Hope instilled in hearts
is believing for things once
thought impossible,
but God assures us, by faith
we’ll see His promise fulfilled.
_________________
Joyce Mannhalter © Feb. 2022
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1 NIV
A declaration
Of Love is remembered more,
Not with eloquent
Words or gifts, but by honest
Expressions and selfless heart.
_______________
Joyce Mannhalter © 2022
The air I breathe I don’t discount
with each breath through lungs unseen,
My sight though weakened and dimming be
transfixed upon your works I see,
your boundless grace embraces me
and I hold fast to what is mine,
what you proclaimed and declared over me
that which sets me apart, and sets me free,
your greatness, your power, your word, your truth
all that you are, the great ‘I Am’
I lift up your name,
and praise to thee.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joyce E. Mannhalter (C) Nov. 2021
___________________
John 6:33, NIV, “Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life, He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.”
I John 1:5, NIV, “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you, God is light. In Him there is no darkness at all.”
____________________
The above scriptures speak of a spiritual hunger and thirst for truth and righteousness. We live in a world of darkness and see the despair on the faces and in the lives of people everywhere, but we can have and be the light to those who don’t know the Savior sent to bring us light and salvation.. As we enter into a new season of Thanksgiving, I am always mindful of what all I have to be grateful and thankful for, but it is not just the season for thanks, but each and every day of my life I am amazed at the blessings poured out on me, my family and the ways God shows up and shows out in our lives to do His work and that of the Holy Spirit’s of healing, grace and forgiveness. His declarations spoken over our life brings wholeness, completeness and a reward not found in anything else. I hope He is real to your life as well, and you are blessed this Thanksgiving and the coming days into Christmas. Blessings to all this Thanksgiving season. JEM
When the furry of a storm subsides,
waves once thrashing the shore
are now just ripples in low coming tides,
the wind grows quiet, and clouds yield to the sun,
and you breathe a weary sigh,
thankful the end is nigh.
You remember God’s promise that
peace comes in the midst of a storm,
and peace that reigns in the soul.
_________________
Joyce E Mannhalter © (August 2021)
John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you, let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Footnotes: After taking a much-needed break and rest these last several months after my own bout with Covid and other health related issues I am once again back at my computer writing and blogging again for which I am so thankful and grateful to God who has blessed and helped me through my own storms. It is that peace that assures me that whatever my storm is I am going through he gives me grace and mercy through it all. JEM
Just days before election
I’m standing at the door
Passing out the candy
To spooks, gooks, and more
With my early ballot cast
I’m thinking to myself
What a year it has been
And It happened all so fast
With my bowl full of treats
For little tricksters, costumed and masked
I greet them all with smiles
Holding their bags full of sweets
And I think and I pray
What will life be like
For us all this time next year?
After another Election Day?
Will it be a mixed bag full of promises made?
Or all we expect or hoped it to be?
Or will it be full of tricks or treats?
But who knows? The future we cannot see.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joyce E. Mannhalter (Oct. 2020)
When everything seems wrong
When life and all that we know
Spins out of control
And we look to those to lead
Us forward and yet we doubt.
We live with our fears
While the news brings death and tears
How is one to cope
For what may come tomorrow?
Are their answers? Is there hope?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joyce E. Mannhalter © July 2020
“Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths,
guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:4&5 NIV
This day in time history books will note
the chaos and destruction reigned down
on a country rife with hate, bigotry and strife,
when a unified spirit formed
to move things forward in a new direction
cannot stand with discord ripping factions apart,
weakening its statutes and laws enforced,
laws made to protect and preserve a sacred constitution
written for a nation that came together
birthed by patriots who firmly believed
that a country made strong
was a country destined never to fall,
and the song, “God Bless America” should include, “God Help America!”
Will we make it through tough times
together as one body, or apart, divided in the quest?
Or will it be a pivoting moment in time
when we watch with despair at its further decline?
Will we only stand and sing?
“America. land of the free and home of the brave”?
Or will we fall to our knees and pray
that those are not just words to a song,
but seek our creator who forgives us our wrong?
In spite of our misgivings and mistakes
will He not still bless and keep His word?
Will He not cry also, tears of heartache and pain
because He was not invited in,
to guide us through these times
when our country teeters on a precipice to survive?
