He's In Control

Do not rush ahead of God

When another test appears.

He’s in control as ever

And your heartfelt prayers He hears.

Our Father knows tomorrow.

Keep your trust and faith in Him.

When our thoughts are on ourselves

Our Lord’s face grows slightly dim.

Trust when the sun is shining.

Trust also when there’s rain.

You will never be alone.

He KNOWS, FEELS and SHARES your pain.

You have so many blessings,

Though you think and see through tears.

Keep leaning on your Father

Who can rid you of your fears.

In your faith keep standing firm

No matter what’s allowed.

Soon you will be victorious,

When God rolls away the cloud.

Lord, Thank You That You Are:

Strong when I am weak.

Present when I feel alone.

Wisdom when I don’t know what to do.

My guide when I feel lost.

Hope when I lose confidence.

Faith when I have none.

Peace in the midst of the storm.

Manna when I am hungry.

Rest when I am restless.

My defender when I am accused.

My protector when I am attacked.

My strong tower when I am overwhelmed.

My provision when I am broke.

My healer when I am sick.

My friend when I have none.

My comforter when I am afraid.

There when I call.

Thank you that you are my everything!

Son Of God

Long before the world was formed—before the stars filled the sky or the oceans touched the shore—there was Jesus. Not as a baby in a manger yet, but as the eternal Son of God, fully alive with the Father. He wasn’t created or made; He has always existed, sharing in God’s glory, love, and power from the very beginning.

When God spoke the world into being, Jesus was there. Through Him, all things were made—the light, the land, and even us. He is not just part of the story; He is the author of it.

But the most incredible part is this: the eternal Son of God chose to step into His own creation. He came to earth as a baby, humble and small, so He could live among us. He taught with wisdom, loved without limits, and showed us exactly what God is like.

Even though He is eternal—without beginning or end—He entered time so we could know Him. And through His life, death, and resurrection, He made a way for us to share in that eternal life with Him.

Send the Light

Across this land of open fields and crowded streets,
 Across small towns and great cities,
 God is calling servants to go.

To the neighborhoods that feel forgotten.
 To the families searching for hope.
 To the hearts that have never heard
 The saving name of Jesus.

But how will they hear?

Through faithful missionaries, the Gospel is carried
 From church plants to college campuses,
 From disaster relief to community outreach,
 From one life… to another.

And we are part of that mission.

Through prayer.
 Through obedience.
 Through the gifts we bring before the Lord.

The Annie Armstrong Easter Offering
 Is more than a goal,
 More than a number on a page.

It is the church saying—
 “Yes, Lord… send the light.”
 Let us give with grateful hearts
 And open hands.

For every gift, given as God directs,
 Helps carry the good news across North America—

That Jesus saves,
 Jesus restores,
 And Jesus lives.

“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
 — Romans 10:15

I Refused To Be Discouraged

I refuse to be discouraged, to be sad, or to cry.

I refuse to be downhearted, and here’s the reason why.

 I have a God who’s mighty, who’s sovereign and supreme.

I have a God who loves me, and I am on His team.

He is all-wise and powerful. God is his name.

Though everything is changeable, my God remains the same.

My God knows all that’s happening, beginning to the end.

His presence is my comfort. He is my dearest friend.

When sickness comes to weaken me, to bring my head down low,

I call upon my mighty God; into His arms I go

.

When circumstances threaten to rob me of my peace.

He draws me close unto His breast, where all my striving ceases.

When my heart melts within me, and weakness takes control.

He gathers me into His arms, He soothes my heart and soul.

The great “I AM” is with me. My life is in His hand.

The “Son of the Lord” is my hope; it’s in His strength I stand.

I refuse to be defeated; My eyes are on my God.

He has promised to be with me, as through this life I trod.

I’m looking past all my circumstances, to Heaven’s throne above.

My prayers have reached the heart of God I’m resting in His love.

I give God thanks in everything. My eyes are on His face.

The battle’s His, the victory mine.

He’ll help me win the race.

At the Turning of the Year 

At the turning of the year, O Lord, we stand,
 With open hearts and lives placed in Your hand.
 Behind us lie the days both dark and bright,
 Moments of faith, of loss, of growing light.

You were our shelter through the passing days,
 Our song in sorrow, and our voice of praise.
 In every step, Your mercy did endure,
 A steadfast love unfailing, strong, and sure. 

Now dawns a year unknown to mortal sight,
 Yet never hidden from Your perfect light.
 You walk before us on each path we tread,
 Your Word our lamp, Your Spirit where we’re led.

 Grant us the grace to trust You more each day,
 To seek Your will in all we do and say.
 When trials test the faith, we hold so dear,
 Remind our hearts: You still are nearby.

Teach us to love with patience, deep and true,
 To serve with joy in all You call us to.
 Let kindness shape the words upon our tongue,
 And hope to be sung where once was none.

Bless every home, each child, each faithful friend,
 Our work, our worship, till this year shall end.
 May all we are and all we strive to be
 Bring honor, Lord, and glory unto Thee.

So, as this year unfolds beneath Your care,
 We step in faith, upheld by constant prayer.
 For You are God of time and history,
 Our hope, our peace, our sure eternity.

Brighten the Corner Where You Are

We cannot all be famous or be listed in “Who’s Who”,

But every person, great or small, has important work to do.

For seldom do we realize the importance of small deeds,

Or to what degree of greatness, unnoticed kindness leads.

For it’s not the big celebrity in a world of fame and praise,

But it’s doing it unpretentiously, in an undistinguished way.

The work that God assigned to us, unimportant as it seems,

That makes our task outstanding and brings reality to dreams.

So do not sit and idly wish for wider, new dimensions,

Where you can put into practice your many good intentions.

But at the spot God placed you, begin at once to do,

Little things to brighten up the lives surrounding you.

If everybody brightened up the spot where they’re standing,

By being more considerate and a little less demanding,

This dark old world would very soon eclipse the evening star,

If everybody brightened up the corner where they are!

Helen Steiner Rice

God Is always There

We often feel as though

God is far away,

And we often feel that He

Is distant when we pray.

So often we feel lonely,

Not knowing where to turn

Just a touch from God above,

Our longing spirits yearn.

So many times in our lives,

God seems slow to act

We cry out in desperation,

But it’s faith we often lack

For God is not being slow

In coming to our aid

He comes through in His time,

We just need to learn to wait.

The Lord is never distant,

He is there by our side

And continues to walk with us

Through the storms in our lives

He always hears our hearts cry

And answers all our prayers,

He won’t leave us all alone,

For God is always there.

M.S. Lowndes

God Knows Best

Our Father knows what’s best for us,

So why should we complain?

We always want the sunshine,

But He know there must be rain.

We love the sound of laughter,

And the merriment of cheer.

