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Morning Devotional...

Psalm 37


All kinds of people came to the morning worship at the tabernacle  (and later the temple).  Some were poor and some rich, some were oppressed by others, and some were the oppressors, some were working-class people, and some were aristocracy.  It was a good time for worship leaders to warn the aristocracy and to encourage the poor - to remind them all of their covenant relationship with God and of how it should work itself out in the practicalities of daily life and human relationships.

This psalm is that kind of reminder.  It's a song of encouragement and advice for the poor and downtrodden who trust in the Lord, and it's a song of warning to any who would oppress them.  Hopefully, singing a song like this would prepare all these people to deal with the day that was just then before them. The psalmist begins by advising the godly not to become upset about those who don't care about the Lord, because, just as green leaves soon becomes brown and die, so these wicked will soon come to their end. Next, the faithful are encouraged to, "Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness."  In other words they  should thankfully receive what their covenant God gives them, while leaving their problems with Him.  The point is that if they're delighting themselves in God, then even their desires will be good in His sight - and for that reason those desires will be realized.  Simply put, GOD will take care of them and all their affairs – so that they won't have to!  Justice WILL happen for them, and everyone will know it - it'll be as obvious as the light of the  noonday sun!  All they have to do is to be patient, wait for the Lord to take care of things, and not focus on how the ungodly seems to be prospering.  In fact, he says, "don't fret, for it only causes harm!"  

The encouragement goes like this: "evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait on the Lord, they shall inherit the earth!" The key is "waiting." Waiting is just being aware that there's an eternal plan, a plan that's been made in the unseen heaven, a plan in which God is laughing at the evildoer - whose weapons against the poor will finally in fact be the means of their own destruction!  So the people sing, "the sword shall enter their own heart, and their bows shall be broken."  

What it's telling us all is that those who wait on the Lord need to remember that, "a little that a righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked"  -because God is in control and will, in due course, care for them, and "their inheritance shall be forever." The wicked, on the other hand, "shall perish, and the enemies of the Lord, like the splendor of the meadows, shall vanish - into smoke. They'll simply vanish.

The daily lives of the godly and of the wicked present a great contrast: "the wicked borrows and doesn't repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives." And the results?  "Those blessed by Him shall inherit the earth, but those cursed by Him shall be cut off!"  The Lord never forgets the godly.  He's always there, remaining close at hand. (Remember the promise, "I will never leave thee nor forsake the!")  It's always true that, "though the godly fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand."  

The psalmist gives the worshippers even more incentive to wait on the Lord as he says, "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.  He is ever merciful, and lends, and his descendants are blessed!"  Such "righteous" need only remember to "depart from evil, and do good . . . for the Lord loves justice, and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever  . . . the righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell in it forever." Of course the wicked don't believe it, but the righteous lifestyle is really the wisest way to live.

Finally, the people sing the conclusion to these thoughts when they say,  "Wait on the Lord, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land."  Though the wicked are sometimes "in great power . . . spreading themselves like a native green tree," yet they're coming to their end because such self-made prosperity can't last under God's administration.   The conclusion is that "the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord (not from themselves). The Lord shall help and deliver them . . . because they trust in Him." We too need this admonition.  You and I need to be reminded that there's an unseen Hand in this world, an unseen but almighty Hand, the Hand of One Who laughs at the foolishness of the wicked, but a Hand Whose love upholds forever the one who trusts in Him.  What we see with earthly eyes is not all there is.  May God give us patient trust today.  



Al Moak

Here's a hymn that reflects these thoughts.  Just click to hear the music.

Ohhh, thanks so much, Alan.  I've been so enjoying these Psalm devotionals.

This is the first one of these i have read and must say that you are so right. We do need to be reminded and encouraged just as you have done here. Thanks for the Devotion.

Don

John has just left to be home tomorrow probably.  He got his miles on the weekend and during the week just tops the miles up.  THe way the pays are figured up is 35 (I think) cents a mile with a 2500 mile minimum.  That comes up to about 875 per week pay.  He gets paid on the 15th and 30th.  So with the economy being what it is he needs to get the miles when he can.  He is flexible, but it sure takes its tole on our church life.  I am grateful that he has a job and not in a position like many we know, no job and on the verge of loosing everything.

We have a sunny day today.  Pay are you heading north today?  Roads were good yesterday.  John came up from the south Saturday and yesterday.

I read a Proverb to the girls every school day.  It is interesting how even though they appear to not be listening, when the same proverb is read as last month they interject comments indicating their understanding. 

Well have a good day everyone

Al ~ When I clicked your Click Here, it didn't work for me.  I had to use the Forum directory.  But I think I fixed it. 

Not much going on here today but I forgot to shut my garage door yesterday afternoon and it was up all night until I was getting ready to feed the furgirls this morning and noticed it was still up!  That happens quite frequently lately!.....

I am defragging my laptop.  I don't think I have ever done that.  It started last night.  I left the laptop open but it must have went to sleep because I had to push the power button this morning but the defrag window was there and started defragging again.  I like to 'see' the progress or at least the % of how much is done.  Vista isn't showing that. 

I have a few phone calls to make and tonight is Council Meeting at church.

Hi everyone.  It is now 52 degrees here in Georgia with some showers predicted for later today and this evening but it is suppose to be nice tomorrow but colder and only up to 47 degrees.

We had a nice visit with Stacey.  We took her to an Italian place where she wanted to go for lunch.  Fortunately we didn't need to do any errands for her and she had done her laundry the day before. 

Today I have a luncheon with several men that get together each week that have a common interest.  We really enjoy these times together. 

The housekeeper is here today so the house will soon be nice and clean again.  It really doesn't get very dirty in the two week span but it is always nice when it it all cleaned at once. 

Al, thanks for the devotional for this week. 

Jane, glad to know you are home safely from your trip South.  Did you have to use your chains?

Etta Sue, that was quite an adventure you had getting home in the snow.  Glad you didn't have any problems with your car other than getting stuck in your driveway.  That is a good place to get stuck if it has to happen.

RuthAnn, be careful with those boxes.  You don't need any new ailments. 

Glad to see all the posts.  Marilyn, what happened at your church service yesterday. 

Have to share a little story from our church service yesterday.  We installed our new Associate Pastor and had a combined service.  Our Contemporary band and singers did special music during Communion and it became extremely loud at one point.  I looked back and noticed Pat get a pack of tissues out of her purse and thought she was going to stuff a tissue into each ear.  I asked her about this after the service and she said that she was really annoyed by the loud music but the tissues were to sop up the grape juice as she had accidentally tipped the Communion cup and some had spilled out.  I have to admit the music was annoying and not conducive to a quiet and meditative period while the Communion was served.  Enough complaints for today. 

That's too bad, Larry, about the music during Communion.  I feel that Communion is the most important service in our church when we remember what our Lord did on that cross of Calvary and so many churches are using this time to play this music.

