May 2024

This morning, I watched Mama Duck and her baby ducklings go for an early swim. Mama Duck went this way and that, making sure the ducklings stayed in line. She bobbed up and down. The ducklings did the same. Next, Mama Duck jumped up on land, foraged a bit, moved this way and that, and sat down for a rest. The ducklings did the same.  Truly an eventful morning.

I enjoy watching my backyard ducks.  I sit with my coffee and Mama Duck and her ducklings sit with their chipping and chirping. The longer we do this, the more I find myself envying their simple life.

Think about it. They just float around all day. They live off the land and move from pond to pond. It seems like theirs would be a pretty darn good existence. 

I wonder if the ducks might be looking at me and thinking the same thing. I mean, like really, it’s not like I till the land for my food or suffer outside in the Arizona heat! When I am hungry, I go to my refrigerator and get food, when I get hot, I go inside.  When I am bored, I flip through the channels or hop in my car and get out of town. 

Isn’t that true for almost all of us?  Our lives are EASY.  Gone are the days of a rugged existence.  We have technology and modern conveniences doing most of what we used to call “work”.  Yet, all kinds of things bring us stress these days- money, professional sports, health, politics, international wars, and the ever-present evilness in seemingly every aspect of our lives.

Today with the ducks, I saw hope. I saw a mama caring for her babies. I saw the sweetness of simplicity. I saw God’s hand working in His creation. It felt good to see something so simple and serene.  So good in fact, that I stopped and thanked God. It was a vivid reminder for me that God is working amid our broken world. 

In 2011, Tom did a lesson from the book of Daniel which he brings home, in a way that only Tom could do, the lesson that God is doing something, whether or not we see it.  God is good. He is always working for our good and His glory:

https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/audio-archives/2011/4/21/personal-values-and-professional-ethics

I hope you’ll take some time to listen to this powerful and “quintessential Tom” lesson.

But wait!  I’m not letting YOU (or me) off the hook. Our response to God’s grace, as Christians, is to reflect Jesus’ light in this dark world.  We get, in gratitude for all God has given to us, to demonstrate and illuminate God’s love, His hope, and His truth in everything we do.  We are called to be holy and set apart from the world.

So, as one day turns to the next, how are you showing the world hope?  Do the people around you see something different in you and/or the way you do life? I hope so.  Just like the little ducklings watching their mama, the world is watching you. Let’s all be an example of God’s love, truth, and hope.  No matter what lion’s den we are in.

December 2023

Did someone turn up the volume? It seems that everywhere I go, music is blaring, people are talking loudly, (not using their inside voices) and there is just so much commotion. The noise is overwhelming!

Ah, but ‘tis the season. . . with Black Friday and Cyber Monday in the rear-view mirror, maybe we can make time for quiet as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus.  

Advent is the special four-week season leading up to Christmas. It is a time for intentionally pausing, remembering, and getting our hearts and heads ready for Jesus. During Advent, we reflect on the birth of Christ while simultaneously anticipating Jesus’ return.

Advent, in all its quiet wonder, allows me to see God anew. I make time to sit quietly and reflect, seeing God’s handprint throughout my life, His vibrant handiwork throughout my days, and His small murmurings in the tiniest of moments.   

And that, my friends, is the antidote to the crazy hustle and bustle of our world today.

I hope you’ll make time this Advent season to see what God is doing in you, through you, and around you. We have so much to be thankful for as we remember Christ’s birth as a tiny baby born in a humble manger.  Jesus did something we can never do, He lived a perfect life and died on the cross for our sins. He took the penalty for our sins, reconciled us with God and gives us eternal life with Him.

Years ago, Tom did a lesson entitled, “Why Can’t People Figure It Out” as part of his John: The Essence of Life series.  I am confident you’ll enjoy listening to Tom share this important and pertinent message: 

https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/audio-archives/2009/3/5/why-cant-people-figure-it-out.

As we look to January 2024, marking five years since Tom’s promotion to heaven, we will continue to maintain the PLAZ website, but our outward communications will begin to lessen. Our hope is that the website at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/ will be a place for you and others to see and hear Tom for many years to come. Additionally, Sharon and I will continue to be available for questions and assistance in accessing Tom’s lessons.

As you’re making end-of-year gifts, please consider giving to https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/donate. Your generosity will allow us to maintain the website for as long as technology allows; and for that, we are very thankful. 

Wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas and New Year!

November 2023

When I was a kid, the metric system was a big deal. I remember learning how the US was going to join the majority of the world by fully adopting the metric system of measurement. As an early adapter, I was all over it. I studied inches-to-centimeter conversions and centimeters to meters and on and on. I can still see, and smell, ditto sheets (remember those?!) with inches on one side and centimeters on the other.

Now, decades later, we are still using inches and feet.  What happened?

Let’s take a minute to look back. Our country’s romance with the metric system officially began in 1866.  Fast forward to the 1960s when a more “modern” version took hold. And then, in 1975, Congress passed the Metric Conversion Act, declaring metric to be the preferred measuring system. The push was on, and the US Metric Board began implementing the conversion. Road signs were changed, and a bunch of other things began shifting to metric. And then, it slowly disappeared. Crickets. Oh sure, we use metric for liter bottles of beverages, 10K races, and when we need it, but, overall, the effort fizzled. The US has continued with inches and feet. 

Why is this relevant?

We’re living amid many societal changes, some of which have been brought about through technology and others from medical advances, policy shifts, and agendas promoting different ideologies. From my perspective, some are good and some, not so. I find myself wondering, as I am pushed and prodded to embrace change, if I should just lean in and accept the new, innovative way of getting business done, or do I have a choice?    

And then, a small whisper reminds me, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2

Boom. God left us in the world warning us not to be OF the world. We are set apart, we are holy, and we have God’s Word, the Bible, to help us discern truth in these challenging times.

A few years back, Tom taught a lesson from Romans 12, focusing on being and acting differently than the world, especially when it came to repaying evil with evil.

Are you falling into the pattern of the world, perhaps thinking you must adapt because you need to get with the program? Let’s all take a page from our country’s metric system history, when there were no huge protests against the evils of metric nor were there any tweets to tens of thousands. Rather, there were many quiet few who simply said, “Gosh, this metric thing isn’t working for us. It doesn’t make sense to throw away inches, feet, and miles. Let’s understand the new system, utilize it when it makes sense, and keep the old.”  It was a very effective way of pushing back and holding tight. 

We can do that, too, and even more. God’s promises are true. God’s ways are right. Let’s show the world how to be in step with Him, reflecting His love, grace, and truth to an unbelieving world. 

