APRIL 2024 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
As most of you know, Andy and I were on vacation in February and March. We went to a local church this past Sunday and the message was so awesome I thought I would share it with you. The scripture is in Matthew 25:14-30. In summary, a rich man was going on a journey and called his servants and entrusted to them his property. To one he gave 5 talents, to another 2 talents, and to yet another 1 talent. The first two servants invested their money and doubled it in value. The third servant hid his for fear of losing it. When the master returned, he was pleased with the two servants that had doubled their investment but chastised the one that had hidden his.
Many interpretations exist for this passage of Scripture in Matthew. Some see it as a monetary lesson only. One interpretation is that Jesus is referring to the talents that God gives each of us. Since this is a parable – a story that God uses to teach us a lesson – it can have multiple interpretations. I choose to see it as how we use the gifts or “talents” that God gives each of us.
The first question is “What has God given you?”
A musical talent, a gift of compassion, wealth? Consider that everything we have is a gift from God.
Second question “What are you doing with it?”
Are you hiding your talent as the 3rd servant did or are you using it and sharing it with others?
Third question “Are you ready for His return?”
Just as the rich man returned and held the servants accountable for what they did with their talents, so God will return, and we will be held accountable for how we used what we were given.
Fourth question “What will HE say to you?”
When the rich man returned, he praised the 2 servants that had used their talents by saying “Well done good and faithful servant” but to the third He called him slothful and said He would give his talents to the ones that had used theirs.
We all have been given gifts by God. HE expects us to use them and not hide or let them sit.
May you all have a blessed April as we go into spring and see God’s beauty as it emerges from a long winter.
MARCH 2024 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
I was recently reminded that Daylight Savings Time will be March 10 this year. I hate time change and have for years wanted us to stay on the same time year-round. A friend suggested that it is all about change in our lives and that some handle change better than others.
I realized that I sometimes struggle with change. Unfortunately, life is all about change….in fact, it is a certainty. Growing up and becoming an adult, decisions about our careers, marriage, children, becoming empty nesters, retirement and entering a different phase of life, the death of a spouse or loved one, a medical diagnosis that changes our lives……the list goes on forever.
So, how do you cope with change? I handle small changes fairly well but the big changes, that is another story. It also seems to matter whether it is for the positive or the negative. I am struggling to age with grace. So many changes to deal with as we live our lives. Change can be scary. Once we adapt to one change, another quickly follows.
God has given us ways to cope with change and become more adaptable. Several Scriptures come to mind. Psalm 119:115 “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
The scriptures remind me that God goes before me, so HE knows what I am going to experience before it happens. He will stay with me and will not leave. I can lean on Him and not be afraid or discouraged. His Word shines a light on my path so I can see what to do and where to go. I can go to Him in prayer and ask for His help.
As you go through the different changes of life, allow God to shine His word on your path so that you can see where to go. Ask Him to help you.
May God bless you all above your expectations. Do not be overwhelmed with change but allow God to help you get through and look for His blessings along the way.
FEBRUARY 2024 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
I have been a bit overwhelmed lately. A month ago I fell out of my car. My left leg made it, but my right foot got caught on the floor mat and I fell with all my weight on my left knee. I was unable to walk, and the pain was not fun. Then, I learn that my middle daughter is planning on moving out of the state taking my two grandchildren along. Now I am struggling to get my energy back from having a nasty upper respiratory infection.
A good friend sent me an email this morning. It spoke to my depressed and overwhelmed heart. Psalm 31:7 “I will be glad and rejoice in YOUR unfailing love, for YOU have seen my troubles, and YOU care about the anguish of my soul”.
God cares about the anguish of my soul!! He cares about you also and the things that are causing you anguish. HE loved you so much that HE sent HIS one and only son to die for your sins that you might spend eternity with HIM, free of pain and anguish! Such good news!
February is the month we celebrate Valentines Day, showing our love to one another. As we show love to one another, let’s not forget that God loves us more than we could possibly love anyone. His love is everlasting – it never runs out. His love is unfailing – it never lets you down. His love is faithful – it is always with you. His love is perfect – it has no ulterior motive.
Only God can love you in a perfect way. Accept HIS perfect love and receive eternal life.
Have a wonderful February and stay warm!!
