The Rose Calico Journal: Of His Fullness We Have Received, and Grace for Grace

By Tina Michaels

Grace for grace

As the matriarch of our story, Lottie guides generations of family to take hold of grace in the twists and turns of everyday life. At the same time, Lotties own experiences challenge her to delve deeper into the sustaining grace of a Lord who never fails. While Lottie struggles with the loss of her husband, she faces the many changes of her newfound dependence and a once-again full house. However, those changes paled in comparison to what would come.

Explore Gods provision for yourself.

Join in the discovery of grace well-lived as Tina Michaels shares through a unique combination of fiction and Bible study, with fun puzzles and soul-stretching activitiesAll designed to help place you into the hands of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, the place where we grow up in the grace that sets us free.

*** 12-week Bible study for individual or group use ***

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Jul 19, 2012
• ISBN: 9781449756420

Tina Michaels

TINA MICHAELS, a teacher with a passion for God’s people, has served in various ministries for many years. Her teaching style engages people of all ages, drawing them into unexpected experiences that challenge them and provide opportunity for spiritual growth. She lives with her husband and two sons in Ohio.

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Copyright © 2012 Tina Christine Barnette

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Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

ISBN: 978-1-4497-5642-0 (e)

ISBN: 978-1-4497-5643-7 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4497-5644-4 (hc)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2012911553

WestBow Press rev. date: 7/13/2012

Contents

Preface

In Gratitude

Moving In

Papa’s Mirror

The Journal

Wisdom from Heaven

Lemon Snow

Luke and Rae Ann

Evie’s Travels

Tandy

Watermelon Joy

747 Grace Avenue

Advent

Home

Guide Notes for Small Group Leaders

Answer Key

Endnotes

A.pdfLottiesFamilyTree.pdf

Lottie’s Family Tree

Preface

The Rose Calico Journal is a book designed to be a place of discovery through story and the spiritual disciplines of biblical study, meditation, prayer, and thanksgiving.

Enjoy the story, engage the Scripture, and submit to the work of the Holy Spirit along the way.

I know many of you will be tempted to read straight through the story and skip the Bible study, and there may be some who would skip the story and go immediately to the study; however, doing either would detract from your experience. The story and study are intertwined purposely.

Have your Bible beside you. You will need a New King James Version since this is the translation I use. Be fair to the text and join in as it is presented—You may also want to work through the book with a small group.

I highly recommend using The Rose Calico Journal for a small group study; interacting with a Christian community of believers is another spiritual discipline through which we can discover more of what God desires for us. I have provided a Guide for Small Group Leaders in Appendix I.

I pray you find the treasures God gave me to share. May you be blessed with all the riches of grace and peace in Christ Jesus.

The characters in this story are entirely fictional, and the account is not based on true events, with a couple exceptions. The Joy Balls reward system was shared with me by my sons’ third grade teacher, who has been a good friend and a great influence on our family. The last chapter includes some personal memories of my grandmother’s last days, a time of profound grace. My grandma was not like Lottie, but she was a special woman we all loved very much.

In Gratitude

To Deb, Linda, Helen, Harriet, Tami, Tammy,

Tracy, Heather, Crystal, Misty, and Paula—

A small group of wonderful friends and family

who made it a joy to share the grace of God’s Word.

To Patsy Clairmont, who took a moment to speak softly a word I needed, leading me deeper into God’s grace and to the writing of this book.

To my parents, who love the Lord and taught me to seek Him.

With special love to my husband, who never ceases to encourage me,

and to my sons, who are amazing young men with hearts after God.

With untold measure to my Lord Jesus Christ.

In memory of

Grandma Belva

Chapter 1

Moving In

"Lottie, you’re not understanding me. I don’t want you to do better; I want you to have better. The front door was still open in Lottie’s hand as she stood absorbing the warm sunlight that welcomed her there. She breathed in the sweet scent of red-ripe apples hanging in the breeze. Her eyes closed, and she recalled Mama’s face across the table. Receive what God has already given you, Lottie. Let Him melt your anger…"

Light wafted through the air, brightening the papered wall and landing on the faded mahogany floor. The old house was showing its age, but somehow it seemed better for it, like a worn, soft blanket or comfortable slippers.