Check out more of Tom’s lessons at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/

As you’re making end-of-year gifts, please consider giving to https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/donate. Your gift will help us continue sharing Tom’s unique way of applying God’s Word with friends, family, and others, near and far. 

October 2023

Do you ever feel like an impostor? I do. There are days when, as much as I want to appear confident and wise, deep down inside I feel like the six-year-old version of me in dress-up clothes. 

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines an imposter as one who assumes a false identity or title for the purpose of deception. Having just returned from a wonderful weekend at the Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City, UT, I found it fascinating to watch the actors and actresses “become” their stage characters. For all practical purposes, these performers are, quite simply, imposters.  Now, hold on, I do understand that performers take on theatre roles for entertainment and not evil, so calling them imposters is a bit harsh. But it did get me thinking about grace. 

What?! How did I jump from imposters to grace?

Here’s the thing. I remember the old me and the sinful life I lived. I remember the brokenness of my past and, more often than not, I still feel unworthy of being called a child of God, a co-heir with Christ. I feel like an imposter.  And then, to make myself feel better, I begin to concoct ways to earn His love. Earn God’s love? Nope. Impossible, that would negate grace. Grace is unmerited. 

Grace is a free gift from God. We have been saved by God, from God, for God. Plain and simple. There is nothing we did or can do to earn God’s love. Jesus did it all. He came off His throne and became fully man and fully God. He lived a perfect life. He took our sin and shame to the cross and He died for us. He redeemed us. He gives us eternal life with Him.     

Tom’s lesson, “Boasting only in Him,” from Galatians 6, unpacks God’s gift of grace in a powerful way. 

Boasting Only in the Cross

Here’s the deal:

With God, we don’t have to perform. There are no lines to learn, no dress rehearsals, and no play-acting. We don’t need to clean ourselves up or prove our worth with superficial worship, perfect church attendance, or Christian-y things to display our godliness.

God does it all and His grace is sufficient.  So, “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  For with the heart, one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.”  (Romans 10:9-10)   

You see, if Jesus is your Lord and Savior, you can’t possibly be an imposter.  We don’t have to act or pretend. God has done it. All we need to do is simply rest in His love, being grateful for the grace He has bestowed on us while knowing that He is everything and we are nothing.    

Friends – Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement.  As we look to the new year, we’ll need your help to keep Priority Living Arizona up and running.  Would you consider making a gift at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/donate? With your support, we’ll continue to share Tom’s lessons through PriorityLivingAZ.org. 

September 2023

I have a new friend. He is an early riser like me. A few months ago, as I was on my way to the kitchen for my first cup of morning joe, Eddie was looking in my back window. Eddie is not a stalker; he is an owlet. When I first saw Eddie, he was covered in downy feathers. These days he is much more owl-like with beautiful markings, expansive wings, and big eyes that look directly at me.

Eddie is not my first owl.  His dad has been roosting in my tree for at least eight or nine years. Whenever I see Eddie or his dad, I sit down and visit, chat a bit, and then go on my way. They tolerate me by showing off with lots of eye blinking, a couple of full head turns, and occasionally, a hoot or two.   

My owls and I have a lot more in common than just waking up early.  Like me, Eddie and his dad lead very quiet lives; hanging out, enjoying the breeze, and whittling the day away. 

My owl friends are good neighbors too. They share their tree harmoniously with hummingbirds, sparrows, and jays. But, when the noisy, mean birds come around, Eddie and his dad fly away. They don’t like to be around gossipers!   

In a letter to the Thessalonians, Paul writes, “And to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”  1 Thessalonians 4:11- 12.

Although we are not perfect, I think my owls and I are doing a pretty good job at this. 

In 2011, Tom did a great lesson on 1 Thessalonians 4. I don’t want to steal Tom’s thunder, so be sure to click into this video and watch Tom teach and practically apply this scripture passage to our everyday lives:

1 Thessalonians 4

This month, as you reflect on Tom’s message and our overly busy, loud, and supercharged lives, I hope you’ll take a little bit of extra time to rest in God’s mercy and provisions.  There is no doubt we are living in troubling times. Yet, when we remember God, knowing He sent His son, Jesus, to this broken world, as the propitiation for our sins, we can lead quiet lives, letting go of angst, worry, and fear.  Furthermore, we can love and care for those around us, whether they know Christ or not, sharing God’s truth and lifting them up in prayer. 

Because of Him, we can rest. Because of Him, we have hope. Because of Him, we know our time on earth is temporary and our eternity with Him is secure. 

Let’s confidently reflect His peace, day in and day out, to the world around us.      
 
 
PS. January 13, 2024, will mark Tom’s five-year anniversary of being with Jesus. Speaking for Sharon, the Priority Living Board, and myself, we have been honored to share Tom’s teachings with you since his passing. As we prayerfully consider next steps for this ministry, we’d love to hear from you by way of  thoughts, prayers, and/or support. Please take a minute or two to respond to this email, drop us a note online, or send a gift in support of Priority Living of AZ at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/donate. 

And most importantly, please keep listening and sharing Tom and his unique way of teaching God’s word.  We are so thankful for you!   

August 2023

Do you ever wish the world would slow down?  I do. As I get older, I find myself yearning for the simplicity and steady pace of one day at a time. I nostalgically think of yesteryear - those days gone by before we had the “conveniences” of today’s world. . . 

Smartphones, the internet, 24-hour news cycles, artificial intelligence, globalization…

With all this stuff designed to make our lives easier, I find myself multi-tasking and zipping through day after day without hardly being present in the moment. When I do look up from my phone or computer, it feels as though the world is changing at neck-breaking speed.  

Sloooooooow down!

I recently spent time with a few friends working on a sewing project. I was tasked with unraveling and re-spooling a good amount of tangled embroidery thread. Sound exciting?  Not a bit.  Yet, as I worked with the thread, I had an incredible sense of peace. I was 100 percent IN THE MOMENT.  There I was, in the company of others, doing something with my hands and fully present.

Together we created beauty. 

It was nothing special, but rather, it was extraordinary.

I realized for the first time in forever that none of my technology, busyness, or multitasking can adequately replace the feeling of sitting with dear friends, taking a walk, cooking a meal, or just quietly embracing the moment.

It seems to me, in our quest for the easy life we have made our existence stressed and lonely.

--We’ve replaced the cathartic act of handwriting a note with texting.  

--We socialize on Zoom or Facetime bypassing face-to-face time with those we love. 

--We click items into virtual shopping carts in place of carefully choosing the best groceries, clothes, and gifts.

Don’t get me wrong, technology is amazing and is tackling the most pressing issues of our day.  Yet, I have to wonder, as our day-to-day interactions are being replaced with counterfeits, if we are losing our humaneness.  