But our hearts would lose their tenderness

If we never shed a tear.

Our Father tests us often

With suffering and with sorrow.

He tests us, not to punish us,

But to help us meet tomorrow.

For growing trees are strengthened

When they withstand the storm.

And the sharp cut of a chisel

Gives the marble grace and form.

God never hurts us needlessly.

And He never wastes our pain.

For every loss He send s to us

Is followed by rich gain.

And when we count the blessings

That God has so freely sent,

We will find no cause for murmuring

And no time to lament.

For our Father loves His children,

And to him all things are plain.

So, He never sends us pleasure

When the soul’s deep need is pain.

So, whenever we are troubled,

And when everything goes wrong,

It is just God working in us

To make our spirit strong.

Helen Steiner Rice

Jesus Is The Answer

Jesus is the answer

To the needs of our world today.

He is here to guide us

And protect us along life’s way.

He never will forsake us.

His love for us is real.

“Peace” He says, “I leave with you

My peace, now ye be still.”

Jesus is the answer

We only need to pray.

And ask Him to come into our hearts

And walk with us each day.

He loves us more than anyone.

He made the sacrifice.

Just put your faith in Jesus

Through the blood he paid the price.

Jesus is the answer

He died for you and me.

He arose again that we may live

With Him in eternity.

So, ask Him into your heart today

In His glory you’ll abound.

Because Jesus is the answer

And through Him true peace is found!

Just One

One song can spark a moment.

One flower can wake the dreams.

One tree can start a forest.

One bird can herald spring.

One smile begins a friendship.

One handclasp lifts a soul.

One star can guide a ship at sea.

One word can frame the goal.

One vote can change a nation.

One sunbeam lights a room.

One candle wipes out darkness.

One laugh will conquer gloom.

One step must start each journey.

One word must start each prayer.

One hope will raise our spirits.

One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom.

One heart can know what’s true.

One life can make a difference,

You see, it’s up to you!

Power To Overcome

No one’s life is everything he or she wants it to be. We all have challenges and struggles, sometimes even heartbreaks and tragedies. I have never met one person who could honestly say, “My life has always been every bit as wonderful as I always dreamed it would be.”

Jesus did not come to give anyone a life of leisure; Jesus came to give us abundant life, but not a trouble-free life. Part of the abundance He offers those who belong to Him is the power of His Spirit to overcome what others cannot.

As believers, we have the power of the Holy Spirit to help us deal with circumstances differently than nonbelievers do. When we are in Christ, we are supernaturally anointed to live our natural, ordinary lives in supernatural ways. We can be at peace in the midst of a crisis, and we can be positive when everything around is gloomy and depressing.

But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you . . .  —Acts 1:8

He Meets Us In Our Mess

For the one who is waiting,

For perfection before you say “yes”,

Know that God already loves you,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who made a mistake,

Whose guilt won’t let you rest,

Know that God is forgiving,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is faithful,

But still wrestles with your flesh,

 Know that God is with you,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is heavy burdened,

Who is breaking under stress,

Know that God gives refuge,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is struggling,

Who is being put to the test,

Know that God will guide you,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is forgiven,

And embraces the Father’s rest,

Know that God has called you,

And He has called you blessed.

~Haley Littlepage~

Directions to Our Father’s House

o    Make a right onto “Believeth Blvd”

o    Keep straight and go through the Green Light which is Jesus Christ

o    There, you must turn onto the “Bridge of Faith” which is over troubled water.

o    When you get off the bridge, make a right turn and keep straight.

o    You are on the “King’s Highway”

o    Keep going for 3 miles: One for the Father, One for the Son, and One for the Holy Spirit

o    Then exit off onto “Grace Blvd”

o    From there, make a right turn onto “Gospel Lane”

o    Keep straight and then make another right on “Prayer Road”

o    As you go on your way, YIELD NOT to the traffic on “Temptation Ave.”

o    Also avoid “Sin Street” because it is a DEAD END.

o    Pass up “Envy Drive” and “Hate Avenue”

o    Also pass “Hypocrisy Street”, “Gossiping Lane”, and “Backbiting Blvd”

o    However, you have to go down “Long-suffering Lane, “Persecution Blvd”, and “Trials and Temptations Ave”

o    But that’s all right because “VICTORY Street” is straight ahead! AMEN!

Confession of Faith

Oh, God I need you now I’m in a hurry

You know all in my life that is a worry

Here with you in a moment all alone

Pardon me for I just heard the phone

Here I am again that was just a friend

Hope it stays quiet until my prayer ends

Pressed for time don’t know what to say

Lord, you know it’s been a busy day

Where was I guess I will start over again

Need to pray more but you know how it’s been

It’s Jimmy and Bobby and then Jane too

Yes, Lord, I do trust them all to you

I’m on my knees here again with my list

Lord You know any that I have missed

There’s the doorbell someone at the door

My prayer is short wish I could pray more

I guess it will do you certainly understand

Too much to do and I’m doing all I can

Praying is important always number one

So sorry to cut it short but I’ve got to run

I’ll catch you later but before I run out

Could you remember Jimmy’s ball try-out

And oh, one more before I have to go

Oh, well, no time, but you already know

See you tomorrow if I can find some time

There are some things really heavy on my mind

Always enjoy my private time of prayer

It’s good to know you are always there.

Carrots, Eggs, and Coffee...

A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee. You will never think of them the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as if one problem was solved; a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.
In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl.
Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see." "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.
Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg.
Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled, as she tasted its rich aroma the daughter then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"
      Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its insides became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

     "Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

 Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? 

 Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart? 

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity?

Potato Chips

     A little boy wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with a bag of potato chips and a six-pack of root beer and started his journey.
When he had gone about three blocks, he met an old man. He was sitting in the park, just staring at some pigeons. The boy sat down next to him and opened his suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer when he noticed that the old man looked hungry, so he offered him some chips. He gratefully accepted it and smiled at him.
His smile was so pretty that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer. Again, he smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word.
As twilight approached, the boy realized how tired he was and he got up to leave; but before he had gone more than a few steps, he turned around, ran back to the old man, and gave him a hug. He gave him his biggest smile ever.
When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him, "What did you do today that made you so happy?"
He replied, "I had lunch with God." But before his mother could respond, he added, "You know what? He's got the most beautiful smile I've ever seen!"
Meanwhile the old man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face, and he asked, "Dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?"
He replied, "I ate potato chips in the park with God." However, before his son responded, he added, "You know, he's much younger than I expected."
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime! Embrace all equally!
Have lunch with God.......bring chips.
 