Have we become just a country
trying to hold it together, hurting on this pivoting day?
What kind of legacy will we leave behind to make it great again?
Will we welcome God back in?
__________________
Joyce E. Mannhalter © July 2020
A fresh wind of God
Is sweeping across the earth
With hearts turned toward prayer
Beseeching a risen Christ
Seeking help to heal their land
______________
Joyce E. Mannhalter © April 2020
With much of the U.S. – and elsewhere s around the world – in an isolated lock down mode we find ourselves vulnerable in many ways. We’re staying home, with our family more, closeted in ways where we were so free to move around, get out and enjoy the things we took for granted. The need for isolation to protect us all from the spread of Covid-19 has given us a new norm in how we have needed to adjust, to be creative even in making memorable moments with our family and loved ones. That is some of the good we are seeing. We are also seeing a new spiritual hunger in the world. People want hope, healing and assurance that we will get through this. People are wanting to touch base with their roots. when family time and attending church services together was important to them.
There are videos, and clips of media shown and shared of the ways families and friends are reconnecting with the required social distancing, sharing creative ways, making new memories, via of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. People are connecting in new ways coming together with a common strength and unity. People are seen on their knees in prayer, attending church services online and contributing in ways to help provide for others in need. As we come into this Easter weekend to celebrate the resurrection of a risen Christ it need not be less a celebration because we cannot be together in a group or church setting, but more of one where we draw strength from one another even though apart physically. I believe this is a divine plan of God to allow us all a time of renewing our mind and hearts, a time that reminds us all that we are stronger as one, united in ways that enrich us all.
“If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” II Chronicles 7:14 NIV
I pray God’s richest blessings on you and yours this Easter season and holiday however you may spend it, whether by watching a church service online or time spent with family members at home.
JEM
When frustrations mount,
Your patience and faith tested,
You have no control;
All you know is to worry.
Give it to God, and let go!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joyce E. Mannhalter © March 2020
Have you ever felt like this? You don’t understand what or why things happen in your life, or in the world that leaves you frustrated and worrying. You wonder what good can come out of a situation that has gone awry and out of control. But, when we let go of our fears, our worries, our hold on what consumes our thoughts and takes up residence in our mind, body and soul, we can experience a kind of peace that brings instead joy, contentment and assurance that all will work out for our good and according to God’s plan and purpose. Putting all our cares on Him and trusting Him in all that goes on in our life and in the world frees us from the bondage that the enemy, Satan uses to deceive, manipulate and control what we give him access and license to. Letting go of the fears that cripple us from experiencing all that God has for us and what He can do in and through us means using ‘Spiritual Warfare’ (God’s word) against our enemy’s attacks. Two scriptures I love that can help us find that help and peace of mind in these situations are found here,
Psalm 34:4, “I sought the Lord, and he answered me: he delivered me from all my fears.”
John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.” NIV
JEM
As the sun crept into view
across the still, dark Eastern sky
I stood watching in awe His creation
as shades of pink and orange yellowed hues
merged like fingers across the high.
The dawning of a new day,
Painted by the finger of God,
and I thought how wondrous His works of art.
And I wondered all the things He can do
with a picture not yet finished, like the canvas of my life
with all its imperfections, sins and flaws
marring the obstructed view
But the Master Artist created in me
not a perfect canvas, but one like a new day’s dawn
that would be touched by the strokes of the Master,
an image of Him made new.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joyce E. Mannhalter © 2020
Lake McConaughy, Ogallala, Nebraska
When at the end of the day
the sun sets and I watch
amazed as it slowly sinks
lower in the skies
as if bowing to its creator,
warm rays kissing rippled waters
my reverent heart too, bows to His greatness and power
and I marvel at the things He instills into my searching soul
the ways He is teaching me, helping me
through the storms in life,
sustaining me, lifting me,
encouraging me, strengthening me.
When I am weak, though I fail, I will not fall.
He’s there, and I rest assured
that though I know not
what a new tomorrow brings
I know He shelters me in His arms of grace.