JANUARY 2024 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
As I write this I am hurting because I sat on the floor for several hours watching the grandchildren open gifts. My head is hurting because they were screaming and playing. My fingers are tired from going through 3 rolls of tape wrapping the gifts that were opened in seconds. I’ve spent hours in the kitchen for several holiday meals (with one more to go) and I am really in need of a couple of days off the merry-go-round. Did I enjoy the holidays? You bet I did!! I loved it all – but after everything is over and reality sets in, I realize I just need to do nothing for oh, maybe a week or two!! I’m sure you have never felt that way (smile).
The new year is upon us. I don’t make resolutions, but I do look forward to a new year, a fresh start. I get excited to see what this new year will bring. A review of 2023 reminds me the changes a year can bring – some good, some painful. I am hopeful that 2024 will bring more blessings than heartaches.
Where do I get this hope? Psalms 33:20-22 “We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His Holy name. May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you.”
We live in a world with great uncertainty. Our nation is in turmoil, as are many other places in the world. God is the constant in life. He never changes and He only wants the best for His children. He has a heavenly home prepared for us. I am not afraid and I pray you aren’t either.
May you all find peace and hope this year. None of us have a perfect life as we are not perfect people, but God is always there to lean on, to talk to, and to love us no matter our faults.
Look forward to this new year that God has given and let Him be your living hope.
Love and hugs to all.
DECEMBER 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
Acts 20:35 “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said; ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’.”
As we approach the Christmas season I frequently remember a time in my childhood when my dad suggested us kids forfeit a gift so that we could financially afford to provide a few gifts for a family with little kids that had nothing. We agreed to this and my dad let us help buy gifts and also help anonymously deliver them to this man’s front door step on Christmas eve. It was truly a “hit and run” as my dad sat the bag on the front step and then made it back to the car before the man opened the door. I can still remember sitting in the dark car watching the man’s face and his puzzled look as he picked up the bag and took it into his house. I had such a rush of emotions as it sunk in to my 10 year old head that we had just provided for some children that would have been disappointed on Christmas morning. Such an impression that it is still vivid 67 years later. I learned the meaning of the above scripture at a young age.
As we approach this season let us be mindful that we are truly a blessed group and remember those that have little to nothing. Christmas is about the birth of God’s only son Jesus. What a beautiful gift God gave us.
There are those in our midst that struggle during this holiday season. Many struggle with financial problems, the loss of a loved one, poor health, or being estranged from family. Please reach out during this time and offer encouragement, a meal, or to share in your own family traditions. Let’s also remember our Jewish friends as they celebrate Hanukkah. Hanukkah is a time when Jews celebrate the rededication of the temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean revolt. Candles are lit, gifts are given, prayers are said. Israel is under attack now and need our prayers and caring.
May all of you have a wonderful holiday celebration with family and friends, No matter the circumstance we all have much to thank God for.
NOVEMBER 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
November can be a busy month for many. Preparations for Thanksgiving and feeling the need to prepare for Christmas that is coming quickly in December can make the most organized of us feel hurried. I love the story from the Bible of Mary and Martha as it puts things in perspective for me.
Luke 10:38-42 “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparation that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me’. ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her’. “
I don’t think that Jesus was telling Martha that her work and preparation wern’t important but that she had her priorities wrong. A spotless house, a perfect meal with all the trimmings, all these things are great but spending time with friends and family, or spending time alone giving thanks to God for your many blessings, is the “better” way.
This year may be the time to put more importance on being thankful for what we “have” instead of what we “don’t have”. Many in our group are alone, some still have large families close by, and some are struggling with health issues. Make this a time of year for the “better” way – that of thanksgiving for the many things that God does give us…..good friends, a place to live, food to eat. Make your own list of things you are thankful for.
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be about what the world tells us it’s about. God tells us to be thankful “in” all things. We can do that. For me, I am thankful for a God that cares for me, provides for me, and loves me without condition. This gives me peace no matter the circumstance. Let Him give you peace and a thankful heart this year.
AUGUST 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
God gave us the 10 commandments. If everyone abided by them the world would be very different.
“Thy shalt not covet” is probably the hardest one for me. It is easy for me to look around and see the
talents and accomplishments of others and wish for them.
