New Every Morning~Lord's Day April 13

[Pat]

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Morning Devotional...


They were filled, and their heart was exalted; therefore have they forgotten Me.[/b]       Hosea 13:6
This do in remembrance of Me.[/b]     Luke 22:19-20


What a tragedy! When Israel's enemies were subdued, when food was plentiful, when life was good, "they forgot God."

As we move  along in our lives, for the most part, life is good. The possibility exists that we could forget God. This is why the Lord took a loaf of bread and a cup of wine and said, "Eat and drink in remembrance of Me."
                                                            --Charlie Tempest

We do remember Thee as Thou hast said,
And think upon Thee as we break the bread,
Recall Thy dying love, Thy cross and shame,
Drinking the cup of blessing in Thy name.  
--G. Goodman

[Jane Walker]

PAT~ Thanks for the devotional (however "shortened" you want to make it  ) I love the Lord so very much...I also know it can happen that we become complacent when things are going well with us and we are tempted to "forget God"  I don't know how I could do that, and I pray that I never will.  I want to always be in His presence and enjoying his goodness.

I recently prayed a prayer of surrender to His will and the bottom line was "No matter what it costs my soul, I want what You want, Lord."  That sentence was very difficult for me to say aloud, but I did...and I meant it.  Just yesterday I was hit with some really strong accusations and words from someone who really dislikes me tremendously ... It hurt and I reeled for a while today, but then the Lord reminded me what I had prayed..."No matter what it costs my soul...."  Ooh!  It didn't take long for me to surrender even this hurt and let Him cleanse me with His love and mercy.  

I truly do want what He wants ... Not my will, but Thine be done... That's my daily prayer.  Make that hourly.    

I'll be back ... probably after church tomorrow (today) but you can count on the fact that, even if I don't post, I'm here ... watching and listening and loving all y'all!

Take care

[Anthony]

Good morning everyone.  Thanks for the devotional Pat.  It is very true that people very often think about the Lord when things are going wrong.  When things are seeming to go right we can feel that we have no need of Him.  However, God is very merciful and He certainly answers our cries to Him when we do fall on bad times.

Jane, I can identify with your trial.  It is difficult when we find people are accusing us of something that we are not guilty of.  Mind you, even though it hurts us extremely, it is a blessed place to be in.  The Lord said, blessed are you when men shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake.  It's good to be able to rest in Christ while it's happening and also good to be able to pray for the people who are behaving badly towards us.

Pat, I hope you had a great evening.  It sounds as though it tired you somewhat.  Hope you get  a good night's sleep.  I am still hoping for that blessing, it hasn't come yet.

God bless all and look forward to your fellowship.

Anthony.

[mieka]

I hope you will all know how much I love my God and how much of my life belong to him when I ask this question of everyone. It is my wonder if it is a need to go into a church on Sunday to show my love for God. I know I would not be here without his love, and I know that I would not be here today if he have not give to me my friends who have make for me a place to live and a chance to learn all that is life. I eat of the bread when I have hunger and I drink of the water when I have a thirst. But I give the bread and the water to others on my Sunday because they need it more than I. I do not go to a church on my Sunday, I give my Sunday time to those who have no family to care for them. I know here, there are many churches of many names and I know they all have love for God. Is it wrong of me to not go into a Church on my Sundays to watch everyone listen to the words of God, as a preacher will talk of them? Or is it ok to keep my Sabbath holy by giving what I have to give of my heart and my time to those who have no food and no one to care for them.

[DougPaz]

Good morning all!  

Just a short note before leaving for church.  Mieka, I read your post with great interest as I used to think that going to church wasn't as important as just my relationship with God.  I now believe that visits to God's House are a very important part of that relationship.  There are a multitude of reasons.  I learn every week from sermons and lessons.  Education is ongoing and you can never learn enough. Fellowship with other Christians is equally or even more important.  You can learn and gather strength from them as well as impart your love and grace as well.  Many people need more help when they are hurting or having doubts about their relationship and can draw from you.  The other thing is your support of the Church so that they can witness and help others through missions and as a place to draw other believers.  Think about these things before you make your decision.

I hope that everyone has a blessed day!

DougPaz

[Etta Sue]

Us four ladies really enjoyed dining and attending my church's Easter Cantata last evening.  Really moving.  The cantata was titled "Bow the Knee".  A wonderful presentation.

I have a full blown springtime cold.  I am seldom sick.  I don't feel sick now.  Just out of it.  My eyes are watery, the throat is sore, the cough sounds like a bull frog.  I am taking some cold pills, using cough syrup and have a Hall's in my mouth and still coughing.  I am already for church.  I must sit on the aisle so that if a coughing spell comes on...I can go outside the santuary and not bother others.  Today is also the teen worship and I love staying for it.  But I will see how regular worship is before thinking I will stay for teen worship.  