_______________
Joyce E. Mannhalter © Sept. 2019
“May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.” II Thessalonians 2:16 & 17. NIV
Accepting failure
For the unattainable
can move us forward
~~~
To strive instead for
What is attainable now
That which is in reach
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In Philippians, chapter 3, verses 12-16 Paul was addressing the church of Philippi about the highest goal of which we can all attain, that being the one called by God; to live according to His plan, for His glory not of our own flesh and earthly desires but of that which brings Him the glory for what he can do through us and in us. We may work hard and diligently at things that are self-seeking, things we want for ourselves, our goals and dreams for those that we think will bring happiness, success and gain. But what is not sanctioned, blessed and directed of and by God can only bring failure, dissatisfaction, and a searching for truth and reward. Only that which God offers can bring what we need and ultimately want to have; what no man or anything on this earth can take away or destroy, that which is called the “highest goal,” the “prize of the high calling of God” that Paul speaks about. To press on, to attain that goal is the easy and best part, but to work at being what God has called us to be requires commitment, dedication and is not self-seeking, but the reward is eternal. So many times I have worked and sought to bring about a result of self-satisfaction and gain for myself in what I have tried to do as a writer, or at anything I felt led to do on my own, only to fail at attempts that proved we are nothing without God and can only move forward by His grace and know a real peace that only He can bring. It is not what the world can give or anyone else but only through Him we have that which is the highest of goals attainable.
“Only let us live up to what we have already attained.” Philippians 3:16 NIV
Joyce E. Mannhalter © August 2019
Gone, the last of winter’s final blast
of cold bitter winds and snows now passed,
I look out my window and see the sun
and welcome the warmer days to come
my heart is joyful for what is new,
the air, fresh and sweet with fragrant blooms
the smallest pleasures are the most enjoyed;
a splash of color in a small bouquet,
and scented candle to brighten my day,
a time to plan, and a time to plant,
to usher in a new season this way.
_________________________
Joyce E. Mannhalter May, 2019
I have two of the most thoughtful, loving daughters anyone could wish for. They have cried and laughed with me, loved me through the worst of times, supported me, and helped me adjust and get settled in a new place after my move last year. When I recently had a birthday my youngest girl brought me this little bouquet. We went out to dinner as a family that night and I was so thankful and grateful for all the ways God has provided for me and blessed me with good kids and grandkids. They are not perfect and I was not a perfect mom. No one is. But to see how they have turned out I am confident I did a few things right.
As Mother’s Day approaches I hope and pray for all the mothers, young and old out there that God will pour out His blessings and riches on all, for there is no greater calling or responsibility than being a mother. I pray they have guidance, wisdom, courage and strength.
Wishing you all a happy spring and a happy Mother’s Day out there to all moms, grandmothers , young and old.
JEM
The Sea of Galilee, Tiberias, Israel, May, 2001 photo credit: Joyce (Johnson) Mannhalter
The Galilee, quiet, cold and still
but for the ripples under a bright orange sky
lies in mournful praise. It was here
where once they’d gathered sharing life,
they’d fished and prayed,
but now the sea is silent like His grave.
as the sun sets, its reflections seen
over what looks like a stained glass sea
merging colors of purple, crimson red
for the bruised and broken Son of God,
the crucified Christ who suffered and bled.
Now their boats sit idly by with empty nets drawn in and dry.
His disciples aren’t here, gone to mourn their loss,
the Messiah, Savior Lord, whom they followed to His death.
the One who stilled the storm and taught
from a boat about faith, and hope
and how to believe for miracles received.
Did He not promise he’d return one day?
And find them again before going away
to reign with His Father and they would know
that what He said, He would do,
and that in His place would the Comforter come too?
So they left their nets and boats to moor
on the Sea of the Galilean shore.
_________________________
Joyce E. Mannhalter – April, 2019
The story of the Sea of Galilee and Jesus’s disciples can be found in the scripture passages here below: Matthew, 8: 23-27, chapters 14: verses 22-32, and chapter 17: 22 & 23. The promise Jesus made to his disciples of the Comforter (the Holy Spirit) that would come after he went away (after the resurrection) can be found in these scriptures here: John 14:16, 26, 15:26 & 27,and in chapter 16: verse 7. His promise made then for them and for all is the same today, and always. We have the assurance that whatever we face in life with all the challenges, the problems, the good, the bad and the ugly we have the assurance that our Redeemer lives, is still on the throne, and we will be comforted and shown grace and mercy. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today and forever.” KJV
Happy Easter to all,
JEM
Where corn grows ready waiting the harvest
and granaries are tall white towers
stretching upwards into bright skies.