We’ve got screens in front of us instead of real people.   

In November of 2008, Tom did a lesson at East Valley Bible Church entitled “Our Ministry of Reconciliation” as part of his Grace for Life, Grace for Living series. In this lesson, Tom powerfully addresses snares in our faith walk and points us directly to Jesus. Tom reminds us that we “study the Word of God to get to know the God of the Word.” 

In our frenzied, technologically advanced world, we grasp success, fulfillment, and convenience, without realizing the ONE thing we need.

Jesus.

Let’s get back to making the main thing, the main thing.

Jesus is all we need. 

In the month ahead, I am going to take a step back and re-evaluate how I am spending time and what I am relying on for purpose and contentment.

Want to join me? 

• Consider spending dedicated time with Jesus and a smidge less time with technology.  

• Do some cooking, gardening, or woodworking, i.e., something that gives you stillness away from modern conveniences. 

• Schedule time with family or friends and leave your phone tucked away. 

• Open your bible, feel the pages of His word, and spend time getting to know Him. 

It might just remind you who’s in control. 

As His children, we don’t have to fear, worry or have it all figured out.   

Jesus is all we need.

July 2023

What would you think about if you only had a few hours left on this earth?

This is not a bucket list question, but rather when you have the realization your time here is rapidly coming to an end and there is nothing left to do, where will your mind go? What thoughts will you have? 

Depressing, I know, but still a very valid question. 

Will you think of family? Will you have regrets? Woulda, coulda, shoulda’s? Will you replay the best times of your life? Or perhaps, the worst? Will you think about your achievements? Your retirement funds? Your stuff? Will you be at peace knowing you did your best?    

I ask, in part, because of the tragic events of the Titan submersible, yet also because over the last few years, I’ve said goodbye to quite a few close friends and family members. Without exception, these special people had a day or two, or in some cases, a few hours of recognition wherein they knew their time here on earth was up.  

Hollywood would like us to believe that we’ll have profound moments of clarity in which we make deep, sage statements of love and forgiveness. Our last words will impart wisdom and knowledge to those sitting vigil at our death bed.

Um, no, probably not. Let’s be honest, death happens like that in movies, not usually for the average person. 

Speaking of Hollywood, did you catch the Jeopardy! news? No, not Pat Sajak’s retirement from the Wheel of Fortune after 42 years, rather that on the June 18 episode, all three contestants were totally and completely unable to fill in the missing word from the Lord’s Prayer.  The question was phrased as "Matthew 6:9 says, ‘Our Father, which art in heaven, [        ] be thy name.’" 

The correct response was “hallowed.”  “Hallowed be thy name.”

Hallowed is to be made holy, consecrated, sanctified, greatly revered, and honored.  

“Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed by thy name.” 

Not one of the three contestants even attempted. Very sad.

I digress. But not really.

Here’s where I am going with this – as our world becomes more secular, as God is no longer revered and atheism is celebrated, as sin is normalized and without shame, as the evilness around us seems to grow deeper and darker, we don’t have to simply accept this as just the way it is these days.

There is an antidote.

Jesus.   

God, our Father, sent His one and only son, Jesus, to die for us. 

In the Spring of 2012, Tom did a series entitled, “Who Is This?” in which the second lesson, “Who Exposes Darkness,” not only shines a light on our sin and the darkness of our hearts but more importantly on Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

In Tom’s last weeks and certainly, in his last few days, Tom did not think about his stuff, his successes, or his regrets. Tom looked to Jesus. Tom’s waking moments focused on Jesus. His victory over sin, His death on the cross, and His free gift of eternal life. Tom knew although he, Tom Shrader, was helpless and hopeless, Jesus did the work Tom could never do. Jesus took Tom’s sins to the cross and died the death Tom deserved.

“For all have fallen short of the glory of God, and are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith.”  (Romans 3:23-24)

Tom knew his only hope was Jesus.  Without Jesus, Tom had nothing.

Tom’s last thoughts on earth were that of Christ Jesus.

And what joy it is to know that Tom’s last breath here was followed by his first breath with Jesus. 

How about you? Have you accepted the gift of Christ?

I hope so.

June 2023

Dear friends,

This past weekend, we celebrated the men and women of the US forces who gave their lives for our county. Thank you. Thank you as well to all of you reading this who have served in the military. Your years of dedication and selfless acts of service are an inspiration. Thank you. 

Yet, I seem to find myself in an alternate reality. This same past weekend, I came across a news article on sologamy. Have you heard of it? I hadn’t. But now I have, and I am at a loss for words. Sologamy is the act of marrying oneself. It is a celebrated act of self-love; a commitment to honor and obey. . . yourself. Yep. It is a thing. Young people today are walking down the aisle ALONE, vowing to love themselves, and publicly affirming the desire to put themselves above every other person, place, or thing.  

Maybe I am way off base, but it seems to me that humankind, since the Fall, has always done a pretty good job of loving ourselves. Tom used to say that we didn’t need to be taught to be selfish or sinful – just go into any preschool classroom and, after about a nanosecond, you’ll hear some sweet child yell “MINE!!” 

God created us for love. Yet, as Adam and Eve ate the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, their love for God became distorted. They began to put themselves above God, sinfully loving self more than loving God.    

In Matthew 22, Jesus is asked; “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matt 22:36-39)

If we love God with all our heart and mind, we will, through the Holy Spirit, love those around us – even those who aren’t particularly lovable. Whereas if we decide to love only ourselves, no one can measure up to our crazy, ever changing, and self-seeking love. Plain and simple, this love of self is narcissism at its fullest.    

And then there is Jesus. His love is the ultimate love. Jesus came off His throne. He was born a tiny baby. He lived a sinless life. The whole point of Jesus’ life and death is love. His love for us, you and me, depraved sinners seeking our own, is why He came. Jesus came to die for us. He came to take our sins away. He lived on this earth and died to give us eternal life with Him. Jesus did what we could not do for ourselves. He showed us a sinless, sacrificial life.

Jesus shows us love. 

Years ago, Tom did a Priority Living lesson series, John: The Essence of Life, which is a flyover of the book of John. In Tom’s fifth lesson, “What It Takes To See Jesus” https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/audio-archives/2009/2/5/what-it-takes-to-see-jesus, the focus is on John 9, as Jesus heals the blind man. In this lesson, Tom elaborates on how we, in our small and simple lives, have the opportunity to reflect Jesus’ love to those around us. Because of Jesus and His love for us, we “get” to show the world how to live, not for ourselves, but for Him.

Crazy – right?!?

Countercultural – yep!!