I often remember the most wonderful "Breaking of Bread" service in the church I used to attend when everyone silently prayed while the elements were being passed around.

Not many posts today. 

My church has communion every week.  When I used to attend two services, I had two communions.  The traditional service was complete silence while passing out the elements.  That was great because your mind was completely on remembering what Christ did for you on the cross.  The contemporary service had music even though it was low and soft.  Then one Sunday in the traditional service, they had a lady sing at that time.  I couldn't get my mind on why we take communion.  Others commented about that as well. 

Now, in my tiny church, we have background music on a CD.  It is so subtle that I don't pay any attention to it...in fact, you can still hear the floor squeak when the ushers walk on it!  Communion is MY time when I attend Sunday Service. 

Communion at church seems that I am really closer to God.  It is my time to tell him how much I love Him for what He has done for me. 

My parents taught me to review my life carefully before participating in communion. What a special time it is to draw near to God.

I got home yesterday afternoon, after a quick but productive trip to California, and have been trying to get things taken care of and back into the (humdrum) routine of living in this quiet little spot on the south coast of Oregon.  I do love my quiet life!

I came home with a different car -- a '99 Toyota Corolla that was Tom's (my husband) and that he can't drive any more.  We did the "family transfer" of title and registered it in Oregon, so no need to have the smog test, etc.  

No, Larry, I did not have to use the chains on my Neon going over the passes and, once I had a different car, I traded them for a different size and didn't have to use those coming back home either!  Since I did not use the chains I can return them and get a refund of my $75 in April.

I am still trying to catch up with all the email and messages that seemed to pile up while I was gone -- I was only gone 5 days. 

I'll be back and (possibly) stay around for a while to chat with all y'all, but I need to see to some other stuff at the moment so .............

See yuh later.

P.S. I agree that communion is a sacred time, and should be treated as such.  A time for reflection and introspection.  A time to remember the greatest gift of God's love.

Nice to hear you have new wheels, Jane.  So happy for you.

I was going to travel north today but slept late and then got involved in laundry, etc. so I'm going to drive up tomorrow.  Hoping to get away very early so that I can do the whole drive in daylight.  I want to take Geordie to the vet if possible to see if he can remove a wee tumor on his lower eyelid that is scratching his eyeball and it really bothers me.

Thanks for the devotional, Al.  I found it very comforting. 

We have had about all the weather that this person can smile about...   Still snow on the ground in this little part of the valley, wet and rain and so chilly!  A few mornings ago, around 5:30 A.M., I was reading in bed and Misty (cat) was sleeping beside me...when the bed shook.  Since neither of us had moved, it was a little strange.  No noise, just the bed shook.  Misty didn't seem too alarmed, simply curious, then went back to sleep.  I waited for the 'BIG'  quake they are alway warning about.  Fortunately, am still waiting.  There was a mild quake, 4.6 in the Puget Sound, so we were not having a strange sort of dream.  As quakes go, it wasn't much.

That was some game and I was a little miffed at the ending.  Was rather sad that we can't get the SuperBowl ads as they are blocked in Canada.  One HD channel that the kids have, did carry the ads, so went up and watched some of them there.  I have digital but not HD.  All the other HD channels were blocked...so someone goofed on that 

Nice that you had a safe trip, Jane.  Enjoy the car.

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

Hello, friends.  I had to be at work at 5:30 this morning!  Inhumane... , and it was a really hard day, too.  I have not been trained for that position at the Care Home, and had three people all giving me stuff to do, at the same time.    I was frustrated to the point that as soon as I left there, I went to Park View (my usual work place) to give my two weeks notice, but neither of the "bosses" were there.  So I need to do that tomorrow.  It is just getting to be too hard on me, and $7.25 per hour is NOT worth wrecking my health for!  The cooks at the school get $13.00 per hour!  My grandson told me "Grams!!  I haven't worked for that price since I was fourteen years old!"  Anyway................

The only good thing today was seeing Mom and Beth, and I was working in the dining room as "hostess" so I got to help Beth some with her food.

I need to be thinking about whose portrait(s) I will be painting the week of the 16th.  I'm thinking I might do Abby again, in her first "on pointe" performance in ballet.  Diane loaned me a good picture of her.

Etta Sue, that was quite an experience you had, driving in the snow.  We are still having summery weather, with nary a flake in sight, and the ground so dry they have put a burn ban in place around Wichita.  Things just don't seem to even out, weather-wise, do they?

We got good news today from the doctor concerning Darrel's biopsies!!  Praise God!

When I got home this afternoon, I sat down in my recliner and was sound asleep in two minutes flat.  Boy, I was bushed.

See you later!

I came back to say hello to Pat and Liz!  Hello, Pat and Liz!    And Liz, I would not enjoy having it cold and damp for so long, either, as that kind of weather makes me ache.  But we are getting quite concerned about the trees and other vegetation around here, because of this prolonged drought and unseasonably warm weather.  Wonder if ol'  Puxtahawney Phil knows what he's doing?  We can't have six MORE weeks of winter, when we haven't had any winter yet! 

Hi everyone.  I am awaiting for the time to leave for coffee this morning and then have a meeting to attend later this morning.  After that the rest of the day is free. It is chilly here this morning at 36 degrees but it is not raining as they had indicated it might be last night.  It is to get up to 42 degrees today.

Janet, good for you in giving your notice.  It sure sounds like they are taking advantage of you and if the job isn't a necessity then it isn't worth the pain and tiredness that goes with it.  Sure glad to hear that Darrel got good news.  Sometimes the worrying turns out to be the worst part of situations like this. 

Liz, I remember when I lived in Alaska and one day I was sitting at my desk working and all of a sudden the chair rolled right back into the bookcase behind me and everything moved back and forth.  Fortunately there wasn't much damage.  We lived in a duplex in Anchorage and the landlords lived in the other unit and she was, and probably remains, terrified of the earthquakes as had gone through the big quake in the mid-60s that did so much damage in Anchorage. 

Jane, sounds like you had a very successful trip and sure glad you didn't have to use the chains and will be able to get your money back. 

Pat, you are probably on the road headed north as I write.  So hope when you read this you had a good trip back with Geordie. 

It looks like you all pretty well agree with me regarding the music during Communion. 

Al:  Thank you for devotions.  Much appreciated.  I hope that your legs are feeling better. 

Etta Sue:  I like communion so much as well - we usually have soft background music and sing familiar songs more muted. 

Larry:  I am so glad to read that you had a fun day with Stacey and no work involved.  May there be more.

We are in Tucson and I don't know if you have seen the news about a porn film being displayed right at a crucial moment in the SuperBowl game.  Here we are, five adults and at first we thought bad timing for an ad.  Then - gross - it just stunned us then made us so angry when we thought of children being glued to the game.  I hope all of them go to jail.  We are furious and hope they find the stupid couple as well - I have to wonder what in the world possesses the minds of these people & especially those who pay to watch.  Enough said. 