Grandma, are you okay? We’d better shut this door, or flies will take over the place. Lottie moved over just enough for Rebecca to pull the screen door closed.

I love this spot in the house—always have. The aging woman began pulling off her soft blue cardigan. She forced down the lump in her throat; seemed like every memory brought tears these days.

Becca, I’m eighty-four now. I was only five when we moved in, but I remember it plain. Papa on one side of me, Mama on the other. They were swinging me between them as we walked up the porch steps. Mama opened the door and the sun shone like it is today, through here from the kitchen. Papa tossed me up in the air and said, ‘Now, isn’t that just like God’s grace? He’s already here and waiting for us.’

Lottie stopped long enough to put her sweater on a peg; then turned back to Rebecca. I don’t know how many times I’ve thrown this door open, dropped my books, and ran, following those rays all the way to the backyard. And, of course, Mama always yelling, ‘Lottie, don’t run in the house!’ She tilted her head with a grin. "I heard you tell Jimmy the same thing yesterday.

Funny what makes a mark on a body. That moment sealed something in my mind, and every time I’d open the door to the sunshine, I’d hear a whisper, ‘God’s grace is like that sunbeam.’ I didn’t only hear words though, Becca, it was if I could feel God’s arms around me. Lottie’s blue-green eyes looked seriously at the one helping her. God’s hugs, you know?

Rebecca smiled, not wanting to be in a hurry, but thinking of all the boxes that were yet unpacked. I’m glad we’re here, Grandma. I love your stories. She took Lottie’s arm to steady her.

Lottie didn’t reply as her granddaughter led her to the sofa. Her eyes closed again. Lord, how many times have You reminded me there? I need Your grace more than ever. You’d think I would have learned by now. She heard her mother once more.

Your anger is affecting the whole house. Snappy answers for everything. Stomping around. Nothing is good enough for you. You really hurt Mae this morning when she gave you her picture. She was trying to make you feel better. She’s only seven, Lottie, and she looks up to you.

I know, Mama. I’m sorry. I’ll do better.

Lottie, you’re not understanding me. I don’t want you to do better; I want you to have better. Receive what God has already given you. Let Him melt your anger. We know you’ve been hurt, and we hurt for you. Mama’s eyes held Lottie’s. I have only one answer for you—God’s grace.

Lottie looked away in frustration, Mama, I don’t—

Mama had no intention of letting Lottie off there. Lottie, do you remember when Sally Anne Jeffries died? I think you were about twelve.

Yes, I remember. Lottie sighed, resigning herself to at least listen to her mother’s wisdom. It was awful. Sally had been the bubbliest little girl, well, before her sickness.

You asked how Mrs. Jeffries could praise God when her only child had been taken from her. What did Papa say?

He said it was because of God’s grace, but—

Yes, Mama interrupted firmly. Mrs. Jeffries thanked the Lord because she knew that in His grace, He would receive Sally into a place where she would never suffer again, and because of His grace, they held the hope that they would see Sally again.

What does that have to do with me?

Lottie, Mama paused and bowed her head for a moment.

Lottie, whenever you suffer loss, release your pain to the Lord and move into His grace. She stood up and gently replaced one of Lottie’s loose curls. There you will find everything you need.

Lottie leaned back on the paisley cushions, shaking her head. At the time it seemed like the end of the world—

We are sorry, Lottie. We didn’t want to hurt you, but Jerry and I belong together. Lottie, you and I have been friends since the third grade. You can forgive me, can’t you?

Lottie looked at Millie’s ring in shock, still trying to comprehend. Jerry was hers—not Millie’s! But the two had eloped and were standing there together—in her living room!

Lottie didn’t answer. She just ran, out through the kitchen, around the house, across the street to the apple orchard. There, she threw herself down under her favorite tree and sobbed until dark.

Mama had been right, though. Moving into God’s grace was the answer. And, Lord, I know it is still the answer. Help me please, again, to receive Your grace.

Grandma, Rebecca called from the kitchen, This is Mrs. Wainwright. She and her husband were wondering if they might come over and visit this afternoon. Rebecca walked in holding the phone at her ear, covering the receiver with her other hand. What do you think? Are you up to it?