And then this afternoon is when I can print my PSP lessons.  

But the sun is shining brightly.  God is giving me comfort in my thoughts and deeds.  I thank God daily, hourly for his comfort and knowing that he is with me always.  

I pray that everyone has a blessed day being with your God at church or wherever you are.

[Jerry L. Sowers]

Just to show you all I do get up early, I am posting before church! Etta Sue will be here to pick me up in about 20 minutes.

Mieka ~ I went many years without going to church. I did watch church on TV, but I found for myself that I enjoy the comradre of others in the church. A church is not the building, but the people. I think what you are doing fits into Gods plan for the church. It is in itself a church! God Bless you!

DougPaz ~ You said it better than I did.  

[Ruth Ann Bice]

Good morning, Mieka,

I feel much better when I attend church. The closeness of being with friends and fellow christians helps to strengthen me, and often the message the minister prepares gives a focus on certain aspects of my life that I may need to review.

Your strong desire to serve others is most certainly Christlike.

I often think of the word JOY. Someone has made an acrostic of the word, so that it says:

Jesus first
Others next, and
Yourself last

This seems to typify your approach to your faith. May God richly bless you.

Ruth Ann

[Janet]

Hallelujah!!  We have seven of our Pow/Mia's back!!  Praise God!  All appear to be healthy........I'm sure all of you have probably heard the good news, but I just wanted to Praise God for his mercy and lovingkindness!

I will be back later!

Janet

[Anthony]

Janet, I have just heard the good news about the missing military personell who have been found. I also saw pictures for the first time of the young girl coming home to the USA. It's lovely to see these people returning, but it makes you think about the ones who are still missing or in captivity.  Let's continue to pray for them.

Anthony.

Meika perhaps one possible answer to the problem on what to do on Sunday, is to do both.  Go to church to worship with others there, and then spend the rest of the time ministering to people in your community.  

[mercychild]

Good morning everyone.  I hope you all had a restful evening.  First I'd like to welcome everyone I haven't had the chance to welcome before.  My password wasn't working, so I couldn't get on to post.  

Anthony-it's so good to see you back!  As usual, your responses are insightful.

Meika- Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."

I hope this helps.

God bless you all.  Jen.

[Al Moak]

Meika - I think we need very much to consider the purpose of the church gathering before deciding whether to join it.  Writing about that gathering, the writer to the Hebrews said, "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the day approaching."  (Hebrews 10:24, 25)  
The purpose is the fellowship of God's people with one another, a purpose we need to fulfill more and more as we see the day coming in which our Lord returns.
In other words, the reason we need to gather in the church is that God's Word tells us we need that gathering.  May God bless you in continuing to help others - during all the other days of the week.  But may you also find it a joyful thing to be with God's people for strengthening one the one day He has prescribed for that kind of fellowship.
In other words, the question shouldn't be, "do I enjoy going to church or do I enjoy helping people instead?" But the question should be, simply, "Does the Bible tell me to join in the church gathering?"  Yes, it also tells me to help those who need my help - but it tells me that I need the gathering of God's people one day each week in order to be strenghened for helping others the rest of the time.

[Sonifo]

Good morning everyone!

What a beautiful day the Lord has made.  

Yesturday was so nice out that we all got a little to much sun and got a sunburn.  I am not to bad, but Mike and Troy's faces are red like a tomato .  Time to break out the sunscreen.

Mieka,  I don't think it is a must to go to church.  If you feel that God is happy with you then keep doing what He leads you to do.  
Just remember that it is nice to go to a place where there are other christians, like this place.  I love to go to church because it makes me feel the joy of being a christian and the there is one lady who gives the biggest hugs.  She give everyone a hug.  I can't miss a hug like that.  I also like our church because we do a lot of things together.  Like picnics and bar-b-ques, watermelon feeds, bible camp to help those kids in the community whoo don't know God.  We also have musicians and singers come and put on a concert for us.  There is also a group of kids that come from Louisana ever summer and they have bible camp and put on concerts at the local park and resturants.  They are a blast and my sons want to do something like this when he gets that age.  It can be fun if you join the right church, but until you feel comfortable keep up with what you are doing.  God is pleased I am sure.  You might want to try a church every once in a while or even have someone go with you just to check it out.  I call it church hopping.  Hop till you find the right church.  hehe

I am off to get ready for church.  Hope you all have a good day.