He Meets Us In Our Mess

For the one who is waiting,

For perfection before you say “yes”,

Know that God already loves you,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who made a mistake,

Whose guilt won’t let you rest,

Know that God is forgiving,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is faithful,

But still wrestles with your flesh,

Know that God is with you,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is heavy burdened,

Who is breaking under stress,

Know that God gives refuge,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is struggling,

Who is being put to the test,

Know that God will guide you,

And that He meets us in our mess.

For the one who is forgiven,

And embraces the Father’s rest,

Know that God has called you,

And He has called you blessed.

Haley Littlepage

Ten Things God Won't Ask On that Day

  1.... God won't ask what kind of car you drove. He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have transportation. 

   2…. God won't ask the square footage of your house; He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home. 

   3.... God won't   ask about the clothes you had in your closet; He'll ask how many you helped to clothe. 

   4.... God won't ask what your highest salary was. He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it. 

   5.... God won't ask what your job title was. He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability. 

   6…. God won't ask how many friends you had. He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend. 

   7.... God won't ask in what neighborhood you lived, He'll ask how you treated your neighbors. 

   8.... God won't ask about the color of your skin; He'll ask about the content of your character. 

   9.... God won't ask why it took you so long to seek Salvation. He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in heaven, and not to the gates of Hell. 

   10.... God won't have to ask how many people you shared this with; He already knows your decision.

New Year 2025

Let us begin this New Year meditating on these encouraging Bible verses, chosen to inspire a fresh new walk with God and a deeper commitment to living the Christian faith.

New Birth- Living Hope:  1 Peter 1:3
 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Hope for the Future:  Jeremiah 29:11
 "For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

Forgetting the Past:   Philippians 3:13-14
 No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, 

through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven.

Wait on the Lord:  Psalm 37:7
 Be still in the presence of the LORD and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper

 or fret about their wicked schemes.   

God's Timing is Perfect:   Ecclesiastes 3:11                         He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done                             from beginning to end. 

 Each New Day is Special:  Lamentations 3:22-24               

The unfailing love of the LORD never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, "The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!" 
                                                             

The Meaning of Christmas

Far away in Bethlehem, a Baby Boy was born.

Born with neither riches nor with fame.

Yet Wise Men came from all around to

Bring to Him their gifts,

And peace was felt by all who heard His name.

Angels watched Him as He slept,

And gently rocked His bed.

Their voices singing softly in His ear.

His mother and His Father both gave thanks to God

For the greatest gift of all, their Son, so dear.

They knew His life upon this earth

Would not be filled with wealth.

They also knew he would encounter strife.

But most of all, they knew that He would be a loving Child,

And teach the love of God throughout his life.

At Christmas, as we celebrate this Birth of Jesus Christ,

Let us keep in mind the truth of Christmas Day.

For it is not the Christmas wrappings,

Nor the gifts that lie within,

But the gift of love to others in every way.

12 Christmas Prayers

1. FAITH…Father God, thank you for Your grace, that through faith we can receive the true gift of Christmas – our salvation.
2. HOPE.. Lord may you fill me with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, I may abound in hope.
3. LOVE…I thank you for your love – the first love – that you gave your life for me.
4. FORGIVENESS…Thank you for being faithful and just in forgiving my sins and therefore cleansing me from all unrighteousness.
5. MERCY…I thank you that I can be merciful to those in my life, for you had mercy on me.
6. KINDNESS… Father I thank you that I can walk in kindness, and compassion towards everyone in my life, forgiving everyone just as you have forgiven me.
7. GENEROSITY… Lord let me be enriched and generous in every way for your glory and praise!
8. COMPASSION…I pray that my family will live in harmony by being sympathetic, compassionate, humble, and walking in love with one another.
9. JOY…Father fill me with your joy in hope, patience through affliction, and faithfulness in prayer.
10. SALVATION…Thank you for providing Jesus who is the way, the truth, and the life, and my only way to You.
11. OBEDIENCE…Lord help me to not merely listen to Your Word, but to follow and apply it to my life.
12. LIFE… and Jesus, thank you for coming that I may have life and that that life may be abundant and full.

Be Thankful

Be thankful that you don’t already have

 everything you desire. 

If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something,

 for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times. 

During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations, 

because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for your mistakes. 

They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary, 

because it means you’ve made a difference.

It’s easy to be thankful for the good things.

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those 

who are also thankful for the setbacks.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles,

 and they can become your blessings.

By: Alberto Casing

Just One

One song can spark a moment.

One flower can wake the dreams.

One tree can start a forest.

One bird can herald spring.

One smile begins a friendship.

One handclasp lifts a soul.

One star can guide a ship at sea.

One word can frame the goal.

One vote can change a nation.

One sunbeam lights a room.

One candle wipes out darkness.

One laugh will conquer gloom.

One step must start each journey.

One word must start each prayer.

One hope will raise our spirits.

One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom.

One heart can know what’s true.

One life can make a difference,

You see, it’s up to you!

Life's Tug Of War

Life can seem ungrateful and not always kind.

Life can pull at your heartstrings and play with your mind.

Life can be blissful and happy and free.

Life can put beauty in the things that you see.

Life can place challenges right at your feet.

Life can make good of the hardships we meet.

Life can overwhelm you and make your head spin.

Life can reward those determined to win.

Life can be hurtful and not always fair.

Life clearly does have its ups and its downs.

Life teaches us to take the good with the bad.

Life is a mixture of happy and sad.

                                     SO…

Take the life that you have and give it your best.

Think positive, be happy, let God do the rest.

Take on the challenges that life has laid at your feet.

Take pride and be thankful for each one you meet.

To yourself, give forgiveness if you stumble and fall.

Take each day that is dealt to you and give it your all.

Take the love that you’ve been given and return it with care.

Have faith that when needed, it will always be there.

Take time to find the beauty in the things that you see.

Take life’s simple pleasures, let them set your heart free.

The idea here is simply to even the score.

As you are met and faced with Life’s Tug of War.

Called…

Called out of darkness

Called into light

Called out of blindness

Called into sight

Called from our burdens

Called into rest

Called to be co-heirs

Called to be blessed

Called out of unrest

Called into peace

Called to be holy

Called to be free

Called to be steadfast

Called to endure

Called to a mission

Called to be pure

Called out of sin

Called into Christ

Called for a purpose

Called at a price

By: Toni Umbarger

Promise Yourself

Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can
 disturb your peace of mind. 

To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to
 every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel like there is
 something in them. 

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your
 optimism come true. 

To think only of the best, to work only for the best,
 and expect only the best. 

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others
 as you are about your own. 

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on the
 greater achievements of the future. 

To always wear a cheerful countenance and give
 every living person you meet a smile. 

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself
 that you have no time to criticize others. 

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, and too
strong for fear, and too happy to permit the
 presence of trouble.