Lottie straightened up and put down the pillow she had been hugging. Oh, they must be back from their trip. My, they’ve been gone a long time. Sure, it’s okay with me if it’s okay with you.

Rebecca answered into the phone, Yes, Mrs. Wainwright, we would love to have you visit today. About one? Okay, see you then.

By the time their visitors arrived, Rebecca had coffee brewing and warm cranberry-orange muffins on a tray. She filled their coffee cups and chatted a while before she went back to the kitchen. Mrs. Wainwright took the opportunity to speak more personally.

Lottie, we are sorry we weren’t here for Timothy’s funeral. After three months in Florida, we decided to go to Michigan to see our son and his family. We wish we could have been here for you.

That’s alright, Marilyn. It couldn’t be helped. Lottie twisted her napkin as she spoke, It has been five months since he passed away, but it seems like an eternity.

Dennis looked around at the boxes and luggage. I see you have Rebecca’s family moving in with you. That’s a good thing; you shouldn’t be alone in this big house.

But that must be a real adjustment for you, Lottie—handing over your home to another woman, even if it is your granddaughter. Marilyn leaned closer and patted Lottie’s hand, Don’t they have three children?

Yes, well, the family became concerned about me when I twisted my ankle last month. Luke and Rae Ann just live down the road. Still, everyone felt I needed closer attention. Becca and Phillip lived across town, but the kids didn’t have to change schools or anything. I couldn’t bear to leave my home. I’m thankful they were willing to come here.

Oh, of course, Marilyn said, I guess I was just thinking of all the changes.

Lottie bowed her head and willed the tears away. Marilyn realized her mistake, I’m sorry, Lottie. I know nothing will ever be the same without Timothy.

Rebecca came in as Marilyn was speaking. She sat down and put her arms around her grandmother, It’s no wonder, Grandma. When you’ve been married for almost sixty-seven years—I can’t imagine.

Dennis pulled out his hankie. He had been mostly quiet during the visit. Lottie, I’d like to go to Timothy’s grave.

Lottie shook her head, Oh, I’m sorry, Dennis. I’ve been thinking about myself—You and Tim were such good friends—Of course you would. We buried Timothy beside our son Luke in the Franklin Cemetery over on Marsh Road.

Rebecca noticed that the color had drained out of Lottie’s face and she had sunk back into the sofa. The concerned granddaughter glanced at Mrs. Wainwright, We appreciate you coming out.

Marilyn took her cue and stood, We wanted to. Lottie, you know our hearts go out to you. If you need anything—

Dennis echoed Marilyn as they left. Rebecca waved goodbye again from the door, and then returned to help Lottie to her room.

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The Provision of God’s Grace

Israel served as slaves to the Egyptians for four hundred years, but they now stood on the threshold of their promised land. Spies were returning to tell of the land they would enter and of the enemies Israel would surely face. Moses gathered the elders together to hear the reports and called the spies to speak. The descriptions of what lay across the Jordan were at once beautiful and terrifying. Ten spies fervently warned of danger and destruction; only two reminded the people of the great God Who had brought them thus far (Numbers 13–14).

Reading this story, I was always tempted to scoff with amazement at the people who seemed to have forgotten the miraculous rescue from Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and all the wonders God had done on their behalf. How could Israel doubt His love, His ability to protect them, or His faithfulness after all that they had experienced? How could they be afraid, so much so that they were willing to return to Egypt?

Yet, recently I found myself more understanding of their trust struggle. The Hebrews had been slaves, beaten and abused in every way imaginable their entire lives. They had suffered daily at the hands of their oppressors, and many of them had watched their children suffer the same. Israel had no trained army, and according to the spies, giants and strongholds would meet them. In their minds, death, unseen slavery, and unknown pain waited for them across the river. The people wept all night and determined to choose someone to guide them back to Egypt, a painful place, yes, but at least a place they knew. God had been with Israel, but they could not bring themselves to trust that He would continue to be with them. The potential pain was big in their eyes and fear had gripped their hearts, as if God did not exist.

Sometimes when winter clouds hide the sun, we begin to wonder if it is even there. God has done miracles for me no less wondrous than those He did for Israel. I know Him. I have experienced His presence, His love. He relieved my pain, restored my soul, and gave me a future—but I remembered pain, enough that when I was faced with it again, I could only see the clouds. As if God did not exist, fear ruled in me.