[Sonifo]

I just got this in the email and thought I would share a good laugh.

The minister's little six-year-old girl had been so naughty during the week,
that her mother decided to give her the worst kind of punishment.  She told
her she couldn't go to the Sunday School Picnic on Saturday.

When the day came, her mother felt she had been too harsh and changed her
mind.  When she told the little girl she could go to the picnic, the child's
reaction was one of gloom and unhappiness.

"What's the matter?  I thought you'd be glad to go to the picnic." her
mother said.

"It's too late!" the little girl said.  "I've already prayed for rain!"

[Janet]

Meika, I commend you for doing the work you are doing to help others.  But as several have already stated, the church is a very important part of the life of a follower of Jesus.  It is a time to "recharge our batteries" so to speak; a time to be comforted, encouraged, and uplifted, as well as challenged to live more fully for God.  So I would encourage you to try to find a church that will welcome you, will pray for you, and in which you can fellowship with other Christians as you grow in your walk with the Lord.

Anthony's suggestion about going to church first, then helping others later in the day is a really sound one.  I hope you will consider it!

Yours is a very thought-provoking question, and I thank you for asking it.  Always feel free to ask questions, that's the way we all learn!

We are ready to leave for church now, be back later to see what's happening on CP!

Jesus hugs,
Janet

[Pat]

Good Morning Everyone...

Wow!  I was tired last night but it was a "happy tired"!  

It's great to see you all here this morning.  Wouldn't it be nice if we all knew what part of the world we all lived in?  I live in Ontario, Canada west of Toronto about an hour.

Where do you live?

Meika, I think you've been given some very good ideas in here--especially from Anthony and Al.  Joining a church has absolutely nothing to do with our going to heaven when we die but going to church and joining with others who love the Name of Jesus Christ to worship Him is such a wonderful thing to be able to do.  

I'll be back a little later as I'm just about to leave the house for church.  

But I'm going to include a little quote from Al Moak just before I leave as I think that this is so true, Meika.

The purpose is the fellowship of God's people with one another, a purpose we need to fulfill more and more as we see the day coming in which our Lord returns.
In other words, the reason we need to gather in the church is that God's Word tells us we need that gathering.

[Marilyn]

Good Morning to y-all. I am part way ready for church the face is on and the hair is curled. I've had my cup of coffee and now for some fellowship with my cyber church family.
Pat: thank you for the devotional this morning/last night.
Anthony: good to see you posting this morning.
Mieka: you have received good solid advice from our frineds here and even Pastor Al has given you the best Biblical advice. I can't add to any of it because it is all good. As for myself I prefer to go to church,  the contact with my church family, the praise and worship services and the Sunday School classes are always very informative. Pastor's sermons are straight out of the Word of God and I too, learn something every thime I go. i have missed church only once on Sunday morning in the last 3 years.

Well I am going to look around here and then finish getting ready for church.
Love to you all
Marilyn

Oh my I forgot I have a praise report. A man that I have been praying for--for the last 5 years has given his heart to our Lord, and gone through a christian Drug rehab program. He called last night ( he is also my ex live in boyfriend) he confessed his love for the Lord, told me he is now working and living in the aftercare home of the rehab program. Praise the Lord.

Marilyn

[Al Moak]

With you, Marilyn, I thank our gracious Father for the answer to your prayers.  I also add this continuing prayer: "Father, teach this man more and more.  Move him to join with Your people and to be strengthened there.  Oh Father, grant him a new and joyful life free from all the slavery of going his own way."

[Anthony]

I had to smile with Marilyn this morning when she said about putting her face on.  It conjured up all sorts of images in my mind.

Pat, it's good to see you up and ready for fellowship this morning after the night out.  I  hope you didn't get too tired.

Al, that was a great little exposition on the purposes of church life.  I think maybe God blessed that to more than you may realise.

Mercychild, thanks for the welcome back.  It's great to meet up with you again.  Did I hear right yesterday, that you were singing last night?  Boy, would I love to have heard that!

Janet, thanks for your input into the discussion too.  It's a tough question, but I think it's good to be able to discuss these things together.  Hope you have a great day at church today.

Sonja, you like going to church for the watermelon feeds  It's funny you should say that, because I have put on over 3 stone since going to my present church.  I'm not sure that's the reason for continuing to go there, but the cooking is a great bonus  

Anthony.

[Larry Hanna]

Hi everyone!  Very interesting discussion here today on attending church.  Meika, thank you for posing the question.  

