Thought for the Weekend

Weekend of December 28-29

"If at first you don't succeed, try,  try again."

But change something, for to do the same thing over and over
and expect a different result is foolishness.

Extend Christmas a few days

December 26-27

Its the day after Christmas and people seem anxious to get back to normal (whatever
that is). Why can't we extend the spirit of Christmas at least a few more days. Why can't
we smile and wish each other Merry as we did the past week. I want to hold onto the
joy and love of Christmas and not go back to "normal" quite yet. Who knows maybe the
multitude of angels will sing again...

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace and goodwill toward men." (Look 2:14)

Merry Christmas

Christmas Day 2013

Merry Christmas to all.

Less we forget

"Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy to all people."

For born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."

(Luke 2:11)

No Wise men Christmas Eve

December 24, 2013
We read in Matthew that the Magi (wise men) arrive in Bethlehem and "on coming to the
house, they saw the child with his mother Mary and they bowed down and worshiped him."
HOUSE! What happened to the stable?

It took the wise men over a year to travel to the new king. Which explains later why the paranoid
King Herod ordered all children in Bethlehem age two or younger slain.

The wise men obey God and act on faith.

"And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod they returned by
another route," (Matthew 2:12)

Thought for the weekend

Thought for the weekend of December 21-22

"You don't have a soul,

You are a soul,

You have a body." 
                                C.S. Lewis

(Taken from 125 quotes to learn from ALONG THE WAY)

Toll Taker at Christmas

December 20 2013

It is Christmas week and the front page of a newspaper pictured two toll booths with green lights, one had a line of traffic the other devoid of vehicles. Why?

The caption explained that the commuters had lined up to say thank you to a friendly toll taker who was serving his last day on the job.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for men."
(Colossians 3:23)

Thought for the weekend

Thought for the weekend Dec. 13-15

"Invest wisely, spend carefully, give cheerfully and waste nothing."
                                          This is good stewardship.

Christmas Presents from the Lord

December 12, 2013

Every year this lady would raise funds to buy presents for needy children.
This year she was strapped trying to sell her house and hadn't raised any
funds for "her kids." She was depressed.

In one day she learned her house was sold and the associates in her office
decided to forgo presents this year and donate to "her project."

"Isn't God awesome," she said.

"Oh give thanks to the Lord, For He is good. His mercy endures forever."
"Psalm 136:1)

God loves Christmas Carols

December 11,2013

Tis the time of year that we sing Christmas Carols. We went with a church group that was
serenading a nursing home. Many of the residents and visitors sang along with us. Then we went
room to room singing to those who remained in bed. When we left it was obvious we had
received more than we gave.

"I say to you, what you did for the least of these ..you did it to Me."
(Matthew 25;40

Christmas Cards

December 8, 2013

December is the month to send holiday greeting to people including some we haven't seen
all year, I must admit that I look differently at Christmas cards than I did some years ago.
Now I send cards appropriate to  the reason for the season and I don't write Xmas anymore.
To me that is crossing Christ out of Christmas.

"Behold I bring you good tidings of great Joy...born to you this day a Savior, who is
Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11)

Humbling Thought

December 4

Scientist claim that if the history of the Earth was diagrammed on an
hour circle, the last 5 minutes is the history of mankind. To me, this is
mind boggling. We are but a blip,

"Certainly everyman at his best state is but a vapor." (Psalm 39)

Thought for the weekend

For Nov. 23-24


Pride goes before a fall.
                Proverbs 16:18

Anniverary

November 15, 2013

Twenty two years ago on this day Joy and I were married. We thank the Lord for these wonderful
years together but my how they have flown by. I remember a husband on his fiftieth anniversary
saying, "We became the people we had to become to make each other happy."

I feel we are doing that too and keeping God in the center of our relationship has made all the difference. We both feel we love each other far more today than we did 22 years ago.

"Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:8)

"She cried out to God."

November 12,2013

She was at her wits end. Freshly divorced, unemployed and depressed a friend invited her
to her son's fifth birthday party. Twenty minutes into the celebration she retreated from the
yard into the house. Kneeling next to the fireplace she cried out to God, "Give me a sign."

She rose and through her own tears she saw above the mantle a framed copy of "Footprints."

"Call on Me in your day of trouble and I will deliver you and you will give Me the glory."
(Psalm 50:15)

Thought for the Weekend

Thought for the Weekend of November 9-11

"If you are going through a time of discouragement,
there is a big personal enlargement ahead."

Oswald Chambers from My Utmost for His Highest.

What is the Purpose of Life?

Nov.6,2013

Street Interviewer: "What is the purpose of life?"
Responses:
"Have fun, love answers."  "Avoid Death." "Sex."

"There is no purpose."  "Darned if I know."
Actually a Pharisee asked Jesus the same question.
His response, "Love you God with all your heart, with
all you soul and with all your mind. Love your neighbor
as yourself."  (Matthew (22:37)

"Come, follow me."

November 5,2013

We were asked to pray for our pastors for 30 days and to leave our names
and addresses on a card and place it at the foot of a cross. God knows where
to find us. The cross is there so we can find God.

"Come take up the cross, and follow me." (Mark10:21)

Thought for the weekend

Quote for the weekend of November 2/3

The opposite of love is not hate, it is selfishness."

Trick oo Treats Lord

October 31, 2013

Its Halloween, the craziest day on the American calendar. Have fun. Remember All Saints Day follows and that's an appropriate reminder to end the shenanigans and put away our masks for
another year. No tricks or treats Lord but honest living everyday humbly in your service.

"By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches and honor and life." (Proverbs 22-4)

God's Gift of Memory

October 29, 2013

Think of what a priceless gift memory is. Without memory there would be no knowledge,
no anniversaries, birthdays or New Years. We wouldn't know our name or anybody else.
Thank God for memory.

"You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is God who gives you life."
(Deuteronomy 8:18)

How does God keep track?

October 25,2013

Ever wonder how God keeps track of all the things we do, what we think. and all our
prayers. How does God know what's in our hearts from all the other hearts?

One night, while reading, I found the answer. And of course it was the perfect answer.

Jesus explained it this way. "The Kingdom of God does not come visibly...because
the Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:20-21)

Notes from amy journal

October 23, 2013


"When the request is not right....God says no.

"When the time is not right...God says Slow

"When we are not right....God says Grow

"When everything is not right...God says Go.

Its how you finish

Thought for the weekend of October 19/20

"Finishing strong is better than starting fast." The Apostle Paul

Ancient Advice

Thought for the weekend of Oct.13

"Remember the borrower is subject to the lender," Solomon

God uses ballons

October 10,2013

We attended a new community church in Florida which used balloons
to create a cheerful approach to its front door. Who doesn't like balloon.
The singing was lively and the greetings genuine. It was a happy place to worship.

"Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples!
Shout to God with a voice of triumph!
Sing praises to God, sing praises!
Sing praises to our King, sing  praises!"
(Psalm 47: 1,6)

(From my journal 20 years ago.)

It takes three for a happy marriage

October 8, 2013

Joyous and I have various names we call each other for various moments and situations.
However, it is our focus to keep God in the center of our marriage that fills our house
with love.

"Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate." (Matthew 19:6)

Weekend Thought

Thought for the weekend of October 5/6

Young man says: I'm waiting for my ship to come in.

Old man asks:" How many did you send out?"

The Ultimate Question

October 3, 2013

It is perhaps one of the most important conversations in history.

Lazarus had died two days earlier and Jesus finally is arriving at his home.

Martha rushes out to greet him. "Lord if you had been here my brother would not have died."

Jesus responds: "Your brother will  rise again."

Martha: I know that he will rise again in the resurrection in the last day."

Jesus: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me though he may die, he shall live."

Then he asks Martha the ultimate question that we must all answer.

Jesus asks Martha, "Do you believe this?"   (John 11:21-26)

Praying for an Old Car

October 1, 2013

We are visiting family and attending their adult church class. During prayer time I hear a voice say,
"e need to pray for my brother-in-laws old car that it will make it to Florida."

We have had to jump start it every morning for a week. The next morning it starts right up. It starts the next two days and we arrive safely in Sarasota.

"We can be confident that God will listen to us whenever we ask for anything in line with
his will."  1John 5:14

Thought for the Weekend

"Don't sweat the small stuff.................and its all small stuff."

God gave me two words.

September 26, 2013

Joy talked with a friend, who was in a bad place, for an hour. As the woman approached our front door to leave, I asked God what I should say to her. Two words came to mind and I whispered them in  her ear as we hugged goodbye. A week later, she told Joy she acted on the two words I said to hear and it made all the difference,  I had whispered, "Tell God."

"Now a word secretly brought to me, and my ear received a whisper of it."(Job 4:12)

Are thoughts from God...from God?

September 24, 2013

When we have a thought while praying, is it from God? How do we know? The Bible gives us
an answer.

"By this you know the Spirit of God. Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in
the flesh is of God and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh
is not from God." (1John 4:2-3)

God urges paying a Parking Ticket

September 17,2013

I received a parking ticket today and I was upset about it. A wise friend
told me he pays a parking ticket right away. "Otherwise," he said, "if I
fuss over it, then it ends up costing me a lot more than the fine."

That tip turns out to be 2,000 years old. To wit:

"Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God
the things that are God's." (Matthew 22:21)

God's French Exam Gift

September 16,2013

I needed to pass French to obtain my college degree. I spent a week with my tutor translating the
same four paragraphs until I got it right. The next day was the dreaded exam .I opened the exam booklet and stared in disbelief. It was the same four paragraphs I'd been translating. It was a gift.


" The Lord's love endures forever, Praise the Lord...Psalm 117

Thought for the week

September 15, 2013

"An eye for an eye and soon the whole world would be blind."   Gandi

9/11 revisited

September 12, 2013

Hard to believe it has been 12 since that fateful day. We all gathered at church that evening to pray.
 I pray at home that we will become one nation under God and not forget who really is in charge.

"Come and let us return to the Lord;
For he has torn, but He will heal us;
He has stricken ,but He will bind up."
(Hosea 6:1)

Game Plan for Life

September 10, 2013

Sat in an auditorium this morning with 800 plus, listening to Hall of Fame Coach
and Race Team owner Joe Gibbs. He said, "A win in football starts with a game
plan. In racing it starts with a race plan. The same goes for life. My experience
has taught me that the only winning game plan for life is God's game plan and
it starts with the Bible."

Good call coach.

Just a Poem to Emulate

September 9, 2013 

Just to be tender, just to be true

Just to be glad the whole day through,

Just to be merciful, just to be mild.

Just to be trustful as a child:

Just to be gentle, kind and sweet,

Just to be helpful with willing feet...

Just to let love be our daily key,

That is God's will for you and me.

 

Poet Unknown



Thought for the weekend

September 8

"Pride goes before a fall,"    Proverbs 16:18

Weekend Wisdom

Thought for the Labor Day Weekend

"Treat others the way you want to be treated."
             The Golden Rule
  There is similar language in every major religion

What do you want on your tombstone?

August 29, 2013

A friend died suddenly of a heart attack. I remember he once said  he hoped people would write
on his tombstone, "he made a difference being here." What would you like written on your marker?

It is an interesting and challenging question. For me it doesn't matter, man will write my epitaph.
 What counts is what God says. I pray it will be something like:

"Well done good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21)

Let God handle your stree

August 28, 2013

My patience is wearing thin as I look for two things I have misplaced. With moving boxes scattered
about Joy senses my frustration and wisely suggests we take time out and pray. Kneeling in the living room she prays for peace and help in finding what I am missing.

After the "Amen," I open my eyes and spot a small box in the corner. It contains the two things
I'm seeking.

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God ."  (Philippians 4:6)

How do you explain this?

Aug 26,2013

It was a hot summer day so I stopped at a gas station and bought four bottles of water.
Why four I don't know. One would have suffice the 30 minutes trip via the interstate.
When I approached the toll both I notice a family of three sitting by the roadside with a panting dog.
I pull over. They explain someone has gone for gas. They are all beat. They all needed water, especially the dog. Now I know why I bought four bottles.

"If you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely
be rewarded." (Matthew 10:32)

Angels in my life.

August 19,2013

My thanks to these special angels that came to help me in a moment of need.

The man who stopped on a freeway and taped a leaky fuel line in my car.

The lady who knelt beside me when I was sick on a flight.

The unknown angel who awakened me before I drifted off the road.

Who have been your angels? Who can you be an angel too?

"He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways."
(Psalm 91:11)

Thought for the weekend

Thought for the weekend of August 17-28

'The one way to peace and bliss, every prophet has told us
is to give yourself away." (by serving others)
Ruth Cranston, The Miracle of Lourdes

from Things you learn and hear Along the Way

What a day it will be!

August 17,2013

I call Joy and tell her that her aging dad has accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior.
I hear a gasp and I hear her say excitedly, "I can't believe this. God is wonderful.
The last to days when I listen to 'Hallelujah! What a day it will be when I stand before
the Lord.' I have been picturing my dad standing before God, head bowed, fidgeting and
holding his fishing pole."

"Rejoice with me. I say to you that joy shall be in heaven over one sinner who repents."
(Luke ,15: 6-7)

How do we handle criticism?

August 15, 2013

One of my challenges is handling criticism. I can receive five compliments and one critical remark and I focus on the latter. Can you relate? I had a boss once who not only listened to me criticize
a decision he made but thanked me for voicing my thought.

The Lord wants us to learn from criticism not shrink from it. How do you handle criticism? Does it slow you or grow you?

"Rebuke a wise man and he will love you . Give instructions to a wise man and he will be wiser still."
Proverbs 31:8

A dog, a car and judgment

August 14,2014

I am  walking behind a guide dog trainer and his new charge. We arrive at an intersection controlled by two stop signs, A car stops, so does the dog. We wait. Nobody moves. The trainer pretending to
be blind finally gives in and waves the motorist through.

I could see the driver's mouth moving as he stares at the dog and trainer. I can only imagine what
he is saying or thinking. I shouldn't judge the driver who is making a misjudgment of his own.