Don had another all day teleconference here and he sure does want to get off of that state duty some day.  Yesterday was six hours and the other day, eight hours.  He consults for the state of Colorado and it is volunteer work.

I dropped my sunglasses at Sam's Club but realized it in the car, went back in and someone had just picked them up.  It disturbs me that it is so easy for me to lose things though.  

On the bright side, we have enjoyed the walks and the wonderful views.  Plus, all of the vegetation is so interesting and the birds are so colorful.  It sure is dry.  Thursday, we will finally get out of here early to drive to a place that has a ton of Sand Cranes and it is a fact that they move at 11 A.M. on the dot into huge swarms.  Should be exciting - waiting for the birds to move.  Bringing  and camera, binoculars.   

I surely agree that communion should be a quiet time of reflection.  Soft, familiar music would be fine, but please, no loud music!

Carol, I would love to be there with you to see the cranes moving!  Wow!  I have also noticed I lose or misplace things much more easily now.    Not fun.

We had a bad experience last evening.  Our little dauchund, Sarah, kept coming into the bedroom and getting on the bed.  We would make her get down, and soon, she would be back.  Later, when I went to bed, we discovered Sarah had wormed her way under the covers and either vomited or had daarrhea, right in the middle of our bed!!  Right on our silk-filled comforter from Thailand, which is NOT washable.  We sponged it off and I will be taking it to the cleaners today.  All the bedding had to be stripped and the bed re-made.  UGH.  I was ready to banish her from the house for good!

Larry and Liz, we experienced a small earthquake while in Costa Rica years ago.  I surely wouldn't enjoy being in a big one!

Now that I have REALLY decided to give my notice of "retirement" from work, I am getting more excited about other things I want to do and enjoy doing.  It is just a little under six weeks until we leave on our next adventure trip!

Boy, the powers that be are determined to try to spend our way out of the hole and into prosperity.  Just exactly how does that work?          And, yeah, put the tax cheats into the highest echelons of government, that should really help!  (Okay, off my soapbox.)

I have lots to do this morning, then am working again in the afternoon.  Darrel has already left, has trouble calls in three different towns today.

God bless you all!

Poor Janet and poor Sarah.  If her getting on your bed wasn't her usual routine, she was probably trying to tell you something.........like, "mama, I don't feel so good." lol    I sure hope they can remove everything from your comforter.

I agree about Communion.  I would not like loud music blaring while preparing my heart to receive.  Soft music, reverent and worshipful, is all I've heard during this time, in several churches I've attended through the years.

Early last week Indiana was behind 9.1 inches of snowfall for the season.  Not now.  We are suppose to get 4 inches of white stuff on top of the 12.4 we already have.  Oh, some of it melted but the bigger part of the surface was still covered with lots of snow.  The snow plow has already been on my road twice today!  Traffic is moving so it must not be real bad out. 

Ivalou and I have a funeral visitation this afternoon after 4pm.  If we can get out of our drives, we will make it.  We will check around 3pm and see what it is out there then.  Ivalou said it didn't start snowing until around 8am and I got up at 8:30 and could see nothing but white everywhere I looked.  Beautiful, really! 

Church council was interesting.  I have never known or thought much about the business part of church.  We certainly need more members to cover out expenses.  The second Sunday of the month we are to give for the Building Expansion and this month on the 15th we are having a brunch after Sunday School and we are to bring a little extra $$ to help pay for the fuel bill that was $800 in January!!    It is amazing how since I have been tithing, the money seems to be there!  Thank you, God!

That's it for today!

Larry you asked about the Sunday service at my church, I will start by telling you that we have a man  who is helping work on the remodel of  the church, he  creates sculptures out of Styrofoam.

The text for the sermon was 1 Cor. 12:12-13 At the end of the sermon as Pastor said "Some are the feet", this man place beautifully sculptured legs and feet on the platform. The different body parts were added as  the pastor named the parts, The finished  sculpture was about 9-10 feet tall blue and wearing  an armor vest and hood. The Pastor has asked him to make the sculpture a strong person and boy did it have muscles.

Today I am taking my car to have the oil changed, lubed and new wipers put on. It has been 11 months since the last one. The oil is still pretty clean and even with all my trips to Oregon I have only put almost just over 5,000 miles on the odometer.

Welcome back Jane good to hear that you got a better car, What did you do with the Neon.

I am packing a little bit every day. I will take up a load in the car  next week.

Etta Sue I totally understand about the tithing principal.I always have enough to pay my bills.

Quote from: Marilyn on February 03, 2009, 11:28:23 AM

Welcome back Jane good to hear that you got a better car, What did you do with the Neon.

It's parked in my daughter's yard, in Citrus Heights, on 3 ½ tires! (I had a blowout just south of Orland going down there last week.  It has that half tire on the right front now.)  Joy and John are going to try to sell it for me. 

QuoteIt's parked in my daughter's yard, in Citrus Heights, on 3 ½ tires! (I had a blowout just south of Orland going down there last week.  It has that half tire on the right front now.Embarrassed)  Joy and John are going to try to sell it for me

Jane did you have to be towed to Joy's house. Or did they come to get you?

Quote from: Marilyn on February 03, 2009, 12:04:07 PM

QuoteIt's parked in my daughter's yard, in Citrus Heights, on 3 ½ tires! (I had a blowout just south of Orland going down there last week.  It has that half tire on the right front now.Embarrassed)  Joy and John are going to try to sell it for me

Jane did you have to be towed to Joy's house. Or did they come to get you?

I drove there .... and more!     Almost immediately after I pulled off I-5 with the blowout a trucker stopped and he called AAA for me, told them my exact location, and who to send from Orland to assist.  They gave me priority because I was on the interstate, and the tire was fixed changed and I was on my way again in less than an hour!     Just as the AAA guy pulled up, another trucker stopped to render assistance.     Sometimes it helps to be a helpless old lady stranded on the side of the highway.  And God bless those truckers. 

I have never had a cell phone ... but Joy has now given me an old one of hers and I have it in the car now    Guess I can do my own calling if the need arises again.   

Had no internet all day today and when Kassie came home I asked her to see if she could fix it.  I had the phone line in the wrong port!  Sometimes I feel so dumb.

This has been another cold day.  NE winds.

I have been kept busy putting wood in the fire.  IN the process I have altered a dress, mended a coat, and I am making a pair if slacks for  a lady.  The girls are home and Kass had an appointment with her counsellor.  That has been my day.

Have a good evening everyone
God Bless

Jane:  Good idea to have that cell phone in the car - just to call for assistance.  Of course, in our driving it happens that we are not always in a good area to get a signal.  

