our lack of ability, experience, or resources needed to complete the task, for if we obey, He will provide! (Philippians 4:19) He used Moses, a stammerer, to deliver eloquent oratory to Pharaoh to let God’s people go (Exodus 4:10-12). He used David, a shepherd boy who had never been to battle, to slay the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:39-50). He used Noah, whose preaching skills won no converts beyond his own family (Genesis 7:7), to repopulate the earth and his descendants to give rise to different races (Genesis 9:1, 18-19).

Joshua realized that age was no barrier when God promised him a great land even though He had just reminded him that he was “old and stricken in years” (Joshua 13:1). God answered Abraham and Sarah’s prayers for a child when they were both ancient, and after more than a two decade wait since He had first promised (Genesis 18:10-12) that their child would give rise to a great nation!

God does not look for our ability, but our availability to fulfill His perfect plan for our lives. May we listen for His still, small voice (1 Kings 19:12), quickly obey, and trust Him to equip us for His battle and make a way to complete His mission! May we be His light in the world until that day when neither sun nor moon are needed, for His glory alone (Isaiah 60:19; Revelation 21:23; 22:5) will illuminate the new heavens and new earth!

© 2016 Laurie Collett

Reposted from the archives

Get Up and Go!

Elijah and the Angel of the Lord

 

As the old joke goes, “My get up and go has got up and went!”

What should we, as Christians, do when discouragement and defeat make us want to give up our ministries?

My husband Richard and I were reading our daily devotionals when we came to an anecdote about Catherine Marshall, dedicated missionary and prolific Christian writer. In her later years, she had come to the point where she felt exhausted and unable to continue, to the point that she felt she had to give up writing.

This brought tears to her eyes, knowing that her Spirit-inspired words had helped so many people and had brought her such intense satisfaction. Through much prayer, she felt God’s confirmation that it was not time to abandon her God-given gift, and that He would give her strength to continue.

Richard expressed confusion over her decision, admitting that he too had struggled at times with wanting to give up our dance ministry. “I’m old; I’m tired; and my body doesn’t want to do what it used to. I’m thankful for the gift God gave me to be able to dance for His glory, but if I’m not able to dance as powerfully as I used to, then I feel that maybe it’s no longer to His glory.”

I reassured him that even though we were older and perhaps less capable in the natural than we were in previous years, that it wasn’t about our ability, but about God’s strength being made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). I reminded him that we have been encouraged in our recent performances when people of all ages, even strangers, told us that they were inspired and moved by our dancing and its Christian message.

God always chooses unlikely candidates to fulfill His purposes. Moses was a stutterer whom God chose to speak to Pharaoh and convince him to liberate God’s people (Exodus 4:10-12; 3:10). Noah was a drunkard whom God chose to repopulate the planet after the great flood (Genesis 9:20-21; 10:1). Ruth was a pagan who not only turned to the one true God, but whom God chose to be an ancestor of Jesus Christ (Ruth 1:4,16; Matthew 1:5-16).

It is not unusual for God’s people to get discouraged and want to give up, even in the midst of great spiritual victory. Elijah overthrew the false prophets of Baal by challenging them to a contest with the one true God, Who brought down heavenly fire on a water-soaked altar (1 Kings 18:21-40).

Shortly thereafter, intimidated by Jezebel’s threat to kill Him, Elijah wanted to give up. But God led him to a quiet, shaded spot and told him to have a snack, take a nap, then get up and go! (1 Kings 19).

The apostle Paul admitted that he would actually choose death over life, because it would immediately transport him to eternity with his beloved Lord and Savior. Yet he knew that would be a selfish choice, because it would deprive his converts and new churches of his leadership and inspiring example (Philippians 1:20-26).

So he persevered, knowing that God’s strength was made perfect in His weakness, and that His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9).

“Yes, but Paul didn’t have to do overhead lifts!” Richard protested.

“True, but he did have to endure shipwreck, storms, near drowning, severe beatings, jail, and nearly being stoned to death,” I countered. (2 Corinthians 11:23-27). “Still feel like complaining?”

Richard inspires me because of how God has used him in our dance ministry despite what many would consider as strikes against him in the highly demanding area of Theatre Arts dancing. He had no formal dance training until he took his first dance lesson at age 40. He has a spinal condition that prevented him from combat duty, and a heart condition that gave us quite a scare when he suddenly became short of breath while in the midst of a strenuous training session.

And yet, God had an amazing plan – the doctor told him that the best way to prevent further episodes was to continue high-intensity training – particularly overhead lifting!

Decades later, now a cancer survivor who had three years of treatment known to reduce muscle mass and strength, Richard continues to partner me in our dance ministry – only by the grace of God! 

After a cancer procedure with usual recovery time of 6 weeks or more before resuming even light activity, Richard performed beautifully with me in a benefit for the American Cancer Society, 3 weeks to the day from the procedure! Praise God for His empowering grace!

Once we are saved by trusting in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) as the only Way to Heaven (John 14:6), God has a Divine purpose for each of us, which He determined from before the beginning of time (Ephesians 2:10). If we don’t give up, we will reap many rewards, if not in this lifetime, then once we hear Him say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21, 23).

May we get up and go, run with patience the race that is set before us (Hebrews 12:1), and keep on keeping on until the day we hear the last trumpet (1 Corinthians 15:52) or He calls us home!    

© 2023 Laurie Collett