"Judge not that you be judged." (Matthew 7:1)

Thought for the weekend

August 10, 2013

"An eye for an eye and soon the entire world would be blind." Mahatma Gandi

from Thing you hear and Learn ALONG THE WAY

Is God Really There?

August 8, 2013

Remember "Brian's Birdies", the story told by a three year old who was crushed under a garage door.
He miraculously recovers. He tells his mom he saw "birdies" flying around that day while 
 he watched a little boy being put into an ambulance.

I've heard several accounts from adults who had God experiences during a crisis. After hearing these
reports and my own moment of being comforted by God in my hours of need that God really
does care about us. All we have to do is call upon him. The scripture you read next happened to me exactly as written.

"You shall call and the Lord will answer: You shall cry out, and He will say, Here I am."
(Isaiah 58:9)

Is our faith stronger than our fear?

August 5,2013

One on a fishing trip off the coast of Panama we venture ashore to a small island.
There are clothes hanging on wooden racks, the huts are empty, chickens milling about
and two smiling fires but not a soul in sight.

I know we are being watched from the nearby jungle. I have a inkling now how missionaries
must have felt entering going to a remote area. Is my faith stronger than my fear?

"Go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and
the Holy Ghost: teaching them all things I have commanded you: and know that I am with
you always, even to the end of the earth." (Matthew 28: 19-20)

Thought for the weekend

August 2-4

"The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook." William James

from things you hear and learn Along the Way

God is our life coach

August 1, 2013

God is like a Little League Baseball Coach. He is trying to bring out the
best in us. He knows what is inside us because he placed it there.
We need to trust out life coach.

"For whom the Lord loves H corrects; even as a father the son in whom
he delights," (Proverbs 3:12)

Thought for th Weekend

July 27, 2013



"To know and not to do is not to know." a wise counselor

from "Things you hear and learn ALONG THE WAY"

Honoring a friend

July 26,2013

When we graduated from Officer Candidates School (OCS) we were told tradition was to honor some enlisted person with the first salute and give him a dollar. I knew that person should be specialist Smith who befriended me during the rigorous training.

As he approached our barracks I came outside. He greeted me with a wave. "Is that how you address
an officer," I said sternly. His face cringed, he stiffened and slowly saluted, I returned the salute and presented him with the dollar and deep appreciation for all he had done for me.

"There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24)

A Message we need to hear

July 25, 2013

Roth, who is seventy and has Parkinson disease, tell this story on himself.

"He was about to enter the pool holding onto the ladder when a young girl swims right to it.
I thought she would let me go first because of my age but no she grabs the railing and lifts
herself out of the water, swings past me into a wheelchair, It was then I noticed she had no legs
from the knees down. And I thought I was handicapped."

"Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment." (John 7:24)

Thought for the weekend

July 20-21 2013

Things you here and learn ALONG THE WAY

"It is only the fear of God that can deliver us from the fear of man."
John Witherspoon, the only clergyman to sign the Declaration of Independence.

God first

July 19, 2013

When a runaway truck crashed through the front of my house my first thought was thank God we
weren't home. I have seen people standing in front of a totally destroyed home after a tornado
thanking God they weren't hurt.

God doesn't want us to have anything we love more than Him.

" You shall have no other God before me."  (Exodus 20:3)

Growing with God

July 18,2013

It has been raining a lot lately here in Florida followed by sun. Perfect for growth.

I need to stay in the light and I must be watered continually by God's Word to grow
the way He intended.

"He who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it,
who indeed bears fruit and produces some a hundred-fold, some sixty, some thirty."
(Matthew 13:23)

Jesus is still calming the storm

July 17, 2013

There I was a carefree college student alone, fishing from an open boat, totally oblivious to what was going on behind me. A flash of lightning and a loud crack startled me to reality. I immediately try to start my outboard but to no avail. Several more pulls. Nothing.

The winds came next with torrential rain. A good Samaritan came along in an open boat and offered a tow. Sitting in my lifeless skiff shivering with lightning flashing is indeed frightening. It gave me a new appreciation for how the disciples must have felt during a storm when they awakened Jesus.

"After rebuking the wind and waves," Jesus said to them, 'Why are you so fearful? How is it you
have no faith?"   (Mark 4:40)

Serving the homeless

July 16, 2013

We serve coffee from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. to the homeless at His Open Door.
Most are grateful for the coffee or hot chocolate and are quick to say thank you or bless you.

I think, "There for the Grace of God go I." We a grateful for the opportunity to serve.

"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine you did for me."
(Matthew 25-40)

God's ultimate question for us all

July 15,2013

It is one of the most important conversations in the Bible and it ends with the ultimate question we all must answer.

 Lazarus has died and Jesus who is in a nearby village is told but he intentionally delays two days before coming to Bethany where Lazarus lived.


Martha rushes to greet Jesus and says," Lord, if you had been here my brother would not have died."

Jesus responds, "Your brother will rise again."

Martha says, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day"

Jesus says to her, "I am the resurrection and the life, He who believes in me will live,
even though he dies and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" 
(John 11:25-26)

Humor with a message

July 13, 3023

"Our staff wants to help but don't make any sudden moves and
it is best not to stare."
                                    Sign at a checkout register

Reflections and God's Word

July 11,2013

Our family had two domestic ducks, Daffy and Dilly. One day Dilly died.
Daffy so her reflection in our cellar window and for days quacked at her
reflection. We ended her loneliness by taking her to a farm which had
other ducks.

Years later a robin was throwing itself at our porch window. I called
the Wild Bird Sanctuary and was told a male robin is territorial and
he thinks his reflection is a competitor. We covered the window.

One bird saw a friend and the other a stranger. What do we see when
we look in the mirror? What do we do about it?


"Don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says.
"For if you listen to the Word and don't obey it is like glancing at your face
in a mirror, you see yourself, walk away and forget what you look like."
(James 1:23-24 The Way)

Man vs killer disease

July 9, 2013

I pause today to give thanks to God and the army of people who fought to win the battle over the years against Polio, Measles and TB. Now we need to pray for the new army fighting Aids, Cancer and Heart disease.

"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

Thought for the day

July 8,2013

"One learns through the heart, not the eyes  or the intellect."

                                                                        Unknown

Test candle or light

July 6,2013

Our lives are like a test candle in a deep cave alerting occupants to the oxygen level.

We can light up the way to the truth or just take up space and flicker out.

"You are the light of the world," Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:14,16)

Are you ready to lose your life?

July 5, 2013

Someone yelled, "Mr. President", and tossed a golf ball toward the open vehicle.
A Secret Service man leaped high into the air and caught the ball. It could have been a bomb.
That agent was willing to sacrifice his life for our President.

Am I ready to do the same for my Commander in Chief?

"For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life
for my sake will find it." (Matthew 16:25)

Thought for the week

July 1,2013

"Worry is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but it doesn't
 get you anywhere."

from 101 things you hear and learn Along the Way

Pray specifically

June 28, 2013

"I prayed very specifically for a car I needed," Julie said. "I prayed for a Camry ( she had one once)
I wanted four doors so I could take people with me to church, And I said Lord I prefer a clean
beige or brown car."