Janet:  Have a celebration when you finally quit that job!  How is Beth doing and your mom?  Bet you are looking forward to the next trip.

Just had a phone call from home and about 3 neighbors have died in the last three weeks.  Out of 101 homes in the little group, that is a high number.

Hi Judy B!!!! busy gal.

I sure am grateful tonight:

A warm apartment on a bitterly cold night.
The opportunity to access internet to be with y'all.
A godly brother who passed another birthday today.
A doctor who altered some medications after he heard a bad coughing spell I had - with this one, I nearly passed out. So, he finally understood the problems I've been having.

And finally, a certain knowledge that Jesus is my savior.

Y'all have a wonderful evening.

Ruth Ann

  Ruth Ann, what a good post!!

And carol.......LET'S PARTY!!  I gave my two week's notice today!!  I feel such relief already, I can't explain it.

Beth is doing better, the home just called me, though, to say she had scratched her right cheek and gouged out a piece of tissue from it.    Ouch!  I didn't think she could even do that--so maybe it is a good sign of movement.  They said it bled quite a bit, but they have put antibiotic ointment on it now.

I was blessed by a dear sister in the Lord tonight.  She was at Park View teaching the ladies to make beads from paper, and I went in there to see how it was going, after finishing my kitchen work.  She said I looked like I was tired (I was) and would I like her to massage my shoulders?  ABSOLUTELY!!    Boy, that did make me feel better, and now I think I can go to sleep...zzzzzzzzzzz

Well, I got stuck yesterday afternoon....right at my mailbox.  The snow was light and fluffy so I thought, I can get out.  I did get out of my drive and drove into Ivalou's drive.  I backed out and thought, I will get the mail.  When I did, I literally fell in a hole where the mail man got stuck yesterday.  I couldn't get the car out.  I went to the house and got my shovel and still couldn't get out because it was solid ice under the snow.  Finally a nice man stopped and he got my car out.  Not driving to the mailbox until this melts. 

We were suppose to go to a visitation at the funeral home but didn't.  So today we are going to the funeral at 11.  Then at 2 this afternoon, I am taking my camera back to the funeral home.  My classmate in Mexico's son is there and his other son is going to use my camera to take pictures and I will send them to Rex since his health wouldn't let him come home for the funeral. 

That's it on my neck of the woods!  Bright and sunny today but cold.....

I surely do agree with all of you on the softer, more contemplative music during communion.  After all, it's not a time for rowdy celebration - it's time for some all-important transactions with our Savior.  In that ritual, we see that He is offering to us His Blood (forgiveness for all our sins).  Also in it, He is offering to us His Body (His humanity in which He lived in perfect righteousness).  During the ritual, therefore, we're saying to Him, "I receive Your forgiveness through Your shed Blood, and I receive Your righteousness through Your broken body.  Oh Lord, I need You.  Without You I have no forgiveness and no righteousness!

A transaction like that one needs quietness and focus, and all of us doing it together  is so indicative of our oneness - in HIM.  What a time for worship!

Etta Sue, just send that white stuff to us here in SW Kansas.  It won't last long around here!  Glad you got the car out, with help.  Getting stuck is no fun.

I have a lunch to attend with ladies from my church, then to the library to get enlargements of the photo of Abby I want to paint as a portrait.  Much easier day today, hallelujah!

Funny how the topic of communion came up.  We had communion on Sunday.  Some complained about the loud music.  It seems that nearly everywhere it's out with old style music and in with the new, loud music.

We have a ritual t.b. used during the service.  There is a short or long version.  Our pastor uses the short version.  too bad.  I like the part in the long version which says in part, "I deserve only your righteous indignation"  And I really feel that way. 

For years before becoming a christian, I look communion because I didn't want to be the only one that didn't take it.  And I didn't want others to know where I really was with the Lord.

It wasn't until I bacame a christian I realized that I was committing a big sin by taking communion in the manner I did. 

I know I know..."Which sin is the greatest?"

Communion means so much more to me now than it ever did.... as I reflect on what He did for me and what He could have done.

Hi everyone.  This morning it was 17 degrees here with the wind blowing and it was just plain cold.  After coffee Pat and I went to the church for our Wednesday Bible Study with the pastor and that room was cold with only two small electric heaters to try to warm the room. 

Pat then had a doctor's appointment nearby and we went there it was cold.  We stopped at our local Mexican restruarant for lunch and it was also chilly. 

By the time I got home I felt chilled to the bone.  I immediately turned my electic blanket to the high setting and got under the covers.  It warmed up so nice and toasty and I finally got warm.  Sure hated to get up but had some things I wanted to do so did. 

This evening Pat is attending the first of a 10 week session on Life Keys at the church and I have an unrelated meeting to attend at another church.  I will have to miss choir practice this week but am familar with the anthem we will do on Sunday. 

Nice to know I am not the only one who feels that the Communion experience should be a relatively quiet and contemplative one.  Since this isn't a normal occurrence guess it it time to move on.

Ruth Ann, that was a nice posting.  It seems we often forget to express our gratitudes for theemany blessings God provides to us.

Janet, I know it was upsetting about the occurrence with the little dog but I am sure it wasn't deliberate.  However, can understand that you don't want it to happen again.  Glad you gave your notice so you can devote more time to things you really want to be doing. 

Etta Sue, I saw that Indiana was suppose to get a lot of snow yesterday.  Glad you were close to home when you got stuck and that someone came by to help you.

Carol, I had that same thought about children watching the Super Bowl.  I hope they find the culprit.

Till tomorrow.

Well I got the pants done,  What a job that was.  but they are off my plate now.

I am tired today, Heading to bed early.

Pat you home yet?

JudyB:  I am certainly glad that your pants are off your plate now too  Huh?  I always admire the way you have your jobs lined up and you finish them. 

Larry:  The feds are investigating the interference of a television show - the hacking in.  I just know that it has to be a fed offense.  sounds like you have a lot of up and down weather this year. 

Ed:  Your comment on communion - there was a time that I am ashamed to say that I took communion when I had a very angry heart and I kept looking for any guidance.  It was slow to come but now I have learned to live with this lot in life and love to say AMEN when the bread and wine is passed.  We go to the altar and I really love to step forward as it makes me feel that I am making a little effort to approach and receive this gift. 

The last church service we attended at home had pure jazz music as we entered and Don was offended.  It did not bother me but it just did not sound like anything I have experienced in all my years in the church.  It wasn't a Lutheran church but we have gone to some of those & heard the kids playing really loud as well.  Oh, well, we are getting hard of hearing.    I still remember the first time one summer when some teens wore shorts & they were the alcolytes - that was a shock but I had to put this into the perspective that they were orderly and their volunteering was meaningful to them and others so the world does change and it is alright. 

Trying not to listen or watch the news. 