I decided it would be best if I didn't go to church this morning.  Although I am feeling a lot better from the flu as still have a few chills and feeling a bit weak.  Don't think I would be contagious but don't want to make anyone else ill.  My wife did leave for church a few minutes ago.  I really hate missing out on singing with the choir on our special Easter music this morning.  They are doing "Love So Amazing", which is a choral meditation on the sacrifice of Christ.  

Marilyn, thanks for the tip on the citrus preparation to fight the flu.  I will keep that in mind for the future, although it has been years since I had the flu.

Our country certainly has a special reason to praise our God today with the return of the 7 soldiers.  In our newspaper today is a full page of pictures and names of those soldiers killed in the war.  It is a very touching thing to view to know these service men and women gave their lives that we might retain our freedom, including worshipping the one and only God and our Savior, Jesus Christ.  

Larry

[Sonifo]

Anthony~That isn't the only reason I go to church.  It is for the hugs.  
Just kidding.  I love church because it helps me to feel the joy of being a christian.  Being with others makes being a christian so much easier in these days where people think being a christian is uncool.  I have grown so much since I have been going to church, but it does help to have a church that is fun and not just sitting all the time.  We have great fellowship and wouldn't trade it for anything.  
I think I have grown even more since I joined this site.  I have been able to ask more questions here then I have at my own church.  
Mieka~Don't be afraid to ask the questions.  We may not all agree but we still love each other in here.  God has brought us together and will keep us together.  
sonja

[Marilyn]

Thanks Al for the continuing prayr for this man, his name is Don.He also invited me to attend the set Free Chruch. That is the name of the rehab program and they have their own church. I don't know if any of you have heard of the Set Free Ministries. Well I am off to churchnow I shall return later. I will visit his church at a later date.
marilyn

[Pat]

If I came on anti-church Im sorry. As Sonjia said do some church hopping till you find the right one. My wife and I have had a few bad experiences in the past with churches where some members welcomed you with open arms on Sunday morning butyou were dirt under their feet any other time

Yes, I would agree with that but I'd add one thing...  PRAY ABOUT THIS as you search for a church home...

Pray that the Lord Jesus would guide in this very important matter. It's wonderful how He works if we pray first.

Isn't it wonderful too that we don't have to look at people?  I just thank the Lord so much that people don't look at me and say, "Oh I want to be more like Pat!"  If they did that, they'd certainly be way off track!  But I think it's great to be able to say, "I want to be more like the person Jesus would have me to be."  

My reason for going to church is to worship Him and in so doing, the blessings I receive are many.

[Pat]

By the way, folks, I do hope that you've been checking out our Photography forums...

There's some nice ones being posted..

Here's an example of some nice little spring flowers[/b]

[Pat]

Let's sing!...

THE BIBLE STANDS
(Click title for music)

The Bible stands like a rock undaunted
'Mid the raging storms of time;
Its pages burn with the truth eternal,
And they glow with a light sublime.

Chorus:
The Bible stands tho the hills may tumble,
It will firmly stand when the earth shall crumble,
I will plant my feet on its firm foundation,
For the bible stands.

The Bible stands like a mountain tow'ring
Far above the works of men;
Its truth by none ever was refuted,
And destroy it they never can.

The Bible stands, and it will forever
When the world has passed away;
By inspiration it has been given;
All its precepts I will obey.

The Bible stands ev'ry test we give it
For its Author is divine;
By grace alone I expect to live it
And to prove it and make it mine.

[Papa John]

Well, here on Sunday afternoon I have read the posts for today.  I think Al, Anthony, and others have given very good advice.

We need to understand that the church is the saved.  If one is saved he is a part of the church.  He doesn't get into the church by joining a group.  He gets into the church by accepting Jesus and his gospel.  When Paul spoke to the elders of the church in Ephesus he said:

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood."  Acts 20:28  (KJV)

The church is the body of Christ.  "And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. "  Eph 1:22-23  (NIV)

God wants his children, the church, to enjoy fellowship with each other in local congregations.  He wants them to meet regularly for worship and for mutual edification.  This is obvious to us when we read the New Testament and see the early church.  

1 Tim 3:14-15  These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.  (KJV)

As Al and others have indicated from Hebrews 10

Heb 10:23-25  Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for he is faithful that promised; And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.  (KJV)

We have had prayers answered today with the news of the POW's who have been found.  Praise God !

--- Papa John      

[mieka]

It is a surprise to come here today to see so many have take so much time to answer my question. I will take all these words with me this week. This is a wonderful place and I thank you all that you allow me to come here. I have gone to many of the churches many times each week to be alone with God. I did not know it is Gods wish that I should also gather with others each week. This week I will try to think of a ways I can do it, but for today I am glad I can gather here with all of you. I have so many questions in my heart. It is my hope that in time you will not grow tired of them.

