Rise Again- Jeremys Egg?

This is a special week for me, I love Easter and what it means to me. Easter does not end today for me.  Music and Easter go hand in hand-. I have heard Dallas Holm in person several times and enjoy his songs. In 1977 the Christian song of the year was Rise Again by Dallas Holm. .Happy Easter- Now Go and live like he is Risen.

I first read “What was in Jeremy’s Egg in the Focus and The Family magazine back in 1988-When I taught Sunday School, I would always read the story below around Easter to my class. I Still carry a copy of it in my Bible. Hope you have a Happy Easter.

What Was In Jeremy’s Egg?

The Lesson of Easter from an Unlikely Child by Ida Mae Kempel

Jeremy was born with a twisted body and slow mind. At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool and make grunting noises.

At other times, he spoke clearly and distinctly, as if a spot of light had penetrated the darkness of his brain. Most of the time, however, Jeremy irritated his teacher. One day, she called his parents to come to St. Theresa’s for a consultation. As the Forresters sat quietly in the empty classroom, Doris said to them, "Jeremy really belongs in a special school. It isn't fair to him to be with younger children who don' t have learning problems. Why, there is a five-year gap between his age and that of the other students!"

Mrs. Forrester cried softly into a tissue, while her husband spoke. "Miss Miller," he said, "there is no school of that kind nearby. It would be a terrible shock for Jeremy if we had to take him out of this school. We know he really likes it here."

Doris sat for a long time after they left, staring at the snow outside the window. Its coldness seemed to seep into her soul. She wanted to sympathize with the Forresters. After all, their only child had a terminal illness. But it wasn't fair to keep him in her class. She had 18 other youngsters to teach, and Jeremy was a distraction. Furthermore, he would never learn to read and write. Why waste any more time trying?

As she pondered the situation, guilt washed over her. "Oh God," she said aloud, "here I am complaining when my problems are nothing compared to that poor family! Please help me to be more patient with Jeremy!"

From that day on, she tried hard to ignore Jeremy's noises and his blank stares. Then one day, he limped to her desk, dragging his bad leg behind him. "I love you, Miss Miller," he exclaimed, loud enough for the whole class to hear. The other students snickered, and Doris’ face turned red. She stammered, "Wh-why that's very nice, Jeremy. N-now please take your seat."

Spring came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg. "Now," she said to them, "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Miss Miller!" the children responded enthusiastically - all except for Jeremy. He just listened intently; his eyes never left her face. He did not even make his usual noises.

Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them. That evening, Doris' kitchen sink stopped up. She called the landlord and waited an hour for him to come by and unclog it. After that, she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy's parents.

The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs.

In the first egg, Doris found a flower. "Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life," she said. "When plants peek through the ground we know that Spring is here." A small girl in the first row waved her arm. "That's my egg Miss Miller," she called out.

The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked very real. Doris held it up. "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that is new life, too." Little Judy smiled proudly and said, "Miss Miller, that one is mine!"

Next, Doris found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom, "My Daddy helped me!" he beamed.

Then Doris opened the fourth egg. She gasped. The egg was empty! Surely it must be Jeremy's, she thought, and of course, he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents! Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another.

Suddenly Jeremy spoke up. "Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?" Flustered, Doris replied, "But Jeremy - your egg is empty!" He looked into her eyes and said softly, "Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too!"

Time stopped. When she could speak again, Doris asked him, "Do you know why the tomb was empty?" "Oh yes!" Jeremy said, "Jesus was killed and put in there. Then His Father raised Him up!"

The recess bell rang. While the children excitedly ran out to the school yard, Doris cried. The cold inside her melted completely away.

Three months later, Jeremy died. Those who paid their respects at the mortuary were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his casket, all of them empty.

This is a true story, the names have been changed for sake of privacy. Ida Mae Kempel is a free-lance writer from Alameda, California. This article appeared in Focus on the Family, April, 1988, and is used here by permission of the author

It's Friday-But Sunday is Coming

"It’s Friday" somewhere right now for someone. You may be stressed out over issues you have no control over. Your Friday may be, loosing a spouse, or loved one. Your Friday may mean a marriage that is falling apart or you have lost your job. Your Friday may be poor health, the word cancer, or other bad news. Being a Christian does not mean things always work out or we get all that we ask for. There are many things I do not have the answer to or can explain why. A black pastor once said it better than I can, “It’s Friday, but Sunday is Coming.” So, Don’t give up, Don't Quit, Do Not Loose Hope- It may be Friday, but Sunday is Coming!