God taught me a powerful lesson about this commandment. I had a neighbor that had the most
beautiful lawn. It was lush green, no weeds, no brown spots, perfectly manicures, and when you looked
at it you could almost feel your bare feet sink into it. My lawn wasn’t bad. It was green and we did try
to keep the weeds at bay, but ours was not like my neighbors. One year there was a sale sign on the
house. The house sold. Winter came, and when spring came the grass did look beautiful. It didn’t have
that “lush” look to it, but it was wonderful. By midsummer I started to notice a few weeds peeking
through and it had some brow spots that looked like they needed some TLC. By the next summer, the
lawn looked like everyone else’s. My take-away was that it took lots of hard work to create that lawn. If
I put in the same work, I might have the same results.
Our human tendency is to think that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. Truth is, we all
struggle with the same things. We all have “weeds” in our lives that need to be pulled. We all need to
be “fed” by filling our lives with positive things and reading the word of God. We all have areas of our
life that dry out and need attention and nurturing.
Take time this August to pull the weeds that need to be pulled, water the dry spots in your life, and feed
on the Word of God. Take care of your body, nurture your soul and spirit, and seek to be a blessing to
others.
JUNE 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
For those of you who know me, you know I love to read. I just finished reading a book about a holocaust survivor. He said that while he was in Auschwitz that the big question was “Is there a God?” No one had the answer. Somebody said maybe there never was a God. Someone else said maybe there once was a God but He resigned. Someone else said He’s not paying attention to us anymore. He said the answer became clear once he was liberated and had a job that required him to take an airplane trip.
It was a rainy, cloudy day. The plane took off and it went up into the clouds, and then it got over the clouds – and the sun was shining. He said it was a beautiful day above the clouds, and that reminded him that God was always there. He was telling him “I’m up here”. In that one split second, he was reminded that God never left.
As for me, I have times when I feel God’s presence almost as if He were standing next to me. Other times I wonder why I can’t feel His presence as much. The Bible tells us that God never leaves us nor forsakes us. Many times when God feels far away, it is us that moved away – God is still there. He always will be.
We live in a sinful world and it can be difficult to stay connected to God yet He tells us in Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”.
Life can have its tough times but we have a loving God that is willing to carry our burden and give us rest. I need that in my life.
I pray you all have a wonderful June as we enjoy some of that beautiful Colorado summer weather! Enjoy God’s beauty in this season.
April 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
It’s spring! My favorite time of the year. I love planting flowers and watching them grow and enjoying their beauty as I sit on my back patio.
Many years ago I remember that we had an unusually gloomy spring. It was cloudy and cool most of the time. It took what seemed like forever for the warm sunny days to come.
I noticed that even though I had planted my flowers that they just didn’t grow very well. They were smaller and the blooms were few. It finally occurred to me that plants have to have sunlight to grow and thrive. As summer progressed and the sunlight returned so did the beauty of my flowers. Every day, the sun rises to warm, illuminate, and provide growth on earth. The moon and stars light the night. We reach for the light switch when we enter a dark room and we depend on our accumulation of knowledge to shed light onour lives. Light is essential.
John 8:12 says “When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life”. In this passage of scripture we find that Jesus says that HE is the light of the world. We need His light to grow and thrive.
As Christians celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus in a few weeks, consider asking Him to be your “light” that leads your way. We live in difficult times and need His light to guide us.
May you all have a blessed time celebrating this year with your family and friends. We do not have to walk in darkness.
May God bless you all.
March 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
I grew up in south Alabama and had many friends that had farm animals. Sheep, goats, donkeys and
chickens were a common site. I was always told that sheep were really dumb. I have no idea if this is
true but I do know that sheep tend to follow each other. They have no way to defend themselves so
will always make an effort to follow each other in order to form a group where it might be safer.
Herds of sheep need a shepherd. A shepherd leads his flock to good food, watches over them and
keeps them together, protects them when a predator comes close, and cares for them when they are
sick. They are dependent on the shepherd for everything and even learn to recognize his voice.
How appropriate it is that the Bible says that the Lord is our Shepherd. Psalm 23 “The Lord is my
shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in
paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of
death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a
table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the
Lord forever”. God is our shepherd - our provider, our protector, our healer, and through Him we will dwell in His
house forever. It brings me comfort to know that God is watching over me and knows what I need
before I know I need it. I can see His hand on my life even when I was a child and didn’t know Him. Take
comfort in knowing that you are loved and cared for by a heavenly Father.