[Denise]

What a cute little story~
You've gotta love a little naughty head like that
God must really get tickled with our antics~ well, sometimes anyways.
Hope you're all feeling Gods blessings in your life today.
Denise

[Anthony]

Marilyn I am sorry I didn't comment on the good news of Don.  God is able to do what no-one else can do.  Praise God for Don and I do trust that he will continue to grow in spiritual things.

Meika I am so glad that the people here are helping you with their answers.  One way of finding out if a person is giving you good advice is when they direct you to the words of the bible.  I do believe you have had some good advice today.

Pat thanks for reminding Meika and all of the rest of us to pray for guidance.  How important that is.

Sonja what demonation to you go to?  In our independant evangelical church, we never get any hugs, just hand shakes.  It's good to express ourselves with people we feel safe with.

Lowtekrednek I don't think we've met, but God bless you for  your input.  Different thoughts on issues can be a great help.

Larry, I'm sorry to hear about the flu bug.  It's considerate not to want to pass it on to the other members. I hope you feel better soon anyway.

Al, thanks for your input into the discussion.  That scripture from Hebrews is so important isn't it.  Of course there are many of our brothers and sisters who have no building as such to meet in.  A friend at church has come from Uzbekistan to live in England, the authorities forbid christian meetings, but the believers meet in people's homes and have fellowship in secret. As long as we meet with other christians and encourage one another in the things of the Lord.

Denise, nice to see you today.  Hope everything is well with you.

Anthony.

[Marilyn]

I've just come home from church and started cooking myself something to eat.  I have been truly blessed today as well as last night after receiving that phone call. Here's the rest of the story. Back then when we were living in sin and doing all those drugs and living a life of serving satan. There were 2 houses on that property and all four of us there were doing the same things. A woman who had been delivered from that kind of life prayed that all of us there would receive the Lord and give our lives to HiM Now ALL of us are serving the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 of us are in the same church here in Lucerne valley. That woman was my friend Kitty and how pleased I was to stand at the microphone and give that testimony about that phone call and see the smile on her face. She hadn't been to church in about 2 months but was there today. Her prayers were answered in a big way, So were mine and Jason's prayers. Jason is one of the other people who lived next door to me at that time.
I just wanted to give you all the whole story and ask you to just PRAISE THE LORD. HALLELUJAH


Marilyn is doing the Pentacostal HappyDance

[Ruth Ann Bice]

I just returned from a lovely brunch with Margret and Stephen. They are such fine people. When we hugged for the last time, Margret's eyes were glistening with tears and I had a big lump in my throat, too.

Thank God for this wonderful forum where we can discuss questions, give our differing perspectives, and learn from those who also love our Lord.

Y'all have a good day. I've got to finish that report before flying to Cleveland tomorrow morning.

Ruth Ann

[Sonifo]

Thanks Papa John for the great explanation.  I bet you are counting down the days till your vacation is over.  

Pat, I agree we should pray to God and meditate on His word daily and the Holy Spirit will show us the way.  

Anthony~I am Southern Baptist.  We give lots of hugs.    This gal that gives hugs reminds me of Pat.  Even thought I haven't met Pat in person, it just seems like Pat is a huggable person.  Am I right Pat?

I just come in from playing baseball with the boys.  That was fun.  I did a lot of running.  I am grilling some hamburgers so I best get off here or they will be burnt.

Talk to ya later.
Sonja

[Jeanne Lee]

When Gene and I were "going together" before we married we attended many churches in this area, looking for a church home.  Some just kind of "turned us off" - we didn't feel any uplifting or feeding.  It seemed as though we'd check out different places a couple of weeks in a row, then attend First Presbyterian, then try a couple more and back to First Pres again.  After we were married we decided it was going to have to be First Presbyterian and signed a card for instruction and induction.  We have never once regretted our decision.  This is where we find scriptual instruction through our pastor who is a true Channel of God, loving and caring fellowship, a strong and committed intercessary group... and lots of hugs, too!  

[Marilyn]

WELCOME GORD BROWN


Come on in!!! Join us for some good fellowship, prayer requests, bible studies, posting you photos or whatever.
Sit down and have a cup of coffee or tea, have a cookie or donut. and just start posting.

Marilyn

[Pat]

I'm so happy that Gord Brown has registered.  We were speaking on the telephone and I talked him through the procedure.  He's not sure about how to use the computer yet but hopefully, he'll be back in here as often as he can get in here.  

Thanks Marilyn for welcoming Gord Brown.