How the Apostles died;

1 Matthew Suffered martyrdom in Ethiopia, Killed by a sword wound.

2 Mark Died in Alexandria, Egypt , after being dragged by Horses through the streets until he was dead.

3Luke Was hanged in Greece as a result of his tremendous Preaching to the lost.

4 John Faced martyrdom when he was boiled in huge Basin of boiling oil during a wave of persecution In Rome . However, he was miraculously delivered From death. John was then sentenced to the mines on the prison Island of Patmos ..

He wrote his prophetic Book of Revelation on Patmos . The apostle John was later freed and returned to serve As Bishop of Edessa in modern Turkey . He died as an old man, the only apostle to die peacefully.

5Peter He was crucified upside down on an x-shaped cross. According to church tradition it was because he told his tormentors that he felt unworthy to die In the same way that Jesus Christ had died.

6 James The leader of the church in Jerusalem , was thrown over a hundred feet down from the southeast pinnacle of the Temple when he refused to deny his faith in Christ. When they discovered that he survived the fall, his enemies beat James to death with a fuller's club. * This was the same pinnacle where Satan had taken Jesus during the Temptation.

7 James the Great Son of Zebedee, was a fisherman by trade when Jesus Called him to a lifetime of ministry. As a strong leader of the church, James was ultimately beheaded at Jerusalem.

The Roman officer who guarded James watched amazed as James defended his faith at his trial. Later, the officer Walked beside James to the place of execution. Overcome by conviction, he declared his new faith to the judge and Knelt beside James to accept beheading as a Christian.

8Bartholomew Also known as Nathaniel, Was a missionary to Asia. He witnessed for our Lord in present day Turkey. Bartholomew was martyred for his preaching in Armenia where he was flayed to death by a whip.

9Andrew Was crucified on an x-shaped cross in Patras, Greece. After being whipped severely by seven soldiers they tied his body to the cross with cords to prolong his agony. His followers reported that, when he was led toward the cross, Andrew saluted it in these words: 'I have long desired and expected this happy hour.

The cross has been consecrated by the body of Christ hanging on it.'He continued to preach to his tormentors For two days until he expired.

10 Thomas Was stabbed with a spear in India during one of his missionary trips to establish the church in the Sub-continent.
11)Jude Was killed with arrows when he refused to deny his faith in Christ.

12)Matthias The apostle chosen to replace the traitor Judas Iscariot, was stoned and then beheaded.

Paul Was tortured and then beheaded by the evil Emperor Nero at Rome in A.D. 67. Paul endured a lengthy imprisonment, which allowed him to write his many epistles to the churches he had formed throughout the Roman Empire. These letters, which taught many of the foundational Doctrines of Christianity, form a large portion of the New Testament.

Perhaps this is a reminder to us:

That our sufferings here Are indeed minor compared To the intense persecution And cold cruelty faced by the apostles And disciples during their times For the sake of the Faith. And ye shall be hated Of all men for my name's sake: But he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew

Faith is not believing that God can,

It is knowing that God WILL!”

Jesus' DeathThe Death of Jesus For the next 60 seconds, set aside whatever You're doing and take this opportunity! Let's see if Satan

Can stop this. 

Thanks to Calvary

Doug Oldam is one of my favorite southern gospel singers. I heard him live in Olympia in the early 80's. His dad was a pastor but he struggled with his identity in his younger years.  A self confessed prescription drug abuser and family abuser, he drifted from one job to another. Finally his wife, Laura Lee, took their daughters and left him.  His wife shared some of those moments with Gloria Gaither, who later wrote the story in a song which became one of Doug Oldham's theme songs.  Gaither wrote a number of songs to reflect Doug’s experience, including “Something Worth Living For” and “Thanks to Calvary (We Don’t Live Here Anymore).” And Doug was the first artist to record the classic “He Touched Me. Skeptics doubted Oldham would be able to put his life back together. He proved them wrong. Doug and Laura Lee celebrated 58 years of marriage before his death. And his powerful singing voice tempered by tender emotion became known around the world.  Again, Have A Happy Easter- and please attend a good church this Sunday!