May this month be one of many blessings for you and your families.
February 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
Being alone and feeling lonely are two separate things. It took me a while to figure this out. I enjoyed being alone and couldn't understand why people complained of being lonely. It took my first husband leaving me abruptly. I was left with a lot of debt and a demanding toddler. No matter how busy I was or how many people were around me, I felt lonely.
It didn’t take me much time to realize that I didn’t mind being alone but being lonely was an awful feeling. I can still remember going shopping and seeing couples everywhere...I envied them so much. If you think Jesus doesn’t understand loneliness, you are wrong. Jesus was despised and rejected by the people He created. He experienced loneliness throughout His entire life. He knows what it is like and he wants to relieve your loneliness. Isaiah 41:10 tells us “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”.
You always have someone with you – Jesus – that understands you and your situation. He will listen to you without condemnation or judgement and will never leave you or forsake you. Greet Him in the morning when you wake, talk to Him throughout your day, and thank Him for His love and care before you go to sleep.
May you find peace and contentment in this life through a relationship with Jesus. Many blessings to you all. Stay warm and
safe....spring will be here before you know it!!
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JANUARY 2023 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
Revelation 22:13 “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End”
As finite humans, we understand God linearly. We understand that there are beginnings and endings. We understand life cycles, that we are born, we live, we’ll all physically die. Seasons come and seasons go. In the last book of the Bible, Jesus reveals himself as “the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Present at the world’s beginning, He will be present at its end.
But what about the in between part? Is God just at the beginning and the End? Sometimes when things aren’t going the way I anticipated or want, it causes me to wonder where God is. Joshua 1:9 says “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”. God was present in the beginning, is with us now, and will be there at the end.
As we start a new year, let us not lose sight of the fact that God knows what this year will bring. The good, the bad, ups and downs. He knows and He will be with us every step of the journey.
God has brought this group of shipmates together that we might help and encourage one another. We are to be a support to one another and to encourage each other when life is rough. As this new year begins, look around and find a shipmate that needs some encouragement, a visit, a card, or just your presence. You will be truly blessed and so will they.
May you all find the Alpha and the Omega this year and find great peace and joy.
NOVEMBER 2022 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
Luke 17:26-29 “Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all. It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all”
In the days and weeks before Hurricane Ian made landfall in Ft Myers/Sanibel many people went about business as usual. Some prepared, some didn’t. Many prepared their homes and then they left for safety. Some decided to take a chance that it “wouldn’t be as bad as expected” and decided to ride it out. Many were not prepared at all.
We all are aware that physical death is inevitable. Are we prepared? Some are, some aren’t. It is difficult sometimes to prepare when it is 80 degrees and sunny outside, we are healthy, and have no pressing issues in our lives. However, the end will surely come regardless of what “today” is like. So, how can we prepare?
I believe that only Jesus offers us life beyond the grave. John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him”.
To prepare for the end of this life, and it will surely come, we must heed the words of the Scripture given to us.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends. We all have much to be thankful for. We are a blessed nation. Be prepared for eternal life through Jesus.
JULY 2022 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
In July 1982 an earthen dam in Rocky Mountain National Park failed. The sudden release of 30 million cubic feet of water resulted in flash flooding that killed 3 people and caused 31 million dollars in damage to the town of Estes Park and other downstream areas. The dam’s difficult location made it difficult to conduct inspections and lack of repairs and caused the dam to eventually collapse.
I remember this well. My youngest was exactly 3 months old at the time and we frequently spent time in the park enjoying its beauty. When things finally settled down and it was safe to go, we went to see the devastation for ourselves. Massive boulders and large trees had carved a v-shape path down the mountain, across a road and into a valley. Last month we were visiting the park and went by the area. Beautiful wildflowers were in bloom, trees have grown back and the valley is lush again. Time has brought healing to this area and it is more beautiful than before.
I have had a few times in my life when I thought I would never be able to recover and return to “normal”. God has rescued me each and every time. Here I am, living the life, a Chaplain and friend to some of the most awesome people I have met in my life. God can and will make the disasters in our lives into something worth living for if we let Him.