Great Analogies

When GOD wanted to create fish, HE spoke to the sea. When GOD wanted to create trees, HE spoke to the earth. But when GOD wanted to create man, HE turned to himself. Then, GOD said, “Let us make man in our image and in our likeness.”

If you take a fish out of water, it will die and when you remove a tree from soil, it will also die. Likewise, when man is disconnected from GOD, he dies.

GOD is our natural environment. We were created to live in HIS presence. We have to be connected to HIM because it is only in HIM that life exists. Let us stay connected to GOD.

We recall that water without fish is still water, but fish without water is nothing. The soil without a tree is still soil, but the tree without soil is nothing. GOD without man is still GOD, but man without GOD is nothing.

Simple truths to repeat  when you’re in a spiritual battle:

• God’s got this
• The Lord fights for me
• Jesus loves me
• Not today Satan
• I am a child of God
• He is able
• It is finished
• His grace is sufficient
• Joy comes in the morning
• I am not alone
• I am fearfully & wonderfully made
• Fear has no grip on me
• Christ is enough for me
• He has overcome the world
• I am a new creation in Christ
• Jesus conquered the grave
• Sin does not define me, Christ does
• Be still and know
• God is good

TEN THINGS GOD WON'T ASK ON THAT DAY. 

   1.... God won't ask what kind of car you drove. He'll ask how many people   you drove who didn't have transportation. 

2.. God won't ask the square footage of your house.  He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home. 

3... God won't   ask about the clothes you had in your closet.  He'll ask how many you helped to clothe. 

4... God won't ask what your highest salary was. He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it. 

5... God won't ask what your job title was. He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability. 

6. God won't ask how many friends you had. He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend. 

7... God won't ask in what neighborhood you lived.  He'll ask how you treated your neighbors. 

8.... God won't ask about the color of your skin.  He'll ask about the content of your character. 

9... God won't ask why it took you so long to seek Salvation. He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in heaven, and not to the gates of Hell. 

10... God won't have to ask how many people you shared this with.  He already knows your decision.

15 Characteristics Of Faith

1. Faith is a choice.
2. Faith is a step of obedience.
3. Faith is a spiritual exercise.
4. Faith is taking God at His word.
5. Faith is saying yes to God.
6. Faith is looking to Jesus for everything.
7. Faith is knowing we are never without hope.
8. Faith is what lifts us out of our circumstances.
9. Faith is not holding anything back from God.
10. Faith is being obedient even if we don’t feel like it.
11. Faith is a gift from God as we read His word.
12. Faith is knowing that everything will work out.
13. Faith is a way out of our limitations.
14. Faith is the mother of hope.
15. Faith is the road to peace.

Are You Alive?

Then see that you prove it by your actions.

Be a consistent witness.

Let your words, works, ways and tempers all tell 

the same story.

Let not your life be a poor lethargic life, like that of a tortoise or a sloth-let it rather be an energetic stirring life, like that of a deer or bird.

Let your graces shine forth from all the windows of your life, that those who live near you may see that the Holy Spirit is abiding in your heart.

Let your light not be a dim, flickering, uncertain flame; let it burn steadily, like the eternal fire on the altar and never become low.

Let the savor of your religion, like Mary’s precious ointment, fill all the houses where you dwell.

Be an epistle of Christ so clearly written, penned in such large bold characters-that he who runs may read it.

Let your Christianity be so unmistakable, your eyes so single, your heart so whole, your walk so straightforward that all who see you may have no doubt whose you are, and whom you serve.

Penned by: J.C. Ryle

Something to Think About…

Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?

1. What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
2. What if we flipped through it several times a day?
3. What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
4. What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
5. What if we treated it like we couldn’t live without it?
6. What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
7. What if we used it when we traveled?
8. What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go … hmm…where is my Bible?

Oh, one more thing…

Unlike our cell phone, we don’t have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus paid the bill.

And the best part is no dropped calls!

Makes you stop and think ….. ‘where are my priorities?’

For Those Who Take Life Too Seriously:

1. A day without sunshine is like...night.

2. He who laughs last thinks slowest.

3. The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.

4. Change is inevitable, except from vending machines.

5. Ok, so what is the speed of dark?

6. When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

7. Everyone has a photographic memory, some just don't have film.

8. How much deeper would the ocean be without sponges?

9. What happens if you get scared half to death twice?

10. Why do psychics have to ask you for your name?

11. Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what happened!

Distractions

Have you noticed that life has a way of distracting us from our number one priority --- God?  Commit to make time for God every day.  Make a daily appointment with Him for your quiet time.  First Kings 8:61 says, “Let your heart be completely devoted to the Lord our God to walk in His ordinances and to keep His commands, as it is today.”   If we do your best to keep God first in our lives, He will bless us for it.

Tips That Change Your Life

Be the person who cares.

Be the person who makes the effort, the person who loves without hesitation. 

Be the person who bares it all, the person who never shies away from the depth of their feeling, or the intensity of their hope. 

Be the person who believes in the softness of the world, in the goodness of other people, in the beauty of being open and untethered and trusting. 

Be the person who takes the chance, who refuses to hide. 

Be the person who makes people feel seen, the person who shows up. 

Trust me when I say, be the person who cares. Because the world doesn’t need more carelessness, any more disregard, because there is nothing stronger than someone who continues to stay soft in a world that hasn’t always been kind to them. 

Having a soft heart in a cruel world is courage, not weakness.

Be soft. 

Do not let the world make you hard. 

Do not let the pain make you hate. 

Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Soft-hearted people who are still willing to help others are the ones who are holding this world together.

By: Bianca Sparacino

When we pray,

God hears more than we say,

Answers more than we ask,

Gives more than we imagine…

In HIS own time

And His own way.

The Line…

Every minute someone leaves this world behind.

We are all in “the line” without knowing it.

We never know how many people are before us.

We can not move to the back of the line.

We can’t not step out of the line.

We can not avoid the line.

So while we wait in line –

Make moments count.

Make priorities.

Make the time.

Make your gifts known.

Make a nobody feel like a somebody.

Make your voice heard.

Make the small things big.

Make someone smile.

Make the change.

Make love.

Make up.

Make peace.

Make sure to tell your people they are loved.

Make sure to have no regrets.

Make sure you are ready.

I am a Soldier in the Army of God

I am a soldier in the army of God. The Lord Jesus Christ is my commanding officer. The Holy Bible is my Code of Conduct. Faith, prayer, and the Word are my weapons of warfare. I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, trained by experience, tried by adversity, and tested by fire.

I am a volunteer in this army, and I am enlisted for eternity. I will either retire in this army at the rapture or die in this army; but I will not get out, sell out, be talked out, or pushed out. I am faithful, reliable, capable, and dependable. If my God needs me, I am there. If He needs me in Sunday school, to teach the children, work with the youth, help adults or just sit and learn, He can use me because I am there.