Hi, friends,

I think maybe God knew I needed another "sabbath day" so He let me get a very long nap from midmorning until midafternoon. Then, when I got up I was able to pick up with my task of going through papers and shredding/discarding. Someday, this task will be complete! 

They're saying it's supposed to be frightfully cold here tonight, so I'll be so very thankful for both a warm apartment, food here so I don't have to go out, and a heated mattress pad for warmth tonight. That mattress pad has certainly helped out with arthritic pain.

Well, y'all have a good rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Quote from: Carol on February 04, 2009, 05:48:20 PM
Ed:  your comment on communion

Long ago, I suppose because of my wrongful partaking of the sacraments, I began to realize when I didn't feel worthy to approach the altar for communion.... that is when I needed it the most.

Hi Everyone...

I got home late last evening.  Driving through Pennsylvania was certainly snowy.  But it was good to drive into the driveway and see that my next door neighbour had plowed it out nicely. 

I got the things in out of the car, phoned Paul and then off to bed I went.

I received this from Chris Saunders today.

Welcome home Pat.

Carol that was a blooper.  LOL I was making a pair of pants for a lady who  was difficult to work with.  They are finally done.  I now have 2 little jackets that need sliders and a friends coat that needs a zipper.  Then I have 4 jobs coming in next week, 2 people want pocket curtains and 2 for zippers.  So what I lost quitting I am picking up in alterations and repairs.                                       

It is abother cold day but it is to warm up to +4 on Saturday. 

Have to run have laundry to fold, I am taking a break from repairs for today.

Be back later.

Ohhhh...My goodness!  And it is so sad to realize how many people are of the same mind about sinful "lifestyles."  Do they REALLY believe that just because they don't 'interpret' the scriptures in the same way, that excuses their sin?  Unutterably sad.

Judy, I am so glad you didn't have to eat those pants that were on your plate!    Isn't it funny how those 'sayings' soon permeate our language?  Like 24/7, at the end of the day, too much on my plate......and lots of others I can't think of at this moment.  The media overworks them until people get really tired of hearing them.  Well, I do, anyway.  And this is NOT meant as a criticism of you, Judy!  I'm just venting.

I am working this afternoon/evening.  Then on Monday and Friday of next week, and I'm out of there!!  Whoopee!

Carol, I sure understand your not wanting to watch the news.  It is really unsettling, to say the least.  How we need to pray for our country!!  One thing Obama added to the overbloated "stimulus package" is NO funds for any school that allows any kind of religious training in its buildings!

Pat, glad you're home safe.

Ruth Ann, I had the same kind of day yesterday, and decided God knows I am tired and my body needs to rest.  I didn't intend to nap, but sure did a lot of it!

Hi Everyone...

I went out to the car this morning to go to the hairdresser and it whined a bit.  I thought, "Oh no!"  But then it turned over and started.  So happy I had turned off the radio and the fan, etc. 

It was minus 25C in my driveway.

That's C-O-L-D

It's a wee bit higher now.

Yes we need to pray for the UAof A and Canada.  We ara all in trouble.  Kassie has a saying that when the USA sneezes Canada gets a cold.  She is so right.  Also we are istructed to pray for our leaders.

Janet I too get tired of the sayings.  Still I use them.  I didn't take that as criticism, just venting,  The latest here is "Oh I'm scared" about anything exciting or joyful....So silly in my books.

Brrrr!  It was a minus 1 F this morning when I got up! 

I drove Ivalou and my trash to Kaye Don's drive and then went to the doctor's office for my blood draw.  Easy as pie this time. 

We went to a new to me little restaurant in a strip mall for breakfast.  First time I ever heard of a toast and yummy basket..bottomless.  All the toast and deep fried biscuits with sugar and cinnamon were free and as much as you want!  Great breakfast. 

Then we went to Staples and I got three 11" x 14" photos printed for the Kokomo Art Association Photo Contest.  Now I need Kitty to help me mat them and then frame them and I am ready!  Well, first I have to send my entry fee! 

After that Ivalou wanted to stop at Verizon.  She only used 4 minutes last month on her cell and her plan was up in January.  So she now uses the prepaid plan...lots cheaper for her. 

Then it was groceries. 

I liked to froze bringing in my groceries and walking from the garage to the house.  Windy again today and only 16 right now!  Brrrr! 

Kitty said I could come today and we could do the mats but I am in for the day!  Maybe it will be warmer next week! 

That's it!

Well she complained about the pants.  After 3 fittings and 40 hours work they were "too baggy".  The employee who replaced me asked her to put them on and sit down in them.  She said they felt good all the customers at the store said they looked great.   She paid up.

Kass has asked to be homeschooled again.  She can take ministry courses on line and get her credits that way.  That is her choice.  She can't stand the constant talking in class of the students and the teachers don't stop it. I understand that frustration. 

John is home tonight.  8 days on the road is a lot.  Sooo we will have some family time.  Then the girls will be going to a friends for the weekend.

Well I am off for now, Back later or tomorrow.

Judy:   What are pocket curtains a new name to me?

Judy: Does John tire of being on the road ever so many hours in all kinds of weather? 

Pat:  Some time ago we had gone out for dinner(Swiss Chalet) upon returning to our veh. it would not start - what a surprise no cell phone so back into the restaurant to make a call to CAA when they arrived we had to purchase a new battery (no warning it was even bad) and home we went. The fellow CAA person suggested that we start the veh the same way you would do a bus or larger veh. 3 stages first turn the key wait a sec. or so then turn to the start position and wait for all the lights to shut off then start you veh. this will extend the battery life but perhaps the same will apply to cold winters. Mel does not want to return to that rest. for awhile.

Janet: Retirement is so wonderful.

EttaSue: I am still copying your animations several folk look forward to my forwards  not much but lovely.

Hi, friends,

The freezer I had at the house was old, and I guess it began suffering loneliness pangs, or maybe heartburn because we had left it...at any rate, it stopped working one day this week. So, my son and I went back to the house today and got it cleaned out and trash put out for the trashman who comes on Thursdays in the middle of the day.

Then, I put all the towels from the wipe-up into the laundry and started the dishwasher running - grabbed a few more kitchen things, and headed for a new to us Chinese restaurant near our apartment houses. He liked it a lot, and I not only liked the food but also the service AND the prices. I imagine I'll visit there more often.

And, the apartments are inspected on a quarterly basis. There came a knock at my door, and a polite young man came in checking lights and switches and water faucets and smoke detectors and the emergency pull cords. It was not only gratifying to know I passed, but also that they stay on top of the maintenance here.

Then, the order of worship came in by email, so the rest of the afternoon and into this evening has been spent setting up the Powerpoint file for Sunday morning worship. Now, to await the announcements, so I can get that other file ready, also.

Y'all have a good rest of the day!