Imagine living selflessly, looking for ways to help, to love, and to serve others . . . for His glory. 

Let’s take our transformed heart, informed mind, and radical lives and be a showcase for God.

Let’s show the world how Jesus loves. Truly and completely.     

May 2023

When was the last time you were so frustrated that you just wanted to throw in the towel?  When “whatever” was so bad you were just done with it?

A couple of months ago, my 86-year-old dad and I started putting together wooden puzzles. On the surface wooden puzzles seem to be like traditional jigsaw puzzles. But no, they are a whole different beast. Wooden puzzles don’t typically have identifiable side or end pieces, and you can’t group the pieces together by colors.

Since we started our wooden puzzling hobby, my dad and I have progressed from small 100-piece puzzles to bigger ones with more than 300 pieces.

We were feeling quite accomplished.

Enter grizzly bear (pictured). We may have met our wooden puzzle demise. This puzzle is impossible.  It is just too hard, too brown, too many different shadings, and too many pieces. It is one of those puzzles where NOTHING happens for hours. It is so frustrating that neither one of us wants to work on it any longer.

But then, a piece fits into place.

A slither of hope emerges. One tiny piece at a time.   
 
I kinda feel the same type of exhaustion when I think of our world. The brokenness is too much, things are too messed up, people are so mean, and now, even our news stations are making news.  As if we didn’t have enough going wrong in the world. Now the networks add their drama to the mix!

Most days I don’t know where to start.

But God, just as I was giving up hope and becoming a “glass half empty” type of person, God blessed me with amazing conversations recently.

Last week, I met with men and women, young and old, who are on the front lines of our communities fighting for civility, truth, the unborn, and the future of our country. These grassroots efforts are helping to preserve the foundations of our democracy.  

In the education sector, I talked with teachers, parents, and administrators who are raising students to be kind, civil, faithful, and productive. Rather than commiserating on the woes of our educational system, they are truly making a difference.

I attended two fascinating events – one with medical students and the other with scientists. At each, I learned about research focused on human life and the environment around us. People are working to make our world more humane and healthier for generations to come. 

And I spent time with Godly friends leading churches and ministries by holding fast to God’s unchanging, inerrant word. They are confidently standing against the scandals and secularism that are becoming so very prevalent in our churches.

God showed me HOPE! These super smart AND engaged people are using their God-given talents to make our world, our nation, our communities, and our families stronger.

Throughout the bible, there have been challenging times when God’s people were enslaved and minimized, and nations were overthrown. Those were some tough times. Yet, God was faithful. God’s plan was not and will never be thwarted. In 2012, Tom did a series entitled “Faithful” from the book of Daniel. In this lesson, about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Tom highlights the need to be engaged in the battles of our day. Daniel and the boys found ways to remain faithful and holy, even when the going got tough.

Friends, it is not okay to give up, sit back, and do nothing. We are called to take one faithful step after another, reflecting Jesus to those who are in the dark and glorifying God in all we do. 

So how about it? Will you pick up that one small piece and fit it into the puzzle?

Your action today will give hope for tomorrow to those around you.

April 2023

Last weekend, I did something unusual for me. I was out of town for Spring break and due to limited choices and seasonal travelers, I booked a 9:30 pm return flight to Phoenix. A 9:30 pm Saturday flight is way out of my norm – I am usually in bed and sound asleep by 8:30 pm.

Guess what? It was the best flying experience I’ve had in years. The airport was nearly empty, I breezed through security, the flight was on time, people were smiling all around me, and the plane was only half full. It was like flying pre-911. Nice!

In Tom’s last few years, he used to say his besetting sin was comfort. Tom loved his routines and his uncomplicated, no-drama life. Tom’s typical day included a cup or two of Keurig coffee, a big TV, and a cozy chair. Tom was as snug as a bug in a rug. He could do “nothing” like no other.

Tom rubbed off on me. As I look around, I see ease and comfort. My beautiful home requires very little attention. I have a Roomba that does the vacuuming, a Keurig to make my coffee, a microwave that cooks instantaneous meals (or well, you get it), an HVAC system to keep me warm or cool, landscapers to blow the dust and leaves away, a car to get me where I need to be, and the list goes on. In other words, I live a life of luxury.  

Some may say I am stuck in a rut. Perhaps my controlled life has me sidestepping God’s best for me. Maybe a little discomfort would be good?!?!

A decade ago, Tom did a lesson entitled, “Suffer to Worship”, as part of his 1 Peter series. As I segue to suffering, you may wonder what this has to do with comfort. Good question! In this lesson, Tom teaches how God uses everyday things, including the normal wear and tear of life, to strengthen and draw us to Him.

Sometimes we like our chains of comfort and control. Sometimes we even like our pain. Sometimes we convince ourselves that the life we know is the way it should or has to be. As we hang tight to what we know, we miss the opportunity for something else. And that something else may be God’s best.

I fear that too often, we refuse to allow God to change us. Within Tom’s “Suffer to Worship” lesson, he mentions the invalid man in the book of John, Chapter 5. In verse John 5:6, Jesus asks this man, “Do you want to be healed?”

This is a legitimate question.

How about you? Do you honestly want to draw closer to God? Do you want your negative circumstances to change? Do you want to let God in to make His changes?

Here are a few things to consider:

• As you feed your need for comfort, what are you missing out on? Take a few minutes to think about how your comfort has put you in a rut.

• Are pain and hardships your way of life? Are you holding on to your suffering (please know I am not minimizing your pain) instead of allowing God’s peace to transform you

• Too busy? Has “busy” become your new identity? How about becoming un-busy and making time for family, friends, and most importantly, God?

• Lonely? I bet your neighbor, coworker or friend could use some encouragement. Pick up the phone, knock on a door, and reflect Jesus’ love, care, and concern to those around you.  

I don’t know about you, but it is time for me to step out of my controlled environment, my routines, and ruts, and shake things up a bit. God has a lot to show me, and I know His best is always better than anything I can imagine. 

March 2023

When I was a kid, my family would load up the car each summer and take a road trip. Living in Missouri, we might vacation far west to California, southeast to Florida, or maybe just over to the Missouri Ozarks. Regardless, it took a lot of planning to fit all six of us plus our little chihuahua, Sniffles, our luggage, and the necessary summer adventure gear. It was a BIG deal. The anticipation was huge.  We could not wait to get started. Yet, once the trip began, we quickly grew bored and cranky. The endless car hours were grueling.  To pass the time, we would play games. One of my favorites was a version of “I Spy” - finding yellow (or green or pink or…) cars and keeping score to see who could find the most. Was it coincidental that when we turned our attention to yellow cars, there seemed to be so many more? Maybe. Or maybe we just were paying attention. 