I am a soldier. I am not a baby. I do not need to be pampered, petted, primed up, pumped up, picked up or pepped up. I am a soldier. No one must call me, remind me, write to me, visit me, entice me, or lure me. I am a soldier. I am not a wimp. I am in place, saluting my King, obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His kingdom! No one must send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy or give me handouts. I do not need to be cuddled, cradled, cared for, or catered to. I am committed. I cannot have my feelings hurt badly enough to turn me around. I cannot be discouraged enough to turn me aside. I cannot lose enough to cause me to quit.

When Jesus called me into this army, I had nothing. If I end up with nothing, I will still come out ahead. I will win. My God has and will continue to supply all my needs. I am more than a conqueror. I will always triumph. I can do all things through Christ. The devil cannot defeat me. People cannot disillusion me. Weather cannot cause me to be weary. Sickness cannot stop me. Battles cannot beat me. Money cannot buy me. Governments cannot silence me, and hell cannot handle me. I am a soldier. Even death cannot destroy me. For when my Commander calls me from this battlefield, He will promote me to Captain and then allow me to rule with Him. I am a soldier in the army, and I’m marching, claiming victory. I will not give up. I will not run around. I am a soldier, marching heaven bound. 

 ~Author B.J. Morbitzer~

Be Still

It's hard to sit still when we are waiting for an outcome. 

It's hard to keep our fingers from typing back when we are outraged. 

It's hard to keep the words from spilling out of our mouths when we are upset. 

It's hard to sit still.

My heart stopped on Exodus 14:14 this evening:

"The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace."

It's hard to hold our peace. 

But He is fighting for us and when we keep squirming around and flailing our arms and spewing out words to try and get the outcome we want, He's gently whispering:

"Hold your peace. 

I'm fighting for you. 

I've got it."

There are so many people out there making so much noise and fighting for what they believe is right.  I think that is great, but I also think we are given reminders in Scripture to "be still" for a reason: Because it's not all about us.  God has plans we don't yet know about.

In case you need a reminder to sink into His calm tonight:

"Be still and know that I am God..." -Psalm 46:10

You might not know the outcome of what you are fighting for, but He does.

Let Him fight for you.

Hold your peace. 

Be still.

Trust Him. 

Kali Dawson …Writer & Educator 

The Love of God

The love of God is greater far than tongue of pen can ever tell,

It goes beyond the highest star, and reaches to the lowest hell;

The guilty pair, bowed down with care, God gave His son to win;

His erring child He reconciled, and pardoned from his sin.

When hoary time shall pass away, and earthly thrones and kingdoms fall;

When men here refuse to pray, on racks and hills and mountains call;

God’s love, so sure, shall endure, all measureless and strong;

Redeeming grace to Adam’s race the saints’ and angels’ song.

Could we with ink the ocean fill, and were the skies of parchment made,

Were every stalk on earth a quill and every man a scribe by trade;

To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry;

Nor could the scroll contain the whole, tho’ stretched from sky to sky.

Oh love of God, how rich and pure!

How measureless and strong!

It shall forevermore endure the saints’ and angels’ song.

Behold, what manner of love the Father 

hath bestowed upon us…

          I John 3:1

Have you ever read the story, "Horton Hatches the Egg" by Dr. Seuss? It is a wonderful story about an elephant named Horton. The story begins with a lazy bird named Mayzie sitting on her egg in a tree. Sitting on the egg was tiresome and boring and Mayzie hated it. "I'd take a vacation, fly off for a rest if I could find someone to stay on my nest!" said Mayzie.

That’s when Horton walked by. Mayzie asked Horton if he would sit on her egg while she took a little rest. Horton objected at first, but Mayzie promised that she would not be gone long, so Horton finally agreed and soon he was sitting on the nest while Mayzie flew off to Florida for a vacation.

In Florida, Mayzie had such fun that she decided she would never return to her nest. Days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months, but Horton kept sitting there, day after day. Winter came and icicles hung from Horton's trunk and his feet, but still he remained faithful to his promise to Mayzie. 

"I'll stay on this egg, and I won't let it freeze," he said with a sneeze. "I meant what I said, and I said what I meant. An elephant is faithful, 100%."

Now, I don't know if elephants are really faithful 100% or not, but I know someone who is. God is faithful, 100%! The Bible is full of the promises of God, and God is always faithful to keep his promises.

In the Bible, there is a story about a man named Simeon. Simeon was a very old man who had faithfully served God all his life. Simeon was looking forward to the coming of the Messiah. God had promised Simeon that he would not die until he had seen the Christ, the promised Messiah. A few days after the birth of Jesus, Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the temple to dedicate him to God. Simeon was in the temple. As soon as Simeon saw the baby, he knew that Jesus was the Christ and that God had kept his promise that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah. God is faithful to his promises, 100%!

We are at the beginning of a new year. Many of us will make promises to God about things that we will do in the New Year. I'm afraid that many times they are promises made, but never kept. If God is faithful to keep his promises to us, don't you think that it is important for us to keep our promises to him?

This year, as we make our promises to God, let us say, like Horton, "I meant what I said, and I said what I meant. I'll be faithful to God, 100%."

BEST POEM IN THE WORLD

I was shocked, confused, bewildered

As I entered Heaven’s door, 

Not by the beauty of it all,

Nor the lights or its décor.

But it was the folks in Heaven

Who made me sputter and gasp-

The thieves, the liars, the sinners,

The alcoholics and the trash.

There stood the kid from seventh grade

Who swiped my lunch money twice.

Next to him was my old neighbor

Who never said anything nice.

Bob, who I always thought

Was rotting away in hell,

Was sitting pretty on cloud nine, looking incredibly well.

I nudged Jesus, “What’s the deal? I would love to hear your take.

How’d all these sinners get up here? 

God must’ve made a mistake.

And why is everyone so quiet,

So somber – give me a clue.”

“Hush, child, He said, “They’re all in shock.

No one thought they’d be seeing you.”

JUDGE NOT.

Remember….Just going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car.

Every saint has a PAST…

Every sinner has a FUTURE!

Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil…

It has no point!

Hold On Tightly to What is Truly Important in Life….

*Hold on to faith; is the source of believing that all things are possible.  It is the fiber and strength of a confident soul.

*Hold on to hope; it banishes doubt and enables attitudes to be positive and cheerful.

*Hold on to trust; it is at the core of fruitful relationships that are secure and content.

*Hold on to love; it is life’s greatest gift of all, for it shares, cares and gives meaning to life.

*Hold on to family and friends; they are the most important people in your life, and they make the world a better place.  They are the roots and the beginnings that you grew from; they are the vine that has grown through time to nourish you, help you on your way, and always remain close by.