When you are at your lowest, turn to God and He will help you. Isaiah 41:13 “For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you”.
God knows each one of you. He is but a prayer away.
Many blessings to you and your families. Enjoy the rest of the summer.
JUNE 2022 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
As I age, I find myself wondering how I ended up where I am today. What if I had been born to different parents? Been born in a different country? Born in a different state? Not gone to nursing school or followed my friend to the Air Force recruiting office?
Our lives are much like a maze – a decision at every turn. Which way to go? We think about the consequences of each turn but will never know how our lives would have been if we had taken a different path. Many things happen to us that seem coincidental but God’s word tells us differently.
Proverbs 16:9 “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his step”.
God’s path for your life has shaped you into the person that you are today. Yes, we make bad decisions, but God can use them for our benefit. To teach us a valuable lesson that will shape who we are.
I am who I am, not because of my decisions in life, but by the way that God has used my decisions and the consequences of those decisions to shape me and mold me into who I am. I can look back and see the times HE protected me by guiding me into a decision I would have never made.
We shouldn’t dwell on the past but sometimes it can be encouraging to look back and see the times and ways God directed you or turned a poor decision into a beneficial learning experience.
God sees you and knows your needs. Pray each day that HE will continue to guide your path in the way HE wants you to go.
Many blessings to you all. Enjoy each day that God gives you.
MAY 2022 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
Sometimes God seems far away. I can remember as a child that I often wondered if there was a God then where was he. I knew friends that believed in God and told me of wonderful things He was doing in their lives. I couldn’t see it. I was living in a hell on earth and a loving God was nowhere in sight. How could I ever believe in a God that would ditch an abused child?
I became a Christian at the age of 31. I was skeptical but decided to pray and ask Him to come into my life anyway. I was not really expecting anything. I was a stay-at-home mom to three busy girls and life was very routine. However, I started having very vivid dreams from my childhood. I would almost look forward to the next night so I could dream some more.
It soon became clear to me that God was definitely by my side when I was a child. He saw it all. Had dreams showing me times HE had protected me on many occasions and saved my life on more than one occasion. I saw several people that HE put in my life that encouraged me and helped me along the way – even though I didn’t see it at the time. These dreams made a dramatic difference in my life and allowed me to see the hand of God on me. It strengthened my belief that there is indeed a God. He is in control even when we cannot see it.
Sometimes God feels far away. Especially when we are sick or lonely or in a major life crisis. We read in Romans 8 that nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. So why does it sometimes feel like we can’t find HIM when we need HIM?
None of us are free from sickness, pain, suffering and hard times when we are on this earth. When our troubles overtake us we can tend to focus on those instead of God and we forget that HE is right there with us! He can seem far away but truly HE is with us. Isaiah 41:10-13 tells us “Fear not, for I am with you; by not dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
I know many in our “boat” are having health issues or are in difficult circumstances. Know that GOD sees you and is with you. Look for HIM in your life – HE is there. Talk to HIM and share your concerns and HE will be faithful to lead and guide you.
Jesus loves you – HE is beside you – look and listen for HIM.
Have a wonderful May enjoying the beauty of things coming back to life after a long winter.
APRIL 2022 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
By Chaplain Myra Meverden
The Easter season presents us with a question that is fundamental to those who call themselves Christians. Who is Jesus? Who is this person that 2,000 years after his birth is still making headlines?
There’s Democrat Jesus – for reducing our carbon footprint. Republican Jesus – against tax increases. Therapist Jesus – who helps us cope with life’s problems and tells us how valuable we are. There’s Starbucks Jesus – who drinks fair trade coffee and loves spiritual conversation. There’s Open-minded Jesus – who loves everyone all the time no matter what. There’s Touchdown Jesus – who helps athletes run faster, jump higher, and determines the outcome of the Super Bowl. There’s Martyr Jesus – a good man who died a cruel death so we can feel sorry for him. There’s Gentle Jesus – who was meek and mild, with high cheek bones, flowing hair, and walks around barefoot. There’s Hippie Jesus – who teaches everyone to give peace a chance and helps us remember that “all you need is love”. There’s Yuppie Jesus – who encourages us to reach our full potential, reach for the stars, and buy a boat. There’s Spirituality Jesus – who hates religion, churches, pastors, doctrine, and would rather be out in nature, finding the god within. There’s Platitude Jesus – good for Christmas specials, greeting cards, and inspiring people to believe in themselves. There’s Guru Jesus – a wise, inspirational teacher who believes in you and helps you find your center. There’s Boyfriend Jesus – who wraps his arms around you and sings about love. There’s good example Jesus – who shows you how to help people, change the planet, and become a better you. *
And then there’s Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God. Not just another prophet. Not just another Rabbi. He is the Lamb of God who came to take away the sins of the world. This Christ is not a reflection of the current mood or the projection of our desires. He is our Lord and God, Savior of the world.