A few weeks ago, I came across Tom’s notes on Psalm 23. The papers were all jumbled, and it took me a bit of time to realize they were Tom’s lesson from six or seven years ago. A few days later a dear friend called to encourage me with a note he found in his bible from Tom’s Psalm 23 lesson. The next week, I met with a young gal from my office, and she mentioned her home group was reflecting on Psalm 23. And then, as I was volunteering, a sweet woman shared that she has the Psalm 23 card (pictured above) from Tom’s lesson hanging in her kitchen.

The world might say this is just like yellow cars – totally coincidental. According to the New Oxford American dictionary, it is synchronicity – the simultaneous occurrence of events which appear significantly related but have no discernible causal connection.

 I say it is God. 

 I love when God puts things on my heart. He gently and lovingly guides me to pay attention to something I would have otherwise missed.  And so, this month, I am sharing Tom’s lesson “Pray to the God Who is Your Shepherd (Psalm 23)”

Pretty quickly into the lesson, Tom states something obvious and really important. Tom says BECAUSE God is our Shephard, we have all the things – relationship, supply, rest, refreshment, guidance, purpose, testing, protection, faithfulness, discipline, hope, consecration, abundance, blessing, security, and eternity so eloquently written in Psalm 23. Amazing, right?!

Because God is our Shephard, we don’t need to worry about our next meal, whether the stock market is up or down, who will win the next election, or what will happen in a week, a year, or a decade.  Sure, thinking forward is prudent and necessary – just like packing for a trip. Whereas worrying, fretting, and being fearful are indications that we are not trusting or believing in God’s promises. God has us. 

He is our Shepherd. He is faithful. He cares deeply and perfectly for us, providing all we need. 

And here’s the crazy thing. When you rest in God’s provision, peace, and comfort, you begin to see a whole bunch more “God things” in your life and all around you.

Is it synchronicity? Coincidence?

Nope. It is God. 

He is our Shepherd. 

February 2023

I don’t know if this is the same for you, but it sure seems like there are a bunch of looming headlines in our 24/7/365 news cycle about faith, church, and spirituality. A case in point was a Fox News headline dated January 9, 2023, “Third of Americans have quit church as attendance fails to recover pre-pandemic numbers.” Articles about declining church attendance, the rise of those who have no religious affiliation, pastor burnouts, and the closing of churches throughout the United States fill my inbox.

Is it just me or are things changing? Is it that our churches haven’t come out of the pandemic bubble, or it is that we, individually and collectively, are losing our faith?

In 2010, Tom did a sermon series on the seven churches in Revelation reminding us the exhortations in Revelation chapters 2 and 3 are just as poignant for us individually as they are corporately for our churches. I hope you’ll take the time to watch the whole series at  https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/video-archives, but if you only choose one, I recommend the church of Sardis. 

Nearly 13 years have passed since Tom taught this series. I admit as I listened to Tom I was struck by the many societal shifts and disruptions since 2010. In this lesson to the church of Sardis, Tom likens the teeny tiny axis shift resulting from the Chilean Earthquake in October 2010 to our willingness to compromise. The earth’s axis alteration shortened each day by 1.26 millionths of a second - hardly noticeable – right?  Well, in the eternity of time, more shifts, more earthquakes, and more lost millionths of seconds will add up, just as does our complacency, sins, and compromise. We can be strumming along in our lives, making small little “insignificant” concessions, and BOOM!  We find ourselves totally off course. 

So, let’s check in and see how we’re doing.

Are you desensitized by the world and no longer strive for God’s standards?

Do you call yourself a Christian by simply identifying with Jesus, or do you truly follow Him?

Is your inertia and complacency getting in the way of God’s best for this season in your life?

I’ll speak for myself – When I honestly assess my heart, my lifestyle, and my microcosm of the world, I begin to see how, over time, I have created little deities of comfort, ease, and convenience.

Ouch. Acknowledging my sin reminds me that before I point out all the things that may be wrong - true as they may be – in the larger contexts of the church, community, and the world, I need to deal with my heart first.

And then, by earnestly seeking God and asking Him how I can better reflect Jesus’ love and truth in my spheres of influence, I can be His hands and feet in this broken, messed up world.

It is time for a revival. 

God’s warning to the seven churches is a warning to all of us.   

Let’s recalibrate, look honestly at our hearts, and get back to basics.

We are sinners.

Saved by God and God alone.

We get to glorify Him in our families, our churches, and our communities.
 
To Him be the glory!

January 2023

Happy new year!

As we usher in 2023, I hope you and your family had a blessed Christmas and holiday season. 2022 was quite a year! For many, work, school, and travel returned to a pre-pandemic pace, and yet, I think we can all agree most things are far from ideal.

A few days ago, I came across this handwritten note in one of Tom’s journals: 
   
“God allows us to live in this day, this minute with an ever-present sense of the future reality that this moment is inescapably linked to God’s plan – His future rest for me!”

Although I think Tom, especially in his last few years, may have focused on the “rest” part of the sentence, what jumped out to me is “God’s plan.” Every minute, every thought, decision, action, and reaction are linked to God’s plan. 

As overwhelming as this may be, it is also hugely comforting. 

Do you mean that all this mess, brokenness, greed, and disease are part of God’s plan?
 
Yep. “God either causes or allows all things for your good and His glory” (Tom Shrader)

Everything. 

Even pain.

Even suffering.

Even when we don’t get our way.

Even unemployment, inflation, and economic downturns.

Even disease. 

Even death. 

Now, wait, don’t get me wrong. God’s perfect world had none of this. God’s perfect world was without sin, disease, and death. But then, in Genesis 3, the apple was eaten, sin entered the world, and we now live in a fallen world. Here is a powerful video lesson from Tom in 2013 on depravity and sin.  

Recently I’ve noticed a shift. It seems to me that more and more, we (or maybe just me) have become so focused on what we want or “need”, that we approach our Holy, Almighty God expecting Him to come into OUR story and make it just the way we think it should be.

God doesn’t want you happy, He wants you obedient. (Tom Shrader) 

During Tom’s last few years on earth, I watched him struggle with incredible pain, multiple surgeries, debilitation, and loss. Through it all, Tom never asked God to take the pain away, but rather to use it to draw him closer. Tom knew that everything, even pain, disease, and death, was part of God’s plan. And with each iteration, Tom focused on God and His promises, confident his suffering was minor compared to eternity with Jesus. 

Your pain can only last a lifetime. (Tom Shrader)

January 13 will mark Tom’s fourth year with Jesus. It is crazy to think that Tom has been gone so long.  Yet, almost daily, I am reminded how God continues to use Tom’s teaching to draw people to Him.