*Hold on to all that you are and all that you have learned, for these things are what make you unique.  Don’t ignore what you feel and what you believe is right and important; your heart has a way of speaking louder than your mind.

*Hold on to your dreams; achieve them diligently and honestly.  Never take the easy way or surrender to deceit.

*Remember others on your way and take time to care for their needs.  Enjoy the beauty around you.

*Have the courage to see things differently and clearly.   Make the world a better place one day at a time, and “HOLD ON” to the important things that give meaning to your life.

By:   Kelly D. Caron

Jim and Mandy Wells

Jim and Mandy met in Peru while serving with the IMB right after college. They got married knowing that they had a desire to serve the Lord in missions and that they would go wherever the Lord sent them. Together with their son Micah, they moved to Mexico where their daughter Ellie was soon to be born. Throughout their almost 7 years in Mexico, the Wells worked among indigenous people groups throughout the Mexican state of Oaxaca. 

In 2021, as the pandemic was coming to a close, they sensed a call to return to Peru to work among indigenous people groups throughout the Andes Mountains. For the past 2 years, their family’s focus has been on mobilizing Peruvians to reach people in the remote areas of Andes Mountain range. 

Day to day life varies greatly. Jim often must travel long distances between 12-20 hours by car to get to the places where the team hopes to plant churches. He is very involved in training nationals in missions as well as helping alongside a church plant in the city of Lima, where the Wells family lives. Mandy is involved in teaching the Bible to women in an underprivileged area of Lima where migrants move into the city from the mountain and jungle areas of Peru. She is also involved in teaching and discipling women from their local church. 

Jim is currently working on a Doctor of Ministry degree in Evangelism and Missions and Mandy is studying to earn a master’s in biblical counseling. Micah is in 5th grade and Ellie is in 2nd grade and they both attend an international school in Lima with children from all over the world.

If you look for me at Christmas

You won’t need a special star.

I’m no longer just in Bethlehem,

I’m right there where you are.

You may not be aware of me

Amid the celebrations.

You’ll have to look beyond the

Stores and all the decorations.

But if you take a moment,

From your list of things to do,

And listen to your heart,

You’ll find I’m waiting there for you.

You’re the one I want to be with.

You’re the reason why I came.

And you will find me in the stillness

As I am whispering your name.

Love,

Jesus

THANK GOD FOR LITTLE THINGS

Thank you, God, for little things

that often come our way.

The things we take for granted

but don’t mention when we pray.

The unexpected courtesy,

the thoughtful, kindly deed,

a hand reached out to touch us

in the time of sudden need-

Oh, make us more aware, dear God,

of little daily graces

that come to us with “sweet surprise”

from never dreamed of places.

~Helen Steiner Rice~

Special Thanks To Our Veterans

Every year on the 11^th of November,

We honor our veterans and remember,

The sacrifices that you’ve made.

With some big prices that were paid.

In fighting for our country to be free,

You accepted your journey as it would be.

You left friends and family and put careers aside,

To serve your country with honor and pride.

You put your life on the line when there was war,

Always showing courage and strength 

for what would be in store.

Praying for the day to return home and then,

That our country would be free again.

It’s hard to find the words to say,

How grateful we are every day.

November 11^th is just a start, 

Of everyday you’re in our heart.

You’re a reason we can proudly fly our flag

 of red, white, and blue.

To each and every veteran “May God Bless You.”

By: Marlene Cutchin, September 19, 2011

Traveling On My Knees

Last night I took a journey

To a land across the seas.

I didn’t go by ship or plane-

I traveled on my knees.

I saw so many people there

In bondage to their sins,

And Jesus told me I should go,

That there were souls to win.

But I said, “Jesus, I can’t go

To lands across the seas.”

He answered quickly, “Yes, you can-

By traveling on your knees.

He said, “You pray, I’ll meet the need.

You call, and I will hear.

It’s up to you to be concerned

For lost souls far and near.”

And so I did, I knelt in prayer,

Gave up some hours of ease,

And with the Saviour by my side

I traveled on my knees.

As I prayed on, I saw souls saved

And twisted persons healed.

I saw God’s workers’ strength renewed

While laboring on the field.

I said, “Yes, Lord, I’ll take the job,

Your heart I want to please,

I’ll heed your call and swiftly go

By traveling on my knees.”

God Talks to Everyone

Some people find it hard to believe
That a conversation with God is easy to achieve
For there is no one that God does not talk to
God communicates with us all, no matter what we do.

The real question is, are you listening out
For God communicates not with a shout
God’s words may be ‘heard’ as a feeling so real
You’ll know it’s the truth from just how you feel.

Or maybe the next person that you meet today
Will give you an answer to show the way
We are all One, linked to God above
That person is an ‘angel’ sent from Heaven with love.

Perhaps on the radio a song that you hear
Will bring the answer ever so clear
A film, or a book that just comes to hand
Is ‘meant to be’ that’s the way God planned.

So, if there is anything you’re concerned about
Just talk to God in a whisper or a shout
God is always there with us, waiting to give
Help and guidance to how we might live.

You may not get the answer immediately
Be patient and wait for you will soon see
If you’re willing to be open to whatever comes your way
You’ll be blessed with God’s Words, day after day.

Trina Graves – June 30, 2002

Two Traveling Angels

Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family.   The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead, the angels were given a small space in the cold basement.  As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it.  When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, “Things aren't always what they seem." 

      The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they had, the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest. When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel how could you have let this happen? The first man had everything, yet you helped him, she accused. The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die. 

"Things aren't always what they seem," the older angel replied. "When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it." "Then last night as we slept in the farmer’s bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem." 

      Sometimes that is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way they should. If you have faith, you just need to trust that every outcome is always to your advantage. You just might not know it until sometime later...  
 

                                                                    10 Ways to Pray for Persecuted Christians

Just Wait and See!

It is a very natural thing to try to make things change that you do not like.  But if you are "trying to do something about something you cannot do anything about" instead of resting in God, waiting on Him and His timing, trusting Him with the other people in your life and even with your own self, you will be frustrated and will not enjoy peace.

"Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you."  2 Chronicles 20:17KJV

He Giveth More Grace

But He giveth more grace.  James 4:6

He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater,

He giveth more strength when the labors increase,

To added afflictions, He addeth His mercy,

To multiplied trials, His multiplied peace.

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,

When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,

When we reach the end of our hoarded resources,

Our Father’s full giving has only begun.

Fear not that thy need shall exceed His provision,

Our God ever yearns His resources to share,

Lean hard on the arm everlasting, availing-

The Father both thee and thy load will upbear.

His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,

His power has no boundary known unto men.

For, out of His infinite riches in Jesus,

He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

A.J. Flint

One day a man was crossing a bridge in life but was scared. So, he turned

and asked God, “Can I hold your hand so I may not fall?”