Anthony, you'd enjoy talking with him!  He was born in the Glasgow area and was raised by his grandmother just outside Belfast!  When he came to Canada, Jack took him under his wing and it was through Jack and my father that he came to know the Lord Jesus as his personal Saviour.

[Jane Walker]

HUGS???  As I was telling the ladies in our Thursday group: I had to go to Oklahoma to learn how to hug!  I grew up in a home where there was no affection shown ... not even much emotion  I didn't know how to show affection, so my kids were raised pretty much the same way, although hugs were given at church I would shy away from giving any.  I only hugged if someone hugged me first ... and then not with much sincerity

I also believe this sort of outward show of emotion/affection is more prevelant in certain parts of the country.  In Oklahoma it was almost "a sin" to NOT hug another Christian  

Thursday, after our meeting, our Pastor Bev said "Now I think we should all give one another a hug"  She started a line across the front of the room and each of us in turn went down the line hugging!  What a neat thing!  As Sonja: I have to go to church to get a hug!  Our pastor Bev is a great hugger, too!  In fact, she will stand at the door and insists we each get a hug (she says it's so she can get hugged) before we leave.   I don't have anyone to give me hugs otherwise, y'know.

We all love the Lord so much and it just seems so natural (now) to want to show each other that love, too.

RUTH ANN - You live in "that part of the country" too!  Hugs are the order of the day there, right?

MARILYN - Great news about Don ... and a wonderful testimony as well.  I'd do tha happy dance with you ... well, I just WILL anyway ...  

[Anthony]

Welcome Gord BrownIt's good to see you registering.  I hope you feel confident enough to tell us a bit about yourself.  Marilyn, you never told me about the doghnuts!!

Sonja, I don't know too much about the Souhern Baptists, but it sounds like you are enjoying the fellowship and that's the main thing.  Who won at the baseball?

Jeanne, I don't know much about the first presbyterians either.  Isn't it wonderful that there is such a mixture of different backgrounds on the forums?  

I am just off to bed.  God bless you all and I look forward to your fellowship tomorrow.

God bless,

Anthony.

[Pat]

Yes, Sonja, I guess I'm a "huggy" person.  I got lots of them last night from Mercychild, her sister and her mother, Tenderheart.  It was so nice.  Jack and I were huggers.  Guess that's one of the things that I miss a lot.

Andrew and Terena and little Rebecca (Rebecca is the little girl up in the masthead at the top of the page!) just arrived and have gone to Jack's grave to spend a little bit of time.  Tomorrow is Jack's birthday and they have invited me to their home for dinner so I won't be alone tomorrow.  

[Marilyn]

I have always been a hugger too. Ilove those huge hugs. I also like them from someone who is taller than I am. I am 5 ft. 9 in. tall. Yes a big girl. LOL We all hug everyone at our church. Try not to miss anyone getting or giving a hug.

marilyn

[Pat]

Good night, Anthony!  Enjoy your sleep and we'll see you tomorrow!

[Jeanne Lee]

[Jeanne Lee]

Marilyn, I'm sorry...  I completely neglected to say how happy I am that Don has joined the flock, along with the rest of you.  The Lord works things out in His own time, and now all four of you are His beloved children.  

[Janet]

Marilyn, what a wonderful praise report!  I'm so glad that it doesn't matter what kind of sins we have committed, or how bad we were before we accepted Jesus, God loves us all, washes us clean and gives us a fresh, new start!  "Behold, the old is passed away, and all things have become new."  Praise his name!

We had a wonderful service this morning.  The smaller children had a little program at the start, and sang several action songs.  Then the older children performed a very moving skit to the Ray Boltz song "Watch the Lamb."  It was so powerful that at the end, several people received Jesus!!!  "out of the mouths of babes......"

I was moved to tears that the kids were used so mightily of God.  Thank God for those who work with the children, they will only know in eternity the full extent of their influence.  I took photos, will post those later.

After we got back to Ulysses, I attended a Patriotic music program at the Senior Center in support of our troops.  It was good, and we ended with praise and worship songs and a good devotional.  What a good day!!

Larry, I pray you feel 100% FINE by the morning!  God bless you.

Anthony, it's so good to have you back with us!  We missed you!

About hugs--if I don't get several hugs at church, I don't feel like I've really been to church!  But Sonja's post this morning about a certain lady's hugs, convicted me.  I thought "Surely, Lord, there must be someone that I could bless with a big hug today--please lead me to that person."  And sure enough, after church, I say this older lady who just looked like she needed a hug, and I gave her a big one!  You should have seen her smile...  I LOVE hugs!  (There weren't many when I was growing up, either, Jane.  But I was much more affectionate with my kids, because I felt I had missed so much myself while growing up.)