Tom’s life on earth was certainly a testament to God’s perfect plan.

As we look to 2023, let’s turn things around. Let’s get our focus off ourselves and onto Him - the Creator of the Universe, the one and only true God. 

Let’s remember that we are part of God’s plan, instead of trying to pray God into OUR plan.

Let’s replace our man-centered thoughts with God’s truth.

Let’s worship Him by bringing glory to Him in all we do.

December 2022

Dear friends,

Ready or not, the Christmas season has begun. The leftover turkey is gone, Christmas songs fill the air and neighborhoods are lighting up with holiday decorations.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, fa la la la la la . . .

But wait, before we get into all the hustle and bustle, let’s talk about Advent.

This year, the first Sunday of Advent was November 27 and continues until Christmas day. During Advent, we remember the ancient Jewish longing for God’s salvation, the promised Messiah to come. As Christians, we observe Advent by remembering God’s faithfulness and joyfully preparing our hearts to celebrate the birth of Christ as we anxiously await His return.

The Christmas before Tom was promoted to heaven, he and I did an Advent devotional together. We began our Advent mornings with a short reading and reflected on it throughout the day. In the evening, we read the passage aloud and discussed how it applied to the myriad of happenings in our lives. It was a sweet time of reflecting on God; His Son, Jesus; and the Holy Spirit. As Advent comes each year, I savor those memories as I meditate on God’s promises, undeserved grace, and the gift of His son, Jesus.

For me, observing Advent creates a buffer from the hoopla of Christmas. It seems to me that Christmas has taken on a whole new meaning and not much of it has to do with God, Jesus, or the hope and love He has given us.

Advent helps to remind me not to get caught up in black Friday and cyber shopping, the allure of more and more decorations, the need for endless festivities, and all the other crazy things we do to celebrate Christmas in the secular world. “Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom; in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth without knowing whose it will finally be. “But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.”” (Psalm 39:6-7)

This year, I challenge you to step back from the shopping, the busyness, the glitz, and the glow of Christmas and spend a bit of time each day thanking God for all He has done and is doing. Years ago, Tom did a Christmas lesson on gift-giving and having a proper perspective on the true gift of Christmas. This lesson is full of Tom’s wit and unique teaching: https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/audio-archives/2015/12/17/gifts-whos-on-your-list

Advent and Christmas remind us of God’s love, sovereignty, and promises which are as true today as they were in ancient times. And, just like our forefathers and those that have come before us, we yearn for something better - for death and disease to be eradicated, for angst and anger to be gone, for sadness and tears to be wiped away.

We wait in joyful anticipation for Jesus to return.

Now that is a gift worth waiting for. Right?

Have a blessed and merry Christmas!

November 2022

Last week I needed cash. Not money in the bank, but cash - a few twenties, tens, and fives. Clearly, this wasn’t a big deal, right? Just go to the bank and get some cool, hard cash. Well, lo and behold, it wasn’t that easy. In addition to not having cash, I also didn’t have a debit card. My debit card is safely tucked away in some of my stuff in Missouri. Yep, it is 1500 miles away.

Being the resourceful person I am, I went to my trusty neighborhood bank. As I walked in the door, it took about a nano-second to realize the world has drastically changed. The bank counter, the tellers, and all semblance of a “bank” were gone. I had walked into a cashless banking center. Who knew?

A cashless bank. How could this possibly be? What is a bank without cash? I mean really, the whole purpose of a bank is to take my money, keep my money and give my money back when I want it.

If Tom were still here, he would have a heyday.

Anyway, I guess I haven’t been paying attention. The world is changing at an exponential rate, and this is just one more example. Driverless cars, facial recognition technology, cryptocurrency, air fryers, and even yesterday things like Uber and Amazon are evidence of the ever-evolving and progressive world in which we live.

Yet, as much as I was thrown for a loop by cashless banking centers, I am very aware and hugely concerned that our world and, quite honestly, my life, is becoming so enamored with technology, convenience, and busy-ness (or maybe just plain old distractions), days go by without thinking or spending time with Jesus. To this end, I must stop and ask myself: Is my life becoming Jesus-less?

Am I so consumed with my agenda, my work, my routines, and myself that I am living a Jesus-less existence?

Am I complacent in my love for Christ thinking He knows it and well, whatever?!?

Am I living a sin-filled life, serving myself, and feeling powerless over sin?

Have I become lulled into believing I can do enough to earn my salvation?

There is no sorta-kinda. There is no halfway. There is no other way than Jesus. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

In 2001, as part of Tom’s Life Management series, he did a lesson entitled “Dogmatism”. Tom’s applications and examples continue to be hugely relevant. I know you’ll enjoy listening to young Tom at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/young-tom-audio-archives/2022/8/12/dogmatism

Here’s the deal. You can’t try hard enough or do enough to earn God’s love, redeem yourself, or work your way into heaven. It is not about good deeds, attendance, religious rituals, or the infamous “more good than bad” scale.

Jesus alone has the transforming power to replace our sinful heart and give us a new heart. “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules” (Ezekiel 36:25-27)

Jesus took our sins and sinful nature to the cross. He paid the penalty.

Without Jesus, there is no power over sin.

Without Jesus, we are simply left to our own devices.

Without Jesus, there is no atonement for sin and reconciliation with God.

Without Jesus, there is no salvation.

Jesus did it all. Jesus said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (John 19:30) Once. And for all.

Let’s put Jesus, and nothing else, rightfully in the center of our lives.

His transforming power is all we need.

Even more than cool, hard cash.

You can take that to the bank.

For His glory alone.

October 2022

Did you, along with more than 4 billion others around the world, watch Queen Elizabeth’s funeral? I did. I was enthralled by the pomp, reverence, and majestic yet bittersweet beauty of it all. Queen Elizabeth’s seventy-year reign (70 years and 214 days to be exact) endured ups and downs, scandals and victories, tears, and cheers. Through it all, Queen Elizabeth demonstrated unflappable calmness, love, and genuine care for her people. She served them well.

Queen Elizabeth II embodied all that I consider royal and worthy of a queen. But there was a problem. Queen Elizabeth II came into this world as an infant and lived a sinner’s life, just like you and me, and on September 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth’s reign ended. Although she was queen, she was human.

Let’s look at our king, King Jesus, and get a proper perspective.

He was born of a woman just like you and me, yet He is fully man AND fully God. His Father is God – the one and only God – the creator and perfector of the world. Jesus is one with God. Jesus did not come to earth as the heir apparent, but as the triune God in the flesh. “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have supremacy.” Colossians 1:15-18.