Ruth Ann

Ruth Pocket curtains are the ones that have a pocket to slide a rod in that ruffle above the pocket.  They are wasy just 2 seams.  She wants them made out of a pair of sheets, in HOT PINK no less.  I will be blind by the time I am done!!!
John Driving....  He is driving smarter than when he was younger.  He stops early and gets a good nights sleep.  Tired of driving, yes maybe but he doesn't say much about it.   

Ruth turning the ignition key like that is also a way of getting a code if there is a problem with the van. Three turns and then the fourth turn oto the on positio and count the number of times the ignition light flashes.  Call the dealership and ask what that code means and you have your answer to the problem.  We learned this while driving truck, and found it works with small vehicles too.

Ruth Ann You seem so happy in the appartment.  I pray you make some good friends there.

Have a good night folks

I enjoyed reading the thoughts about communion.  The Baptist Church I belonged to years ago, always had wonderful organ music during communion and before taking it, we read 1 Cor.11: 25-30.  It was a time for quiet reflection.  Then the other churches I attended each became more loud and almost unaware of the importance of the breaking of bread.  They were also Baptist.  So, I would try to block it all out and continue doing my own little routine.  Never felt the same tho'......It has been a long time since I have been able to attend church and communion is what I miss the most.

Squeek (cat) was off to the vet and has to have shots for Arthritis.  Her one leg has been bothering her and the limp is quite bad.  Tomorrow is Misty's turn and I get to pay the vet bill.  She has to have her yearly shots and a  check of gums, etc.  Oh well, they give us all so much love in return...it is worth every expense.

Sounds like life is much more pleasant, Judy B.  I really enjoy your posts and often receive a real blessing from something you have written.  Also glad Janet, that you are finally going to have a rest from that place.  I have been keeping watch on Pres. Obama and already wonder at so many things that are happening. 

That was an interesting video, Pat.  Sad.  It makes me think of Prov. 4:19  'The way of the wicked is like darkness;
          They do not know over what they stumble.'
I can't help but wonder how/why so many churches have turned from obvious truth in the Bible.  One can understand a change in music, but all the rest....

Time to go.  Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

FORTY HOURS work on one pair of pants, Judy???  Did you mean FOUR?  At any rate, glad she paid up, as she should.

Well, only two more days to work! 

Tomorrow we are going to Amarillo to see Darrel's Mom and sister.  He needs to see how they are doing, well, so do I....before we go out of the country for a month.

I went by and fed Beth a big Bierock and some potato salad after I got off work tonight.  She hadn't eaten supper, and she was really hungry.  I wish she would eat more of the food they make there, but do understand that everything starts tasting 'institutional' after a while.

Liz, good to see you posting.  Hope it warms up there in the northland soon.

Boy, this massive pork barrel package is giving Obama and the Democrats fits!  I hope the entire stupid thing falls apart and does NOT pass!!  What a mess things are in.

I am ready for some zzzzzs.  God bless you all, see you when I get home from Texas!

Yes Janet 40.  4 fittings remaking the pattern 3 times the final pair was  lined and fully tailored. She was never happy with the prototypes, always too baggy for her liking. Glad it is over and wont be doing it again.

Can't sleep.  So here checking the site.  Hopefully I will be able to sleep soon.  I've had a snack that should help.

Bye for now

Ruth ~ Glad you like my animations enough to save them.  Hope they bring a lift to ones day.

Janet ~ What is Bierock?

Liz ~ Our church takes Home Communion to those who are unable to come to church.  Have you thought about asking for that?

It was soooo cold yesterday.  Ivalou brought me my mail and she looked so cold.  I asked her to come in and she said, No..she wanted to get home.  If she came in, she would warm up and have to go out again.  But according to the WeatherBug, we are to have above freezing temperatures for TWO days!  Whooo-eee!  The snow plow went through awhile ago, really throwing snow in the air.  Maybe the roads will be clear again soon. 

JudyB ~ My Mom did alterations and it seemed the people who wanted the impossible were impossible to please!

Ruth Ann ~ You seem so happy already in your apartment.  And you doing PowerPoint for church makes my little endeavors seems so small.

Not much planned today.  Just need to sweep and practice more on my frames on PSP for Guild Monday evening.

Well, thanks should be given for the rain we've had the last couple of days.  We were getting rather far below normal, so this is most welcome.  God waters and refreshes His earth our home.  Bless His Name!
We have a friend and church member here who has very little if any education, has been married several times, is now divorced, and is trying to raise a 4-year-old girl on his own.  So today we've got to take him to his doctor's appointment and then one other appointment.  Meanwhile, I've got some editing to do and a sermon to prepare.  Always lots for us "retired" folks to do.

Hi everyone.  We are having a much better day here with warmer temps.  Today is suppose to get to 57 degrees and tomorrow 66 degrees.

I just got back from coffee a the senior center and then 5 of us went to walk at the church gym.  We have been averaging 3 miles a week by walking on three days a week.

I don't have anywhere that I need to go today so will have a quiet day at home.

Janet, I am sure it is a treat for Beth to have food not prepared by the home, regardless of how good it is.  I find that when I eat at a place repeatedly, regardless of how good the food may be, that I begin to tire of it.   I agree with you on the huge bill that is full of pork projects and special interests.  

Liz, having pets can get very expensive but we don't want to see our pets in pain.  

Judy, I didn't know that about the codes in the car's computer when you turn the key.

Ruth Ann, I hope you didn't lose lots of food in your freezer.  It sounds like you moved into a good place.

Ruth, I agree with you that retirement is great especially now that jobs are disappearing.

Etta Sue, Pat and I have used prepaid cellphones for several years and have saved hundreds of dollars over a contract.  

Pat, glad your car started.  It sounds like it was missing the weather in Virginia.  

Al, it sounds like you have a busy day ahead helping others.

Good Morning everyone.

God is so Good, I have been having some problems with   some Neuropathy in  the toes of my right foot and it gets pretty painful sometimes at night, It doesn't  happen all the time   but sometimes for  3-4 night in a row then nothing for weeks. I have discovered that when this happens all I have to do is pray and ask God to remove the  pain and burning and it stops. Praise the Lord for answered prayers. It happened again early this morning, so i just had to come and tell y-all  that God is still answering my prayers.

I have an appointment with my Mary Kay consultant for a Birthday facial today and Keith is taking me to Carmela's for Mexican dinner and buying me a birthday cake, The kids will be coming over tomorrow after Forest's Basketball game for Cake and Ice cream.

Signing out now.

Hello folk,  here in our part of Ontario we have lots of sun making it seem so beautiful a little cool but the spirits are uplifted. The tail gate on Mel's truck is not working to well so he is outside getting the WD 40 applied. I think also taking the tail gate apart as well.

Etta Sue: The ones that I send the animations to, look forward to getting them, 2 are getting up in age I mean 80 plus not well and the other is not even a sr. and is being treated for colon cancer all have expressed that they know who is looking after them during their down times.