{{{{{{hugs to Sonja!}}}}}}

[Papa John]

It has really been a beautiful day here today.  The temperature is in the 70's and the sunshine is bright with not a cloud in the sky.

This morning the preacher spoke on the topic, SHOCK AND AW.  He talked about the attack on Baghdad with the powerful bombs which lit up the sky.  And then he talked about the shock and aw in the power of God.  He ended up with the shock and aw of the judgment day.  It was a timely and powerful lesson.  I told him afterwards that I would never forget that sermon.

Sonja, yes we are counting the days we have left now.  A week from tomorrow we will leave early in the morning to drive back to Nashville.  We always hate to leave here and yet it will be nice to get back home.  We miss our home congregation when we are away.

Hugs.  Yes we have lots of hugs where we worship.  In some ways it may be an American and a cultural thing.  We hug a lot in our family.  And also we hug a lot in our church family.  Well, we do a lot of hand shaking too.  It is an expression of love which we have for each other.

Welcome to all of the new comers.  See you all tomorrow.

--- Papa John      

[Ruth Ann Bice]

Yes, Jane, I live in THAT part of the country! Thank goodness we give hugs - I got several today, both at church and with Margret and Stephen, too.

Living alone, I think a big hug from someone is such a wonderful gift - and a freebie, at that! Doesn't cost a thing except a moment of time and maybe a big smile.

And what a wonderful gift it is.  

Ruth Ann

[Marilyn]

Our sermon this morning was on the donkey colt that carried Jesus into Jerusalem on the day of His triumphal entry, from the donkeys point of view. For the first time in his life he was walking on palm fronds anmd soft clothing instead of rocks and dirt. He was "dressed" in the clothing of the disciples, he was cheered by the crowd because he was carrying the King of Kings, who treated him ever so gently not hitting him with a stick or speaking harshly to him. He was carrying Royalty and could walk with his head held high. The bottom line was that as this donkey bore the burden ofcarrying the King of Kings, that King of Kings bore our burdens with Him to the cross, and we should walk with our heads held high because we are the children of the King of Kings.

[Jerry L. Sowers]

I just rreceived this little story in my e-mail, I wanted to share it with all of you. I hope you enjoy it!

THE ATHEIST

An atheist professor was teaching a college class and he told the
class that he was going to prove that there was not a God. He
said, "God if you are real, then I want you to knock me off this
platform. I'll give you 15 minutes!"

Ten minutes went by. He kept taunting God, saying, "Here I am God,
I'm still waiting" He got down to the last couple of minutes and a
BIG 240 pound football player happened to walk by the door and heard
what the professor said. The football player walked in the class
room and in the last minute,
he walked up, hit the professor full force, and sent him flying off
the platform.

The professor got up, obviously shaken and
said, ............. "Where did you come from , And why did you do
that?" The football player replied, "God was busy; He sent me!"


LOVE CONQUERS ALL

[mercychild]

Hello everyone!  We had a wonderful day today.  I didn't go to church this morning though.  I was really tired and overslept.  However, this afternoon brought some wonderfully warm temperatures and beautiful sunshine.  I took the opportunity of a free afternoon and went on a bike ride.  I also went out with my dad, and bought some flower bulbs for my front garden!  I am so excited, I can't wait to get to work on it!  Once they all bloom, I'll have to take some photos and share them!  We went to the church early to share in the potluck dinner they had, and then the evening service, with a visiting speaker, who spoke on the second coming of Christ.  Usually, I go out with the young people but I didn't feel up to it tonight, so I came home.

Anthony-I did sing last night, with my sister and another young lady from our church.  It went alright, I guess, but I don't know if you would have wanted to hear it!  It might have hurt your ears! .

Papa John- so you'll be off home shortly, will you?  You certainly seemed to have had an enjoyable and relaxing vacation.  I'm glad you were still able to post with us while on vacation!  It's made things very pleasant.

Marilyn-Praise the Lord for the testimony of the man you've been praying for!  I'm so glad to hear it!

Pat- I'm so glad you have somewhere to go tomorrow night!  I was worried about that, and glad to hear my mom make the suggestion.  But I'm glad you'll be with your family too.  I'll be praying for you.

Well, I have to be up bright and early tomorrow morning, so I'm heading off to bed.  God bless you all.  Jen.

[Pat]

Hey, Jen, you'll have to come and plant some flowers in my garden!  

Yes, it will be nice to be with Andrew and Terena tomorrow.  This evening, Rebecca and I made a candle.  I think Andrew snapped several photos but I'm not going to show them if they are of my messy kitchen!  