Take that in for a minute. Jesus came off his heavenly throne to live in this broken world and to die the death we all deserve. His throne is not man-made, it is the heavenly throne - the throne of the Almighty. Jesus came to earth to die the death of a sinner, although he was without sin.

Did you get that? Jesus came to earth to die. His purpose was to live a perfect life and to die on the cross. For us. Jesus did this for you and me. He took our sins to the cross and paid the death penalty for us. He did what we can’t do; He redeemed us and reconciled us with God. “Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight without blemish and free from accusation” Colossians 1:21-22.

And then, instead of the story being over, three days later, Jesus rose from the dead. He conquered death. Let me rephrase that. Death could not and did not stop Jesus’ reign.

Jesus will reign forever, and He gives us eternal life with Him.

Okay so, most of you know this. But do you really believe it? Do you LIVE like you believe it? Does your life demonstrate that Jesus is your Lord and Savior? Do you really, truly trust that God holds EVERYTHING, and that Christ’s death reconciled you with God?

Or do you think of God as simply “the man upstairs,” reducing Him to your image instead of the Sovereign God, the One and Only, the Alpha and Omega? Are you trying to work out your salvation each day by doing more and more? Are your problems, struggles, and suffering bigger than God? Do you, deep down inside, worry and fret that maybe God has or will fall asleep at the wheel?

Tom did a lesson in 2002 entitled, “Ground Rules for Dealing with God” as part of his “Reflections from the Top of the Heap” series from the book of Ecclesiastes. Tom talks about having a proper perspective of God. Here’s the link https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/young-tom-audio-archives/2022/9/11/ground-rules-for-dealing-with-god from the Young Tom section at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/young-tom-audio-archives

The bottom line is that kings and queens will come and go. Prime ministers, presidents, and COEs all have term limits. We do too. Each one of us will pass away.

But God. He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. His reign will never end, “’As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’” Romans 14:11

Let’s show the world that we are His children. There IS hope. God IS faithful. There IS purpose. There IS a better way. Jesus tells us, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6.

Let’s give God all the glory today and every day, knowing one day we will be with Him in heaven worshipping the one true God with trillions of others from yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

For all of eternity.

September 2022

Remember the “Got Milk?” campaign of the nineties? Did you know that it began by focusing on the deprivation of milk instead of just simply putting milk mustaches on famous people? Let me back up and explain. Way before almond, soy, cashew, coconut, oatmeal, and all those other “milks” we use in our mocha java lavas, there was just plain cow’s milk and it HAD to be refrigerated. In those ancient times, breakfast was all about having cereal WITH milk. So, just imagine going to the refrigerator and finding an empty carton of milk, or worse yet, spoiled milk! Clearly this was not a good start to your day.

Last week as I drove from the Midwest to Phoenix, I was listening to Tom’s messages and my mind went down the rabbit trail of life without Jesus. Just like (sort of) life without milk in the “Got Milk?” campaign, I can’t fathom life without Jesus. How would I deal with my sin? My guilt? My regrets? How would/could I live without the joy of heaven on earth and the hope of eternity? As I thought more and more, I realized that it is not hyperbole to say that I am a new person - my heart, my perspective, and my life has been deeply, fully changed since God saved me more than 18 years ago. “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you.” Ezekiel 36:26

I think it hit home because in this season of my life I am around a lot of people who don’t know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Spending time outside of my Christian bubble has helped me to see that life IS truly different with Jesus. Because of Him, I am no longer held in bondage by past sins, mistakes, dysfunctional habits, negative self-talk, and/or brokenness. Why? He took all my mess to the cross and redeemed me. “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21. Jesus reconciled me with God.

He gave me a new heart and a new life. Where there once was darkness and fear, there is light. Where there once was insecurity, sadness, and worthlessness, there is joy.

I am now a co-heir with Christ. I am a child of God.

Amazing, right?

I came across this praise and prayer (see pic above) Tom wrote on September 30, 1987. It says: “At 33,000 feet it is easy to believe in God. What’s hard to believe is that He saved me. There is no way to understand why, I sure didn’t deserve it. All I can do is praise and thank Him and live the balance of my life serving Him. It seems He is really using us. I pray we continue to be available and willing, we will through His grace.”

How about that? The King of kings, the Lord of lords changed Tom’s heart and life trajectory. Tom believed, deep in his heart, his soul, and his mind, that each moment, each thought, and each interaction was an opportunity to live with love, forgiveness, and grace for God’s glory. Those of you who sat under Tom’s teaching for a minute know the radical change God made in Tom’s life. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) Knowing that Jesus took his sin to the cross freed Tom (and you and me) to live the authentic, unique life God created specifically for him. God powerfully used Tom to share the gospel to you and many others.

In the “Young Tom” archives at prioritylivingaz.org, you’ll find Tom’s 2005 series entitled, “Living to Win Over . . .” and I encourage you to listen to the whole series. For today, I hope you’ll click on “Living to Win Over Worthlessness” at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/young-tom-audio-archives/2022/8/13/living-to-win-over-worthlessness and hear Tom’s lesson on what it means to be a child of God.

So, have you GOT JESUS?

If you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, take time this month to reflect on how God has changed you. Are you available and willing to do the work God has for you? Are you sharing His love, truth, and grace with those around you?

If you’re not sure about Jesus, please reach out to me, someone at church, or “that” friend who spends time with his/her bible.

God can change your heart, your life, and your eternal destination.

No milk mustache needed.

PS: Be sure to check out all the Young Tom lessons at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/young-tom-audio-archives.

August 2022

At the gym the other day, we had to do broad jumps. You know, those frog-like jumps you did in grade school? Here are the instructions the coach gave: Stand with your feet apart and rooted squarely in the ground, bend your knees, squat… then swing your arms while jumping up and forward with as much force as you can.

Sounds like a disaster – right??? Honestly, it is. But then, after a couple of tries, you begin to really root your feet into the ground, pump your arms, and suddenly, you jump farther than you ever thought possible. (Disclaimer: Do not try this at home. Physical and mental damage may occur.)

Anyway, back to the gym. The more broad jumps I did that day, the more I thought about my faith in God and the Bible.

What? Look at the coach’s first step: “Stand with your feet apart and rooted squarely in the ground.” What’s that all about? Have you ever tried to do a broad jump on an uneven surface, with only one foot, or from your sofa cushion? It doesn’t work so well. You might have glute muscles like no other; you might wind your arms and swing like crazy; you might even be able to jump higher than Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, but none of that is enough. Without the solid foundation of the ground underneath your feet, and your feet planted squarely on that ground, your broad jump is seriously compromised.