My next project is checking out a web site for cranberry juice,  we can buy the juice in the local drug store but it will make a nice drive going to the source.

Everyone enjoy your day   
Ruth

Is this the real cranberry juice, Ruth?

Where's the company located?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARILYN

I hope that you enjoy your day.

Liz

Yes, Marilyn!  Hope you have a lovely birthday.

Thank you Liz and Pat

We are just in from Amarillo.  We had a good day, did a little bit of shopping, and visited Darrel's mother.  She is doing well at 96.  We didn't get to see his sister, as she wasn't home when we called.

Okay.....bierocks.  This is ground beef, onions and cabbage, sauted together, drained, then baked in a yeast bread.  Beth loves them!

Happy Birthday, Marilyn!

Judy, I'm sure you didn't get paid even enough for the aspirins on that job working on those pants.  If I spent 40 hours on one pair of pants, I don't think even Obama could afford them!!  Man, that must have been an aggravating job!  And I would do what you said.....never again.  Sorry, and I hope the next job is easy and pleasant.......and pays well, too. 

I need to get ready for bed.  Hope I can sleep tonight, sure didn't do much of it last night.

It is a sad day when a mother has to learn that her son has been sick - and learn it on Facebook!  I need to call our youngest son today - this morning I have been checking Facebook (really want to keep it to very few people) and both he & his wife have had some illness.  Well, they won't get a flu shot but I don't know what the problem would be otherwise.

Ruth Ann has a lonely freezer.       Your new apartment sounds like it is much easier living.  That is just great.  I have never done Power Point but our grands can work on it for school projects.   

Marilyn:  Happy Birthday to you....

Judy:  I am glad we straightened that out  - the pants thing.   

Janet:  We stopped at a place in Kansas once and it might have been a Czech diner where I tasted something like your cabbage/meat roll.  Very good. 

  We had to buy a new coffee pot and it is a Black & Decker 12 cup.  We can use this one at the cabin anyway - the one in this rental place was leaking every time & it is a pricey one. 

Colin
Anthony
Hello Hello

Al:  Best wishes to you on your sermon.  It must be hard to come up with a subject weekly. 

I see clouds this morning.  Rare in Tucson and a week of cool weather is ahead of us here. 

MArilyn I didn't know your birthday was on the same day as our anniversary!!  HAppy Birthday.

We are shipping the girls off to a dear friend who the girls call Grandma and Grandpa.   They love going there and the girls are more than welcomed. 

Have a good day everyone

Carol - it isn't tough to come up with something when you're doing a series!  We're doing a series on "Christ on the Cross" right now, then we'll be starting the Sermon on the Mount, and I'm first up on that one, so I have the first "Beatitude," which is "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God."

Sounds like a wonderful topic for your sermon, Alan.  I will be praying for you as you put all your thoughts together on paper and that the Lord guides you as to what you will say.

---

I can't believe it is 52 degrees here in Central Indiana!!!!  I have my inside front door open.  Love it.  The white is disappearing.  Not green out there yet but soon!!! 

Janet ~  Thanks for telling me what bierocks are.  So the goodies are IN the yeast bread, not BETWEEN slices of bread.  Sounds good to mix cabbage in with the hamburger and onions and make a sandwich! 

I plan to practice more with my PSPP and frames for Guild Monday.  This isn't my thing to be the center of attention but I can handle it with God's help.  Besides it will be semi-dark in the room! 

Time for lunch!

Thanks so very much, Pat.  I don't think prayers have ever hurt me yet!

Hi everyone.  Just finished up lunch.  It is a beautiful day here in Georgia and already 61 degrees.  We are predicted to be in the 60s for the next week, which will be wonderful.  

Nothing much on the schedule for the rest of the day, after being gone all morning.  So it will be a take it easy day.

Janet, anything in yeast bread has to be good.  When I was in Kroger's this morning I almost bought some of those frozen bread loafs but decided I would just eat too much of it when it was baked.  I really enjoy home baked yeast bread and love the smell as it cooks.  It has been a long time since we used our bread machine.

Happy Birthday Marilyn and Happy Anniversary to Judy and John.  Don't these years roll by quickly.  Hope you all have a most enjoyable day with your planned activities.

Etta Sue, it is good that you are willing to share your talents using the PSPP.

Al, those sound like interesting sermon topics.  

Carol, I understand your feelings on your kids not keeping you advised when they are ill.  I guess they don't want us to worry about them.  

Ruth, are you saying you will be going to the cranberry bogs to get the juice?  

Hi Liz.

Talking about cranberries Ruth, You should come up  here at Thanksgiving with your rubbers and go into the cranberry bogs with us.  They are in Callendar and are quite easy to get to.  YOu can clean the cranberries and make your own juice free,  Have the bottles ready and freeze the juice. 

HAPPY  ANNIVERSARY  JOHN & JUDY

My wishes are more restrained than Pat's....

The visit to a vet's with Misty proved to be costly.  $200 + and another $200 + to come, with her gum and teeth problem.  Also many of my prescriptions due and most only partly covered this time of the year.  Ah, Winter  Break with my friend B. is not looking like a plan now.  Guess she will have to go with another of their more wealthy friends....

It is not raining or snowing today...damp and cool tho'.  Misty is trying to recover from her shots and mostly sleeping.  Squeek is still recovering from her's and still limping.  I am still grumpy!  We all need a strong dose of sunshine

Hi Larry.

Wish I could hear your sermons, Al. 

Time to go shopping for groceries.  Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

Hi Liz...

I know the feeling.  I hear about all these folks going to far off distant islands for a week and I so wish that I could also do something like that.

Oh well...

I hear you liz.   Tough times and lots of expences.  A week in Florida would be so nice.  Not happening this year or probably next.

We have rain here, and lots of it.  I pray the melt doesn't go to fast or we will be stranded.  Never thought I would say this but I hope it cools off again to slow the melting snow.  You see our road goes over a stream and that stream takes all the water from melting snow and the beaver dam.  If there is too much flow the dam washes out and we are left with our road washed out.

I am making John's meals on the road so have to run.

Marilyn:    Happy Birthday

Judy & John:    Happy Anniversary

Judy I was not aware that there was even a cranberry bog in Callendar. 

Pat:   The cranberry's I was talking about came from Bala, Ontario - Iroquois territory I tried the copy & past here and It did not work will send it in an e-mail.  Perhaps you can instruct me on how it is done.   The cranberries are pure with no added water or sugar. www.iroquoiscranberries.com   Pat  would you could put the proper www here for the rest to check out. 

Judy:  Sorry about all the rain you are getting it is mild down here as well snow is melting but so far no rain.