TGIF = Thank God I'm Forgiven

Thats My King

There is nothing more important than sharing the Easter Story. I hope you have a great Easter and attend church somewhere.  There are some Easter great videos out there- please let me share this one today with you by  the late Dr. S.M. Lockridge. Shadrach Meshach Lockridge (March 7, 1913 – April 4, 2000) was the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, a prominent African-American congregation in San Diego, California, from 1953 to 1993. He was known for his preaching across the United States and around the world. Lockridge's best-known message is a six and a half minute description of Jesus Christ, known as "That's my King!" for Lockridge's repeated refrain. Have A Wonderful Easter!

Easter via Social Media

It always has amazed me how fast Jesus went from being so popular to being hated and crucified by many of the same people. It also amazes me how many ways we can tell the same story in a way some can relate. The most important is from Gods Word the Bible that does not change. I personally prefer songs, and have many different ways in my Easter label Blogs.  They did not have social media like we know it in Jesus time, but someone did a good job showing the story if it was told through Facebook, Twitter, and other social media programs it it was. I hope this week to focus on the story of Easter, It is one of the most important stories one can share and I hope he is your personal savior and friend. He is for me.

And for you who cannot watch the daily video, let me share some light hearted signs posted as church signs. I hope you have a wonderful Easter. See you in church Sunday-

If You Think Getting Up Sunday Morning Is Difficult, Try Rising From The Dead.

3 Nails 1 Cross 4 Given

The empty tomb proves Christianity. The empty church denies it

The Easter Bunny didn't rise from the dead.

Jesus paid the price. You get to keep the change

No bunny loves you like Jesus!

The key to heaven was hung on a nail.

Without Good Friday, Easter would be impossible.

Christians celebrate Easter every Sunday!

Easter is more than something to dye for

Religion was hanging around the cross. Christianity was hanging on the cross.

God Of The Mountain

It's tough to loose a loved one- my sister in law passed away on this date. Darleen's Birthday is actually next month- not sure one should remember birthdays or the day we lost loved ones? I put some photos of Darleen to a favorite song of mine by Lynda Randall. You may not recognize the photos, but I hope the song encourages you; as its tough to loose any loved one. Someone sent me this poem/story again called Woman and A Fork that says more than I can say, to those who have lost a loved one. Not sure if you are on a mountaintop or a valley today- God is there, in both places. As somone said, When God is your reason to live, you will never have a reason to quit.

Woman and a Fork

There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had been given three months to live. So as she was getting her things 'in order,' she contacted her Pastor and had him come to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes.

She told him which songs she wanted sung at the service, what scriptures she would like read, and what outfit she wanted to be buried in.

Everything was in order and the Pastor was preparing to leave when the young woman suddenly remembered something very important to her.

'There's one more thing,' she said excitedly..

'What's that?' came the Pastor's reply.

'This is very important,' the young woman continued. 'I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand.'

The Pastor stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what to say.

That surprises you, doesn't it?' the young woman asked.

'Well, to be honest, I'm puzzled by the request,' said the Pastor.

The young woman explained. 'My grandmother once told me this story, and from that time on I have always tried to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of encouragement. In all my years of attending socials and dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.' It was my favourite part because I knew that something better was coming...like velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie. Something wonderful, and with substance!'

So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder 'What's with the fork?' Then I want you to tell them: 'Keep your fork ..the best is yet to come.'

The Pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young woman good-bye. He knew this would be one of the last times he would see her before her death. But he also knew that the young woman had a better grasp of heaven than he did. She had a better grasp of what heaven would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much experience and knowledge. She KNEW that something better was coming.

At the funeral people were walking by the young woman's casket and they saw the cloak she was wearing and the fork placed in her right hand. Over and over, the Pastor heard the question, 'What's with the fork?' And over and over he smiled.

During his message, the Pastor told the people of the conversation he had with the young woman shortly before she died. He also told them about the fork and about what it symbolized to her. He told the people how he could not stop thinking about the fork and told them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either.