God said, “No my child, I will hold your hand.”

The man asked, “What’s the difference?”

God replied, “If you hold my hand and something happens, you might let

go. But if I hold your hand, no matter what happens, I will never let you go.”

May the Lord hold your hand tightly in all your ways.

As long as we have memories, yesterday remains

As long as we have Hope, tomorrow awaits

As long as we have love, today is beautiful

As long as we have God, anything and everything is possible

Country Funeral

As a young minister in Kentucky, I was asked by a funeral director to hold a graveside

service for a homeless man, who had not family or friends. The funeral was to be held

at a new cemetery back in the country, and this man would be the first to be buried

there. I was not familiar with the backwoods area, and I soon became lost and finally

arrived an hour late.

I saw the backhoe and the open grave, but the hearse was nowhere in sight.

The digging crew was eating lunch. I apologized to the workers for my tardiness, and I

stepped to the side of the open grave. There I saw the vault lid already in place. I

assured the workers I would not hold them up for long, as I told them that this was

the proper thing to do.

The workers gathered around the grave and stood silently, as I began to pour

out my heart and soul. As I preached, the workers became excited and began to say

“Amen.” Their fervor truly inspired me. So I preached and preached like I had never

preached before, all the way from Genesis to Revelation. I finally closed the lengthy

service with a prayer, thanked the men, and walked to my car. As I was opening the

door and taking off my coat, I heard one of the workers say to another, “I ain’t never

seen nothin’ like that before, and I’ve been puttin’ in septic tanks for thirty years.”

“A merry heart doeth good.”

Proverbs 17:22

Independence Day

Dear Lord,

There is no greater feeling of liberation than to

experience this freedom from sin and death that you

have provided for me through Jesus Christ. Today my

heart and my soul are free to praise you. For this I am

very thankful.

On this Independence Day I am reminded of all those who

have sacrificed for my freedom, following the example

of your Son, Jesus Christ. Let me not take my freedom,

both physical and spiritual, for granted. May I always

remember that my freedom was purchased with a very high

price. My freedom cost others their very lives.

Lord, today, bless those who have served and continue

to give their lives for my freedom. With favor and

bounty meet their needs and watch over their families.

Help me to live my life in a way that glorifies you,

Lord. Give me the strength to be a blessing in someone

else's life today and grant me the opportunity to lead

others into the freedom that can be found in knowing

Christ.

Amen

By: Mary Fairchild

DO YOU KNOW YOUR HYMNS?

Dentist's Hymn .................................. Crown Him with Many Crowns

Weatherman's Hymn ................. There Shall Be Showers of Blessings

Contractor's Hymn .............................. The Church is One Foundation

The Tailor's Hymn ................................... Holy, Holy, Holy

The Golfer's Hymn ...............................There's a Green Hill Far Away

The Politician's Hymn .......................... Standing on the Promises!

Optometrist's Hymn ...........................Open My Eyes That I Might See

The IRS Agent's Hymn ............................. I Surrender All

The Gossip's Hymn ....................................Pass It On

The Electrician's Hymn ............................ Send The Light

The Shopper's Hymn ................................ Sweet Bye and Bye

The Realtor's Hymn ............I've Got a Mansion, Just Over the Hilltop

The Massage Therapists Hymn ................ He Touched Me

The Doctor's Hymn .................................. The Great Physician

AND for those who speed on the highway - a few hymns:

55 mph .................................... God Will Take Care of You

75 mph ..................................... Nearer My God To Thee

85 mph ..................................... This World Is Not My Home

95 mph ..................................... Lord, I'm Coming Home

100 mph .................................... Precious Memories

Father's Day Prayer

Lord, please bless out fathers, these men who mean so much to us, who are greatly

responsible for who we are and who we are becoming.

Bless them for having the courage to do what’s necessary to keep us out of trouble, for

making us do the right thing, for helping us build our character, even when it makes us

angry.

Bless them for pushing us to do our best, even when they just want to love us.

Bless our fathers for being our protectors, for leading us through stormy times to

safety, for making us believe that everything will be all right and for making it so.

Bless our fathers for quietly making a living to provide for those they love most, for

giving us food, clothing, shelter, and the other material things that really matter, for

unselfishly investing time and money in us that they could have spent on themselves.

Bless our fathers, Lord, for saving some energy for fun, for leading us on adventures to

explore the outer reaches of ourselves, for making us laugh, for being our playmates

and our friends.

Bless them for being our secure foundation, our rock, for holding on tight to us …

until it’s time to let us go

Lord, bless these men we look up to, our role models, our heroes, our fathers. In

Jesus’ name we pray, Amen

Joanna Fuchs

Deep Thoughts for Those Who Take Life Way Too Seriously:

1. A day without sunshine is like...night.

2. He who laughs last thinks slowest.

3. The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.

4. Change is inevitable, except from vending machines.

5. OK, so what's the speed of dark?

6. When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

7. Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film.

8. How much deeper would the ocean be without sponges?

9. What happens if you get scared half to death twice?

10. Why do psychics have to ask you for your name?

11. Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what happened.

Laughter: (a) an expression or appearance of merriment or amusement. (b) an inner quality, mood, disposition, etc., suggestive of laughter, mirthfulness

The Wall

On a drizzly D.C. morning, in the middle of July, My brother brought me downtown to the Mall; Past the watchful eyes of Lincoln, ‘neath a weeping summer sky, We crossed the street to the little green and visited The Wall.

I remember I was nervous then, I guess a little scared, ‘Cause I wasn’t sure how I’d react at all; To see the names of the servicemen who’d been recorded there: Who’d heard the final roll call and assembled at The Wall.

Someone might stoop to leave a rose, a letter, or a poem; A message to a young man loved and lost, To show they still remember those who never made it home: Who build The Wall so long and tall, and paid the bitter cost.

And every name’s a father or a husband or a son, Or a daughter or a brother or a cousin to someone; Or a name might be a classmate or a friend you may recall: There’s nearly sixty thousand fallen names still waiting at The Wall.

As I watched the lines of people that walked by in slow parade, I read a different story in each face; And I couldn’t help but wonder at this pilgrimage we’d made, And what common bond, if any, might have brought us to this place.

There were tourists, and the curious, and some veterans who came, Still others who sought an answer to it all; But the only thing I’m sure of is: we left not quite the same, With our memories alive and well, and waiting at The Wall.

Tim Murphy

Thank You Veterans!

THE LIGHTHOUSE
By: Dean Beaty

We’re called to be a lighthouse, along some rock-strewn bay. Helping guide some traveler safely on his way. What greater task on earth, to help a wandering one. Trusting that on God’s great love, he’ll call before life’s done.