And so, what do you have for your ground? Are you on shifting soil? Are you on uneven terrain? Or maybe you have solid ground underneath, but your feet are anything but rooted. You might even be straddling the fence. God or the world? Hmm, which side can, and should, you trust?

All of us put our trust and faith in something. When you sit down, you put your faith in the chair beneath you. Each time you get on a plane, you put your faith in the pilot, the plane, and the mechanics who maintain the plane. The object of your faith is what is important. Who or what is the object of your faith?

Most of us would say we trust in God. Even our American currency says, “In God We Trust”. Do we REALLY trust in Him? Do we truly have our hope in Him? Do we believe, trust, and obey in His word – the Bible? Or, have you put your faith and hope in your finances? Your political party? Your comfort? Your retirement plans? Your kids? Your hobbies?

Here’s the deal. God is the one true God. He gave us the instruction manual for life – the Bible. It is infallible and inerrant. It is the final authority. Tom would say, “We study the Bible to know the God of the Bible.” So, let’s keep it simple. Root yourself in His Word and know that, without a doubt, you have a firm, uncompromising foundation under your feet. Tom talks about this in his 2004 lesson entitled “Biblical Reliability” https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/young-tom-audio-archives/2022/7/2/christianity-101-2-2004

As believers, our foundation, our solid ground, is God. We don’t have to wonder. There is no false news or misinformation. We don’t have to worry. The Triune God has spoken, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Tim 3:16-17. He gives us everything we need to know.

This month, how about taking time each day to ROOT yourself in His Word and STAND on His solid ground? You’ll “jump” further than you ever thought possible.

PS: We’ve added more of Tom’s older PL lessons. Check out “Young Tom” at: https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/young-tom-audio-archives

July 2022

What is your default mode? As I wake up, my mind immediately spirals into what is not going right and what I need to do to make everything exactly as I want it to be. Next, I begin mental gymnastics, looking for loopholes and shortcuts that will get my desired results with the least amount of effort. In other words, I quickly fall into the wormhole of MY day, MY life, MY wants, MY “needs.”

It is my default, and it isn’t good.  

Stop. Rewind. God has given me everything I need. His mercies are new each day. He blesses me extravagantly. He is the Creator of the universe, and He calls me his daughter. 

Thank you. 

God doesn’t love the way humans love. His love is unconditional. It is not based on what I do, whether I look good, sound good, or any other human criteria of “success.” His love is not a quid pro quo, nor is it about what I’ve done lately.  

Unconditional Love. 

My sinfulness is far deeper and much worse than I can ever imagine. I will never do enough to cancel my debt. There are no loopholes or shortcuts when it comes to God. The punishment of sin is death. And I am a sinner.  

His love is far greater than I can fathom.  

He does it all. He loves me so much that He sent his son to die for me (and you, too!) while I am still a sinner. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Unmerited Grace. 

Years ago Tom did a series called Grace for Life, Grace for Living, and in this lesson, “Not Mostly Dead, but Completely Dead,” Tom taught on Ephesians 2:1-2: “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. ” 
 

When we realize that each of us, at our core, is spiritually dead and incapable of changing on our own, we begin to see God for what He really is - The One and Only True God. The Alpha and Omega. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

Then, and only then, can we begin to accept God’s love, grace, and unmerited gift of salvation. Ephesians 2:4-6 “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved) and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”  

My default mode needs to change, plain and simple, to that of gratitude.

God does it all. Thank you, God. He sent Jesus to give me life. Jesus lived a sinless life and died on the cross for my sins. Thank you, Jesus.

Jesus did what I could never do. Through Him, I have life. Life to the full. 

Thank you.

This 4th of July, as we celebrate our great country and the many freedoms we have, let’s also celebrate the freedom that Jesus has given us through his death on the cross – freedom from the bondage of sin, freedom from the wrath of God, freedom from eternal death.

Now THAT is freedom!

June 2022

Drip………

Drip drip….

Drip drip drip..

DRIP DRIP DRIP DRIPPPPPPPPPPP…..

For the last few weeks, I have been in St. Louis, Missouri, doing little restoration projects as I spend time with family and enjoy the Spring weather and mosquitoes. One such project was to replace the cartridge in a leaky shower. I don’t know if you have ever done this, but it isn’t always easy. Sometimes the cartridge has sediment and corrosion build-up making it stuck and, of course, this was the issue with my faucet. I pulled, I pushed, I wriggled, I tried, and tried again. Admitting partial defeat, I called in reinforcements – my sister. She pulled, pushed, wriggled, and adjusted over and over. We sprayed WD-40, watched YouTube videos, and reviewed tips from online pros. We took turns pulling and encouraging each other. Finally, at the end of an exhausting afternoon, we gave up. Time to call the plumber and pay the big bucks. The plumber had some difficulty, too, but got the job done. He also taught me how to wriggle and replace the next one. Watch out leaky faucets!

Lately, I have been feeling that our world is like my leaky faucet. The little drip, drip – the angst that something is wrong – is quickly becoming a resounding waterfall that can’t be ignored.

SOMETHING IS VERY WRONG in our world.

The ongoing war in Ukraine, global conflicts, increasing violence near and far, struggles, and so much brokenness fill the news. Last week, the horrific school shooting in Texas hit me very hard as I think back to my days as an elementary teacher. My heart aches for the children, teachers, families, and community as they face loss, immense grief, and collective pain. Add financial woes, supply chain issues, formula shortages, general strife, mental health concerns, and relational tensions to the mix, and very few of us remain untouched by fear, apprehension, and just plain worry.

What’s happening around us?

Plain and simple, SIN is what is happening.

More than a decade ago, Tom did a series entitled Doctrine, and Tom’s lesson on Genesis 3 gets right to the point.

Sin is the problem. And, like my leaky faucet, we can’t fix it alone. We need help.
Our broken world, our sin, our emptiness, our pain, our anguish, our diseased and idolatrous hearts need much more than an expert.

We need Jesus.

Jesus, fully God and fully man, understands and knows our pain. He came down from his throne to live on earth amid the brokenness, the sin, the sorrow. He lived a sinless life. He took our sin and went to the cross to die the death we all deserve.

He paid our debt - a debt bigger than we could ever pay.

Jesus is the perfect atonement. You see, Jesus is not just the remedy or solution, He did it all. He is the propitiation for our sin. He is victorious over death and because of His sacrifice, we have life eternal with Him.

There is hope and a “fix” for this world - JESUS.

Please take time today to pray to Him. Pray for the families in pain. Pray for your heart, pray for your soul, and pray that He opens your eyes to His truth and love.

PS – I highly recommend and hope you’ll watch all of Tom’s Doctrine series at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org/video-archives