He was right. So the next time you reach down for your fork let it remind you, ever so gently, that the best is yet to come. Friends are a very rare jewel , indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. Cherish the time you have, and the memories you share. Being friends with someone is not an opportunity, but a sweet responsibility

70's in Six Minutes

I think I could devote an entire label to Tim Hawkins and his humor- I have 20 videos of him. I would like to meet him someday- I hope he comes to Wenatchee. This video looks back at the 70's- I am glad we can laugh at that time of our life. I think it was Solomon who said there is nothing new under the sun??

You May have lived grew up in the 70's if:

All skaters, change directions, means something to you.

You know who shot JR

Plaid was a predominat color in your childhood photos

You remember having a rotary phone.

You remember having to get off the couch to change the TV channel.

You are currently employed with something that has nothing to do with your college degree.

Paul Hunt Gymnist Humor

In 1988- Paul Hunt did this video comedy- even though its filled with humor, he skill far exceeds what I could ever try. Its been fun watching the Olympics on TV and wish they had reruns for all the one I missed.  Its fun when someone talented like Paul Hunt can use his talent to make us laugh.

The President of Mexico has announced that Mexico will not participate in the upcoming London Olympic Games. He told us, 'Pretty much everyone who can run, jump, or swim has already left the country.'

Apparently the maid I hired to clean my house while I was watching the London Olympics was only second best. She just walked off with the silver.

Q: How is playing the bagpipes like throwing a javelin blindfolded?

A: You don’t have to be very good to get people’s attention.

I could have been a great hockey player except for one thing: I kept falling down.

The Cuban boxer is taking a beating when the bell rings. As he staggers to his corner, his coach whispers, “Let him hit you with the left. Your face is crooked.”

There was a heat for the 200m Olympic women's breaststroke, and the eight women who entered the race were named Emily (Aus), Maggie (Nz), Liz (Aus), Jean (USA), Alice (Can), Wanda (Ger), Tina (Rom) and Rose (England). After approximately 2 minutes and 10 seconds, Emily won the race, 5 seconds later, Maggie was declared the second place finisher. Nearly 40 minutes later, Rose finally completed the race. When the reporters asked why it took her so long to complete the race, she replied, 'I don't want to sound like I'm a sore loser, but I think those two other girls were using their arms.'

 
The French, German, and Hungarian fencers are arguing over who is the best in their sport. The Frenchman pulls out his foil: “I will show you all!” He targets a fly buzzing around, and with one swipe of his blade, the fly falls to the ground, cut neatly in half. The German smiles. He locates another fly, and with two swipes, it falls to the ground, its wings neatly removed. Now it’s the Hungarian’s turn. Lifting his foil, he takes three swipes at a fly, which flutters off, undisturbed. The others laugh, but the Hungarian holds up his hands. “That fly,” he says, “will never procreate again.”

Secret to A Happy Marriage

 

Zig Ziglar, who had been suffering from pneumonia, died at the age of eighty-six at a hospital in the Dallas suburb of Plano on November 28, 2012. I always enjoyed his books and his motivational speeches, he was one of my heros. I loved the book "Raising postive kids in a Negative World"(85). In 1944, he met his wife, Jean, in the capital city of Jackson, Mississippi; he was seventeen and she was sixteen. They married in late 1946. I would  like  to share this video as a tribute to him- he was married 66 years to the same woman- what an example!

12 Marriage Killers

by Dr. James Dobson
All that is needed to grow the most vigorous weeds is a small crack in the sidewalk.

Would you identify some of the major "marriage killers" that are most responsible for the high divorce rate that plagues today's families?

It would take perhaps 50 volumes to describe them all, and even then we would only scratch the surface. Any one of the following "dragons" can rip a relationship to shreds if given an opportunity to do so:

Overcommitment and physical exhaustion: Beware of this condition. It is especially insidious for young couples who are trying to get started in a profession or in school. Do not try to go to college, work full-time, have a baby, manage a toddler, fix up a house, and start a business at the same time. It sounds ridiculous, but many young couples do just that and are then surprised when their marriages fall apart. Why wouldn't they? The only time they see each other is when they are worn out! Husbands and wives must reserve time for one another if they hope to keep their love alive.

Excessive credit and conflict over how money will be spent: We've said it before. Pay cash for consumable items or don't buy. Don't spend more on a house or a car than you can afford, leaving too few resources for dating, short trips, baby-sitters, etc. Allocate your funds with the wisdom of Solomon.