A few weeks later she received a call from an organization that donates cars to single moms.
When she went to pick up the vehicle she knew it was a gift from God. It was a 4-door beige
Camry fresh from a car wash.

"And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." (Matthew 21-22)

Prayer and buying a house

June 24

Our realtor calls and says, "the seller wants to know if your offer of a month ago still stands."

I say yes and I hang up. I turn to see a smiling Joy (my wife) standing behind me. "I'm stunned since they laughed at our offer before but you don't seem at all surprised."

"I'm not, she says, "I have been praying about that house since we saw it."


"Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full." (John 16:24)

Quote of the week

 June 23

"I am only one, but still I am one
I can't do everything but still I can do something,
And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse
to do the something that I can do."
                 Edward Hale
       Credo for Lend a Hand Society

Today and the Last Day

June 21,2013

Today is the longest day of the year of daylight. Happens every year, it is the order of the universe.
The Bible tells us that this order will come to an abrupt end one day.

"And the stars from heaven fell...and every mountain and island was moved out of its place."
(Revelations 7:13-14)

What to do?

"Since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the
error of lawless men and fall from your secure position, But grow in the grace and knowledge
of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2Peter 3:17& 18 NIV)

The Lord and a Yard Sale

June 20, 2013

This wasn't your typical yard sale. My friend was selling for survival. He was unemployed and needed to pay the rent.. We pray for success. The phone rings and he dashes inside to answer it.

He returns and rescues his kitchen table and chairs from his lawn. "That call was from a lady who
wants me to paint her house," he says, "I quoted that job six months ago and she calls today."

"That call was from the Lord," I offer. We both tear up.

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:30)

The one sin not forgiven

June 18,2013

One minister suggested that Christmas and Easter were done for us.
We don't have to do anything. But when the Holy Spirit came to the
apostles it required acceptance and compliance. We can't be negative
about the Holy Spirit. Jesus tells us straight out.

"Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man it will be forgiven
him, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will be not be forgiven
him, either in this age or in the age to come." (Matthew 12:32)

Practical Advice

June 16
June 16
Things I learned and heard Along the Way

"If you can't pay off your charge card at the end of the month,
stop using your charge card."

"Remember the borrower is always subject to the lender."
(Biblical advice)

Happy Flag Day

It is flag day in the United States and I'm grateful to be living in the land of the free.

Despite all the negative headlines and issues that divide us we are blessed to be here.

"It is God who made us and not we ourselves."

"We are His people and the sheep of his pasture.

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.

"Be thankful and bless His name, for the Lord is good.

"His mercy is everlasting and His truth endures all generations."

(Psalm 100)

When the Lord Calls...

June 13

When I'm asked to do something do I respond right away or do I linger and finish
whatever I am doing?

Peter responded when the Lord said, "Come and follow me." He dropped his nets and left his boat
to become a fisher of men.(Matthew 4:19} He didn't leave for a few day but for the rest of his life.

Am I ready to respond like that? Are you?

"Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me."
(Mark 8:34)

A Golf Lesson

June 11

I was on a business trip in Scotland and was playing a round of golf on a links course
in St, Andrews. The first time I teed off first I couldn't see the fairway. I couldn't contain my feelings."This is the worst hole I have ever seen."

I heard a voice with a deep Scottish brogue say, "You are facing the wrong way sir."

That turned out to be a critical lesson for me. I needed to change the direction of my life
And I did when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior.

"I am the light of the world, He who follows me shall not walk in darkness but have the light
of life." (John 8:12)

Super Tuesday

May 28, 2013

It is super Tuesday at the local gas station which means
you get six cents off. So there is a line of course.

The man in front of me finishes pumping but continues
to talk with a guy on the other side of the pump. Finally
I walk up to him and ask politely, "Will you be leaving soon?"

He couldn't have apologized more. Ask he gets into his vehicle
he looks back at me and says, "You are a Christian aren't you?
I nod and he adds, "It shows."

"Let you light so shine before men, that they see your good
works and glorify your father in Heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

Miracles out of the Tornado

May 25, 2015

Looking at the complete devastation left by the Tornado which obliterated 17 miles of Moore
Oklahoma May 21, the mayor said, "it is a wonder anybody survived this."

Twenty four didn't survive, including nine children, but 22,000 who live and work
in the area leveled are still with us. Teachers were laying on top of third graders while their school is demolished. Day care workers held carts over preschoolers, and nurses protected patients while the
hospital is blown away. They are all miraculous moments.

"Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

Oklahoma Tornado Prayer

May 22 2013

Did you catch the interview with the grade school teacher who placed
her body over five children while the tornado ripped their school apart,

She said, "A boy asked, Are we all going to die with you?"
 "Nobody is going to die," she replied.
Then she told the reporter:
"I did something I guess I'm not suppose to do in school-I prayed.
'Lord don't take these children today'."

They all survived.

"And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will
receive."  (Matthew 21:22)

Special Moments

May 21, 2013

A friend asked me at lunch today, other than God and my wife, what am I most
grateful for. My children and grand children rush  to mind but so do hundreds
of other special thoughts. It was an interesting question and I have been thinking 
about it long since lunch.

How about you...what are you most grateful for? If you are like me you'll realize life
has had many special moments.

"He has made everything beautiful in its time," (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

"Repent now, the end is near."

May 20,2013

The streets are crowded with shoppers. A man appears with a bullhorn. He is urging people
"to repent now, the end is near." No one pays attention they are all in a hurry to get to the
next store.

I think the man with the bullhorn could be right and we aren't listening.

"Therefore be ready for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."
(Matthew 24:44)

Thought for the weekend

May 18, 2013

"If you are going through hell, don't stop there."

Taken from 101 Things I learned ALONG THE WAY

What are you worrying about?

May 16,2013

The speaker asks, "What were you worrying about on this day last year.? How did it turn out?"
He waits, letting his questions sink in.
I don't know what I was worrying about last month, or last week. How about you?

"Which of you by worrying can add one inch to his height?"(Matthew 6:27)

God uses 3x5 Cards

May 16, 2013

Joy came home from a meeting with a handful of 3x5 cards on which other people
 had written things they like about her. "These are atta girl from God." she says.

Many times we disappoint God and the Spirit will let us know. Other times God praises
us. This time he uses comments on 3x5 cards from her peers.

"Because you are precious to me, you are honored, and I love you."
(Isaiah 43-4) The Way

Thoughts for the week

May 13, 2013

"An eye for an eye and soon the entire world would be blind."
                                                                      Mahatma Gandi


"I give you a new command. Love one another as I have loved you."
                                                                                       Jesus

Playing with God

May 10,2013

I walked around the neighborhood playing a game with my Lord.
The first bird I saw I'd hear, "I love you Mal." The next bird I saw I'd say
"I love you Lord."  I noticed that I kept seeing birds in odd numbers so
God would get to say the last "I love you." Not surprised we were playing
with his birds.

"God is love; and he that dwells in love dwells in God and God in him."
(1 John 4:16)

Severed

May 9,2013

My neighbor asks if he could trim the vines on his side of our fence. We say ok.
A week later the leaves on our side turn yellow. His yard man had cut the vines
from their roots. We are all shocked. A visible lesson learned.