Jesus asked Peter in Matthew 16: 15-16 “But what about you?” He asked. Who do you say I am? Peter answered “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”.
I wish you all health and happiness as you not only remember the death of Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins, but also rejoice at the resurrection of Jesus that we may have eternal life with HIM.
*adapted from article by Kevin DeYoung
MARCH 2022 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
BY Chaplain Myra Meverden
A friend shared this with me. I don’t know where she got it but I thought it was good enough to share.
The 4-leaf clover has become a symbol of St Patrick’s Day. They are exceptionally rare. Opinions vary, but generally you have about a 1 in 5,000 chance of finding one. Legend says it is a sign of good luck. However, each of the 4 leaves represent something special: one each for hope, faith, love, and luck .
HOPE
Green is the most popular symbol associated with the day. It didn’t used to be true. St Patrick himself is thought to have worn blue for much of his life and the Order of St Patrick, (a fraternity of knights founded in the 17th century) adopted the color blue also. So why the color green? Green was the color of those who sought Irish independence. In the 17th century, more and more Irish people began hoping that one day they would have their own country, free of dominion under a foreign crown. They wore green as a symbol of Irish identity.
LOVE
St Patrick’s day is not only a celebration of the saint, but of all things Irish. St Patrick isn’t the only patron saint of Ireland. Another is Brigid of Kildare – a remarkable woman. She was born into slavery in the 450’s. She showed amazing love for those who had less than her. She took opportunity to feed, heal, or comfort the poor. Some stories claim she could replenish by praying to God. One tells of a time when she gave away her master’s entire store of butter. He tried to sell her to a king. While he bartered, Brigid gave away his jeweled sword to a beggar so he could sell it to buy food. When the king saw this, he decided she was holy and commanded her master to set her free. Brigid devoted her life to charity. She founded a monastery to ensure women and the poor had a safe place to worship. When Brigid died in 525, she left behind an incredible legacy of compassion, charity, and most of all, love.
LUCK
“The Luck of the Irish” is a common phrase. This saying originated in America, not Ireland. – and was initially meant to be a slight, not a compliment. Back in the day, the Irish faced strong discrimination. Often when someone spoke of the “Luck”, it was spoken with derision. An insult. As decades passed, the opposite became true. Now it often refers to someone who has succeeded through their wits, cleverness, and perseverance. Given how much Irish immigrants have had to overcome – including both prejudice and economic hardship – we’d say those qualities describe the Irish pretty well.
FAITH
Often confused, shamrocks and 4 leaf clovers are not the same. Shamrocks are standard 3 leaf clovers. Its importance is what they represent. In the late 1700’s Irish revolutionaries adopted the green shamrock as their emblem. They had shamrocks on uniforms, flags, and in their songs. The shamrock goes back to St Patrick himself. Legend has it that when he first began preaching Christianity in Ireland he used the shamrock to illustrate the concept of the Holy Trinity. Over time, Patrick became the patron saint of Ireland and eventually, like the shamrock, a symbol of Ireland itself.
As you see, there’s more to St Patrick’s Day than simply throwing on a green shirt or eating corned beef. It represents the hope, faith, love and perseverance of an entire people. It’s a day for all of us to practice those things as well. A day for us to treasure and enjoy.
Many blessings and good health as we start spring here in the Rockies.
November 2021 Bubblehead Blessing
Today, on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, please take a moment on this Veterans Day to remember 26 million living Veterans who honorably served our great nation, a free Republic at home and on foreign fields of combat, and sought no special recognition following their dedicated service.
We also reflect upon a new generation of patriotic military personnel who wrote a blank check made payable to “The United States of America” for an amount “up to and including their lives" and “Go in Harms Way” daily, Combat Warriors who gave the full measure of devotion to their country and those heroic Combat Veterans who were permanently disabled.