I know the truth, though: God does exist and He is here, waiting for me, with grace ready. Although Israel’s choice led them to the wilderness, they too found God’s grace waiting for them.

Jeremiah reminisces about this hundreds of years later. By Jeremiah’s time, Israel had once again faced the Jordan River, crossed it, and overcome incredible odds to take the land God had for them. Israel had grown under the direction of judges; experienced life under good and bad kings; witnessed the power of God through the prophets—all the while wavering back and forth between rebellion and obedience. Now, Israel stood looking at inevitable exile as consequence of their choices, just as their ancestors had faced the wilderness. The Prophet Jeremiah spoke: The exile is coming; the punishment Israel deserves is at hand; and yet, in the midst of that punishment, God’s grace will remain.

In our story, Lottie had been challenged to move into God’s grace and find all that she needed. The prophet Jeremiah offered this same challenge to Israel, reminding them of the grace provision in the wilderness.

8 Read Jeremiah 11:1–8 and Jeremiah chapters 30–33. Use the verses and clues given to complete the crossword puzzle, identifying the provision of God’s grace.

Provision of Grace

01.tiffprovisionofgraceblankpuzzle.tif

Across

3   Jer.31:20

5   Jer.31:33 God’s —— written in our hearts and minds

6   Jer.32:39 —— heart —— way

9   Jer.30:11 I will correct you in ——

10   Jer.31:3 loving ——

11   Jer.32:40 an —— covenant

14   Jer.33:6 abundance of ——

16   Jer.31:14 noun form of satisfied

18   Jer.31:34 noun form of forgive

20   Jer.33:9 a —— that brings praise, joy and honor to the Lord

22   Jer.33:11 the —— of joy, gladness, and praise

23   Jer.30:10 noun form of save

24   Jer.33:6 abundance of peace and ——

26   Jer.31:34 to —— God personally

27   Jer.33:8 I will —— all their iniquities

Down

1   Jer.31:12

2   Jer.33:8 noun form of cleanse; —— from sin

4   Jer.33:15–16 The Lord is our ——

7   Jer.31:2

8   Jer.31:11 noun form of redeemed

9   Jer.31:13 God will turn mourning to ——

12   Jer.31:3 everlasting ——

13   Jer.31:31 God will make a —— ——

15   Jer.30:11 noun form of correct

16   Jer.32:37 noun form of safely

17   Jer.31:9 a —— —— in which they shall not stumble

18   Jer.32:39 —— of the Lord forever

19   Jer.33:14/Acts 13:23 what was promised

21   Jer.33:6 health and ——

25   Jer.31:17 —— in your future

8 Rewrite the crossword answers in the list below. Circle the provisions that mean the most to you right now. Then, take a moment to journal why these are important to you.

Across

3____________________

5____________________

6____________________

9____________________

10____________________

11____________________

14____________________

16____________________

18____________________

20____________________

22____________________

23____________________

24____________________

26____________________

27____________________

Down

1____________________

2____________________

4____________________

7____________________

8____________________

9____________________

12____________________

13____________________

15____________________

16____________________

17____________________

18____________________

19____________________

21____________________

25____________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

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Salvation, and all that we need, is free, a gift of God’s grace. Finding what we need, however, requires an action on our part, a response of faith, a receiving—a moving into the place where we feel the warmth of His light on our faces. 8 Moving into God’s grace was the second instruction Lottie’s mother gave her. What was the first one?______________

This release is often the most difficult step toward God; whether it is pain or fear, pride, shame, or a besetting sin, we can’t seem to let go. Richard Foster’s Celebration of Discipline describes a Palms Down, Palms Up meditative exercise which helped me make a conscious effort to not only be aware of what held me back, but also be open to the cleansing, freeing power of the Holy Spirit—power to let go and power to move.

Begin by placing your palms down as a symbolic indication of your desire to turn over any concerns you may have to God. Inwardly you may pray, ‘Lord, I give to you my anger toward John, my fear of my dentist appointment this morning. I surrender my anxiety over not having enough money to pay the bills this month. I release my frustration over trying to find a babysitter for tonight.’ Whatever it is that weighs on