Selfishness: There are two kinds of people in the world, the givers and the takers. A marriage between two givers can be a beautiful thing. Friction is inevitable for a giver and a taker. But two takers can claw each other to pieces within a period of weeks. Selfishness will devastate marital partners in short order.

Unhealthy relationships with in-laws: If either the husband or wife has not been fully emancipated from the parents, it is best not to live near them. Autonomy is difficult for some mothers and fathers to grant, and close proximity is built for trouble.

Unrealistic expectations: Some couples come into marriage anticipating rose-covered cottages, walks down primrose lanes, and unmitigated joy. There is no way a marriage between two imperfect human beings can deliver on that expectation. The late counselor Jean Lush believed, and I agree, that this romantic illusion is particularly characteristic of American women, who expect more from their husbands than they are capable of providing. The consequent disappointment is an emotional minefield.

Space invaders: By space invaders, I am not referring to aliens from Mars. Rather, my concern is for those who violate the "breathing room" needed by their partners, quickly suffocating them and destroying the attraction between them. Jealousy is one way the phenomenon manifests itself. Another is a poor self-concept, which leads the insecure spouse to build a cage around the other. It often suffocates the relationship. Love must be free, and it must be confident.

Sexual frustration and its partner, the greener grass of infidelity: It is a deadly combination!

Business collapse: Failure in work does bad things to men especially. Their agitation over financial reverses sometimes precipitates anger within the family.

Business success: It is almost as risky to succeed wildly as it is to fail miserably in business. King Solomon wrote: "Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread" (Proverbs 30:8). Edward Fitzgerald said it another way: "One of the saddest pages kept by the recording angel is the record of souls that have been damned by success." It's true.

Getting married too young: Girls who marry between 14 and 17 years of age are more than twice as likely to divorce as those who marry at 18 or 19 years of age. Those who marry at 18 or 19 are 1.5 times as likely to divorce as those who marry in their 20s. The pressures of adolescence and the stresses of early married life do not mix well. Finish the first before taking on the second.

Alcohol and substance abuse: These are notorious killers, not only of marriages, but of the people who indulge excessively. Research indicates that 40 percent of all Americans and Canadians are close family members of an alcoholic.

Pornography, gambling, and other addictions: It should be obvious to everyone that the human personality is flawed. It has a tendency to get hooked on destructive behaviors, especially early in life. During an introductory stage, people think they can tamper with various enticements, such as pornography, gambling, hard drugs, etc., without being hurt. Indeed, many do walk away unaffected. For some, however, there are a weakness and a vulnerability that are unknown until too late. Such people then become addicted to something that tears at the fabric of the family. This warning may seem foolish and even prudish to my readers, but I've made a 20-year study of those who wreck their lives. Their problems often begin in experimentation with a known vice and ultimately end in death ... or the death of a marriage.

These are a few of the common marriage killers. But in truth, the list is virtually limitless. All that is needed to grow the most vigorous weeds is a small crack in the sidewalk. If you are going to beat the odds and maintain an intimate, long-term marriage, you must take the task seriously. The natural order of things will carry you away from one another, not bring you together.

Safety Tips for Morons

Safety is a big concern for me, I am proud of our safety record- it is not by accident. I have 55 blogs devoted to safety.  This is a video I made several years ago from internet photos to a song called Safety Tips for Morons that I used for a safety meeting at work.

What Makes A Marriage Last

Last night I discovered Howard Hendricks went home to his reward. He died on Feb. 20, having taught for over 60 years at Dallas Theological Seminary. I never met him, but looked up to him and he influenced my life in so many ways. We would listen to his 15 minute radio broadcast in the early 80’s when we lived in Tumwater and I followed his ministry. We used to call him “Uncle Howard” because he shared the same name as us, even though he was not actually related as far as I know. He was married almost 70 years and found this video online talking about "marriage" I had to share today. Howard Hendricks came from a broken home, his parents having split up after he was born. He was raised by his grandmother and described himself during elementary school as a troublemaker. According to a Dallas Theological Seminary tribute, caring words from his sixth-grade teacher changed his life. “People are always looking for someone to say, ‘Hey, I believe in you,’”Howard Hendricks was quoted as saying. Howard Hendricks taught the Bible at Dallas Theological Seminary for 61 years. He wrote a big stack of books and was married for nearly seven decades. His love for the Bible was infectious, as evidenced by the passion for the Bible displayed in the ministries of folks he taught: Tony Evans, Robert Jeffress, David Jeremiah, Erwin Lutzer, Joseph Stowell, and Chuck Swindoll. He also influenced future professors and authors, including Bruce Wilkinson, best-selling author of The Prayer of Jabez. Well Done- What A Legacy and example! I hope I can believe in a someone(s) and change his life like his 6th grade teacher did for him....