"A branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine,
and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me." (John 15:4) The Way

Praying for a stranger

May 8,2013

It was an out of town hospital visit Joy was asked to make. The teenage girl in the bed announces loudly her favorite TV program is coming on in five minutes. "They we need to pray now," Joy answers.

Joy prays for healing for Jennifer an peace for her family and her visiting school friend.
I see tears running down Jennifer's cheeks.

"The Lord is near to all who call on. him, to all who call on Him in truth. (Ps 145:18)

Listen and Learn

May 6, 2013

I share I discipline myself to reading the Bible daily before I go to bed.
Ron our group leader contradicts this by telling the others that, " it is not
about discipline, systems or planners, it is about loving the Lord with all
heart."
 I struggle with this but remain silent, I learned a lot from Ron that year
until he moved away, I learned to love him as a brother in Christ. And he
is right; it is all about loving God with all my heart.

"Hear instruction and be wise. And do not disdain it." (Proverbs 8:33)

Zippedy-Do-Dah

May 5,2013

The boy was squirming and singing "Zippedy-Do-Dah throughtout
his bath time. While drying him, his father said, "will you stop!"

The boy whirled around, looked at his day and askeId; Why?
 I'm like that dad, Sometimes I take myself to seriously. I
need to let the inner kid out. I'm going to have a zipped do dah day.

"Assuredly I say to you, unless you are converted and
become as little children, you will not enter the kingdom
of Heaven." (Luke 18:3)

May 2, 2013

A self-made motivational speaker shares that an old lady
inspired him when he was struggling. The lady was poor
and sickly, but every  time he called her and said, "Ethel
how are you; she would reply, "I'm blessed and highly favored."

"Blessed be the Lord,
Who daily loads us with benefits.
The God of our salvation." (Psalm 68:19)

My Guardian Angel

May 2, 2013

I'm on a country road with lots of curves. Suddenly there is a car coming right at me. We both swerve to the right. Good thing. We just miss. That was close. I say thanks Sam, referring to my guardian angel.  I think all believers have guardian angels.

"Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place...He shall give His angels charge over you
to keep you in all your ways." (Psalm 91:9,11)

Share the Hope

April 30, 2013

What do you say when someone asks,
Why do you have hope in such troubling times?

"Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and
always be ready to give defense to everyone
who asks you a reason for the hope that is in
you." (1Peter 3:15)

Giving God Credit

April 28

"Maybe I need to be fulltime in Christian service," my friend said.

 "Maybe it isn't about being in fulltime service but about being a fulltime Christian."

"That statement didn't come from me", I added, "it just came out of my mouth."

"We both needed to hear it," he said.

"Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given
us ministry of reconciliation." (2 Corinthians 6:18)

More Positives from God

April 27,2013

More of  God has all the positives.

"I can't do it."

"I can do all things through Christ." Philippians 4:13


"I don't know where to begin?"

"Seek and you shall find." Matthew 7:7


"I feel all alone."

"Lo I am with your always." Matthew 28:20

God has the positives

April 26, 2014

For all the negatives we say, God has a positive reply.

"It's impossible."
"All things are possible." (Luke 18:27)

"I'm too tired."
" Come to me. all you who are weary  and burdened,
and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

 "I don't know what to do."
"Acknowledge me in all your ways and I will direct
your steps." (Proverbs 3:6)

More tomorrow.

How to astonish others

April 25, 2013


"Always do right. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest."
                                                                                           Mark Twain

extracted from 101 Things You hear and learn Along the Way

"Righteousness guards the person of integrity." Proverbs 13:6

Inspirational

April 24,2013

"We stereotype people in the world. So if the world thinks you are not good enough,
it's a lie. Get a second opinion."
                                                   Nick Vujicic, born without arms or legs
                                                     became an international speaker

Extracted from Things I've learned ALONG THE WAY

A Special Moment

April 23, 2013


While dancing she whispered in my ear,
"Thanks Dad for a fairy tale wedding."

I thought to myself, "Thank you Father
for a blessed day and life."

"How precious is your loving kindness,
0 God!" Psalm 36

Who else but God

April 21

 

 I had gone to the mall for a job interview. I spotted a man pushing a broom when I entered and I figured he must know where the main office is.  He was very pleasant and appeared to know a lot about this mall.

 

During my interview for a management position I mentioned the nice man I encountered pushing the broom. Guess I thought I would put in a good word for him since he showed kindness to me. After I described him they smiled and said, “Oh that’s Jeff, he owns this mall. That is one of the ways he gets to talk with the customers.” I was hired as a manager of that mall.

 

After that Jeff and I kept bumping in to each other. He was always cordial and we would have friendly albeit brief conversations. Several months went by and then I learned that Jeff had sold this mall for something around $29,000,000. Shortly after this the new owners gave me an envelope to deliver to Jeff’s home.

 

I wasn’t surprised to find that his home was a mansion right on the water but I was surprised when I pressed the front door bell and it was Jeff who opened the door. He greeted me warmly and invited me into his home. He opened the envelope and told me that it was a sizeable check representing his part of the commission of the sale of the mall. He or someone in his family was a licensed real estate broker. Then he shared with me that his family foundation was inundated by requests for money. He said he was really looking “to find something to give to that is making a difference.” Since I didn’t immediately respond he said, “If you run into any, let me know.”

A couple of years went by and I was going down a back road near the coast when I see a guy standing by his car on the side of the road. It is Jeff. He has run out of gas and I offer to take him to the nearest filling station. It turns out to be some distance before we reach a station. We chat. I ask him if he is still looking for an organization to give to that is making a difference. He asks what I have in mind. I tell him about a new organization called Gifts From God, which is feeding the hungry and helping families needing furniture or providing a car free to struggling single moms. By the time we are back to his car with a can of gasoline he has agreed to meet with Mike Butterfield, the president of Gifts from God. From that meeting came a much needed seed grant from Jeff’s family foundation.

 

A year later I am driving on Laurel Road in Venice and I am rounding a curve and there is Jeff standing by his car on the side of the road. Yep, out of gas again.  “You have come to my rescue again, it must be time for another grant to Gifts From God,” he grins. It was.

 Who else, but God ,could orchestrate such timely chance meetings like this?

 

Lloyd Keith

Osprey,Fl.

The foot of the Cross

April 17

Joy climbed the stairs to a large outdoor cross, knelt and prayed. When she lifted her head she gasped.
There were scores of rosary beads, hair pretties and photos lying about. She said the scene spoke volumes to her.

"We can take everything we need from the cross like; hope, love, grace and salvation. We are invited
to leave at the foot of the cross what we don't need like: worries, fears and our sins. Not hair pretties."

"Come take up the cross, and follow me." (Mark 10:21)

More humor with a message

April 16, 2013

"Always do right. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest."

                                                                                     Mark Twain

Time to Giggle

April 13

She had met a woman downtown to see a movie, They had some time before the show so
they went into one of those photo booths to take their picture. Once inside they started
giggling like two schoolgirls.

When you was retelling the incident Joy said, "it was hilarious uncontrollable belly
wrenching laughter, the kind that is good for the soul."

