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.

Serve the Children

by Macy Johnson

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

(3 John 4 NIV)

Bible Study Fellowship met Wednesday mornings at Shades Mountain Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. I was the Secretary, maintaining membership rolls and assisting with class administration.

One day my husband came home from work and announced, “You need to get a job!” Three years of being a stay-at-home mom was skidding to an abrupt halt. No more Newcomers’ Club, no more party bridge, no more tennis, no more school volunteer. I returned to the world of checks and balances.

God's Instrument

by Macy Johnson

“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”

(Matthew 5:42 NIV)

The piano is my instrument. I am God’s instrument. He coats my mind and the piano’s stretched strings with tones to bless others and point them to Him. 

Every time I look down at black and white keys I confess, “Lord, I cannot do this. Please do it through me.” I don’t understand how it works, how He meticulously deposits harmonious vibrations into His creation. It’s a mystery. He gets all the glory.

Bless This House

by Macy Johnson

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”

(Proverbs 16:3 NIV)

Bible verses are inscribed on the wooden frames of our new house. God’s words above doorways and windows, hidden under sheet-rock and paint, remind my husband and me who the ultimate property-owner is.

Our new home took 3 years, 3 sets of drawings and 3 builders to complete. We had our plans, our timetable, but God had something better in mind.