“I don’t believe a word of it”

Howard Hendricks was raised in a broken home. He recalled, “My parents separated when I came along. I split the family.” His father’s mother reared him, and he described himself as a “troublemaker” during his elementary school years, “probably just ‘acting out’ a lot of insecurities.”

“Most likely to end up in prison” was the assessment of his fifth-grade teacher in Philadelphia. Once she even tied him to his seat with a rope and taped his mouth shut. Yet everything changed for that boy when he met his sixth-grade teacher. He introduced himself to Miss Noe, and she told him, “I’ve heard a lot about you. But I don’t believe a word of it.”

Those words would change his life. She made him realize for the first time that someone cared. “People are always looking for someone to say, ‘Hey, I believe in you,’” he said. And in his more than sixty years as a professor, he believed in his students.

I Can Hear Music

 Did you know March 3rd of 1969 the Beach Boys released the song I Can Hear Music. It was around March 6th 1973 that Jan and I started dating- that would be 40 years I think. Twenty years ago on March 8-11 we won a free trip to Fitzgerards in Las Vagas. It was two years ago in March that we visited California Adventure for the first time. (2nd time for Disneyland) I understand they have added on since then, and I sure would like to go again with the grandkids. I sure enjoyed the 3-D movies with the Bugs Life and Flight over California as my favorites. The house of Terrors was fun and the roller coaster ride was smooth and did not throw your back out like some do. They presented an excellent water/light/fire show at 8pm which was very good. I just know time has a way of moving so fast- and I hope this summer we can make some new memories. I hope you have marked dates out on your calendar this year to make new memories- I have! In fact, tonight we get to watch one of the grandkids- I can hear Music already.....

I have A Plan For You

I have lots of labels and themes in my blogs- but perhaps the most important one to remember is God has A Plan for You. Sometimes we forget that, sometimes we do not see it, sometimes we ignore it- he does not force it on us, but I do know he loves you and has a plan for your life. Your life is not an accident and your life is important. It is not too late to turn your life back to God.

BIG THINGS COMING YOUR WAY!

The God we serve is not a small God. His plan for your life is not for you to reach one level, get stuck and stay there for 30 or 40 years. His plan is to increase you, open new doors before you, and take you places that you've never imagined.

He has something big in your future! He's already planned out big breaks, big opportunities and big ideas for you. You may have seen God's goodness in the past, but you have not touched the surface of what God has in your future! God is about to do a new thing!

And what I sense in my spirit is that the new thing is going to be far greater than you've ever seen before. It's going to be bigger than you imagined. It's going to be more rewarding than you thought possible.

You've got to come into agreement and say, "Yes, God, this is for me today. I'm not going to get stuck where I am. I'm not going to go around with little dreams, little goals. I know you're a big God, and You have something big coming my way!"

Dr. Timothy Emerick

Often, when a country’s government is overthrown, all the former paper currency is declared worthless, and a new currency issued. How tragic to have spent your life amassing the old, worthless currency!
When we get to heaven, we may find the same tragedy -- the things we worked so hard for on earth and valued so much are now worthless and useless.
Set your priorities on things of eternal value! - - Anonymous

Broken Pieces

Steve & Annie Chapman have been one of my favorite singer/writers since the 80's. I am not an expert on marriage or divorce- I hope I never had to deal with a divorce- it probably is nothing I have done to deserve that- but because of God, and prayers of so many. I also appreciate the example my parents set- I remember one fight they had when I was in 3rd grade- I went to Minot with my dad and bought a wall picture for my mom to encourage her- she kept that all her life and now I have it hanging downstairs. My dad never did talk about his parents divorce and I could tell in his diary he was confused when his sister got a divorce.  I hope none of you have had to deal with such an issue as a child. I am glad Church's are speaking out on marriage more and more- I certainly see no need to wait until June 9th though...