Sometimes we need to lighten up and giggle more.

"We were filled with laughter and we sang for Joy," (Psalm 126:2)

Angel Stickers

April 12

Our youngest daughter calls her mother and said she is feeling down. Joy tells her, "Remember the angel stickers I sent you, put one on your forehead and look in the mirror. She did and forgot about it and wore it to work,

People kept commenting on it in appositive way. She had a great day. Depression gone.

"Rejoice in the Lord, always I say again Rejoice!" (Philippians 6:4)

Humor with a message-2

April 12, 2013

"I have a photographic mind but I no longer get same day service."

a retired executive



Humor with a message

April 11, 2013

" Always do right. It will gratify some and astonish the rest."

                                                                          Mark Twain

A Psalm for Us

April 8, 2013

The 23rd Psalm I associated with death because I heard it recited mostly at funerals This beautiful Psalm is really for the living. It is all about us, here and now. Read it again with fresh eyes.

"The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want.
"He makes me lie down in green pastures
He leads me by still waters,
He restores my soul.

"He guides me down the path 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.

"Your prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies
You anoint my head with oil: my cup runs over

"Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever," (NIV)

Thought for the Day

Aril 4,2013

"If you can dream it you can do it."

This is the mantra of Tim Harris...manager of  Tim's Place, a friendly restaurant
      Tim has Down Syndrone  "I'm in charge of hugs," he says.

Key to Daily Living

April 3,2013

Every act begins with a thought. What do we do with the thoughts that feed doubt, worry.selfishness,
temptation. hate, violence and all other evils that plague mankind?

The Bible gives us seven words to help us through a day, each hour, every minute.

"take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:4)

Try it. You'll see it works.

A Love story

March 24

She asked God to help her find a loving way to tell her husband how hurt she was when he described how they met as "no big deal."

The next day, while shopping, she saw God's answer. That night she said,"Sweetheart
the next time you describe how we met could you add a little color." She held up a small box of new crayons. At the next opportunity the husband described how they met using figuratively a large box of crayons.

""And now abide faith, hope and love, these three, but the greatest is love."
(Corinthians 13:13)

Healing a broken heart

March 20

"The staff at the Soldier's Home gave dad a warm welcome," she said over the phone reporting how the relocation went. "There is a sweet gentleman across the hall. He and dad are already buddies. You won't believe his name, Its Stewart Kindness."

I could hear the joy in her voice over the phone. You would never know that this man had walked out of her life when she was barely a teen.Now she is the one showing love. She is proof that God will heal a willing heart.

"I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me." (Philippians 1:21)

Thought for the day

 March 17 &18

The opposite of love is not hate.......its selfishness.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Fear of Flying

March 16

Joy began talking to the lady seated next to her duing the flight to take her mind off flying. As she talked Joy noticed the seat was rocking back and forth. She asked the lady; "Why is your seat moving. I don't think playing with your seat is a good idea in this turbulence."

The lady smiled and said; "Maybe if you weren't gripping my arm rest and the seat button so tightly it wouldn't be moving."

"Give all your worries to God for He cares what happens to you." (1Peter 5:7 NLT)

From great heights

March 15

How often man falls from lofty heights; Some names jump quickly to mind.
Jimmy Baker,Tonya Harding, O J Simpson, Tiger Woods, Mike Tyson, Bernie
Maydorf, and Lindsey Lohan.

How about Arthur Anderson, Enron, World Com, big banks and we could go on.

"Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18)

Special Quotes to Ponder

March 10

"God loves every one of us as if there is but one to love." (St. Augustine)

God makes Himself known through the hungry, the homeless and the unloved."
(Mother Theresa)

"Fear God and keep His commandmenta for this is the whole duty of man.
(Ecclesiastes 10:13)

Some Prayers take time

A small group were meeting in a Sarasota Florida home and were praying about starting a church.
One person said they were envisioning a church being like Willow Creek, a large nondenominational church in West Barrington Il.

At this point the hostess opened her purse and pulled out a tattered newspaper clipping about Willow Creek. She said, "I've been praying for a church like that to be started here." She had kept that clipping for 12 years.

"Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray,believe that you will receive them and you will have them." (Mark 11:24)

Would you invite Jesus to dinner?

March 6

Remember the short tax collector who climbed a tree to better see Jesus. When Jesus arrives at that tree He says, "Zacchaeus, come down now, I must stay at your house today."

What if Jesus wanted to stay at your house? Would you call a cleaning service or suggest an upscale restaurant. Or would you do what Zacchaeus did, over dinner, pledge half his possessions to the poor.

We don't need any more motivation than what Jesus said to Zacchaeus.


"Today salvation has come to this house because this man too, is a son of Abraham, For the
Son of Man came to seek and to save that which was lost." (Luke 19:9-10 NIV)

Tips for a long happy marriage

 

March 4

 

 "Many people have kindly asked, how do you look so young after fifty years of marriage,” the retired scout executive said. “Early on we had an awful spat. She went up to the bedroom and I went outside. We agreed if we ever had another tiff she would retire to the bedroom and I to the yard. You'd be surprised what fifty years of outdoor life can do for you." Here is some more marital advice.

 

 “Wives submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:22)

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.” (Ephesians 5: 25)

Beautiful Scene

March 3
Last evening my wife and I walk at the waters edge.
This beach in Sarasota is special with soft white sand.As the sun
nears the horizon an orange/red tongue of fire glows across the
gulf of Mexico towards us. Tiny birds scurry about the wet sand
while a dolphin breaks water in a wave while a pelican flys over-
head.
We stop to hug each other and thank God in prayer for sheer
majesty of the moment.

"Then God saw everything that He had made and indeed it was
very good." (Genesis 1:31)

Magical Moment

March 2
Last evening my wife and I walk at the waters edge.
This beach in Sarasota is special with soft white sand.As the sun
nears the horizon an orange/red tongue of fire glows across the
gulf of Mexico towards us. Tiny birds scurry about the wet sand
while a dolphin breaks water in a wave while a pelican flys over-
head.
We stop to hug each other and thank God in prayer for the sheer
majesty of the moment.

"Then God saw everything that He had made and indeed it was
very good." (Genesis 1:31)

What will today be like?

February 28

Did you have a bed to sleep on?

Did you have something to eat and drink?

Do you have a place with plumbing?

Have you something fun or meaningful to do this day?

If so You are living a blessed life my friend.

"I have learned in whatever state I'm in to be content."(Phillipians 4:11)

You will have a blessed day...guarenteed

February 27

Think of all the blessings that are free that we take for granted everyday:

The air we breath, the sun that provides light and warmth, we can love,

we can hear, we have sight and we have memory all at no charge,

we have the start of a new day absolutely free. Enjoy it.


"This is the day the Lord has made let us be glad and rejoice in it." (Psalm 118:24)

More verses to Ponder

February 26

"In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.
(Proverbs 3:6)

I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me." (Phillipians 4:13)

"Take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ." (2Corinthians 10)

Words of Wisdom

February 24

"He who gives to the poor will not lack." Proverbs 28:27

"Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you shall finds;
knock and it will be open to you." (Matthew 7:7)

"Trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding."
(Proverbs 3:5)

Worth Noting

February 23

"Anyone ever kicked by an elephant?" No one raises a hand. Then the speaker asks, "Anyone ever stung by a bee?" Several hand go up. Then the speaker says, "The little things will get you everytime."

