Eternal Connections

by Macy Johnson

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”

(1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV)

A new year dawned. In my early morning devotions I asked God, “What is your “word” for me for the year ahead?” It came loud and clear: Connections.

As the new year’s days progressed, I re-connected with my childhood best friend on Facebook and my brother and cousins at our aunt’s memorial service. My biological half-sister flew across the country to solidify our new-found relationship, conceived through a DNA test.

Rescuing Chelsea

by Macy Johnson

“If you see your brother’s donkey or his ox fallen on the road, 
do not ignore it. Help him get it to its feet.”

(Deuteronomy 22:4 NIV)

Sunday afternoon is my favorite time of the week.

After playing the piano for the weekly worship service I relax and read. On our dock with a library book I sensed my husband’s footsteps rapidly approaching. He handed me his heavy binoculars and inquired, “What do you see out there?”

Angels on the Water

by Macy Johnson

“He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters.”

(Psalm 18:16 NIV)

In the summer of 1988, when our children were 4 and 2, long-time friends came from Louisiana to enjoy the Blue Angels’ air show.

Pensacola Beach was crowded, the warm water inviting, and the clear, blue sky promised a spectacular display of aerial acrobatics. Jeff and I lived 30 minutes from the beach. I swam in the Gulf of Mexico all my life, cognizant of its dangers as well as any other Floridian.

Living With the Weeds

by Macy Johnson

“Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.”

(Matthew 13:30 NIV)

Spring has sprung in our yard. 

From a distance the front lawn appears to be immaculate, but up close is another story. Crabgrass, Dallisgrass and other uninvited plants are taking hold and basking in the sun alongside our struggling Bermuda grass.

The Fruit of the Spirit

by Macy Johnson

“A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.”

(Matthew 7:18 NIV)

What does a “fruit inspector” do? 

I googled to learn Agricultural Commodities Inspectors are trained to ensure only the best produce is delivered to the consumer. In order to protect the public from tainted crops they collect samples for testing, verify the sanitation of production facilities, weigh, grade, seal and label products.

God's Puzzle Pieces

by Macy Johnson

“Peter jumped to his feet and ran to the tomb. He stooped to look in and saw a few grave clothes, that’s all. He walked away puzzled, shaking his head.”

(Luke 24:12 MSG)

Do you ever shake your head and feel “puzzled” like Peter? 

You think the best next steps are in front of you, but something’s not right, something’s out of place. Peter expected Jesus’ body to be in the tomb, but it wasn’t.

Sing a New Song

by Macy Johnson

“And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders.”

(Revelation 14:3a NIV)

Sing new songs to celebrate new revelations of His glory.

“Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth.”

(Isaiah 42:10a NIV)

A little over thirty years ago I received a phone call from a dear friend who sang in the high school chorus with me. 

John Jones announced, “I’ve put together a new singing group with several friends from school and would like you to accompany us.” Gigs were lined up and I enthusiastically accepted. We promptly prepared several pieces to perform, including John’s personal favorite, “I’ll Fly Away.” He made a special point to let everyone know it was his favorite gospel song.