Where trees, large and twisted
their bark like wrinkles baked in the sun,
with heavy foliage on hanging branches
bow low to the ground now covered in leaves,
and busy little squirrels scurrying around.
The sound of trains rumbling down the tracks,
the blast of a noon day whistle heard,
with the semis and tractors sharing the road
between quaint shops that line the street;
a bank, a post office, grocery and gas pump.
Are all beginning to feel more like home.
_________________
Joyce E. Mannhalter © Oct. 2018
Sunset over Lake McConaughy, Ogallala, Ne.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My soul longs for a tranquil place,
filled with still and quiet peace where a bird’s joyful song
is a moment not taken for granted, but seized,
times when God shows mercy and grace,
and I feel His presence commanding my space,
like the sun’s warm rays stretched over still waters,
and the wind that sends ripples across the lake.
It is with searching heart I gaze into the skies
knowing the testing of my faith
implores a renewed and courageous strength,
so I’ll not doubt His word, but trust
Him in those things I don’t understand
regardless the outcome, whatever it be
for I know that He does have a purpose and plan,
and my life and future secure in His hands.
______________
Joyce E. Johnson © 2018
If I could behold scarred hands and face
and feet where nails pierced through were placed
I would ask, “How could you love me so very much,
to carry the weight of my sins to the cross,
and die that I might have new life
while suffering such an agonizing sorrowful death?”
But, he replied with scarred hands to my face
and with eyes reflecting the tears in my own,
“You see my child, there will be times
when you will suffer your own pain and loss,
and I will be there to comfort you.
I’ll not forsake you. You’ll not be alone.”
It is what I know He does for me now,
enfolding me in His arms of grace.
__________________
Joyce E. Johnson (2018)
There are times when we need an unshakable trust in the Savior to get us through turbulent storms in life, when we don’t know what to do, and need His comfort and grace. But, He is there, always, and hears our every prayer, and knows our every need. In John 20:29 Jesus said, “Because you have seen me you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” And, in II Corinthians 12:9 Jesus says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” NIV
JEJ
It is not measured
by gifts great or small,
or acts of kindness
expressed one day alone,
but by choosing to live
a selfless life, with a heart
that does not seek
to take what he deserves not,
but to give back what another needs;
it is that which God call’s love.
________________________
Joyce E Mannhalter (Johnson) Feb. 2018
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not self-seeking. It is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrong. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” I Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV This is called the ‘Love chapter’ by many bible scholars. I love this scripture passage as it teaches us how to love unselfishly, the kind that gives back, not expects to receive, a good lesson in life.
JEMJ
A view of Longs Peak and mountain range in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, Dec. 2017
Let the fury of fierce winds blow
across the frozen tundra plains
and winter’s bitter chill
turn to mist that hovers still.
How soon might I see
tender shoots unfolding upon the dew?
Hidden now they’re cloaked in nature’s own dark room
waiting patiently to bloom,
and tender blades of grass
that peek from beneath the thawing earth,
and skies with a bright warm sun
promise spring is soon to come.
_______________
Joyce E. Johnson © 2018
THERE ARE TIMES
There are times in life when weariness comes,
when things seem off; they’re just not right,
when I wake to clouds, and my skies turn gray.
God seems too silent even though I pray,
my heart keeps knocking on heaven’s door
seeking access to His throne, beseeching His grace.
I know He hears my imploring voice,
but think He’s neglecting his child that cries.
Then I sense a quiet spirit arise
calming my quivering anxious pleas
and I hear him say, “My child
I’m here, I’ve not gone away,
I’ll not leave you. Trust me today.”
_______________
Joyce E. Johnson (C) 2018
A psalm of David; “Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.” Psalm 9:10 (NIV) When David’s enemies pursued him he became weary from the fight, running from Saul, his persecutor and those sent to kill him. Sometimes we become weary from the fight of holding tight what we don’t want to lose; things that we feel secure us and our future. It challenges our faith, weakens our resolve and we are vulnerable. But, God says to trust Him and he will lift that load from off us, and take on our problems and cares and deliver us from fighting an uphill battle that we cannot win ourselves. He says in I Peter 5:7, “Cast all your anxiety on him because He cares for you. ” (NIV)
JEJ
Reflections 