There is a syaing; "Don't sweat the small stuff..........and its all small stuff."

Joy and I try to remember this in our marriage and one of us will remind the other by saying
"small stuff." This prevents little things from becoming big things.

"Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."
(1 Corinthians 14:4)

Presidents Day Message

February 18

When Dwight Eisenhower was our President (ok you don't remember) I was
a student at the University of Rhode Island. One summer we received word
he would be visiting the campus. Several of us gathered along a campus road
to greet his small caravan. He was sitting in an open car when a man yelled
"hey Ike" and tossed a golf ball towards him. A secret service agent leaped into 
the air catching the ball. He was willing to give up his life in serving our
president.

Are we willing to do the same for our Savior?

"Whoever wants to save his life shall lose it, but whoever loses his life for me
me and for the Gospel will save it." Mark 8:35

Prayer Does Work

 

February 17

 

Shivering in bed with a fever it hits me. I’m under attack. Of course! The enemy doesn’t want this meeting tomorrow to happen. I’m to facilitate Vision Day for a Christian organization serving the poor. Joy and I pray for a recovery and strength. 

God is faithful. The next morning I feel better. People applaud as I walk into the room. The happiest to see me is the director and his wife who also had prayed.

 

“I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.”(Matthew 18:19)

Happy Valentines Day

 

February 14

 

 The Gifts from God Ministry, which feeds the homeless every Sunday announces this Valentine’s afternoon two homeless will be getting married in the park. A pink cardboard sign shaped like a heart proclaims Lee & Lynda. You don't use last names with the homeless. They repent individually before taking their vows. The reception is the normal food line plus a donated wedding cake. All are fed, homeless, volunteers, seekers and believers, alcoholics and non drinkers.

 

"Don't just think about your own affairs, but be interested in others too, and in what they are doing." (Philippians 2:4)

Wooden Dolphin

 

February 13

 A handsome hand-carved wooden dolphin sits on my desk at home. I purchased this beauty on a beach on Antigua. The young man selling it asked $15.We haggled. I bought it for $6. I won! I thought. Now I know differently. What was a game to me was his livelihood. That Dolphin reminds me of my arrogance that day. I am so blessed. I continue to seek ways to pay for that Dolphin and I am happy to be making the payments. I need to give more.

.

“He who gives to the poor will not lack, but he who hides his eyes will have many curses.” (Proverbs 28:27)

Fighting the battle

February 11

 

He was 24, handsome, healthy and building an airstrip as a Seabee on Guadacanal in 1943.Now, 79 he sits staring at the floor. He is fighting a different war now and he is fighting alone.

 “He didn't do the work," as Joy puts it, giving up control to God. If we stay in denial we end up alone."  He could still "do the work," but a Bible near his bed remains unread.

 "All flesh is as grass. And all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, And its flowers fall away, But the word of the Lord endures forever.

(1Peter 1:24)

How to live each day with joy

 

February 10

 

The media constantly fills our ears and eyes with messages. Yet, despite all this most of the thoughts we have come from one source. Ourselves. Self-talk can be good or bad. Every idea, or act of love, begins as a thought. Every sin, or crime begins as a thought. We can control what we think or at least how long we think it.

 

One of the most important instructions in the Bible deals with controlling self-talk. These nine words are the best advice to living every day joy filled.

 

“ bring every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,” (2 Corinthians 10: 5)

God gives Baby Blankets

 

February 9

 

My wife is a baby blanket person. These are people who grow up dragging baby blankets around for peace and comfort.

When a dear friend died unexpectedly a family took her in for the night. Their seven-year-old son had a tattered blanket called “Bob.” During the night the boy silently lays “Bob” in her arms and goes back to his room. 

 "My heart melts. He gave up his baby blanket to comfort me. It was God's way of loving me that night," Joyous says.

 "Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4)

 

Postscript: Twenty years later a sweet friend in South Carolina reads this true story in Go Figure Sarasota, and sends Joyous her preserved hand knitted baby blanket. God's blessings never cease.

 

Under Authority

 

 February 8

 

My induction into the U.S. Army was February 8. My life was no longer my own. Being totally controlled by an authority helps me better understand this exchange between Jesus and the centurion.  "Lord, say the word and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one 'Go,' and he goes; and to another 'Come,' and he comes; and to my servant, 'do this,' and he does it."

 

"When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him… 'I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel." (Luke 7:7-9)

God knows what is best for you

February 6

 

I stepped briskly out the front door—onto glare ice. I slid off the front stoop and came down hard on the cement steps.

This is dumb. Why am I in Connecticut in February in freezing rain? As a consultant I can work anywhere. Why not Florida?

Shortly after my fall I receive a call that leads to a six-month contract in the Sunshine State just what I was looking for and the answer to my wife’s prayers.We relocated that fall.

 "Your father knows that you need these things. Seek the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added to you." (Luke 12:30-31)

God leads us to a church

February 5

 

  A pastor in Connecticut gives us a couple’s name to look up when we arrive

in Sarasota, Fl. We lose the note. Weeks later a Sarasota attorney tells me he and his wife are helping people start a church.  He hands me a calling card for South Shore Community Church with a map on the back.

The next Sunday after the service we meet Bob and Anne Gamble and become friends. That summer in Connecticut our pastor friend as if we met that couple. "We lost your note," we confess. The Pastor writes the name again, “Bob and Anne Gamble.”
God gave us a name, then a calling card with a map to find His church. We have been serving that church now for 19 years this week.

 "In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:6)

Boarding the wrong plane

February 1

 

Just before takeoff I notice a friend, Edna, takes a seat up front. Once in the air she comes back to visit. She asks me why I am going to New York? Surprised I said, "I'm not. This plane is going to Baltimore."

Edna is furious. “We said Baltimore when each passenger boarded.” The flight attendant says sternly

 We can get going so fast that we don't hear the directions for our lives. For a long time I was headed for the wrong gate.

 

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go by it. (Matthew 7:13)

Getting away with Murder

 

January 29

 It’s true!  I killed a man. A nice man some people thought. I knew differently. He appeared to be the ideal family man.

I knew differently.

" He walked in lewdness, lust, drunkenness, revelry, drinking parties and abominable idolatry." (1 Peter 4:3)

 

This man needed to be destroyed. I killed him. And I got away with murder. I killed my old self.  I'm a new person. Alleluia! There is a second chance God. Praise the Lord. Now I really know differently.

 

 “ I say to you, unless one is born again, he can not see the kingdom of God."
(John 3:3)

Ice Storm

January 27

 

Everything is glare ice," creek, crack crash.  Branches are snapping off the trees like brittle spaghetti. It is still raining so

I retreat from the yard and stand under the overhang. There is a large crack and thud. A huge branch falls from the elm and is imbedded into the ground where I had been standing. I stare in disbelief.