This morning I went to a funeral of a second cousin that has gone home to be with her Father in Heaven and also be united with her Husband.   What a wonderful time it is for her and sad for those that are left behind 

Dinner is being delivered so will be on my way.    Ruth

   Pat:   I checked the www and it is correct They the cranberrie farm has a year round store and harvest in the fall which I would enjoy going to.

I went to Dodge City with Pat today, so am just now getting in here to read what you folks have been doing today.

Happy Anniversary, Judy and John!!!!  And many more!!!

Bierocks are German in origin, I think; and they are not considered to be sandwiches.  I'm sure if you google it, you will find recipes for them, if you are interested.

I think the Chronicles of Narnia, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is on TV tonight, and I want to watch it again. 

I would love to see a cranberry bog!  I have seen pictures, and think that would be such fun, to actually see one, and maybe get to harvest (do they call that harvesting?) some cranberries.

Ruth, I didn't make any changes to your URL.  It's there and clickable in your post.

Looks interesting.

Here's a serious prayer request from one of our members in Australia.

Please see the post here:

http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=8036.0

Yes, I think the kids' FOREsight was just about 20/20 - and in HINDsight, I agree with them.

The big house was simply too much. I've found a lady who will do a deep cleaning once a month for a reasonable fee, and a man in our church who has been laid off from his job will be helping me get pictures up, and other things done on Tuesday morning. Now, to decide what to make for him for a snack! I had considered paying someone in the maintenance staff here to do the work needed, but then I believe God reminded me that I need to help my brother in Christ with my payment. 

Also, I heard of a lady in our church who is in financial straits, and someone has donated a digital converter and antenna for her. What a blessing that will be for this dear old lady. Isn't God GOOD -- All the Time.

Oh, yes! Did I crow a bit and tell y'all that I'm gonna be a great grandma in September?

And, then my daughter in law is calling me tomorrow to let me know the exact dates right after Valentines Day when she and the girls are going to visit for a couple of days. So, I've been frantically scanning a magazine called the Nashville Parent for activities for Grandma and Granddaughters to enjoy together. My DIL will stay here in the apartment during the daytime to work on her computer, then we will enjoy family time in the evenings. HOORAY!

Y'all have a great rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Sounds like you have just some wonderful times ahead, Ruth Ann.

Aren't you happy you retired?

.

Is it okay for me to ask for prayer for some personal matters?  I am feeling so stressed and sad regarding matters with my husband, Tom.  I feel like crying all the time and just have no enthusiasm for anything ... I don't know how to cope with all that's landing on me lately.  I want to just run away and hide until the storm passes over .....

Awwww...  Jane, I'm so sorry.

Definitely, it's ok to ask!  And I'll be praying for you in the coming days.  

Here's a hymn just for you:

Thanks, so much, Pat ... I love that song.   

God bless you, Jane.

Sleep well.

Thank you everyone for the anniversary greetings.  We had a nice quiet evening with a special dinner. 

Jane Praying. 

There is no cadet drill practise today so I am going to be home early. Looking forward to that.

The temperatures have cooled again, but the sun is strong.  There will be evaporation of snow rather than melting.  That is the better way for us.

Check out the "prayer and Praise"  we have some really urgent prayer requests there..

Must run, God bless everyone

Hi everyone.  The day has started very nicely here in Georgia.  I get to sleep in a little longer on Sunday and always enjoy that extra few minutes.  I am ready for church and will leave early to attend a special choir practice to prepare for next Sunday, which is Seniors Day, and where the choir filled by us Seniors.  Following that is the annual Valentine's Dinner given to the Seniors. 

Following the Senior Choir practice we will have our normal pre-service choir practice.  Pat and I will drive separately as she doesn't like to go as early as I need to today.

Jane, so sorry to read that you are feeling so down.  I am praying for you that you find peace of mind soon.  I find if I turn my worries over to God he carries them for me and I can have some serenity.  The Serenity Prayer is always helpful to me to remember what my part is and not to stress about the things I cannot change.

Judy, your road situation sounds perilous.  Glad it has cooled a bit up your way.

Pat, am enjoying the two songs you posted today.  We do find "Victory in Jesus" and he carries us "Till the Storm Passes By". 

Ruth Ann, glad you are getting workers lined up to help you with heavy work or one-time projects.  I am sure you will enjoy the visitors you are expecting.

Ruth, it looks like you have mastered the linking process in your postings.  Interesting information regarding cranberries.

Liz, pets can sure put a crimp into ones budget.  Hope the treatment is all that is needed.  I hear more people talking about vets wanting to send animals to pet cardiologists or other specialists. 

Janet, I had never heard of Bierocks.  They sounds like they would be a main entree and very tasty. 

Hope everyone enjoys a fine Sunday.

Jane - we pray you'll experience our God's wonderful Presence in these days and hours.  May He be very close to you and enable you to realize His goodness - even in the midst of difficulties.  Through our Lord Jesus Christ.

I got this in my email today and thought I'd share it with all of you.






I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him (Ecclesiastes 3:14).

How different this picture of life under the sovereign lordship of a living God is from what most people think God is like! A popular book for Christians on the topic of sex explains the truth that God has designed sex for pleasure. But it is not merely sex that is designed for pleasure; all things are designed for human pleasure. If you think a certain thing in and of itself is going to produce lasting pleasure, however, you will miss it. The secret is that it is the knowledge of God in that relationship that produces enjoyment. We are not in the grasp of the "Great Cosmic Joy Killer," as many people seem to view God. God delights in human enjoyment.

The Searcher says that all enjoyment must be discovered by realizing that God is in charge, and He will not bend His plan for anyone. God has sovereignly, independently, set up the plan of life in a way with which we cannot interfere. He has done so in order that people should revere Him.

All through the Bible we read, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10). Until a person recognizes and trusts the superior wisdom of God, he or she has not begun to fear God. This fear is not abject terror of God; it is respect and honor for Him. If you attempt to live your life without the recognition of God, ultimately you will find yourself, as the Searcher found himself; empty, dissatisfied, and restless, feeling that life is miserable and meaningless. The secret of life is the presence of God Himself.

Most of the struggle of life comes from our wanting to play God ourselves, wanting to be in charge of what happens to us. That is true even of Christians. When God refuses to go along, we sulk and pout and get angry with Him. We throw away our faith and say, "What's the use? I tried it, but it doesn't work." What a foolish statement! God will not surrender His prerogatives. "Nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it—God has made it so in order that men should revere him."

    Lord, forgive me for thinking I know what is best for those I love and me. Teach me to trust in Your work, because I know that nothing can be added to it.

Oh, Pat ... Thank you for this reminder to "Let God Be God" ... It is good to read this and, once again, feel that Peace that passes all understanding. 

I appreciate the prayers of my CP family, as well.  Thanks Pat, Judy, Larry and Al ... and each one of you, whether you mention it here or not, I know you care.   

I am thinking it is time to have a new devotion to start a new week. 

So click here and you will find the devotion for the new week.