It’s one of those cases where you may win the battle but lose the war. In marriage, it’s either win-win or lose-lose. There is no win-lose. If you both don’t win, you both lose.

When you have children, your marriage is now more important, not less, because other people are counting on you!

Never think that you are doing your children a favor by prioritizing them over your husband.

Tony Evans on Marriage

There are some good pastors and recources available to help marriages. This is a good time of year to look at strengthening your marriage- don't wait till it is bad; work on it while it is good and make it better. I know Family Life Today has several Weekend To Remember Seminars coming next month. Locally we also have Life Trac Ministries and I know Focus on the Family, Family Life Today,  and Tony Evans also has marriage resources available. I certainly am not an expert on marriage, but I know the importance in working to make it better and know the power of prayer and that God can help save your marriage.

Religion and Capitalism

Someone sent me this video and its a good reminder of the importance of God in our society. I certainly agree with him and although he does not touch this in his speech, I believe there are two forces we are dealing with everyday and our enemy is not always a man or a political party, but the forces of good and evil. I am thankful for our freedoms we still enjoy and am thankful God has everything under control. As someone said "I read the end of the book and I know who wins".

When the Nazis came for the communists,
I remained silent;
I was not a communist.
When they locked up the social democrats,
I remained silent;
I was not a social democrat.
When they came for the trade unionists,
I did not speak out;
I was not a trade unionist.
When they came for the Jews,
I remained silent;
I wasn't a Jew.
When they came for me,
there was no one left to speak out


- In Houston, Texas: The Mayor subpoenaed the sermons, text messages, photographs, electronic files, calendars and e-mails of Pastors who had opposed her "bathroom bill" policy.

- In Richland, Washington: Great-grandmother & florist Barronelle Stutzman is being sued by the State of Washington and the ACLU for declining to provide services for a same-sex wedding. She's now in danger of losing not only her business assets but also her home.

- In Port Charlotte, Florida: Eight-year-old Samantha Schulz was barred from singing "Kumbaya" at a Boys & Girls Club talent show because it included the words "Oh, Lord."

- In Wiggins, Mississippi: Western Sizzlin' Steakhouse was threatened with a "civil rights" suit because of its "Church Member Appreciation Day" which allegedly excluded atheists

We Can't seem to Pin Point The Problem....Really?
The Shoe Bomber was a Muslim
The Beltway Snipers were Muslims
The Fort Hood Shooter was a Muslim
The underwear Bomber was a Muslim
The U-S.S. Cole Bombers were Muslims
The Madrid Train Bombers were Muslims
The Bali Nightclub Bombers were Muslims
The London Subway Bombers were Muslims
The Moscow Theatre Attackers were Muslims
The Boston Marathon Bombers were Muslims
The Pan-Am flight #93 Bombers were Muslims
The Air France Entebbe Hijackers were Muslims
The Iranian Embassy Takeover, was by Muslims
The Beirut U.S. Embassy bombers were Muslims
The Libyan U.S. Embassy Attack was by Muslims
The Buenos Aires Suicide Bombers were Muslims
The Israeli Olympic Team Attackers were Muslims
The Kenyan U.S, Embassy Bombers were Muslims
The Saudi, Khobar Towers Bombers were Muslims
The Beirut Marine Barracks bombers were Muslims
The Besian Russian School Attackers were Muslims
The first World Trade Center Bombers were Muslims
The Bombay & Mumbai India Attackers were Muslims
The Achille Lauro Cruise Ship Hijackers were Muslims
The September 11th 2001 Airline Hijackers were Muslims

Think of it:
Buddhists living with Hindus = No Problem
Hindus living with Christians = No Problem
Hindus living with Jews = No Problem
Christians living with Shintos = No Problem
Shintos living with Confucians = No Problem
Confucians living with Baha'is = No Problem
Baha'is living with Jews = No Problem
Jews living with Atheists = No Problem
Atheists living with Buddhists = No Problem
Buddhists living with Sikhs = No Problem
Sikhs living with Hindus = No Problem
Hindus living with Baha'is = No Problem
Baha'is living with Christians = No Problem
Christians living with Jews = No Problem
Jews living with Buddhists = No Problem
Buddhists living with Shintos = No Problem
Shintos living with Atheists = No Problem
Atheists living with Confucians = No Problem
Confusians living with Hindus = No Problem