Some would say 'thank your lucky stars.’ That is how I felt once, but now I say luck and stars has nothing to do with it.

 

“The very hairs of your head are numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows."  (Matthew 10:30-31)

God's Love is unlimited but...

January 23

 

Dr. Jerry Kirk, a  preacher from Cincinnati  said, "God's love for us is unlimited but our ability to receive that love is limited because our receiving mechanisms have been damaged by the world around us.” He asked Dora, twice a widow, what made her upbeat. "Every cardinal I see, I hear Jesus say; 'I love you'.”

 The notion of damaged receptors speaks to me. The solution shared by Dora and Jerry has changed how I look at all birds, not just Cardinals. How are your receptors?

 

"Consider the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap… yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" (Matthew 6:26)

Are you a Neighborly Water Tower?

 

January 22

 

Driving the rugged arid parts of Arizona and Colorado, I notice a single pile of rocks up on top of a mesa. I learn that these are called "water towers." These rocks tell travelers below that from this point you can see water.

Those Native Americans and pioneers who erected these water towers were truly being neighborly, pointing the way to survival. The water towers are no longer needed but stand as monuments of brotherly love. I need to be a water tower to my neighbors.

 

 " You shall love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 23:39)

The Holy Spirit Takes Over

 

January 20

 

The report is not coming together. I can’t find my notes. I pace. I slam draws. My wife softly urges prayer and sleep. At five I am at my desk. My mind is going a mile a minute. I’m recalling missing details. By seven my bible class prays for God's hand over me. By ten I make my presentation.

 The Spirit takes over the meeting. For every question raised an answer is given.

The hour ends with applause. Go God. 

 

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6 NIV)

Old Car Important Teaching

January 19

 

Normally when my car is unlocked the trunk is unlocked but now the car is unlocked and I can’t get the trunk open even with a key. The garage owner tries several times-no go. “Take it to a locksmith,” he says.This morning I notice a lone key on the house rack. I try it. The trunk opens. 

For most of my life I was trying the wrong keys to open the meaning of my life. Then I found the one key that stands alone. Who holds the key to your life?

 “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."  (John 14:6)

You are where you choose to be.

January 17

 

     “He is 18, on drugs, is unemployed and has been arrested for stealing. She is 17, pregnant by him and drinks heavily. Both are school drop outs.”

 

The speaker, a minister, lecturer, and author, is addressing a men’s retreat. He asks, "You are the parish priest and this couple comes before you, wanting get married. What do you tell them?

 

After the laughter fades, he says “That couple was my wife and I twenty three years ago.” His point is  we are in life exactly where we have chosen to be.

 

Life is a result of the choices we make. We can choose to believe or not. It is our choice.

 

“He who believes in Him is not condemned but he who does not believe is condemned already…” (John 3:1)

My Image or God's?

 

January 16

 

Genesis says God created man in His image. My wife asks, “Do we see God in our image rather than seeing ourselves in His image?"

 

  I'm sure my perspective is seeing God in my image. That means God has feelings, emotions, thoughts and memories. OK so far. However, holding God in my image would also mean God has limits. That's not good. That is not God.

 

So how do we see ourselves created in His image?  It begins with belief! God created us in His image. 

 

 Isaiah. knew in whose image he was created.

 "Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength;

They shall mount up with wings like eagles

They shall run and not be weary,

They shall walk and not faint."

(Isaiah 40:31)

Adultery and Jesus

January 15

 This is a night that stretches me to the breaking point.  I am nodding off when I read:

"Whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks understanding; He who does so destroys his own soul." (Proverbs 6:32)

Wham! I lost my soul long ago. I'm doomed.

 

I read Luke 7. Jesus is eating at a Pharisee's house and an adulterous woman, washes His feet and dries them with her hair. The Pharisee is indignant. Jesus exposes his hypocrisy. Then he says to the woman "Your sins are forgiven."

In one reading I am convicted of the devastating severity of my sins against God. In the next reading I experience the wonders of His amazing grace

 

"For by grace you have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Who is you neighbor?

 

January 15

 The publisher came into the city room yelling "whose old Plymouth is that out front?" It was my second day as a student intern at the Westerly (RI) Sun. He escorted me downstairs to remove my car.

 

 Later, Abe, the city editor, lead me to the rear of the building. “You park there,” he said; pointing to a large paved area behind the Jewish temple. “ If anybody says anything tell them Abe sent you." Abe was like my neighbor that day.

A lawyer asks Jesus, "Who is my neighbor?"

Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan and asks; "so which do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves? "

 The lawyer says, "He who showed mercy on him.”

 

"Then Jesus says, 'Go and do likewise." (Luke 10: 36-37)

Late Night Traffic Ticket

 

January 14

 

 "Let me see your license please? You didn't stop for the traffic light back there."

 

"I was going right on red, no one was coming."

 "You didn't come to a complete stop," he corrected.

I'm going to have to give you a citation."

 

When the Trooper returned he explained I could appeal the ticket, pay the fine or eliminate the points by attending driver improvement classes.

 Driving home my wife broke the silence. "Are you going to pay the fine or go to driver improvement classes?" The way she said those last words did it

 I took a deep breath and said; "Lord take away these ugly feelings." He did!

I paid the fine.

 "Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like minded toward one another according to Christ Jesus." (Romans 15:5.)

Hold on to Learning

 

January 12

 

My sister, fresh from graduate school, began teaching in the high school where I was a senior. I was enrolled in her journalism class. She called each student by his or her last name except for me and a boy named Fred Darling.

One day she walked into the classroom just as I was throwing a pear at another student. She took one look at me and said sternly, "Get out!"

 I reported to the assistant principle. Without looking up he asked, “Why are you here?”

“My sister threw me out of her class.”  He stopped writing immediately.

 

I was given two weeks detention and I was grounded at home. I gained new respect for all my teachers, including family ones and a greater appreciation for learning.

 

"Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; keep her for she is your life."
(Proverbs 4:13)

What is you rut?

 

January 11

 

One night, when I was a boy, my mother told me a simple story. A little frog landed in the middle of a deep tire track in a muddy road. Jump as he might he couldn’t get out. The other frogs headed back to the pond for the night. Splash- little frog was back. .

"How did you get out,” the others demanded?

 "I just jumped out," said the exuberant little frog, “you see a truck was coming.”

 

Deborah Deford writes in The Simpler Life, "We get into a rut and all of life takes on the color and texture of old mud. But staying in a rut is a choice.”

I was in a worldly rut for years. Then I saw the truck coming and made the choice to jump free.

 

"For the Son of Man has come to seek and save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10)

A Dog's Lesson for Living

January 10

 

One weekend my sister and I took our dog Dusty to a park. Suddenly head down and nose to the ground that hound followed a trail down an incline. We watched from the top of the hill. A rabbit appeared and hopped up on a large flat rock. Dusty sniffed right by that rock and continued down the hill. When he was a safe distance away, the rabbit darted away.

 

 There have been days and even years when I have been so focused on living my life that I haven't looked around me. Like Dusty, I was too busy with what I was doing at the time to look up and see the prize. I need to stop sniffing out what I seek and pay attention to what God has planned  for my life.

 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)