Bless those who serve beneath the deep. Through lonely hour their vigils keep. May peace their mission ever be. Protect each one we ask of Thee. Bless those at home who wait and pray.
May God continue to bless our warrior heroes and all those who sleep on eternal patrol beneath the restless waves and sweet earth.
Not a day goes by that we all remember to be forever grateful for your service to our country. It is an honor and a privilege to know you. Thank you from all the non-veterans that appreciate you and love you at RMB. Joanie
OCTOBER 2021 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
By Chaplain Myra Meverden
Exodus 17:9-13 “Moses said to Joshua ‘Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands’. So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up – one on one side, one on the other – so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.”
This is one of the great battles fought by the Israelites as they crossed the desert in the wilderness. You all have been witness to this scripture in action in our group this past month or so. Our Base Commander was “out of commission”. I saw the shipmates around him, holding him up and supporting him so that this base functioned as well as it ever has. Where there was a need, someone stepped into fill it. No one complained and no one had to be begged – you saw what needed to be done to make our Grayling Memorial a memorable affair and to honor our fallen shipmates a success, and you did it. No worries about who got the credit, because in the end you all got the credit for a job well done.
The Old Testament has many wonderful stories and we can use them to understand better how to deal with current situations. They provide us with insight and helps in our daily lives. The honorable submarine with her crew exemplifies this battle. You all had to know the job of everyone so that you could do it if the need arose.
Well done to all of you. You are a testament in this chaotic world of what it means to pull together for the good of all.
You all are awesome! Many blessings as we head into a new season.
SEPTEMBER 2021 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
By Chaplain Myra Meverden
I must admit that I am going through a period of spiritual discouragement and exhaustion. Andy and I have been diligently trying to help Andy’s interpreter family get out of Afghanistan. I have prayed until I could pray no more. Trusting God to get them out, asking God for a miracle, and yet the family and younger brother remain in Afghanistan. They have been beaten and threatened.
I realize I have a choice. I can either wrap myself in discouragement, or draw strength from an unchanging God. Hebrews 13:8 tells me “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever”. When I remember this verse I am refreshed because I know that Jesus performed many miracles while He was on the earth. Far greater miracles than getting Tem’s family out of Afghanistan.
As humans we are talented at throwing a good pity party. We are easily discouraged. God knows we are human and He has given us His word to encourage us. Deuteronomy 31:8 tells us “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged”.
In troubling times it is important for us to remember that God never leaves us. We may walk away from Him at times, but He is always there waiting for us. It is also important that we remember that God can and does miracles. God is a mighty God and able to carry our burden. He makes our burden light and gives us peace.
May you all find comfort in God’s word in your time of need.
May God bless you all richly as we head into the fall – a time of change.
AUGUST 2021 BUBBLEHEAD BLESSING
By Chaplain Myra Meverden
I recently heard the poem “Dash Between the Dates” again. For those of you unfamiliar, it refers to the little dash (-) between the date you were born and the date you die. The 2 dates are determined by God but the dash is our lives and what we do with them. I’m sure all of us want a good life, to make a difference in this world, and to leave it a better place for our children and family. But what is a good life? I found some guidelines from the Scriptures. I have them listed below.
People like to think they have more control than they do. In truth, God is in control. Once we come to terms with the concept of letting go then living the adventure gets easier and we find peace and joy.
Prayer is essential. This is the main method of communication with God. Give your problems to him and make your burden lighter.
Doing good deeds for others is instrumental to living a good life. You truly do get more than you give. Jesus was a servant and so we are to be.
Watch your words. Words do hurt. The scars and bruises are not visible, but they are 100% there. I Peter 3:10 says “If you want a happy, good life, keep control of your tongue, and guard your lips from telling lies.”
Sacrifice does lead to a good life. Not to shock anyone, but life isn’t always about you. It requires sacrifice on our part to live a life of service to others. In turn, we find great joy.
I’m sure my list isn’t comprehensive but it is a start. I pray this does give you some things to think about and consider. I don’t want to get to the end of my life and have regrets. Start today to live a life that is not only pleasing to God but also is a blessing to those around you.
Many blessings to you all as you enjoy this last month of summer.