Muslims living with Hindus = Problem
Muslims living with Buddhists = Problem
Muslims living with Christians = Problem
Muslims living with Jews = Problem
Muslims living with Sikhs = Problem
Muslims living with Baha'is = Problem
Muslims living with Shintos = Problem
Muslims living with Atheists = Problem
MUSLIMS LIVING WITH MUSLIMS = BIG PROBLEM

**********SO THIS LEADS TO *****************
They're not happy in Gaza
They're not happy in Egypt
They're not happy in Libya
They're not happy in Morocco
They're not happy in Iran
They're not happy in Iraq
They're not happy in Yemen
They're not happy in Afghanistan
They're not happy in Pakistan
They're not happy in Syria
They're not happy in Lebanon
They're not happy in Nigeria
They're not happy in Kenya
They're not happy in Sudan
******** So, where are they happy? **********
They're happy in Australia
They're happy in England
They're happy in Belgium
They're happy in France
They're happy in Italy
They're happy in Germany
They're happy in Sweden
They're happy in the USA & Canada
They're happy in Norway & India
They're happy in almost every country that is not Islamic! And who do they blame? Not Islam... Not their leadership... Not themselves...
THEY BLAME THE COUNTRIES THEY ARE HAPPY IN!!
And they want to change the countries they're happy in, to be like the countries they came from where they were unhappy and finally they will get hammered !!!!

Islamic Jihad: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
ISIS : AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Al-Qaeda: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Taliban: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Hamas: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Hezbollah: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Boko Haram: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Al-Nusra: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Abu Sayyaf: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Al-Badr: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Muslim Brotherhood: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Lashkar-e-Taiba: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Palestine Liberation Front: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Ansaru: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Jemaah Islamiyah: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
Abdullah Azzam Brigades: AN ISLAMIC TERROR ORGANIZATION
AND A LOT MORE !!!!!!! 

Be Smart

I love watching funny commercials- here is one I added some safety photos in the middle of the ad and still kept it at one minute. It could be filed under Safety as it is a good reminder to think of what could go wrong and don't do anything stupid. What you do affects those around you. Be Safe. Be Smart!

Ken Davis- Customs

We just arrived back in New Orleans from our vacation. Actually Customs and airport securty were pretty good to us this time. I enjoyed this video by Ken Davis on Customs agents.  It is good to be home, Norwegian Cruise Lines were good to us and I will make a video of our cruise next week for you. I certainly am not a world traveler and next years vacation for Jan will probably be taking her to the" mall" all day and I will simply hand out tips to every other person I see. In the Meantime, enjoy this video. It is also good to be back on my blog.

David Letterman's "Top Ten Ways To Make Airport Security More Pleasant"  
     10. For $10, screeners will give you luxurious shiatsu massage
9. To your left, x-ray conveyor belt; to your right, complimentary hot buffet
8. Passenger's naked body scan ends up on YouTube — hey, that joke was in the monologue
7. Anyone caught with something suspicious has to eat it
6. You can watch other passengers get groped for 99 cents a minute
5. Guess the TSA agent's weight and you can bring any liquid on board
4. Passengers have option to be frisked by security or airport Cinnabon employee
3. Pipe in soft rock classics from the '70s, '80s, '90s, and today
2. Concludes with a good luck pat on the butt
1. Vibrating wands     


"It was bad enough when the TSA agents would go through your underwear in your luggage. Now they're going through your underwear while you're wearing it." 

Michael Davis at Fords Theatre

Everyone needs to laugh and relax, even the president.  Someone sent me this video of the president and first lady relaxing and laughing to a juggler. (this was back when Presidents did not take vacations all the time) I do not know what Michael Davis is doing now- but he would be a good politician the way he juggles things and makes one laugh. After this weeks news from Washington DC- we all need to laugh a bit- so here is part 1 of Michael Davis at Fords Theatre. This is only 6 minutes long. I wonder if his props would be allowed in the White House today?

Rather than post a new post for the last half, I have posted it above. Please take time to watch the final half. It is part 2 of 2.