Don’t be a faulty lighthouse, whose light shines now and then. To shine your light full faithfully will take some discipline. With God’s help and guidance, your beacon will not fail. In keeping others off the rocks, we surely will prevail.

Jesus is our lighthouse along the narrow road. He strengthens, guides and cheers, and helps us with our load. His light is never failing, though storms at Him are hurled. We trust in Him because He is the true

”Light of the World.”

Excuse Me, Are You Jesus?

A few years ago, a group of salesmen went to a regional sales convention in Chicago. They had assured their wives that they would be home in plenty of time for Friday night's dinner. In their rush, with tickets and briefcases, one of these salesmen inadvertently kicked over a table which held a display of apples. Apples flew everywhere. Without stopping or looking back, they all managed to reach the plane in time for their nearly missed boarding.

ALL BUT ONE!!!

He paused, took a deep breath, got in touch with his feelings, and experienced a twinge of compassion for the girl whose apple stand had been overturned. He told his buddies to go on without him, waved good-bye, told one of them to call his wife when they arrived at their home destination and explain his taking a later flight. Then he returned to the terminal where the apples were all over the terminal floor. He was glad he did.

The 16-year-old girl was totally blind! She was softly crying, tears running down her cheeks in frustration, and at the same time helplessly groping for her spilled produce as the crowd swirled about her, no one stopping and no one to care for her plight. The salesman knelt on the floor with her, gathered up the apples, put them back on the table and helped organize her display. As he did this, he noticed that many of them had become battered and bruised; these he set aside in another basket.

When he had finished, he pulled out his wallet and said to the girl, "Here, please take this $40 for the damage we did. Are you okay?" She nodded through her tears. He continued with, "I hope we didn't spoil your day too badly." As the salesman started to walk away, the bewildered blind girl called out to him, "Mister...." He paused and turned to look back into those blind eyes. She continued, "Are you Jesus?" He stopped in mid-stride, and he wondered. Then slowly he made his way to catch the later flight with that question burning and bouncing about in his soul: "Are you Jesus?" Do people mistake you for Jesus?

That's our destiny is it not? To be so much like Jesus that people cannot tell the difference as we live and interact with a world that is blind to His love, life, and grace.

If we claim to know Him, we should live, walk, and act as He would. Knowing Him is more than simply quoting Scripture and going to church. It's living the Word as life unfolds day to day. You are the apple of His eye even though we, too, have been bruised by a fall. He stopped what He was doing and picked you and me up on a hill called Calvary and paid in full for our damaged fruit

Just 3 Words

 Three things in life that, once gone, never come back –
1. Time
2. Words
3. Opportunity
Three things in life that can destroy a person
1. Anger
2. Pride
3. Unforgiveness
Three things in life that you should never lose
1. Hope
2. Peace
3. Honesty
Three things in life that are most valuable
1. Love
2. Family and friends
3. Kindness
Three things in life that are never certain
1. Commitment
2. Sincerity
3. Hard work
Three things that are truly constant
Father – Son – Holy Spirit

When I woke up this morning, I asked myself,

What is life about?
” I found the answer in my room…
The fan said, ‘Be cool.’
The roof said, ‘Aim high.’
The window said, ‘See the world!’
The clock said, ‘Every minute is precious.’
The mirror said, ‘Reflect before you act.’
The calendar said, ‘Be up to date.’
The door said, ‘Push hard for your goals.’
The floor said, ‘Kneel down and pray!’

5 Things about Palm Sunday that Remind Us Christ is King

1. God's Word tells us the people cut palm branches and waved them in the air, laid them out on the ground before Jesus as He rode into the city. The palm branch represented goodness and victory and was symbolic of the final victory He would soon fulfill over death. 2. Jesus chose to ride in on a donkey, which directly fulfilled Old Testament prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. In Biblical times, it was common for kings or important people to arrive by a procession riding on a donkey. The donkey symbolized peace, so those who chose to ride them showed that they came with peaceful intentions. Jesus even then reminded us that He is the Prince of Peace.

 3. When the people shouted "Hosanna!" they were hailing Christ as King. That word means "save now," and though in their own minds they waited for an earthly king, God had a different way in mind of bringing true salvation to all who would trust in Him.

4. The Bible says that Jesus wept for Jerusalem. In the midst of the praise of the moment, He knew in His heart that it wouldn't be long that these same people would turn their backs on Him, betray Him, and crucify Him. His heart broke with the reality of how much they needed a Savior.

5. Palm Sunday reminds us that the reign of Christ is far greater than any the mind of man could ever conceive or plan. Man looked for someone to fight their battles in the present-day world. Yet God had the ultimate plan of sending His Son to fight the final battle over death. This is the greatness of why we celebrate this week. Because of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, we can be set free of death

Clay Balls

A man was exploring caves by the seashore. In one of the caves, he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake.

They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could.

He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock. Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!

Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars’ worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left. Then it struck him.

He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away

It's like that with people.

We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel.

It doesn’t look like much from the outside. It isn’t always beautiful or sparkling,

so we discount it.

We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy, but we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person.

There is a treasure in each one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them. Then the clay begins to peel away, and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.

May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay.

May we see the people in our world as God sees them.

I am so blessed by the gems of friendship I have with each of you. Thank you for looking beyond my clay vessel.

My Daily Declaration

I am loved, called, and chosen.

I am rich in every way and generous on every occasion.

I am anointed, appointed, equipped, and enabled by the Power of God that works mightily within me!

No weapon formed against me will prosper and no enemy scheme against me will succeed.

I live, breathe, and serve powerfully under the shelter of the Most High God.

Amen

The Burning Hut

author unknown

The only survivor of a shipwreck washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.

Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions.

But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stung with grief and anger. "God, how could you do this to me!" he cried.

Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him.

"How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied.

It is easy to get discouraged when things are going bad. But we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain and suffering. St. Paul wrote, "...I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want" (Philippians 4:12).

St. Paul had confidence that good would come out of everything (Romans 8:28), so he learned to be thankful, not bitter, even when he was suffering.

Remember the next time your little hut is burning to the ground--it just may be a smoke signal that summons the grace of God

The Cross Room

The Cross Room The young man was at the end of his rope. Seeing no way out, he dropped to his knees in prayer. "Lord, I can't go on," he said. "I have too heavy a cross to bear." The Lord replied, "My son, if you can't bear its weight, just place your cross inside this room. Then, open that other door, and pick out any cross you wish." The man was filled with relief. "Thank you, Lord," he sighed, and he did as he was told. Upon entering the room, he saw many crosses, some so large the tops were not visible. Then he spotted a tiny cross leaning against a far wall. "I'd like that one, Lord," he whispered. The Lord replied "My son, that is the cross you just brought in."