[Pat]

Today was Ruth Gray's 40th Wedding anniversary so let's all say "Happy Anniversary" to her tomorrow.  She's having a party today I think so I'm sure she's going to be looking in to New Every Morning tomorrow.

For those of you who make cards, her hubby's name is Mel.

[Etta Sue]

It is wonderful to see how busy everyone has been today.

Mieka ~ When it is God's time for you to attend a church, you will.  I had been out of the church for almost 40 years when I started reading His Word again.  My family attended a small community Christian church but I didn't want to drive 25 miles to attend church.  The first Sunday I walked into my church, I felt like I had a "My First Time In Church For Years" sign on my forehead and every one knew I was a newbie.  The husband/wife greeters asked me my name...Etta Sue.  The minister asked me my name...Etta Sue.  The next Sunday the husband/wife greeters said, "Welcome back, Etta Sue!"  The minister said, "Welcome back, Etta Sue!"  Park Chapel Christian Church became my church.  It was a big plus for people to remember my name.  And then about 2 months later, I was baptized in the name of Christ Jesus.  Now I have moved 25 miles to where my family is but I drive the 25 miles back to attend PCCC.

Hugs!  Yes, we hug in my church.  I, too, came from a family that didn't show affection.  We knew we were loved but it wasn't demonstated.  I love the hugs today.  I used to stiffen up but now I hug right back.  Just like handshakes.  Some are sincere, some are not.  You can tell which is which.

Today was a touching sermon.  First of all about 8-10 7years old and younger, recited the scripture about Christ riding the donkey.  The little kids spoke out loud, you could understand every word.  Not one tiny faulter.  Two would recite in unison, then two more and so on.  When Christ arose from the tomb, the reciting was over.  Pastor David said it put him to shame....those little ones memorizing the scripture.  For sure, it did me.  Then the sermon started.  Last week it was about "Our Last Sin is Death".  This week was "Facing Death".  A man's wife gave birth to a little girl.  The little girl lived 2 minutes and died.  Then a little while later, his 2 year old daughter died.  Why does God vreate life on earth to let them die so soon?  God created us so we may live in eternity.  Our time on earth is a minuscule compared to eternity.  It made me feel better about my deceased husband and my brother-in-law that passed away just three days apart in 1991.

[Etta Sue]

GORD BROWNWe visit every day.  We talk about our children, grandchildren, local politics, aches and pains, sorrows, triumphs.  We discuss the Sunday sermon, our reading of scripture, a new book that touched or troubled us.  We post photographs.  We laugh a lot.  Sometimes we cry.  We make an effort to listen intently.

Our visits to CP is our holy time.  As we read each others posts and look at each others pictures, we posts our thoughts, hopes, and fears to each other and to God.  Our posts are a manifestation of Christ in the world.  Being part of the Body of Christ is not a private walk with Jesus; it is two or three people gathered together with Christ in their midst.  When we show compassion or 'listen' with love, we are expressing Christ.  We are being the church in the world.  Even though we aren't perfect and we don't have all the right answers, we experience Christs's presence in these times together.

Who needs someone to listen???!!!

[Marilyn]

We had another good sermon tonight on forgiveness. How we must forgive or God won't forgive us. The one of the scriptures was Mark 11;25-26. I'll let you look it us.
Today I feel truly blessed in so many way.When God answers prayer he answers in such a big way.
I will say good night now but not before it say

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO YOU MEL AND RUTH GRAY



Pat: I will be remembering you and your family in my prayers. Tomorrow will be a celebration of your husband's homegoing, I pray the Lord will give you joy in knowing that Jack is walking with our Lord on those golden streetssand singing praises to His holy name.

Marilyn

Marilyn

[Pat]

Hi Marilyn...  No, tomorrow would have been Jack's birthday.  He passed away on Jan. 10.  We always had a happy day full of laughing on his birthday.  So Andrew and Terena have invited me over for supper.

[Marilyn]

oops Pat; Must have missed that it was his birthdy. Perhaps a "senior moment" LOL
That won't stop me form praying for you anyway. It's good to be with family on those days. Being alone is not any fun at all.
The joy of the Lord is your strength.

Marilyn

[Pat]

Thanks Marilyn...

Jerry!  

Glad you had a nice day, Etta Sue!

[Marilyn]

Hey Sonja:
Did you get my email with the photo of my new next door neighbors. that I sent ya yesterday.??

Mairlyn

[Pat]

This was a lovely day today at Christian Photographers, don't you think?

Let's continue our conversation in tomorrow's thread...

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